A generall historie of the Netherlands VVith the genealogie and memorable acts of the Earls of Holland, Zeeland, and west-Friseland, from Thierry of Aquitaine the first Earle, successiuely vnto Philip the third King of Spaine: continued vnto this present yeare of our Lord 1608, out of the best authors that haue written of that subiect: by Ed. Grimeston.

THE XVI. BOOKE. [ A] (Book 16)

The Argument. [ B]

THe castle of Crapoll surprised by the Estates. Incursions made by them of Rhineberke into Cleues and Iuilliers. The gouernour of Stralen ouerthrowne and taken. The castle of Cracowe taken for prince Maurice. The force of the vnited prouinces at sea. An enterprise vpon Flessingue. The duke of Neuers title to the duchie of Brabant. Mutinies among the archdukes souldiers. A practise to sacke Antuerpe. The Estates prepare to go to field. Rhineberck besieged. The archduke resolues to besiege Oostend. The description of Oostend. Hee inuests it. The prince sends to Oostend. Rhineberck yeel∣ded to prince Maurice. He takes Moeurs. Dom Catris, generall of the Spanish armie, slaine before Oostend. [ C] Monsieur Chastillon slaine with a canon. Vander Noot, gouernor of Oostend, leaues the towne. A fire in the archdukes fort. Aduertisements out of the campe. The archdukes losse before Oostend. The Estates resolue to be∣siege Boisleduc. The archduke prepares to releeue Boisleduc. The Estates raise their siege from thence. Mastricht refuseth to receiue souldiers. Oostend in danger to be taken. They of Oostend parle with the archduke. The treatie broken off. The archduke giues a generall assault at Oostend. His losse at it. Sir Francis Veer retires from Oo∣stend. The sea ouerflowes Oostend. Mutinie in the archdukes campe. The Estates prepare to go to field. Prince Maurice offers battaile to the admirall of Arragon. The prince besiegeth Graue. The admirall camps by him. Graue yeelded to prince Maurice. The mutiners of the admirals armie seize vpon Hoochstraten. The admirall discharged of his generals place. The mutiners of Hoochstraten banished. Their answer to the proscription. The popes Nuntio sent vnto them. Eight cornets of the archdukes horses defeated. Frederic Spinola brings six gal∣lies into the Netherlands. They are defeated by the Netherlandships. The Estates make an incursion into Lux∣embourg. [ D] A fight betwixt the gallies and the Estates ships. Frederic Spinola slaine in the gallies. The arch∣duke besiegeth the mutiners in Hoochstraten. Prince Maurice rayseth the siege. He brings his armie before Boi∣sleduc. The archdukes armie followes him. Marquesse Spinola reformes the armie. Prince Maurice retires from Boisleduc. The gouernour of Oostend slaine. The Estates land with an armie in Flandes; they take diuers forts neere to Sluce, besiege Isendike, and take it by composition. Sluce besieged by the prince. A generall assault at Oostend. The mutiners reconciled to the archduke. The marquesse Spinola comes to releeue Sluce, he is re∣pulst, and the towne yeelded to the prince. Oostend yeelded to the archduke. A treatie of peace betwixt England and Spaine. A discourse touching the peace in the Netherlands. The earle of Hertfords embassage to the arch∣duke. An enterprise made by the prince vpon the Scheld, and the taking of Wowe. Spinola takes Linghen. An enterprise vpon Berghen. Spinola goes into Spaine. Grol taken by composition. Rhineberck yeelded to Spi∣nola. An enterprise vpon Sluce. A tumult in Antuerpe. Groningue castle rased. The earle of Bronk mur∣thered by the Spaniards. A fight in the straits of Gibraltar, betwixt the Spaniards and the Hollanders ships. [ E] A treatie of peace betwixt the archduke and the vnited prouinces: their deputies meet at the Hage. The brea∣king off of the treatie.

ABout the fifteenth of Ianuarie 80 horse, and some footmen of the Estates men, surprised the castle of Crapoll in Lembourg, forcing open the port * 1.1 with a petard, where they found a good bootie of money, iewels, and * 1.2 plate, which had beene brought by such as had fled thither for safetie. There they tooke Harman Sohuyl the drossart, brother to the rent-ma∣ster, carrying the best of the goods away with them; and so left the ca∣stle, beeing presently pursued by foure or fiue hundred horse, as farre as [ F] the countrey of Iuilliers, where they met some of their owne troupes, who releeued them.

The Spanish garrisons lying in Rhineberck, and in Gueldre all this winter, made incursions into the countries of Iuilliers and Cleues, the which they spoyled, taking certain wagons, be∣longing vnto the duke of Cleues; the which they carried to Rhineberck, and made good prize

thereof: for which cause the duke commaunded certaine ships of Berck to be staid at Duyssel∣dorp. [ A] Besides these iniuries, the mutinous souldiers of Hamont (to whom the towne and ca∣stle * 1.3 of Weert had beene deliuered for their securitie) did wonderfully oppresse them of Iuilli∣ers, forcing them, vpon some pretences, to pay fortie thousand gulderns: for which cause the garrisons vnder prince Maurice demanded the like summe, in regard they gaue so much vnto the Spaniards their enemies, and did not remaine neuters, as they had promised: so as the coun∣trey was miserably oppressed and spoiled; whereupon many townes and seigniories leuied men for their defence, seeking by all the meanes they could to free the Rhine, and offering a good summe of money for the same; sometimes getting pasports from them of Rhineberck, to passe vp to Cologne with ships laden with herring, butter and cheese, &c.

The house and castle of Cracowe, with the lordship thereof, being giuen (as we haue said) [ B] by the countesse of Moeurs vnto prince Maurice, it belonging vnto the earledome of Moeurs, was before in the yeare 1586 giuen by the duke of Parma vnto Salentin earle of Isenbourgh, vpon some pretence, which the said earl had euer since holden in his possession: and now there lay one captaine Longehuyuen in it, with 15 or 16 men, it being a strong fort, seated in a marsh. Prince Maurice vnderstanding, that this winter the ice in the ditches was not broken nor kept open, he caused captaine Cloet to attempt to surprise it with 300 horse out of Nimeghen, and some foot out of Wachtendonc; and to that end Cloet went with his horsemen to Nieukerke, on the 8 of Februarie: Whereof Dulcken gouernor of Stralen, being aduertised, hee followed him with 400 horse, and 4 or 500 foot, and in the morning before sun-rising, he sodainly char∣ged Cloets companies in the village; so as there were 40 of his horsemen wounded and taken, [ C] before the rest (by reason of the noise of people, and barking of dogs) could arme, and get out of the village; who being once out, they put themselues in order of battaile, but Stralen fol∣lowed them not, retiring with his troups by a deepe way, which was of great aduantage to de∣fend his footmen against Cloets horsemen, hauing taken 30 of his men prisoners, most being of prince Maurice his companie, the which were soone taken from them againe: for Cloet beeing much discōtented with this losse, fetcht a compasse about by another way, where he met with them entring vpon a heath, charging them both before and behind, he slew many both horse and foot, vpon the place, the rest fled into a certaine place, where hee presently besieged them, and forced them to yeeld vpō composition, paying their ransoms, he suffered 370 of the com∣mon souldiers to depart, onely retaining Dulcken, gouernor of Stralen, captaine Golstein, and 7 [ D] officers, to answer for all their ransoms; Cloet hauing lost 6 or 7 men, and diuers of them & their horses hurt. Presently after, the souldiers which were appointed to ioine with Cloet, came from Wachtendonc, and then they went to Cracowe: on the 9 of February in the night they came before it, whereas the horsemen alighting, got ouer the ice, and entred into the base court, whereat they within began to shoot: but Cloet forced them to retire with his shot, and then he caused his men to passe ouer the ditches, and to let downe the draw bridge; which done, he set a petard to the port, and forced it open: whereupon they within yeelded both themselues and the place, euen as day began to breake; where he left 40 foot, and 20 horse, with his lieutenant, * 1.4 vntill he heard further from prince Maurice: and so he retired to his garrison.

The garrison of Spaniards in the Graue, in regard of the slacknesse of their pay, were readie [ E] to mutine, but they were pacified, and some of the authors punished with the strappado. They of Venloo were also discontented, by reason of the restraining of licences, so as all victuals wa∣xed exceeding deere among them: and whereas the archduke had granted certaine pasports, for two ships, they staid those ships in the Meuse, & forced them to vnlade their commodities in their towne, to supply their wants. In the beginning of this yeare, there was great preparati∣on of shipping made in the Netherlands, whereby the power of the vnited prouinces by sea, may easily be seene, for that in two or three dayes there sailed out of those prouinces, betwixt 8 and 900 ships, which went into the East countries, to traffique there. And moreouer, there went out about 1500 buyses, to fish for herring & cod, the which are good ships, but not of the greatest, nor to be compared to those which saile into the Indies, the islands of Affrica, the Le∣uant, Italie, Spaine, France, England, and other countries, yet notwithstanding you shall see [ F] the hauens in Holland still full of ships and saylers.

This yere there was an enterprise to be made for the archdukes vpō Flessingue, being colored * 1.5 with a pretence to build a fort at Nieuhauē in Flanders, for the besieging of Oostend, certaine

men being hyred to set fire on the towne, and they in the meane time should passe ouer with [ A] certaine troups, and giue an assault vnto the towne: but it was discouered, and some of the * 1.6 conspirators apprehended, and committed to prison, wherof one (being a stoole maker) killed himselfe in prison, and yet his bodie was cut in quarters: and afterwards the s•…•…teholder was beheaded on the 19 of Iune for the same treason.

In the beginning of this yeare there were certaine commissioners appointed to meet for * 1.7 the French king and the archdukes, vpon certaine causes, concerning the peace and quietnesse of their countries: which commissioners met at Maubenge, Veruins, and other places, dispu∣ting about the soueraigntie of certaine seigniories and lordships, as the earldome of S. Pol, and the earledome of Outreual betweene the Scheld and Scharpe, wherof Bouchain is the chiefe towne, lying betweene Douay and Valenciennes; the which in times past had been morga∣ged, [ B] and now the money was tendered.

There was a question also, touching trade of merchandise vpon the frontiers, as at Calice, and thereabouts; the French men desiring, that all the Netherlanders which had put them∣selues vnder the protection of France, should be held as French men, both in the Netherlands and in Spaine.

To end these controuersies there met at Maubenge, the duke of Bouillon, the earle of S. Pol, the earle of Dampmartin, and others, for the French king: and for the archdukes came the duke of Arschot, the earle of Arembergh, the earle of Lignie, the earle of Solre, with others. There was also some speech cōcerning the lands of the prince of Espinoy, Anthonich, &c. be∣ing of the house of Melun, who died in France, where he had been maried, and had left certaine [ C] children: these lands were in the possession of the said princes sister, being maried to the earle of Ligny, who by vertue of her title called himself prince of Espinoy, marquesse of Robaix and Richbourg, baron of Anthonich, &c. pretending all those lands to bee confiscat, for that the prince her brother had followed the contrarie partie, and borne arms for the French king, and that they came vnto her by right; and at that time they had fortified their cause, by a mariage of their daughter Iolanda, with Charles Alexander of Croy, earle of Fontenay, sonne to the mar∣quesse of Haurec, a prince of the empire, descending by his mothers side from the houses of Lorraine, Dampmartin, Vander Marck and Cleue; the sayd Iolanda issuing from the houses of Melun, Lalaine, and Wassenare. The prince of Espinoyes children were much commen∣ded and countenanced in Fraunce, by Maximilian of Bethune, duke of Rhosny, peere [ D] of France, master of the ordnance, and super-intendent of the treasure, &c. beeing issued from the houses of Flanders and Melun. This question was to be decided by the archduke, for the which the president Ianin was sent vnto the archduke, as he lay before Oostend, where, at the last, the cause was ended.

In all these assemblies there was little done that came to the knowledge of the world; which bred some suspition that the French king would enter into armes againe, for that some French men were so presumptuous, as to giue it out, That the duchie of Brabant belonged vnto the duke of Neuers, as heire vnto Elizabeth of Valoys, who was daughter vnto Iohn earle of Ne∣uers, Rethet, and Estampes, who ought to haue succeeded his vncle Iohn, the last duke of Brabant, who maried the lady Iacoba, heire of Hollaud, Henault, &c. and after his vncle Phi∣lip; [ E] the which his cosin Philip duke of Bourgoigne, sirnamed the Good (as they sayd) vsur∣ped by force from the sayd house of Neuers, by meanes of the lord of Wesemale, who persuaded the Estates of Brabant to install duke Philip of Bourgoigne in the duchie of Brabant.

With the souldiers that came from the earle of Fuentes out of Italie, there came little mo∣ney, * 1.8 so as the archdukes were wonderfully distrest, and the old garrisons were vnpaid; which caused many of them to mutine, as the Italians and Spaniards in Herentals and Weert; and the Wallons which lay in Flanders, in the sconces of Isabella and Grottendorst, where they slew monsieur Verlain, lieutenant colonel to monsieur de Fresin, and wounded diuers captains; whereupon they of Zeeland and of Oostend, sent letters vnto them, and offered them good [ F] conditions, but by the persuasion of monsieur Reynas they continued constant, and burned the letters: Whereupon the archduke sent them powder, and all things necessarie, and they were pacified, so as after that they receiued a guldern a day for euerie man, vntill that all were paied: But for that it was dangerous for the countrey, to let men of their disposition

to stay there in garrison, they were drawne out, and persuaded to lye in Wynoxberghen, and [ A] by that meanes those sconces were secured. These dealings made them of Oostend suspect * 1.9 that they meant to besiege them, and the rather, for that in Aprill the sea being forced in by a strong North-west wind, it ouerthrew, and carried away one of the ports of Oostend, by rea∣son that they had cut off a sand hil, which stood in the downs, & was some hinderance to their fortifications; but the archdukes armie was not readie, so as they of Oostend soone after repai∣red it againe.

Dom Rodrigo de Lasso came this winter out of Spaine, with a confirmation from the king, of great summes of money to be yearely paid vnto the archduke, to aid him in his warres; but it came verie late; besides there were bils of exchange for great summes of money taken vp in the Netherlands, and to bee paid in Spaine, returned backe againe and protested. And the mutinous souldiers of Weert had an hundred and sixite thousand crownes yet to receiue, [ B] sending word vnto the archduke, That if they were not satisfied by a certaine day, they would force others to pay them.

In March there was a conspiracie discouered, betweene the mutinous souldiers of Weert, * 1.10 and the garrison within the castle of Antuerpe, with whom the garrison of Hulst in Flanders, and some others, were confederat, intending to enter by the castle with 2000 foot, and 1000 horse and to sacke the towne of Antuerpe: but their enterprise was discouered, and on the 14 of March certaine of the garrison of the castle were apprehended in the night, whereof some were executed. To conclude, through want of money there was great pouertie, miserie, and feare throughout all the prouinces vnder the archdukes command, not onely in regard of the [ C] enemie, but for feare of the mutinous soldiers, being also without any trade or traffique: which made many of the inhabitants to leaue the countrey, as it appeared by the houses and lands in Brabant and Flanders; which were to be let and rented out, which since the siege of Oostend were let the one halfe, or a third part lesse than had been accustomed.

About the tenth of Aprill there lay fiue or six cornets of prince Maurice his horse, not farre * 1.11 from Boisleduc, for that monsieur Grobendonc, gouernour thereof, was to come from Antuerp with money; but being aduertised thereof by his spyes, he went another way, and by that meanes Adolph earle of Bergh fell into their hands with his cornet of horse (lying in Boisle∣duc) betwixt Lommel and Postel, where hee was defeated and taken prisoner, few or none of his men escaping: hee himselfe was carried to Breda, and was afterwards released, paying [ D] his ransome.

The winter being spent without any great exploits done of either side, the prince and his counsell resolued what they should attempt. In Aprill and May they tooke a view of their gar∣risons, and made choice of their troups for the warre. There was diuers bruits spread abroad touching the Estates designe. The archduke had a watchful eye which way their army should band, to march after them: but his great forces of the yeares 1598, and 1599, being much wa∣sted, being vnable to make any offensiue warre, he was forced to haue patience, and to attend the succors which were to come out of Italie, and in the meane time to stand vpon his defence. Prince Maurice was not ignorant of the archdukes affaires; who hauing his armie readie in the end of May, makes a shew as if he wold attempt something in Flanders, or Brabant, vpon some [ E] one of their most important places; then sodainly (beeing satisfied to haue giuen the archduke an alarme, who called for ayd) he turned head towards Gueldres, and on the tenth of Iune he came neere vnto Rhineberck with an armie of seuenteene thousand men, the which was inue∣sted within two dayes after.

There is within the riuer of Rhine, right against Berck (as we haue shewed in the former sie∣ges) * 1.12 a little island, thrice as long as it is broad, the which was at that time guarded by some of the archdukes souldiers, who being saluted with the ordnance, as well from the Estates ships of warre, which lay both aboue and beneath the island, as by certaine peeces which were plan∣ted vpon the banks, they made no long resistance: so as on the 18 day of Iune prince M•…•…rice was master of the island, who hauing no intent to abandon it so easily vnto the Spaniards, hee [ F] caused two forts to bee speedily built, the one at the point towards Holland, and the other at the other end, looking to Cologne, planting certain smal peeces of ordnance in them, to shoo•…•… into the towne, stopping the passage of the Rhine, both aboue and beneath; that no succours might come vnto the besieged that way.

The prince hauing summoned the besieged to yeeld the place, they refused it, hauing a [ A] great garrison within the town (some said there were 4000 fighting men) to defend it: he * 1.13 enuironed it with a large and spatious trench, from one side of the Rhine vnto the other, like a semy circle, fortified with fiue great bastions which did flanke one another; the which with the island and the shippes closed vp the towne round about. There was also an other bastion made somewhat neerer the town, and two bridges made vpon the Rhine aboue and beneath, by the which they went from one quarter to the other, and into the island: the prince houl∣ding the besieged shut vp, and not able greatly to annoy his camp, he made a greater fort, and cast vp an other halfe moone, farre more spatious then the first: hauing in a fit distance made a deep and broad trench a league long, one of the endes comming close to the Rhine aboue the towne & the other beneath, in which trenche almost in equall distance were built 17 square [ B] forts, which they call Redoutes. Betwixt these two trenches were the troupes of horse, & some companies of foot lodged, with good commoditie and meanes to goe in and out, both neere and farre off from the towne, and could not easily be charged by any ennemy without great danger.

These trenches and halfe moones beeing finished with great expedition, for that the soul∣diers, paied for this worke like pioners, performed it with wonderfull and almost incredible speed, reuiuing the commendable obedience of the ancient Romane legions. In the begin∣ning the besieged (whilest the souldiers laboured in their forts and trenches) would shew their resolution and valour: they had reason, for they made fetters to manacle their hands, and to restraine their feet from going forth any more to the pickorie, and to spoile the coun∣trey: [ C] they depriued them of all hope of 60000 florins of monethly contribution, which they did exact from the countrie thereabouts. But in the sallies which they made in Iune and Iu∣ly, they got nothing but blowes, they lost halfe of their best men in sundry charges, they see themselues soone pestered with wounded and sicke men, they had the noyse of, o cannons sounding continually in their cares, and a mine which was blowen vp vnder one of their bulwarks, where they lost many of their men; yet they were resolute and defended themselues in hope of some succours, or else that they would prouide worke for the Estates in some other place, and so force the prince to retire.

The archduke sought by all meanes to preuent the apparant losse of this towne, hee atten∣ded supplies from the earle of Fuentes; who caused eight thousand men, that is, sixe thousand [ D] Italians vnder cont Theodore Triuulcio, and two thousand Spaniards vnder Dom Iohn de Bra∣camonte, to march out of the duchie of Milan, as well of foot as horse, the which by reason of the great store of raine which had fallen in Iune, could not aduance so speedily as the arch∣duke desired: so as beeing come vnto him in the end of the moneth, hauing now no meanes to raise the siege from before Berke (whereas the prince attended his enemie to fight with him with aduantage) they tooke counsell how they might diuert this siege. Then was nothing * 1.14 found more easie, more expedient, nor more profitable, than to set vpon Oostend, the which the Flemmings did presse with great instance, making promises of aid and subuentions, as well of money, victuals, poulder, as other munition; which the archdukes counsell assured themselues to take in few daies, as they had done Calais and Ardres, but (as the prouerbe [ E] saith) they were neither the same sheep, nor the like shepheards. To speake truly, it was a great error of the Flemmings, to seeke the ruine of this town with such violence, and no great wis∣dome in the archduke to continue three yeares and three moneths so obstinately as he did, to winne a paltrie place, which in the end was made a heap of sand: for if the Flemmings had beene content to pay vnto the Estates an easie contribution, the which they had beene accu∣stomed to pay vnto the Receiuer of Oostend, they had not prodigally wasted a masse of mo∣ney; the gentleman, cleargie man, and the farmer had receiued their ordinarie rents and reue∣nues; and the archduke had not lost so many noble men, aboue two hundred captaines, and an hundred thousand men. See what it is to reckon without their hoast. And the better to vnderstand how this memorable siege was begun and continued, we wil speake a word of this [ F] place, and of the circumstances thereof.

Among other sea townes of the countie of Flanders, is that of Oostend situated among the downes, three leagues from Nieuport, and foure houres passage from Bruges, vpon the * 1.15 riuer of Yperle; the which as well by other channels, as by the west sluce in old times falling

into the sea, made the hauen good and commodious. But this passage was afterwards stop∣ped [ A] vp by the Spaniards, with bauins and hurdles, and by them of Oostend with two bankes * 1.16 on the sides of Polder fort, to defend their ditches. This town contains halfe an houres iour∣ney in circuit, it was reasonably well built, the inhabitants liued of fishing, and before these warres there were rich sea-faring men, and aboue three thousand fishermen; who for the most part haue retired themselues since to Camp-veer, there remaining in the beginning siege not aboue 250 housholds, besides the ordinarie garrison. The sea ebbes and flowes vp to the towne, as in all the ports of Flanders, the hauen beeing at euery lowe water in a manner drie, so as they could not enter with any great barkes, but at a high water. Of late yeares towards the east part of the towne, the sea hath made a great entrance (which they call the goullet) a hundred foot broad, and at the least two pikes deepe: but at the mouth towards the sea, it is [ B] not aboue halfe a fadome deepe; the which increasing daily, it is likely in time to prooue one of the best hauens vpon all that coast.

The towne hath bin walled in, since these warres, in the beginning whereof, which was in the yeare 1572, it was shut vp onely with bridges and palisados, to resist the suddaine incursi∣ons * 1.17 of the souldiers. But in the yeare 1578 it was walled in and fortified at the charge of the generall Estates of all the vnited prouinces of the Netherlands. The which alone among all the townes of the countie of Flanders, hath continued alwaies constant vnto the said Estates, vntill the yeelding vp thereof, after it had endured great extremitie, as wee will hereafter shew.

We haue obserued heretofore, that the duke of Parma after the taking of Dunkerke, and [ C] of Nieuport, in the yeare 1583 came to besiege it, with his whole armie; but fiue daies after the siege begun, he was forced to retire. And in like manner, monsieur de la Motte, gouernor of Graueling, in the yeare 1585, hauing surprised the old towne towards the sea (the which was not at that time fortified with a rauelin and a palisado) was valiantly repulst, with the losse of aboue fourtie men of command, and of all his munition for warre. Then they began to fortifie it more strongly, especially taking away the downes vpon the east side, the which for that they were high and neere vnto the towne, did command ouer it; by which meanes the sea hath entred into the countrie round about, and flowes commonly from the east vnto the south aboue 1200 paces, and at a spring tide, on the west side it runnes aboue a league in∣to the countrie, the which it doth indammage on all sides, except it be the west downs: with∣out [ D] the which there had beene no place left to campe on, nor to make their approaches vnto the towne. At the first walling in of the towne, it did comprehend all the Polder fort; but since, for that they would not haue it subiect to too great a guard, and for some other conside∣rations, it was made lesse, and the said fort was placed without the compasse of the walles. Moreouer, they haue wrought so, as by the meanes of certaine sluces, the ditches are alwaies full of water, whereas before vpon an ebbe, there was little water remaining. The greatest fortification was made after the archdukes comming into the Netherlands, as well in the yere 1596 after the taking of Calice and Hulst, as a little before the siege, in the beginning of the spring, 1601, for then they did inlarge the rampar within, and the bulwarks were made grea∣ter: and then at one instant all the new fortification was made. [ E]

How much this towne did import the vnited prouinces, the Hollanders, Zeelanders, and Flemmings know full well, and the English are not ignorant.

During the time the two armies were busied in the isle of Bomel, and that prince Maurice staied there to defend the towne, the Flemmings beeing wonderfully annoyed by this pal∣trie fisher towne, they caused many forts to bee built about it; so as in the beginning of this siege, neere and farre off from the towne, there were 17 forts: whereof the chiefe were called Albertus, Isabella, Clara, Grottendorst, saint Catherine, &c. well appointed with men and artil∣lerie, lying neere the towne. These forts, with the rest, cost the Flemmings 100000 florins e∣uery moneth; and they offered vnto the archduke 300000 florins a month, during the siege, and ninetie thousand florins euery moneth for the space of three yeares, after it should be ta∣ken. [ F] They obtained also, by the archdukes councell of estate, the consent of the other owns of Brabant; although that the other prouinoes, subiect vnto the Spaniard, did not grea•…•…ly like of this enterprise, for that they held it to be full of danger. Many were of opinion, that if the archduke had suddainly followed the Estates armie, he had vngaged Berke, dispersed prince

Maurice his troupes, and afterwards would easily haue preuailed ouer the towne of Oostend, [ A] for that his forces were great, and many of his captaines had a great will to fight. But calling * 1.18 to mind the battell of Nieuport, he inclined to a milder course, persuading himselfe that the prince would presently abandon his forts and trenches before Bercke, to flie (though it were too late) to the reliefe of Oostend; and so with one stone he should giue many stroaks, freeing Bercke, dispersing his enemie, gleaning the Flemmings purses, and satisfying the mutined souldiers in Isabella fort, who for want of paie had beene ready to sell it vnto them of Oostend.

So the archduke marching towards Oudenbourg, on the fift day of Iuly, he sent cont Fredericke vanden Bergh marshall of his campe, with about fiue regiments of foot, to inuest Oostend on the east side: hee was saluted by the ordnance from the towne, which slue ma∣ny [ B] of his men. There were at that time in garrison in the towne, 22 ensignes, of diuers nations, comprehending one of the inhabitants. The seignior Vander Noot, a gentleman of Brabant, was gouernor of the towne. They sent the women and children presently into Zeeland.

Newes came vnto the prince beeing in his campe before Bercke, that Oostend was besie∣ged, the which hee would not beleeue, making light account that cont Frederick was come thither, saying; That they were but shewes: but when hee vnderstood that Augustine de Mex∣ia Chastellain of Antuerp was also arriued with fiue other regiments, and artillerie, and that they were making of their campe, he was very glad, saying; In good time, let vs leaue him there knocking at the gate for a long time, this peece here (meaning Rhinebercke) shall not escape me. This Chastellain went and lodged with his troups betwixt the forts of Albert and Isabella; but [ C] the besieged did so plie him with the cannon the first three daies after his arriuall, as after the losse of aboue 500 men slaine and hurt, he was forced to dislodge towards the downes on the west side.

The mutines in Isabella fort were partly pacified with promises, and in the end went forth to Wynoxberghe to receiue money, being about fiue hundred men. The body of the Spa∣nish armie was some foureteene thousand fighting men, who were lodged towards the west downes; and there were a thousand, or a thousand & two hundred left vpon the east downes, vnder the command of the seignior of Glaison, who began to build a new fort there, in the which he lodged his men. Then they made their approaches, and vpon the west downes they planted twelue peeces of ordnance: and moreouer there was a batterie made towards the sea [ D] side, so as the passage of the old hauen was quite shut vp, and after that time, the entrie vnto the towne from the sea, was vpon the north side; by the which the boats entred at a full sea, through the sea ditches, which were opened to that end.

Prince Maurice was now well assured, that the archdukes campe was planted before Oost∣end: he therefore would not abandon Bercke, being resolued to hold it out, vntill he were * 1.19 master thereof. And to assure the said towne of Oostend, he sent Sir Francis Veer, gene∣nerall of the Engllsh vnder the Estates seruice, with twelue companies of his nation, and colonel Westembroucke with seuen ensignes of Wallons, with other companies, making in all foure and thirtie ensignes: all which arriued happily the fifteenth of Iuly: and soone after came fifteene hundred Englishmen more. Then began the archduke to discouer the vanitie [ E] of his counsels: but being so farre ingaged, he grew obstinat before this towne, leauing prince Maurice farre off, labouring before Bercke, whereas the besieged began to scratch their heads, seeing their hoped succours turned another way, yet they continued their sallies, but with losse rather than gaine.

Sir Francis Veer being safely arriued at Oostend, hee presently went and lodged abroad, neere vnto the towne, and tenne daies after hee intrenched himselfe in a place, called the Red house, with an intent to stoppe the boats which brought victuals to the campe: but the Spaniards preuented it, not without losse of their men. All the rest of this moneth of Iuly was spent in sallies and skirmishes, in the which they spared neither powder nor shot. The archduke lost aboue foure thousand men, besides them that were hurt, and the besie∣ged [ F] had some three hundred men slaine. The Seignior of Warmond, admirall of Holland, furnished them with all sorts of munition. So as the Flemings found themselues much decei∣ued of their expectation: for they did imagine that this siege would be sooner ended than that of Berck.

But the prince hauing prouided well for Oostend, and so fortified himselfe before Bercke, [ A] as he neither feared the besieged, nor the archduke, hauing taken away all the defences of * 1.20 the rampar, blowne vp some mynes, with losse to the besieged, and hauing other readie to * 1.21 worke their effects; the besieged finding that they were vndone if they continued obstinate, hauing lost two third parts of their souldiers, and the rest beeing tired with continuall toyle; in the end they demanded a composition, the which the prince willingly yeelded vnto, in the beginning of August, giuing them leaue to depart with their armes and baggage, their colours flying, matches burning, and two field peeces, with fiftie bullets, and two barrels of * 1.22 poulder, with diuers other articles to the benefit of the besieged. They could not desire a more honourable composition. But the prince respected not the conditions, so as hee might take it, hauing continued his siege 7 weekes. [ B]

The day after the composition, there went out of the towne fortie fiue horsemen, six∣teene companies of foot, beeing one thousand two hundred fortie and seauen men, whole and sound, 370 hurt and sicke, & 78 sailers, with a great number of women & children, which went to Gueldre.

The archduke had sent the earle of Bergh with two thousand horsemen, and fiue thou∣sand foot to relieue the towne, and with him the earle of Boucquoy, and Nicholas Basta, expe∣cting other souldiers which came out of Italie; but prince Maurice his campe was so well for∣tified with strong trenches and good forts (wherein he is one of the most expert men this day liuing) as they durst not aduenture to offer to force it: and they within had want of many necessaries, especially of apothecarie drugges, for the recouering and curing of their sicke [ C] and hurt men.

The Estates hauing gotten this towne, resolued to defend it well; not onely for the ser∣uice of the Netherlands, but also in the behalfe of their neighbours, vpon the confines of the empire, it lying so commodiously for the freeing of the riuer of Rhine, the gouernment wherof was giuen to colonel Ghistelles, prince Manrice his lieutenant, and Gabriel Four-manoir was made sergeant maior.

The Estates of Oueryssell finding their countrie to bee well fortified now by the taking of Rhineberck, and the riuer of Rhine to be free; vpon the 28 of Iuly they made a proclamation to forbid all contribution to be giuen vnto the enemie, inioyning all their villages to keepe good watch, vpon paine of great punishments, and vpon euery alarme, or sound of the bell, to [ D] be in armes; forbidding them vpon paine of death to harbour any of the enemies souldiers, and that whosoeuer could take any of them, liuing or dead, should haue twentie fiue gulderns of the countrie for his reward: and that if any marchant trauelling through the countrey should chance to be taken or robbed by the enemie, they of the countrey and place where it was done, should pay his ransome & losses: and that they should make no composition with the enemie, with other points of the same nature.

Harman earle of Vanden Bergh fearing prince Maurice his armie, and that hee might at∣tempt some other place after his conquest of Bercke, sought by all meanes possible to drawe more men into Venloo; but the bourgers would not receiue any more in than their ordinarie garrison. [ E]

Monsieur Vander Weerpe gouernour of Mastricht, with others, were busied to haue pacified the mutined horsemen in Weert, but they were deafe, and had no eares to hearken to any words, without money. There was but a smal garrisō in Mastricht, nor yet in the Graue; in the which there laie not aboue 1000 men, vnder Antonio Gonsales a Spaniard; so as these townes were forced to stand vpon their guards.

There lay a garrison in Moeurs, belonging to the duke of Cleues: but prince Maurice chal∣lenging the same by gift from the countesse of Moeurs, vpon the sixt of August he sent mon∣sieur Cloet, and colonel Edmonds thither, with twelue cornets of horse, but they would not leaue it: whereupon prince Maurice went thither himselfe the next day with 25 cornets of horse, and 35 companies of foot, and foure demie cannons; whereupon they yeelded vp the [ F] towne. Hee then placed a garrison in it, and gaue directions for the fortification of the ca∣stle, and to make fiue bulwarkes about it, the which cost him an hundred thousand gulderns at the least: and vpon the 12 of August hee was installed earle of that place, with all due cere∣monies: and at Cracowe he imployed twentie eight thousand gulderns to fortifie the place,

where hee was forced to keepe a thousand men at worke; so as those two places were made [ A] very strong, and not likely to feare any danger, but in the summer time, when it is exceeding * 1.23 drie. But let vs returne to Oostend, whereas we left the archduke incampt; the which, for that it is one of the most memorable sieges that hath beene in our age, both for the exploits of either partie, and the long continuance of the siege, I haue thought it very necessarie and good to set it downe somewhat particularly and at large, for the benefit of ensuing ages.

There came vnto the archdukes campe about the end of Iuly, tenne companies of new I∣talians. * 1.24 Cont Frederick vanden Berghe intrencht himselfe with a regiment of Germans a∣bout the fort of Clara; and by the fift of August hee had extended his trench vnto the other forts on the west part. The besieged for their part did open the fort of Polder on the north∣west [ B] side of the towne, and did raise it towards the south, to plant a batterie there. On the same day they had sixe peeces of ordnance brought them out of Zeeland, whereof foure were planted vpon Sand-hill, and the other two on the bulwarkes towards the west, where there were also other peeces, which they tooke out of the east part of the towne, there to attend the enemies strongest attempts. Dom Catris a Spanish colonell, commanding at the west downes, had a great desire to assaile the rauelin of the Porc-espic, along the tonnel-dike, and by that meanes (the tyde beeing spent) to get into the old towne; for the effecting whereof, he approached the sixt of August within sixtie fadomes of the place. Against his approach and to preuent his designe, sir Francis Veer, and the gouernour Vander Noot made a trench the same day, from the Sand-hill vnto the north hauen, able to lodge fiue or sixe hun∣dred [ C] musketiers, whensoeuer the enemie would attempt any thing against the old towne. On the eight day the besieged made another trench on the southeast side of the Polder, within musket shot of the Spaniards, who for two daies after made many great shot at the town: then they approached to the tonnel-dike, the which the besieged did pierce through, beeing 24 foot thicke, and did make the other holes of the banke deeper, to drowne it with the tide.

On the foureteenth of August there was a little dike or banke on the East side of the towne cut through, with the counterscarpe and rauelyn, to lodge their ships in safetie (the which vn∣laded behind the counterscarpe) and to couer them from the enemies cannon. Two daies af∣ter being a Spring tide, and a great Westerly wind, it drowned all the trenches, and carried a∣way all the Spaniards gabions, euen vnto the sea side; and the next day the like tide and wind [ D] did endamage the dike on the East side. The Spaniards vsed certaine practises to mooue the souldiers that were within the towne to reuolt, shooting many arrowes with letters tied vn∣to them, into the towne, being written from an English fugitiue to the Englishmen that were there in garrison, to persuade them to leaue the towne, and come vnto the campe: but the next day in the euening there entred a supply of a thousand Englishmen into Oostend: and the Spanish armie was in like manner fortified with three regiments of Italians, which were put vnder the commaund of the earle of Boucquoy. On the twentieth day the Spani∣ard approched within six fadomes of their halfe Moone, whereas it seemed they would make a gallerie along the tonnel-dike. But the next day there was a breach made by the besieged betwixt the halfe Moone and the West Rauelyn, to hinder the enemies approches, and to [ E] make the sea ouerflow the West part of the countrey; by which breach the sea entred with great force.

On the 23 of August there came out of Zeeland fifty ships with eight companies of French, foure of Wallons, foure Scottish, foure Frisons, and two companies of cont Ernest of Nassau. The next day there was a fally made, but without any memorable exploit. All this month the archduke shot many fierie bullets into the towne to burne their houses, but through the care & diligence of the besieged, they tooke smal effect. From the beginning of the siege, vnto the end of this moneth of August, they had shot out of the campe against Oostend, aboue •…•…0000 cannon shot, most of their fierie bullets weighing 45 pounds, wherewith some souldiers and townes men were slaine: the bulwarkes were not much in dammaged, but onely their de∣fences [ F] broken; the which were so repaired, as they seemed stronger than before. Their grea∣test force was at Sand-hill, against the which they made in one day aboue seauen hundred great shot, whereas they made a great dust, but did small harme; so as this place, which is as much to say, as a hill of sand did change the name, and was called Iserberg, that is,

a hill of yron. They of the towne made almost twentie thousand great shot in sixe weekes, [ A] the which both parties haue since continued: their resolutions, of either partie, to assaile and * 1.25 to defend, beeing wonderfull great.

One the eight of September a gentleman fled out of the campe into the towne, who gaue * 1.26 them to vnderstand that Dom Catris generall of the Spanish armie, had beene shot in the head and slaine; that the armie consisted of three thousand horse, and eleuen thousand foot. Two daies after, monsieur Chastillon nephew to the princesse of Orange, reading a letter on the ram∣par, beeing set vpon the carriage of a cannon, had halfe his head shot off. And on the 23 day of the same moneth, colonel Vchtenbrooke was also slaine with the cannon; his body was car∣ried to Vtrecht (of whence he was) where he was buried with a militarie pomp, according to his degree and merit. On the last day of the moneth there was a great ouerflowing of water, [ B] by reason of the spring tide, the which did much hurt to the town, and drowned many of the archdukes souldiers in their trenches, the which were in a manner all ruined.

In the beginning of October there were some sallies made, but to small effect. The Spani∣ards made a new batterie neere vnto the mouth of the hauen, to shoot into the old towne, or at the least to breake the palisados, to make a breach in the fortifications, to hinder their works, and to play vpon the boats which past in and out. They made also a great fort at the point of the downes towards the towne, and laid a great heape of bauins betwixt the downes and the towne (which they did call saucices) that they might passe and repasse freely without disco∣uerie, from one place vnto another, to withstand the cannon, and to resist the violence of the sea, vpon euery westerly wind: whereupon the besieged made the bulwarke of Schotten∣bourg [ C] neere vnto Sand-hill, to flanke and couer certaine places by it. This new batterie of the Spaniards beeing ended, they planted two cannons there; and in like manner the bulwarke of Schottenbourg beeing finished, they planted as many there. On the eight day at night, the besieged began to make a bridge vpon the goullet, right against the mouth of the hauen, to passe vnto the other side; and the same night they made a halfe moone on the other side of the goullet, right against the hauen, and neere vnto the bridge, to assure the entrie of the hauen, and to defend the boats which should be staied at a low water, as also to sallie forth on that side; the which the Spaniards came to view in the night, who beeing discouered by them of the towne, they issued forth, slew one, and brought away a sergeant prisoner. On the 16 day at night the Spaniards came in troupe to the said halfe moone, wheras they slue three of them [ D] that were in guard, the rest (beeing not aboue 30 men, and the place in defence) retired them∣selues: whereupon the Spaniards abandoned it presently.

The night following the Spaniards returned againe with greater numbers, thinking to doe some great exploit, but they were deceiued, not finding any one; whereupon they went vnto the bridge that was neere vnto it, to burne it, the which they attempted twice or thrice; but it was in vaine, beeing forced to retire, by reason of the musket and cannon shot which played against them from all parts, especially from the bulwarks of Spaine and of Peckell, as also from the neere rauelin, beeing prepared to entertaine them; so as they lost twentie of their men.

On the twentieth day at night, the Spaniards planted on the east side, right against the port [ E] of Bruges, a great number of gabions, neere vnto the deepest part of the goullet, so as being a full sea, they stand farre into the water, and the tyde beeing spent they are neere vnto the wa∣ter which remained; beeing directly set one against another in foure rankes, as close together as might be, euery ranke containing 32 gabions, all filled with bagges full of sand, that the wa∣ter might not wash them away, and to resist the towne cannon, beeing all bound together with cables, and fastened vnto anchors, that they might stand firme to plant cannon there∣on; the which did hinder the boats from entring into the goullet, and so into the hauen of the towne; or at the least to sinke them with their ordnance, and thereby to annoy the besieged more than all the batteries which they had formerly made, beeing too farre off, and too high. [ F]

The 26 of October about noone, the tempest beeing very great, and the wind west and northwest, so as that tide was much higher than of custome; the cannon from the camp in the meane time made a great breach in the bulwarke of the Porc-espic, whereof a part of the pa∣rapet (on the which captaine Roules colours were planted) fell with the said colours into the

ditch: and in the same tempest some of the Spaniards gabions were carried away. The next [ A] day morning, the tide beeing higher than before, and so high, as the Spaniards could not stay * 1.27 at their gabions, nor approach neere vnto them, some souldiers and mariners of the towne, bethought themselues to goe with hookes and hatchets, and to make a breach in the said ga∣bions, and cut the cables which bound them together. They went and did their best endea∣uours, but the wind was so bigge, and the sea so high, as they preuailed little; but brought a∣way some sand bagges which were in the gabions. But the harme which was done by them, and by the violence of the sea, was soone repaired by the Spaniards. They murmured in the towne, why they had so long staied to put it in execution, for (said they) if it had beene at∣tempted in time, the first tempest had carried all away. The same day at eleuen of the clocke, the besieged made a sally at a low water, on the east side, to discouer if the Spaniards laboured [ B] behind their gabions, or not; hauing found that they wrought, and made a batterie there, they fell to skirmish with them, thinking to draw them within their cannon shot, and to take some prisoners, by whom they might vnderstand the estate of their campe. During this skirmish the besieged shot much from Peckell bulwarke, and slue some fiue or sixe of their ene∣mies, and of them that issued forth, some were hurt and maimed, but not any of them slaine out right.

The fourth of Nouember the besieged made another sallie to the same end, whereupon the Spaniards shewed themselues in diuers places, both horse and foot, but by reason of their continuall shooting from the bulwarkes of Spaine and Peckell, they durst not approach too neere; and in like manner, the besieged durst not aduance too farre from the towne, lest the e∣nemie [ C] should cut betwixt them and home.

On the ninth of Nouember, there came happily into the road 52 vessels with victuals and all other munition, to enter into the hauen vpon the first commoditie; all which entred by lit∣tle and little, although it were not without some hurt done by the cannon from the camp: I say this fleet came happily, for that of long time there had not any come, so as they wanted many necessaries, as well for the souldiers, as for their fortifications; for there was not any thing to be sold: as for their victuals, they were faine to haue recourse vnto their storehouse, where there was yet store of wheat, ric, meale, herrings, butter, dried fish, and other victuals. There was no beere in the towne but such as they brued there, which was very small & som∣what brackish; there was wine enough: so as the sound and whole were in good case, but the [ D] sicke were not so well, for whom, browne bread, herrings, salt fish, cheese, and such like cates * 1.28 were not fit: besides, they were ill lodged, some lying vpon the ground, being ill clothed and halfe naked, hauing scarce any thing to lie on, and nothing to couer them: and to fill vp the measure of their miseries, they had not any fiering to warme them withall, so as many of them died of pouertie and the extremitie of cold; and yet they endured all these mise∣ries patiently.

The thirteenth of Nouember, the seignior Vander Noot, colonel and gouernour of Oost∣end, leauing all the charge of the gouernment to sir Francis Veer, generall of the English, went from Oostend with captaine Grenn, and Broucksaulx, and two ministers (which were come to ease the ordinarie minister) to goe and informe prince Maurice of the estate of the [ E] towne. Moreouer it was said, that there were some iarres betwixt Vander Noot, and sir Francis Veer.

The same day they began to cut the causey of the old towne, ioyning to the sea (which serued as a rampar against the waues, and against the enemie, besides the rauelin on the north∣east side, and that which they call Moyses tables, by reason of the forme) to the end they might make a passage that way to the new hauen for the boats which came from the sea, and not be forced to passe any more by the goullet, for that the hauen extended it selfe so farre, where it was very broad and deep, being wont to stay the water there by a sluce, when it was a full sea, to clense the hauen, when the tide past away, by that sluce: and by that meanes the boats might be sooner in safetie, and passe in and out with lesse danger than by the goullet, beeing [ F] subiect to the cannon from their gabions and other batteries. Besides they feared that the danger would grow greater, so as in the end the boats should not bee able to passe that way; which the Spaniard sought by all meanes to bring to passe, beeing the onely way to effect his designe. And this was their last refuge, when they should haue no other meanes to passe

by the goullet: yet many held this course to bee dangerous, and had apparent reasons to [ A] thinke so (for else it had beene put in practise sooner.) It was much disputed on betwixt * 1.29 Sir Francis Veer and the magistrat of the towne: their opinion was, That in a great tem∣pest there might enter such abundance of water, as it might greatly endamage the fortifi∣cations of the new towne, comming to beat full vpon Vlamenbourg, which is a high ca∣ualier or platforme, commaunding ouer the Spanish campe: but the inconuenience was, that it was not deepe ynough, vnlesse it were at a high tide, and therfore they would not make such vse thereof as they desired: so as many were more desirous to passe by the goullet, than to stay for a full sea.

On that day, being the thirteenth of Nouember, fire fell into the archdukes fort, where there was as much burt and consumed as was esteemed to be worth fiue hundred thou∣sand [ B] crownes. Some thought, that this fire came downe from heauen. His Estates made him a present of an hundred thousand crownes, to helpe to repayre some part of this losse.

On the seuenteenth day of Nouember there came into Oostend a Spanish ensigne from the archdukes campe, who made report vnto the generall, that the Spaniards were discon∣tented * 1.30 with the tediousnesse of this siege, and especially that the archduke had dismissed many of the old experienced captaines, and other men of commaund, who had persuaded him to besiege the said towne, aduancing in their places young men, which had no expe∣rience in the warres: That there were a great number of sicke and hurt men in the Spanish campe, yea aboue two thousand: That the towne cannon slew many, and that there had [ C] beene many captaines and officers slaine: That the regiment of Dom Ioan de Brachamonte, which was accustomed to bee two thousand fiue hundred men, was now reduced to nine hundred: That such as had any charge, did speake very vnreuerently and immodestly of the archduke; concluding (after all their rayling) That he was good for nothing, but to bring a number of honourable and valiant souldiers (who were growne gray in the kings seruice) to the slaughter: That there wanted money; that they had receiued but fiue and twentie stiuers a man, for a long time, and had no subiect to hope for better: That they were tor∣mented with hunger: That they were full of diseases, and were starued with cold: That the receiuors of the victuals and munitions, did diminish or falsifie them, especially the beere of Bruges, so as the barell being not halfe full, they filled it vp with water: That of late there [ D] was a pasquill had run vp and downe their campe, which in effect did signifie, That the Spa∣niards had a desire to mutine, and that the archduke should bee forced to pay them: And in the end hee sayd, That at this siege there had beene slaine foure colonels, eight Spanish cap∣taines, ten Wallons, nine Italians, and some Germans and Flemings, many of their worke∣men, and of their best souldiers: That it was a pitifull thing to behold the new come Spani∣ards and Italians, starued with cold, and dying miserably.

At the same time there raigned a disease in Oostend, whereof many dyed in lesse than 24 howers.

Whilest the archduke was thus busied before Oostend, the Estates consulted, what was best to bee attempted, to draw the archduke from Oostend: many things were propounded, [ E] but finding themselues weake of men, and their treasure much wasted, they spent much time before they could conclude: in the end they resolued (though it were verie late) to besiege Boisleduc, one of the foure chiefe townes in Brabant; for which intent prince Maurice went with seuen and thirtie companies of foot, and three and thirtie corners of horse (a smal num∣ber for so great an enterprise) first meaning to charge the mutinous souldiers in Weert, but they stood so vpon their gard, as they could not get any aduantage of them: then comming backe, hee brought his armie before Boisleduc, vpon the last of October, stopping vp all the passages that came vnto the towne. William earle of Nassau was quartered before Hinter∣mer port, with six and twentie companies of foot, and foureteene cornets of horse. Prince * 1.31 Maurice with the rest lay before the Vughte gate, with the earle of Solins; who presently be∣gan [ F] to make their trenches and sconces round about the towne, which could not be so soone done, for that the towne is verie big: yet the prince vsed exceeding great diligence, hauing no need of any great guards, for that they had not many souldiers within the towne, whose sallyes hee needed not to feare, for there were in the towne but two companies of foot, a

cornet of horse belonging to Adolph earle of Bergh, with some fiftie horse of monsieur [ A] Gobendones companie, who was gouernour of the towne: the bourgers intreated them * 1.32 with faire words to behaue themselues valiantly, promising them that they should be relieued by the archduke, and that their sicke and hurt men should be carefully lookt vnto and pro∣uided for.

The prince beeing busie in his worke, hauing not yet fully inclosed the towne, on the sixt of Nouember at night there entred two hundred and sixtie men (which came from the Graue) into the towne, by a low way which was not ouerflowen with water, for that the riuer was stopt; who got into the towne, and were not discouered by the princes men, but onely by some straglers: and vpon the foureteenth day of the same moneth there were some nine hundred men which entred into the towne also by the same way, beeing led by [ B] Blyleuen lieutenant to colonel Hachicourt, and Michael vander Sternen; wherein some of prince Maurice his men were very negligent, hauing beene aduertised thereof in time, yet made no hast to preuent them, whereat prince Maurice was much offended; but beeing most past, they were charged in the rere and defeated, and some seauentie of them taken prisoners: so as the towne hauing now a thousand and sixe hundred men in her, it behoued prince Mau∣rice to stand vpon his guard.

Prince Maurice continued his workes still, and was in good hope within twelue or foure∣teene daies to lodge vpon the rampars, hauing brought his trenches both to the Vughter gate and Hinter gate; but the frost grew so violent, as all the waters and riuers began to be frozen vp, so as the armie could not get any more victuals by water: and newes beeing brought [ C] that diuers troupes were gathering together about Diest to relieue the towne, the Estates be∣gan to consult what was best to be done; for that at the beginning of the siege the Estates of Brabant had caused the marquesse of Haurec, and secretarie Prats, to aduertise the arch∣duke, of what importance the losse of the towne would bee for the whole countrie of Bra∣bant, whereby Graue, Venloo, Herentals, and other places would bee in danger. Where∣upon the archduke resolued to goe thither in person, sending presently before him from the campe, Frederick earle of Berghes, Nicholas Basta, and Iohn Iacomo an earle of Italie, to ga∣ther souldiers together about Dyest; whereas a thousand of the mutinous souldiers of Weert ioyned with them: with which troupes they did hope to relieue Hertogenbosche, either by setting vpon prince Maurice his campe, or by the besieging of Breda, or else making [ D] some inuasion into Holland, by meanes that the riuers were all frozen; so as they had made all things readie to march: and yet the campe remained whole before Oostend, for that they of Arthois and Henault had sent diuers companies thither for a certaine time, giuing to euery man ten stiuers a day.

The vnited Estates, and prince Maurice with his councell of warre, beeing fully aduertised * 1.33 of this preparation, although their campe were so well intrencht as they feared no enemie, yet they could not stoppe their entrie into the towne ouer the yee, nor yet their passage to Bomelerweert, whereby they might enter into Holland: whereupon they resolued to yeeld vnto the season of the yeare, and the extremitie of the frost; first sending away much of their baggage: and so vpon the seauen and twentieth day of Nouember they raised their siege, to [ E] the great griefe of prince Maurice, who was resolued to stay, if so bee the weather had bro∣ken vp.

Thus this siege prooued vnfortunate, both for that so many men entred into the towne in the beginning thereof, and for that the weather grew so extreame: the princes ships were all frozen in at Creuecoeur and Hemert, so as after sixe and twentie daies siege, he carried his ordnance and munition to Hensden, but many other necessarie implements, as sparres, pa∣lisadoes, scoopes, and spades, which for want of wagons they could not carrie away, were burnt; his trenches and other fortifications hee let stand, for a terrour to his enemies, and a shew of his knowledge, diligence, and meanes: and so he retired, hauing made a terrible spoile in that part of Brabant, of their churches, houses, and trees, which are planted in all their [ F] waies and passages to that towne in very good order.

After the princes departure they of Boisleduc made great ioy, the bishop singing Te Deum both within and without the towne, casting holy water vpon those houses which had beene broken or hurt by the enemie. There remained 500 men of Hachicourts regiment in garrison

in the towne, and the rest went forth. Those men which were leuied to relieue the towne, and [ A] to raise the siege, were part of them put into Herentals, and the rest returned to the siege of * 1.34 Oostend; and so did the archduke, who was at that time come to Brussels: and the mutinous horsemen of Weert went to Louuaine. Vpon the princes retreat from Boisleduc, there were certaine Latine verses made on either side.

Non ducis obsessae seruauit moenia Siluae, Albertigladius, frigida sedglacies. * 1.35

They were thus inuerted by the contrarie partie.

Tàm ducis obsessae seruauit moenia Siluae, Alberti gladius, frigidaquàm glacies. * 1.36 [ B]

Cont Iohn Iacomo of Belioyoso past through Brabant in October, and went to Rosendale with a thousand horse, and sixe hundred foot, where he burnt certaine shippes laden with fire wood, which should haue beene sent to Oostend, and did great spoile vnto the countrey thereabouts.

The bourgers of Mastricht, hearing that the archduke pretended to send some of the mu∣tinous souldiers of Weert into their towne, vpon the seauenteenth day of September, they contracted with their garrison (beeing some eight companies of Italians) not to receiue any [ C] more souldiers; so as they slue some which were brought in by their harbingers, and chased a∣way the rest, making a composition with monsieur Weerp gouernour of the towne, to defend it with that garrison against the enemie, vnder the archdukes obedience, as they of Ven∣loo and Ruremond did, the bourgers beeing the stronger; but after that, the Spaniards pra∣ctised to draw some souldiers secretly into Mastricht, the which beeing discouered, some of them were punished.

The horsemen of the vnited prouinces, to the number of foure hundred, with some foot, past the Rhine on the 24 of September, and went to Duyts neere vnto Cologne; where for the space of two or three daies they put the countrie to contribution, for certaine money which was vnpaid, the which the deceased countesse of Moeurs pretended to bee due vnto [ D] her from them of Cologne, and so they retired to Rhinebercke. And thus they spent the winter whilest that the archduke laie incamped before Oostend, whither we will now turne our discourse.

In the beginning of December the Spaniards before Oostend came and gaue a furious * 1.37 charge on the English quarter, where they were entertained with resolution, and in the end * 1.38 valiantly repulst, leauing fiftie pikes in the place, and much blood spilt, hauing carried away their dead men: of the English there were but three slaine.

On the fourth day two shippes comming in with English beere, at the same instant there was a house set on fire neere vnto the east gate, with the which the two next houses adioyning were burnt: which the Spaniards peceiuing, they began to shoot much at that place, assuring [ E] themselues (as it was true) that there were many people assembled together to quench the fire; but they slue but two souldiers and one boy. The same day there was a prisoner brought in, who said he was seruant to the earle of Barlaimont; he reported that many souldiers fledde from the arch dukes campe, and that they died daily in great numbers.

On the 16 day at night, the Spaniard brought three small boats ful of sand and stones neere to the mouth of the goullet or entire, to sinke them there, & to stop the passage from the hauen vnto the towne; the which they could not effect, for that the tide was too much spent, but were abandoned by them that conducted them, neere vnto the platformes of the town, right against Flamenbourg: the which the besieged could not discouer vntill the breake of day, when as many ranne downe to see them, being some what amazed: but when as the tide was [ F] gone, that they might approach on drie foot, they entred to view what was within them; whereas they found nothing but stones and sand: whereupon they began to pul them in pie∣ces for fire wood, which they might easily do without any danger, by reason of a mist which couered them from the view of the camp: but when the mist was past, they retired, & attended

vntill night to finish that which they had begun: some Spanish horse presented themselues [ A] to terrifie them, but the towne cannon forced them to retire. * 1.39

On the 21 of December, about three of the clocke after midnight, there came foure hun∣dred men, which camped on the west part to this trauerse, which was made of timber and bauins, betwixt Sand hill and the Caualier, to set fire of it, the which they effected cunning∣ly. This trauerse did serue as a defence for Sand-hill, and other neere parts, against the enemies cannon, which otherwise might doe much harme, as well to the palisadoes, as to the wall, and to the workes which did defend them from the breaches of the sea; the which was quite con∣sumed, with the palisado ioyning vnto it. This beeing done, they discouered all the old town, next vnto the sea, seeking to enter, as they did at a certaine place, where they had made a breach to passe their boats into the new hauen: comming neere a corps deguarde, they slue [ B] a Lanspisado, and entred also neere vnto the old temple, which place had beene abandoned by the besieged: but they were soone charged, and forced to turne head, by captaine Marshals * 1.40 companie, beeing of colonel Marquets regiment, who (although he were not of the guard) came running thither from the new towne. Without doubt if those vndertakers had beene well seconded at that time with greater forces, they might haue taken the towne, for that the guard was not great, hauing not halfe the garrison, and that some captaines were absent in their lodgings: and besides the garrison was then very small, hauing receiued no supplies in three moneths, and the companies that were in the towne beeing much decreased, many hauing bin slain, & many dead, through pouertie & want; besides that, many souldiers (being vnwilling to suffer those miseries any longer) fled daily to the archdukes campe, especially [ C] the French and English, so as there were some companies which had not aboue fifteene or sixteene men in them: many captaines beeing absent, and among others, those which were gone into Holland with the seignior of Vander Noot. Moreouer, the old towne lay very open towards the sea. Finally, they wanted many necessaries, so as if the enemie had come strong enough, hee might haue forced them: but beeing charged sooner than they expected, the besieged pursued them in their retreat; and among others, tooke one of some command, who beeing brought before generall Veer, discouered the cause of their enterprise, and what the archduke pretended to doe; which was to assault the towne very shortly in many places at once, for that he was sufficiently aduertised of the weakenesse of the towne, and of their small garrisons, and that they were ill furnished of victuals, and of all other necessaries; [ D] whereupon the archduke had in all hast sent for all the troupes which hee had in Brabant, Arthois, Henault, and other places: which the generall vnderstanding, hee beleeued it, and the rather, for that hee had receiued other aduertisements to the same effect; who seeing in what danger the towne had beene that night, hee first caused the guards to bee doubled at e∣uery low water, which should bee of the whole garrison, and they should not depart vntill the tide were risen of a reasonable height, and then such as were not of the ordinarie guard might retire: he also commanded, that euery captaine should come in person with his com∣pany to the guard, and caused them to worke night and day to fortifie those places which had most need, and lay most open vnto the enemie.

On the two and twentieth day of December, at night, there returned a fleet of two and * 1.41 [ E] thirtie barkes, who by a contrary wind had beene forced to returne into Zeeland, beeing la∣den with victuals, and all things necessarie, the which entred into the hauen without a∣ny danger, onely one ranne a ground neere vnto the gabions, and was spoiled by the Spa∣niards. This reliefe came happily for Oostend, where they had not aboue 15 daies prouision of corne in their store-house, and hauing want of all other necessaries.

The three and twentieth day at night, the weather beeing rainie and exceeding darke, the wind high, and the tide very lowe, all that were in the towne, souldiers, bourgers, mariners, victuallers, and others, put themselues into armes, for that they feared the archduke would giue a generall assault that night, hauing two daies before taken view of all the old town next vnto the sea, and found it to lie sufficiently open; and by that which the generall had vnder∣stood [ F] by the Spanish prisoner: hauing also the day before seene certaine shewes, as if they of the campe had made preparation for it, he gaue charge vnto captaine Lewis Cousture, to will some one of the archdukes commanders, that might bee in guard right against Sand-hill, to aduertise the archduke, or him that had the charge vnder him, that if it pleased

him to send certaine hostages into the towne, to see if they might come to any good compo∣sition, [ A] that he for his part would send some of his captaines for their securities. Whereupon * 1.42 soone after, and the same night, the archduke sent captaine Rybas, gouernour of Sclu•…•…, and * 1.43 the sergeant maior of the Spaniards; and for sir Francis Veer, there went two English cap∣taines in hostage: which caused amazement, discontentment, and great alteration in the towne, for because it had beene done in a manner without the priuitie of all the colonels, and captaines, and of the magistrate of the towne, beeing also allowed but by fewe of them: wherewith the generall beeing much discontented, he commanded the archdukes hostages should be sent backe, the which was presently done, beeing past ouer in a boat vnto the other side of the goullet, although they had entred on the west side. Sir Francis Veer would wil∣lingly, that a Wallon and a Flemmish captaine had beene also hostages with his English [ B] men▪ but they would not yeeld to it; so as all that night hee was much troubled, beeing in armes and in consultation: and yet the English hostages were not at that time called backe.

On the foure and twentieth day early in the morning, the archduke sent a letter by a trum∣pet vnto the generall; whereupon, in the end it was thought fit, and concluded by all the colonels, captaines, and magistrates, to call backe the archdukes hostages, that all might bee done by accord, and that no alteration might happen; as also to haue their English hostages againe. So the said Rybas and sergeant maior being returned, there was a ces•…•…ation from armes and from all acts of hostilitie.

On the 25 day at night▪ there came fiue shippes of warre of Zeeland, and fiue companies [ C] of souldiers with great store of munition, who cast anchor in the road: the which beeing * 1.44 discouered by them of the towne at the breake of day, it did much reioyce them, those suc∣cours comming very happily vnto them after a long expectation. And the same day about one of the clocke in the after noone, beeing a very calme day, and the sunne shining clee•…•…e, and the sea beeing calme, at a full tide, the said fiue companies, with the mariners landed, not∣withstanding all their shot from the campe, which slue three mariners, and hurt some. Wher∣upon the archdukes hostages beeing in the towne, were amazed, vntill it was told them that the truce continued still.

The same day, and presently after, it was resolued within the towne, not to treat with the archduke, but to defend the towne, to send backe the hostages, and to call home theirs▪ the [ D] which was done, beeing much displeasing to the archduke: to whom generall Veer did w•…•…te, excusing himselfe that their treatie had broken off, vpon the arriuall of their supplies, the which he could not send backe, no•…•… with his honour treat any further, seeing he wanted not any thing. Wherewith the archduke beeing much discontented, hee was out of hope euer to get the towne at so easie a rate. Whereupon his cannon began to play furiously, be∣ing answered in the same manner from the towne; whereat they all reioyced, euen wiues, maides, and children, for euery one had beene very melancholy at this parle: although the wint•…•…r were very sharp, & many had been slaine and dead for pouertie and want, besides the warres which the stormes of the sea made against them, yet no man was desirous to haue the towne yeelded, but euery one was sad and heauie for the treatie, especially the Wallons, [ E] whom they called the new Gueux▪ beeing of the regiment of the seign•…•…or of Marquette; and the reason was for that they had deliuered vp the forts of saint Andrew and Creuecoeur vnto the Estates, and they had behaued themselues very valiantly at the battell of Nieu∣port.

After that the enemie had sent to view the weakest parts of the old towne, and burnt the trauerse neere vnto Sand-hill, they had laboured day and night to repaire that which was rui∣ned, as wel by the cannon from the campe, as by the sea, the which they could not repaire for want of stuffe, which they might haue done during the parle, but it was neglected: and then they laboured with all diligence, and nothing was spared to hinder the enemies ap∣proach. [ F]

On the sixt day of Ianuarie, 1602, the archduke battered Sand-hill, and other neere pla∣ces with his cannon, euen vntil night, as if he meant to make a breach, and to giue an assault (as two prisoners, the one a Spaniard, the other an Italian had told them) which made the be•…•…e∣ged to stand carefully vpon their guard, & to rampar vp & fortifie all ruined places, especially

the old towne▪ so as when the Spaniard began this furious batterie, the towne was much [ A] stronger than it was on the 21 of December. * 1.45

The seuenth of the moneth the archduke, before he would giue a generall assault, as hee had proiected, he battered euerie part of the towne with exceeding great furie; and the more to a∣maze the besieged, he battered the houses in ruine, and shot fierie bullets. This batterie did much harme to the sand hill, to the false brayes, to the por•…•…-espic, to Helmont, and to a great part of the old towne, and to all places where they had any aime; the which began earely in the morning, and continued vntill night: for they could not come to giue an assault, vntill it were a low water. The weather was cloudie, but the moone shining thorough the clouds, gaue a little light. The besieged in the meane time laboured to repaire that which the canon had spoyled, without any spare of any thing, so as they tooke the timber from the houses▪ to [ B] mend the palisadoes; neither was there any one among them, no not the women, that s•…•…w∣ed any signe of amazement, but rather of ioy.

The same day, about fiue of the clocke in the euening, the tide being well spent, to passe the * 1.46 old hauen, whereby the enemie might approach vnto Sandhill, and other places, whereas the canon had made any breach, the archduke caused his men to march in order of battaile, car∣rying ladders, pick•…•…xes, and all other sorts of instruments, going to assault those places which seemed weakest vnto them. They made a braue attempt, but they were more brauely resisted, for the besieged wanted neither armes, powder, nor courage; so as the fight continued betwixt them aboue two howers, with great obstinacie: but the Spaniard could stay no longer with∣out his vtter ruine, for that the •…•…ide was come in, and the sluces were pulled vp; so as the water [ C] falling into the old hauen, & meeting with the tide which came in, it presently swelled much, whereby many, seeking to retire, were drowned: so as of them that were slaine in the fight; and of such as were drowned, they had the spoyles of aboue seuen hundred, besides those that * 1.47 were carried into the sea, with the ebbe, the which were neuer found: besides, they left behind them their ladders, instruments, and great store of arms, the which we•…•…e found vpon the sands. Yet the archduke won by this assault the false bray of Sandhill, not by force, but for that the generall made his men to quit it, being not guardable but with a great number of men, the which he could better imploy elsewhere: And in like maner it was abandoned by the Spani∣niards at their retreat, so as they made no vse thereof. Those that were vpon the East side, to second them of the West, in this generall assault, passing the goullet to fal vpon the old towne; [ D] they could not passe the water, being not yet low ynough, when as the others began the as∣sault: They thought to set vpon the halfe moone, which was on their side, but they could not come neere it, wherefore the besieged were not troubled on that side; the which was a great ease for the other places which were assaulted. Wee passe ouer with silence, those that were hurt and maimed, which number we may imagine was not small, by reason of the canon which shot from Helmont, the po•…•…-espic, and the West rauelin; the which did wonderfully spoyle the enemie in his approach and retreat, so as for some dayes after there was nothing to bee seene, but wagons full of maimed souldiers, which they carried to Bruges, and other pla∣ces: and among others, there were seuenteene Spaniards, which had but two legs among * 1.48 them all, the canon hauing carried away the rest. And they were no sooner retired, but they [ E] were pursued by the besieged with their musket shot, and to strip them that were slain, among the which there was a woman found in mans apparell▪ a souldier hauing his skin bound about with cords▪ and vpon some there were small bookes found, full of characters; all which could not pres•…•…rue them from death. In all this pursuit, the besieged could take but one onely pri∣soner, and another which came and yeelded himselfe willingly. The besieged had but thirtie men slaine, of the which there were three captaines, one lieutenant, and one ensigne.

The next day they gaue thanks vnto God for this victorie, both at the French and Dutch sermons.

On the tenth day of Ianuarie there came into the road before the towne, twelue ships, with so many companies, to releeue them that had endured much, and were greatly decreased in [ F] their numbers, and to send them into Holland and Zeeland, to refresh themselues: and to the same end there entred 13 companies more on the 14 of the moneth. Generall Veer being also commanded by the Estates to returne into Holland, there arriued colonell Dorp, who succee∣ded him in the gouernment of the towne, and colonell Edmonds, a S•…•…ottish man, after whose

comming, they laboured more in the fortifications, than before. [ A]

On the 19, at night, three companies going out of the hauen towards Zeeland, the enemies * 1.49 canon sunke one of them, and another, hauing her mast and maine yard broken, was driuen on ground on the campe side, whereas all the souldiers and mariners, with the commissarie Man∣riques (who had brought mony) were taken prisoners, and afterwards deliuered vpon ransom: others runne the like fortune, and were taken by the enemie.

All this moneth, and some following, the archduke fortified his campe, beeing resolued to continue his siege: and the shot which he made at randome, in time ruined the buildings, and the bullets did much harme, running vp and downe the streets: Whereupon they resolued to take vp the pauement, and to make trenches crosse the streets, where the bullets should present∣ly stop, being one verie neere vnto another: And in the meane time the besieged defended [ B] themselues couragiously, being assisted and releeued euery three moneths by the Estates, who sent them new supplies, and prouision.

On the seuenth of Februarie at night, there were certaine notes shot into the towne, per∣suading the souldiers to run from their garrison to the campe, assuring them of good enter∣tainment, or else they should haue pasports giuen them, to goe whither they pleased, if they would not serue the archduke. And that they did abuse them, which said, they should bee ill intreated, or sent to the gallies, as some which had fled into the towne had falsly reported. All these were practises to draw them away, and so to weaken the garrison.

On the 14 of February the seignior of Marquette, colonell of the new Gueux, arriued, brin∣ging 14 companies with him, to refresh the rest. [ C]

On the 23 and 24 of the month, there blew such a terrible North-west wind, as it made the tide rise much higher than it had beene accustomed, the which did very much harme vnto the rampars, bulwarks, and banks, the tide comming farre into the towne; so as if this tempest had continued but two tides longer, the besieged had been forced to flie into their garrets for safe∣tie, and all the rampars and bulwarks had beene in danger to haue beene carried away into the sea, or else to haue had such a breach made, as the Spaniards might haue come on horsebacke to the assault. Finally, the sea did more annoy them, than the archduke, against the which they had more cause to rampar themselues, than against all his force: but God in an instant did cause this tempest to cease, the wind turning to the North-east, and verie calme; which made the besieged to repaire all these ruines as well as they could, although they wanted bauins, [ D] and other materials to do it.

On the second of March the Spaniards came in the night, and anchored certaine pipes ty∣ed together with cables, in the mouth of the goullet, to stop the entrance, as they had often at∣tempted it: but they preuailed no more now than before, all this equipage being taken by the besieged, and brought into towne, except one anchor, and the pipes, which they brake.

As the toyle and pouertie which the archdukes souldiers endured, began to tyre them, they * 1.50 fell at that time into mutinie, both to haue their pay, and to bee better vsed: whereupon the archduke caused ten or twelue of the chiefe authors of this mutinie, to be hanged; the which bred a strange alteration among the souldiers, so as from that time he was faine to stand vpon his guard, for feare of his owne souldiers: yet vpon his faire promises, and the hope they had [ E] of the yeelding vp of Oostend, and that the archdukes Estates wold make some great attempt, the souldiers contented themselues; so as for a time he was verie wel serued in the continuance of this siege.

The Estates of the vnited prouinces hauing taken good order for the defence of Oostend, they intended to attempt something this summer, and hauing conferred with prince Maurice, their lieutenant generall, about the end of March they began to gather an armie together, the which was greater, and better ordered than euer, so as in Aprill and May they had the goodli∣est armie readie that could be seene, not for number of men, but for martiall discipline, the princes campe being like vnto a towne furnished with all necessaries for the life of man, so well fortified in the night lying in field, and marching in the day time in such good order, as it was [ F] not possible to get any aduantage ouer them. Finally, there wanted nothing to this bodie, led by a wise head, with such obedience of all the members, as those which haue seene this armie, consisting of six and twentie thousand fighting men, horse and foot, confesse, that they had neuer seene the bodie of an armie more pleasant to behold, nor more to be feared; but aboue

all, in regard of the baggage, the which was wonderfully well ordered. [ A]

All being readie, the generall Estates of the vnited prouinces published a declaration at the * 1.51 Hage in Holland, by the which they gaue a reason of their action, and inuited the Braban∣sons, Flemings, and others, to ioyne with them, and to helpe them to expell the Spaniards and their adherents, out of the countrey; whose insolencies they described briefely, with pro∣testation to continue in their iust enterprise, to maintaine the liberties, priuiledges, and free∣domes of the countrey. Which declaration being put in print, was sent vnto all the prouin∣ces: but the people that were subiect to the Spaniard, durst not moue nor speake a word, at∣tending an end of the siege of Oostend, and what the armie of either side should doe. The archduke hearing that the prince marched in so good order, and that hee entred into the countrey of Liege, (being now at S. Trudon, and at Maseek, where hee made his prouisi∣ons, [ B] besides that which hee had brought with him) hee caused his troups also to march, vnder the command of the admirall of Arragon, to whom the prince did twice offer battaile: the which (remembring that of Nieuport, where the archduke had beene so wel beaten, and him∣selfe taken prisoner) hee would neuer accept, neither had he any charge to do it, keeping him∣selfe within his fort.

Prince Maurice seeing how hard it would be to draw the Spaniard to fight, hauing marcht * 1.52 farre into the enemies countrey without any incounter, and taken from him the townes of Eindouen and Helmont, with the castle, he took another resolution, and turning head, marcht towards the strong towne of Graue; the which (notwithstanding it had a strong garrison) he besieged, and intrencht himselfe after his accustomed maner, as well against the besieged, as a∣gainst [ C] the archdukes armie.

Graue is the chiefe towne of the land of Cuyck, lying vpon the Meuse: in times past it was * 1.53 vnder the duchie of Gueldres, but afterwards brought vnder Brabant, and was pawned to Maximilian, earle of Egmont and Buren, the which William prince of Orange, who maried his daughter and heire, bought, and inioyed it long. After the pacification of Gant, certain Dutch souldiers holding it for the Spaniard, were by the princes souldiers, with the helpe of the bourgers, thrust out, and fortie of them slaine. In the yeare 1586 it was besieged by the duke of Parma, and soone yeelded by monsieur Hemert, who was gouernour: since which time (be∣ing strong by scituation) it was fortified with many bulwarks, rauelins, and counterscarps, and is at this day one of the strongest townes in all the Netherlands. The gouernour at that time [ D] was Antonio Gonzales, a Spaniard: the garrison consisted most of Italians and Spaniards; and some companies of Dutch, vnder Pangus Gallays of Tyrol, lieutenant to colonell Tislingh, put themselues into it, being in all fifteene hundred men, besides the bourgers, who, by reason of the souldiers insolencies, were not aboue 3 or 400. The towne wanted neither ordnance, mu∣nition, nor victuals.

Vpon the eight of August they made a sallie vpon cont William of Nassaus quarter, where the fight continued an houre, with the losse of fifteene of their men: the earle had thirtie slaine and wounded.

The admirall of Arragon, with Frederic earle of Bergh, and other commanders of the arch∣dukes armie, marcht towards the land of Cuyck, and lay there certaine dayes, whilest that the [ E] prince fortified his campe. On the tenth of August in the morning, hee marcht towards the quarter whereas the prince himselfe lay, making a stand within a quarter of a mile, in a vil∣lage called Lynde, where hee insconced himselfe, and cast a bridge ouer the Meuse, that hee might not bee distrest for victuals.

They of the towne discouering his approach, made great signes of ioy, in shooting off their ordnance, which the admirall answered. And on the 13 day, early in the morning, they made a sally out of the towne vpon cont Williams quarter: and at the same time the admirall approa∣ched neere vnto the princes campe, both with horse and foot; but lying too open to the prin∣ces ordnance, he retired to his lodging.

Vpon the fifteenth of August, they within the towne made another sallie with three hun∣dred [ F] men, vpon the English quarter, where they came to the push of the pike. Among the English there was one captaine Keyes Hertoghen, who was a Dane borne, yet seruing a∣mong them, with some sixteene or seuenteene souldiers slaines and of the towne there were

fiftie slaine and hurt. And on the seuenteenth day they made another sally with seuen hun∣dred [ A] men, vpon the English quarter, but after some fight, the ordnance forced them to retire, * 1.54 with some losse of either side.

The admirals men skirmished sometimes with the princes guard, and hee brought his ord∣nance so neere, as he shot into the princes camp, and slew many souldiers; so as they were con∣strained to fortifie their trenches against him. Among others, Andreas de Roy, an expert engi∣ner, and much esteemed by prince Maurice, for his industrie and knowledge, was shot looking ouer the rampars, and so were diuers captaines. And on the two and twentieth of August sir Francis Veer, generall of the English, was shot in the necke and cheeke; so as beeing forced to * 1.55 retire himselfe from the campe, by reason of his wound, Henrie Frederic of Nassau, prince Maurice his brother, had the charge giuen him of the English quarter. [ B]

The admirall began then to bee scanted of victuals in his armie, for that Brabant had bin quite spoyled and wasted; the which, together with their bad pay, made the souldiers mur∣mure: so as finding that want would force him to retire from the place where hee was in∣trencht, on the one and twentieth of August, in the night, hee resolued to make an attempt vpon the campe, betwixt the princes and cont Williams quarters: but while they were bring∣ing their ladders, shouels, pickaxes, baskets, and other instruments, they were discouered, so as all the princes armie stood readie in armes, to entertaine them: whereupon hee re∣tired hastily, making all the speed hee could, leauing all those implements behind him: and on the three and twentieth day he brake vp his campe, hauing sent away his carriages before earely in the morning. [ C]

Monsieur Grobendonc, gouernour of Boisleduc, intreated the admirall to march with his armie to Rauestein, where hee might haue more store of victuals, and stop the ships which came with prouision out of Holland vnto prince Maurice his campe: the which, for some o∣ther considerations, hee neglected, and went to Venloo with his armie. Whereupon prince Maurice followed him with his horsemen; and fearing hee should attempt Berck or Moeurs, hee sent Ernest, earle of Nassau, thither with certaine men: but the admirall sought to get into Venloo, in the which there was but a weake garrison: but they would not suffer him to enter: and so he went to Mastricht, for that the whole armie began to mutine, by reason of want, especially the new Italians, who could not shift without money: whereupon di∣uers of them went and offered their seruice vnto prince Maurice. [ D]

They within Graue were in some doubt of the admirals retreat, yet did their vttermost en∣deuours to defend themselues: many of them notwithstanding got out of the towne in the night, and yeelded themselues to prince Maurice; letting him vnderstand, That they wan∣ted not any thing, but men, and that the feare of reliefe made many of them to faint. Prince Maurice gaue pasports to all them that fled from the enemie, and a gulderne a peece, and so they went into Cleueland, or into Zeeland, and returned home into their countrey through France.

After many sallies and incounters, the besieged hauing forsaken al their workes without the town, and the princes men being come, on the fourteenth of September, to the rampar of one of the bulwarks of the towne, lying vpon the Meuse, with some losse of men, they within gaue [ E] notice thereof vnto the neighbour townes, by fire made in their tower tops: but no reliefe be∣ing at hand, and their men decreasing daily, fearing also that the galleries on the other side of the towne, would be also brought vnder their rampars, within fiue dayes, they offered a parle; vnto whom monsieur Sydlenisky was sent, by whose meanes they of the towne sent their de∣puties to prince Maurice, and receiued hostages for them: and so vpon the nineteenth of Sep∣tember, a composition was made for the yeelding vp of the towne, the which the prince did the more willingly agree vnto, for that the riuer of Meuse began to swell, whereby his tren∣ches and galleries might haue beene much indamaged. And so, after two moneths siege, it * 1.56 was deliuered.

The conditions were, That the gouernour and souldiers should depart with their [ F] armes and baggage, and ensignes displayed: they should haue an hundred and fiftie wagons for their carriages to Dyest, leauing hostages for them. That such as had runne from the Estates, should enioy the ben•…•…t of the same conditions. That the hurt and sicke might, if

they would, goe by ship to Mastricht. That all victuals, ordnance, and munition, should bee [ A] deliuered vnto the princes commissaries, without spoyle or diminishing. That the souldiers * 1.57 should depart the towne the next day, or else suffer two hundred men to enter into the castle and the bulwarkes. And that the gouernor should procure the archduke to pay the magistrats and the bourgers of the towne, all such summes of money as they had lent to him and his souldiers.

The next day they left the Graue: and the bourgers intreated prince Maurice, as their lord, to receiue them into grace, to forgiue what was past, to protect and defend them, and to con∣firme their priuiledges. Concerning religion, it was agreed, That euerie one should liue ac∣cording to his conscience, without any molestation; yet there should be no exercise of reli∣gion, but as it was obserued in the vnited prouinces. There were six moneths time granted [ B] vnto the bourgers, to follow the archdukes court, to recouer their debts, and longer, so it were with the consent of the gouernour or magistrat. All spirituall and temporall men, should haue three yeares respit, to leaue the towne, and to returne againe, to dispose of their lands, as they thought good, and most conuenient. With other articles concerning the towne in particular.

This composition thus made, vpon the twentieth of September the Spanish garrison went forth, beeing eight hundred men strong, and two hundred hurt men, the remainder of fifteene hundred. Prince Maurice had many men also slaine, whereof there were foure hundred Eng∣lish: And many sicke men were sent into diuers hospitals, for that there was a discase among them, little better than the plague. [ C]

Vpon the eight and twentieth of September prince Maurice was installed lord of the * 1.58 towne, and of the land of Cuyck: and then came the deputies of the generall Estates, both into the towne and armie, to take order for the breaking vp of the same, discharging the Rei∣sters, and giuing to euerie one halfe a moneths pay, besides his due, to beare his charges; ta∣king an order also for such as fled from the admirall, being verie many.

Prince Maurice made monsieur Sidlenisky gouernour of the Graue, beeing a wise and a va∣liant gentleman, who had beene sergeant maior of the armie, and had long serued the vnited prouinces faithfully, in many good places. Mabuse was made sergeant maior in his stead.

The souldiers in the archdukes armie, vnder the admirall of Arragon, were much discon∣tented for want of pay, especially the old souldiers (for the new Italians ran away) for which [ D] cause * 1.59 the admirall retired further from the enemie, beeing not much beloued, but rather contemned and hated of his souldiers, who called him El gran Capitan del Rosario, in re∣gard of his deuotion: who seeking to suppresse their mutinies by seueritie, ten or twelue hundred of them forsooke the armie, and tooke a small towne in the countrey of Liege, called Hamont, whereas the admirall did thinke to assayle them, with such horse and foot as hee did most trust; but they refused that charge.

Among these mutiners there was a banished souldier of Geertruydenbergh, called Papan∣ken, who sent word vnto prince Maurice, that hee would draw a good number of horse and foot from the enemie, to serue the vnited Prouinces. This offer was neither accep∣ted * 1.60 nor reiected, but all fauour promised them, so as they would gouerne themselues [ E] well and faithfully, &c. Whereupon they entred into Grobendonc in Brabant, their num∣ber still increasing; and in the end seized vpon the strong castle of Hoochstraten, whereas they made good orders among themselues, and forced the boors round about to pay them contribution.

The archduke to preuent these inconueniences, came out of Flanders to Antuerpe, leauing the Infanta at Gant. In Antuerpe hee borrowed money, wherewith he caused the armie vn∣der the admirall, to march foreward, with a third part of a monethes pay. Whereupon ma∣ny Italians, and other commaunders left the armie. Theodore Trivultio, Alphonso d'Aualos, Fernando Cariglia, Martin Lopes, and Emanuel Texera, master of the campe, and others, were put out of the counsell of warre; which caused in a maner a generall reuolt, so as the nine thou∣sand [ F] Italians, were brought to 3000, the rest were run away, or ioyned with the mutiners. Out of Spaine they had small helpe, both for that the king was yong, and his counsell diuided in opinions.

To preuent all these difficulties, it was giuen out, That Dom Ioan de Medicis, bastard of Flo∣rence, [ A] should come thither to supply the admirals place; but he came not: many thought he * 1.61 refused that charge, matters being so confused.

The garrison of the castle of Antuerpe began also to bee discontented, and threatned a mu∣tinie: but the townes men gaue their words to see them payed, and so by that meanes they were satisfied.

The archduke went from Antuerpe to Brussels, to leuie money, whereas (by reason of the many new growne troubles) hee was not verie pleasing vnto them: At that time there was an assemblie of the Estates, but they concluded little for the preuention of so great disorders. The archduke caused many peasants to bee taken vp, throughout all the Wallon prouinces, both for his owne guard, and to make head against the mutiners, relying not much on his [ B] owne souldiers, but on some that were well paid. The high Dutch regiment vnder Barla∣mont, were also vpon tearms to mutine, and had attempted to surprise Dermonde in Flanders. The archduke went to Toren, and so to his armie, whereas hee discharged the admirall of his generals place, for want of money, who soone after went into Spaine, where hee was not verie * 1.62 welcome.

After that the archduke by policie and faire promises, got them of Venloo to receiue more men, and thereby assured the towne for himselfe; from thence he went to Liere, where, with certaine companies of souldiers, and the boors of the countrey, with the townes-men, and some others thereabouts, he thought to charge the mutinous souldiers, who at that time were verie strong, and lay in Hoochstraten, spoyling all the countrey, and striking a great terror in∣to [ C] the peasants. These mutiners growing strong, and their insolencies intollerable, beeing a verie bad example to others, and no money to be found to pacifie them, the archduke with the Spanish counsell (contrarie to the aduice of the Estates of the countrey) resolued to banish them, and to proclaime those mutinous souldiers, traitors, and villaines. The sentence of their proscription was as followeth.

The Archdukes.

As wee had drawne our armie together to releeue the towne of Graue, the which is besie∣ged by the enemie, and so valiantly defended by the souldiers that are within it, as they de∣serue [ D] great commendation, going our selfe in person to that end, wee were aduertised, That some souldiers of our sayd armie, lying neere vnto the enemies campe, vnder colour of an al∣teration or mutinie, to recouer that which they falsely pretend to be due vnto them, haue wic∣kedly abandoned their colours and cornets: and after they had made attempts vpon manie places, in the end they surprized the castle of Hoochstraten, by treacherous and wicked meanes, hauing giuen many vchement presumptions, to hold correspondencie, and to treat with our enemies: the which is against all reason and iustice; neither hath it beene euer pra∣ctised among our souldiers. But contrariwise such as haue beene in mutinie (when as the enemie hath besieged any place of ours, or that wee had need of men for any expedition) lea∣uing their forts and places of strength, came to serue vs willingly and chearefully. And for [ E] that the chiefe actors of this wickednesse and treason, are men to whom there is little or no∣thing due, for that they are new come, or else haue beene in the mutinies of Dyest, Weert, and Carpen, and haue beene lately accounted with, and paid whatsoeuer was due vnto them, beeing men accustomed to practise and inuent mutinies, to receiue money for contributions, without doing vs any seruice, who haue induced, circumuented, and forced the others to commit this treason; whereby their brethren and companions (which are besieged) cannot bee succoured, and all other enterprises, which we might haue against our enemies, hindered, forcing vs to turne our armes against them, as against those that are more dangerous and pre∣iudiciall than domesticall enemies; for that the enemie is thereby made stronger. And for as much as this fact is strange, fowle, odious, of bad consequence, and worthy to bee exemplarly [ F] punished:

Wherefore desiring to prouide for the publike cause, and the good of our subiects, wee in∣ioyne and commaund all soul•…•…rs, or other persons, or their traine, which are in the sayd

castle of Hoochstraten, or that shal ioyne, there, or in any other place, with them, vnder co∣lour [ A] of mutinie, within three dayes after the publication hereof, to returne vnto their ensignes * 1.63 and cornets, or to present themselues vnto the gouernour of Liere, or of Herental, to the end they may be presently sent away vnto their ensignes and standerds, wheresoeuer they shall be, as if this alteration had neuer happened. And wee ingage our word and faith vnto them, that they shall neither at this present, nor at any time hereafter, be punished, nor reprehended in particular, although they were the chiefe motiues thereof; but shall bee intreated with all kindnesse and fauour: and there shall bee meanes made to giue them full satisfaction, as men whom we desire to gratifie: The which if they refuse to accomplish, after the expiration of the said three dayes, we declare, as well them that are there at this present, as all others that shall hereafter ioyne with them, to bee rebels, traitors, and wicked persons, hauing committed high [ B] treason in the highest degree; and as such wee condemne them to loose both liues and goods, and from this time wee hold them confiscated and incorporat to our reuenews: Giuing leaue vnto all persons, of what estate and condition soeuer, freely, and without any danger of pu∣nishment, to kill the said mutiners, or any of them, after what sort and manner hee may most conueniently do it. And whosoeuer shall kill them, hee shall receiue for euerie one of their heads ten crownes, and for any one of the ordinarie officers, an hundred, and for those which they call of the counsell, the sergeant maior, or the gouernour of the horse, two hundred crownes, and for the Electo fiue hundred. And if they which shall kill them bee any of their companie, wee pardon them, and will cause the said summes to be giuen them.

And moreouer, wee commaund and enioyne all judges of our armies, estates, and seignio∣ries, [ C] that they take an inuentorie of all the mouable & immouable goods of the said mutiners, of their apparell, and of all other things belonging to their wiues and children; and that the goods bee laied in deposito; and that a true certificat bee sent thereof vnto the judge of the armie, that hee may incorporat it vnto our reuenewes, to the which at this present wee ad∣iudge them. And wee commaund all persons which haue in their custodies, money, or any other thing belonging vnto the sayd mutiners, or to their wiues and children, in pawne, or in any other sort whatsoeuer, that they deliuer it not vnto them, but make it knowne vnto vs, to the end wee may make it forfeit, as is said; vpon paine of confiscation of all their goods that shall conceale them, and to bee corporally punished at our pleasure. And for the fowl∣nesse of the offence, and the bad consequence thereof for other princes, to whom the like may [ D] happen in their armies (this being vnpunished) We intreat and besiege the emperour and the king of Spaine, our lords and brethren, and all other kings, princes, and potentats, in what part soeuer the said mutiners shall bee, or shall haue their goods, to commaund them to bee ap∣prehended, and sent vnto vs, and to cause the sayd arrest to bee made, sending a certificat vn∣to vs, as it is aboue specified: Beeing readie to doe the like at their request, in our countries and seigniories, whensoeuer they shall require it. And moreouer, wee forbid all the wiues and children of the sayd mutiners, to goe into any place or places, where they shall bee, nor to treat nor communicat with them by writing, nor word of mouth, during the said mutinie, vpon paine of death: Beeing lawfull for all men to strip and spoyle them, if they shall goe, or bee in any sort suspected to haue an intent to goe vnto their sayd fathers, or husbands: [ E] commaunding, That within three dayes they depart out of our countries, and returne no more, vpon the like punishment.

Wee commaund also, That not any one of our subiects, or any other that is within our countries, as a merchant, victualer, or seruant, or in any other sort, shall assist, serue, nor feed the said mutiners nor their seruants, horses, nor any one that depends of them, no not for their money; vpon paine of death, or other pecuniarie punishments, at the will and plea∣sure of our judges, and according vnto their qualitie, and the merit of their offence: and that finding them, they may kill them without any offence. And that the names and sirnames, and places where the said mutiners, or their fathers, were borne, shall bee rased out of the mu∣ster bookes. And to the end that all men may bee the better satisfied, information shall bee [ F] made, so as it may plainely appeare, that they are condemned, and that the said mutiners bee proclaimed in our court, and in those places where they are borne, as well in our countries, as in the dominions of the emperor, the king of Spaine, or any other princes our friends and confe∣derats, for banished men, infamous, traiterous, and base persons, which haue committed high

treason in the first degree. And that moreouer, the punishments ordained in like cases be exe∣cuted [ A] against them, their children, and descendants: by the which wee doe now hold them * 1.64 condemned for this fact. And to him that shall bee the meanes to defeat the sayd mutiners, or to deliuer them into our hands, we giue pardon, and promise him an honourable reward, and to all such as shall aid and assist him, although they bee of the mutiners themselues, yea of the chiefe motiues and officers. And to the end that our proclamation and banishment may bee inuiolably kept and executed, and may come to the knowledge of all, both generall of the horse, captaines of men at armes, master of our artillerie, colonels, masters of the campe, gouernours, heads of troups, captaines and officers entertained, souldiers, and all other mi∣litarie persons, of what qualitie, condition, degree, or nation soeuer they bee, as other our vassals and subiects; wee commaund, that it bee publikely proclaimed, and be giuen, in an [ B] autentike forme, to the licentiat Iohn de Frias, of his Maiesties counsell, and judge of the campe, that hee may cause it to bee obserued and executed in euerie point, and giue it to the auditor generall, and other officers and persons whom it shall concerne; to the end that all judges of townes and villages, may haue a care thereof, giuing him aduice of that which shal succeed: whereof hee shall aduertise vs, that wee may prouide, as necessitie shall require, for the execution thereof. And in like manner that another authenticall copie bee giuen vnto Iohn Richardot knight, chiefe president of our priuie counsell, and one of our counsell of Estate; to the end, that as farre as it shall concerne him, hee shall also cause it to bee obserued and kept in euerie point, as it hath beene decreed by vs: Commaunding also all other offi∣cers and iustices of our countries in these parts, to see it in like maner accomplished. In wit∣nesse [ C] whereof we haue caused our seales to be set hereunto. Made at Dyest the 15 of Septem∣ber 1602. Signed Albert: and vnderneath, By commaundement from their highnesses, I. de Mancicidor.

This decree of banishment and proscription, may be compared to the sentence of the In∣quisition of Spaine, giuen in Februarie 1568 (whereof we haue made mention) against all the inhabitants of the Netherlands: as also the banishment and proscription proclaimed against the prince of Orange, in the yeare 1580, which bred great inconueniences to the king of Spaine: and it is to be admired, that the counsell of such princes, doe not otherwise weigh and foresee the consequence of these proscriptions, before they decree them: for either they must preuent such inconueniences, by a sodaine force, or receiue them into grace, else you [ D] may bee assured, that of seruants they will become enemies: besides, those that find them∣selues wrongfully toucht and slandered, will want no answers, redounding to the dishonor of the prince that hath decreed them; as it hath appeared by an apologie made by the Pro∣testants of the Netherlands, in the yeare 1568, and of the prince of Orange, in the yeare 1580; both which were printed; by the which the king of Spaine was wonderfully touched, and his honour called in question. But some will say, That princes regard not what is spoken of them, so as they may doe what they desire, and fulfill their owne appetites: To whom I an∣swer, That a meane is more befitting: And to returne vnto that point, let vs see what answer was made by these mutiners vnto the proscription.

The answer of the Squadron, Electo, and Counsell of the Archduke [ E] Albert his men of warre, retired to Hoochstraten.

If proscriptions and threats may stand for paiment, the squadron and counsell of soul∣diers retired to Hoochstraten, may soon make readie their acquitances, and send them to their highnesses, confessing that they were well and truely payd for all arrerages: But for as much as this kind of payment doth neither feed the belly, nor cloth the backe, and that in the meane time they which for many yeares haue hazarded both life and goods, without fee or [ F] recompence, and as it were for the honor of God, to maintaine their highnesses in their estates, should bee in danger (for want of other paiment) to dye with hunger and miserie; it is rea∣sonable, that the said squadron Electo, and counsell, should let all the world vnderstand, with what vntruthes and horrible cruelties the sayd proscription is fraught: to the end, that

the iustice of their cause being knowne by this declaration, euerie one may iudge, if the arch∣dukes [ A] haue reason thus to thunder out their choller against them, the which should terrifie * 1.65 women and babes, but not men.

Choller makes their highnesses to say (wee say choller, for truth cannot iustifie it) that they had assembled their armie together, to succour the towne of Graue, beeing then be∣sieged by the enemie: What meanes this? was the towne of Graue besieged at Tillemont? was it not besieged aboue a moneth after? How could their highnesses succour Graue at Tillemont, so long before it was besieged? Hee addes with the like ground: And going my selfe in person to put this designe in execution. What is hee among vs, or any other, that did euer see him in the armie, when as prince Maurice would come to visit vs, and to charge vs vpon our owne dunghill, beeing accompanied by them, who had two yeares before so [ B] roughly entertained their highnesses neere vnto Nieuport? The world knowes, they some∣times busie themselues at Brussels, sometimes at Gant, to giue order to their affayres, to the end their persons may bee no more subiect to bee exposed to such dangers. Wee con∣fesse notwithstanding, that his highnesse, after that the towne of Graue was lost, came vn∣to the armie; not for that they had any need of his person: for hee came to whet his armes against his friends and faithfull subiects, seeing that hee had found his enemies weapons so sharpe, and his owne too much blunted in the countrey of Flanders, to cut the knot of so strong an vnion: If wee speake trueth or not, they of Venloo, and of Ruremonde, can beare witnesse.

Hee sayes, with the like truth, That at such time as his highnesse did endeuour to succour [ C] the towne of Graue, we, vnder colour of a mutinie, did abandon our ensignes. Arithmetike, or the art of numbring, should not bee practised by troubled spirits; Choller is also an ene∣mie vnto the memorie: but if a friend helpe to supply the defect of anothers memorie, hee deserues some recompence. If for such a courtesie wee deserue reward, it is in your high∣nesse to acknowledge it. And to speake the trueth (which all the world may well remem∣ber, as well our friends as our enemies; but that some haue shadowed it with passion, vn∣till that their troubled spirits may bee purified with the light of trueth) wee say, That wee did imploy our selues to serue their highnesses, without any respect to the extreame necessi∣tie and desolation, whereunto wee were brought for want of money, so long as the admi∣rall of Arragon, who was our leader (and not his highnesse) was camped neere vnto the [ D] towne of Graue: neither did wee begin to seeke any meanes for our pay, vntill that the armie was retired farre from the towne, and that the sayd admirall of Arragon had no further meaning, to make any attempt to succour it, nor against prince Maurice his armie. This was apparent, when as the seigniour of Grobendonc, gouernour of the towne of Boisleduc, after that hee had laboured long in vaine, propounding all the reasons hee could deuise to persuade the admirall to seize vpon the towne of Rauestein, and by that meanes to cut off the victuals which came vnto prince Maurice his armie (the onely meanes to hinder his designe) in the end (seeing hee could not preuaile) hee returned with much discontentment: then wee began to embrace the pursuit of our iust and rea∣sonable cause.

[ E]

If all those that haue taken this course, are to bee held for traitors and rebels, there is not any one in their highnesses seruice, that can be free from this imputation: for who are they that were euer payed, taking any other course? Their highnesses name Dyest, Weert, and Carpen, places which can beare witnesse of our words; the remembrance beeing yet fresh of that which hath lately happened.

It is also obiected, That there is little due vnto vs, or nothing at all; and that our demaunds are false, being men newly come out of Italy, and other places: and that a little before we had beene fully payed at Dyest, Weert, Carpen, &c. If that be true or not, the accounts can wit∣nesse, and if the summe of three millions of gulderns bee held little by their highnesses, yet is it a verie great summe vnto vs. But admit the summe bee small, as their highnesses say, it is so [ F] much the more easie to find it: neither should they for a small matter, haue suffered vs to fall into this extremitie. As for treaties and intelligences, which wee haue with their highnesses enemies; wee find it strange, that they maintaine and hold it to bee contrarie

to all law and reason, seeing that in their proscription they confesse, that it hath beene to [ A] maintaine our selues with them: for when as wee did see their highnesses armes turned a∣gainst * 1.66 vs, as intestine enemies, in stead of giuing audience to our iust complaints; was it not time (beeing reasonable creatures) to doe that which brute beasts doe teach vs, which op∣pose themselues with all their force, against those that seeke to oppresse them? Our actions then are not without some ground of reason, nay they are rather grounded vpon reason it selfe, and vpon the common law, necessitie beeing free from all law, euen the law of nature, which hath giuen this instinct to all creatures, not to forget any thing which may tend to their preseruation.

It is a lamentable thing, that they which for so many yeares haue hazarded their liues, and powred out their blouds so willingly for their highnesses seruice, should bee now forced to [ B] hold their liues as it were in fee of their enemies; and their highnesses on the other side should seek al means to root them out, depriuing them of their liues, wiues, children, food, and friends, as doth plainely appeare by the said proscription.

His highnesse remembers the example of Dauid, who retired himselfe to Achis, king of the Philist•…•…ms, his capitall enemie, when hee was forced to flye from before the face of Saul his lord. It may please his highnesse to let the most worthy Infanta vnderstand these reasons, and not to thinke it strange, if wee (as souldiers) haue sought to imitat the example of such a man of warre, as Dauid was.

It is said, That these course were neuer taken by others: Whereunto wee will make no o∣ther answer, but, That all our companions know the contrarie. How did they of Sichem car∣rie [ C] themselues, who had their deputies continually at the Hage, hauing egresse and regresse into Breda at their pleasures, and remaining in Langthstrate, vnder their wings which doe now euen at this present time imbrace our defence, intreating whole troupes of prince M•…•…u∣rices, as their friends, and suffering them to passe thorough them without any oppositi∣on at all?

The examples which their highnesses propound vnto vs, of them which haue mutined heretofore, and yet haue not left to abandon their retreats, and to offer themselues at need to serue their highnesses, &c. are matters propounded with small consideration: For since that wee were ret•…•…red into this place, wee were neuer called to any seruice, as the others were: What subiect then haue they to complaine of vs in this respect? But if they had sent [ D] a herauld at armes vnto the rest, to signifie a proscription vnto them, such as ours is, it is to be presumed, they would not haue left the places which they held, but vpon good tearmes: neither would they haue shewed themselues so zealous vnto their highnesses. It were al∣so to bee wished (for their highnesses honour and reputation) that this great zeale and wil∣ling obedience of the sayd mutiners, had beene deferred for a time: for that beeing too inconsiderat, it was more preiudiciall than profitable vnto their highnesses, when as (without regard of their highnesses word) they did so treacherously violat it with them of Snaskerke, neere vnto Oostend; which that day cost many of our fellowes and compani∣ons their liues: Yet if their highnesses find any obedience in this act (as it seemes, see∣ing they doe so much exalt and prayse them in that respect) then are they free from that [ E] blame.

They will persuade vs, That wee are men accustomed to mutine: Wee will receiue this reproach vpon our account and reckoning, with the rest; for of late yeares those which car∣rie armes for your seruice, receiue no other pay. But what is sayd among the people? doth not euerie one speake plainely, That your highnesse hath brought in this custome, to the end, that souldiers beeing payed after this manner, without money, they may make the better cheere in court? And in trueth, when there is speech of any exployt of warre, those that haue seized vpon any places, quit them voluntarily, and come with great zeale and obe∣dience, to do you seruice. This cannot be called a mutinie, but to winter: for of late yeares all your souldiers haue accustomed to winter after this manner. At such time as your high∣nesse [ F] did change your Ecclesiasticall habit into a secular, wee were glad and did much re∣ioyce, thinking that your highnesse, hauing beene Cardinall, Archbishop, and chiefe of the holy Inquisition of Spain, would not tie your souldiers to any stricter rule than that which you

might haue read in the Bible; which is, Content your selues with your pay: But it seems, to your [ A] great preiudice, that you haue forgotten it: And no man can dreame where your highnesse * 1.67 hath found that Canon, to begin to put a law in execution, which is not yet made; which is, That wee must content our selues without pay. Wee did alwayes thinke, that the Ecclesi∣asticall lawes had beene the most strict, as comming from God, and regarding mens consci∣ences: but wee now find our selues much deceiued.

As for the money of contributions, your highnesse should know how it is imployed, for e∣uen the poore peasants thinke it ridiculous, to say that we enioy it: the truth is, that to liue we goe vnto your lands; what should we else doe? your highnesse giues vs nothing, and souldiers are no Camelions, to liue by the ayre: moreouer, by law the creditor hath an interest to his debtors goods. But for al this your highnesse ordinary contributions are nothing diminished. [ B] That secretarie deserues (vnder your corrections) to bee cast and discharged by your high∣nesse, seeing that vnder your names, hee hath no•…•… beene ashamed, to insert so many palpable lyes in so small a writing: for those things which are so often practised, should not bee ter∣med new. That which is grounded vpon the common law of nature, ought not to bee cal∣led infamous nor dishonest. And as for the consequence it cannot bee so bad, seeing the good seruices done with such great zeale and obedience, by our companions, and whereof hitherto we haue not made any refusall, are so highly commended by your highnesse. If it were lawfull for vs to speake vnto you in secret, wee thinke we should hit the marke; which is, That we haue bin aduertised from good parties, that your highnesse is extraordinarily incen∣sed against vs, more than against any that haue gone before vs, partly, to content the people; [ C] considering, that of so many wounds which haue beene receiued of late yeares, there could neuer any meanes bee found to cure one: the which is credible, seeing that your highnesse makes no difficultie to hold vs for companions vnto them that were besieged in the towne of Graue, and who haue purchased so much honour and reputation for their good ende∣uours: This makes vs to hold many things contained in your pros•…•…ription, to bee the more tollerable; beleeuing, that they were not inserted but for fashion sake.

It is said, That wee should returne vnto our •…•…nsignes; and that within three dayes: and for default, your highnesse proclaimes vs traytours and rebels, &c. condemning vs to death, &c▪ and our goods confiscat, &c. To condemne them to death, that haue a desire to dye, and who haue meanes not onely to defend themselues, but also to offend them that shall assayl•…•… [ D] them, is verie absurd. And your highnesse may well thinke, that wee hope so •…•…o imploy our armes, as the permission which hath beene giuen to kill vs, in what •…•…ort soeuer, shall not make you nor your substitutes to see many of our heads; for the which it shall not bee needfull to pay the ten, fiftie, nor the hundred crownes promised in your highnesse pro∣scription, according vnto the qualitie of our persons, vnto those that shall put it in exe∣cution. As for that which is sayd of our moouable and immoouable goods, your high∣nesse knowes what moouable and immoouable goods poore souldiers (halfe dead with hun∣ger, as wee are) can haue. Our moouable goods cannot bee made moouable, but by our selues, those bee our armes; and wee may also tearme them our moouable goods, for all such as would attempt to seize on them: daring well maintaine, that euen to his highnesse [ E] himselfe, they might prooue too heauie and immoouable, if hee should bee tempted with any such desire. And if there bee any other goods found among vs, wee will freely giue them to those that will come for them. And as for money, clothes, or other things be∣longing to our wiues and children, the depositors of your highnesse armie may well bee without a clerke to register them. If you haue no other meanes and reuenewes to feed so many hungrie bellies, it is to bee feared, that within few dayes your highnesse may haue as little money, and as few clothes, as wee had with our wiues and children, when as necessitie forced vs to assemble in this place, to find meanes to feed and cloth our selues. For it may bee sayd, That wee were at that time like vnto the Indians, which go naked, which nakednesse, for the extreame cold of this climat, was not easie to beare. Your [ F] highnesse, nor my lords the emperour, nor the king of Spaine your brethren, shall reape small profit by our clothes, nor by our goods, if they bee vnder their obedience. And as for the defence which is made vnto our wiues and children, not to come vnto vs vpon, pain of death; we hold it for a great fauour done vs by your highnesse, being loth to bee troubled with the

importunitie of our wiues, in the estate wee are in. It were a rediculous spectacle, that after [ A] they had stript our wiues and children of all their clothes, and made them forfeit to your * 1.68 highnesse, they should afterward condemne them to depart out of your territories within three dayes: The conduct of this naked troupe, might be a good recompence for some one of your courtiers, who by the shew of so strange a sight, might easily get a good summe of money of the people, who are curious of nouelties. But doth your highnesse thinke to fa∣mish vs, in forbidding them to bring vs any victuals? doe you thinke, that it is possible for your subiects to obey you in that respect, seeing it is not in their power to warrant them∣selues against vs? For if you desire that which is contained in your proscription, causing vs to bee slaine by your subiects, it shall bee alwayes lawfull for vs, to reuenge our selues of this crueltie, by reciprocall acts. It is said in the sayd proscription, That your highnesse desires it should be executed against our children and successors: Wee do not thinke, that your high∣nesse, [ B] being an archbishop, and reading the Bible, hath found any such president; hauing on the other side (although we be souldiers) often heard, That God doth not punish the chil∣dren for the fathers offence, if they bee not also found culpable. And admit wee had com∣mitted all the offences in the world (the which wee haue not) by what diuinitie doth your highnesse find, that you should proceed in this maner against innocents? What punishment will your highnesses reserue for your selues, seeing you are the cause of all this? All kings and princes shall haue cause to gaze vpon your highnesse proceedings, and shall learne how it suc∣ceeds with them that seeke to make war without money, which be the sinewes of war. Those which in antient times haue won any honour and reputation by the warres, haue followed [ C] contrarie courses. Cyrus, Alexander, Scipio, Iulius Caesar, and many others, did neuer impo∣uerish their souldiers, but did rather inrich them: They vsed no proscriptions nor threats, in case of discontentment, but haue sought to pacifie them by mildnesse and courtesie; and if there were question to suffer with them, they did neuer forsake them at need. What did Alexander, when as in a drye and hot countrey one brought him a helmet full of water? hee chose rather to powre it on the ground, than to drinke, considering there was but for himselfe alone, and that his whole army was in extreame want: shewing by this example, that he would fare as they did.

Your highnesse hath ten, an hundred, yea fiue hundred crownes, to buy our heads; but you could not find ten, an hundred, nor fiue hundred farthings, to maintaine our bodies and liues [ D] in your faithfull seruice: You haue found the meanes to exceed many great princes, yea the emperour Charles the fift, of happie memorie, the emperour Rodolphus, now raigning, and the king of Spaine, in all sorts of pompe and magnificence, and can you not find the meanes to pay your poore souldiers (which are the onely supporters of your estate) but with proscripti∣ons and threats? Alexander the Great, seeing the Macedonians (whom hee had mightily in∣richt) little inclined to continue in their duties, and in the pursuit of his victories, hee sought to pacifie them by mildnesse and courtesie, whereby he sped well.

Your highnesses on the other side, after that you had rashly and miserably thrust headlong into danger, the best part of your best souldiers and captaines, and seeing your officers redu∣ced to a lamentable extremitie, haue sought, with an Austrian sternnesse, and a Spanish arro∣gancie, [ E] their vtter ruine, paying them with proscriptions and threats, and promising recom∣pence to them that should kill them. Iulius Caesar his old souldiers being one day disconten∣ted, and desiring to returne home, refusing to goe into Affricke, vpon a verie important expe∣dition, he did not forget any thing that might pacifie them by friendly and amiable meanes, honouring them with the name of Quirites, that is to say, fellow citizens; and by this meanes gaue them contentment. Your highnesse might learne thereby, how a prince should carrie himselfe to his souldiers, who are miserable through his default.

Besides all these points contained in this goodly proscription, they charge vs also, That we haue beene the cause of the desolation of the countrey of Luxembourg, for that wee did not preuent it. It is well knowne, that before that time they held vs for traitors and rebels: your [ F] highnesse armes were turned against vs, euerie man might lawfully kill vs, and euerie one of our heads was set at ten crownes price: how then can all this accord well together? It had bin better your highnesse had imployed your forces to defend Luxembourg, and not to haue suf∣fered so goodly a prouince to be so miserably ruined. Considering then the enormitie of your

proceedings, and the bad consequence which may be drawn by other princes, in committing [ A] the like excesse to their souldiers,

* 1.69

The squadron, Electo, and councell intreat all princes and common weales to make vse of this example, and to foresee, that in abusing after this manner their good and faithfull soul∣diers, which are the sinewes of their preseruation, they draw not vpon them the like misfor∣tunes; the which doe daily more and more threaten to ruine their highnesses. Some one hath said well, Woe be to that countrey which hath a child for prince.

Who so shall duely consider of this answer, and shall peize it with the truth in euery point, will confesse that it had beene much better for the archdukes honour and reputation, not to haue decreed this bitter proscription; especially against Italians, who are not easily drawne into mutinie, without great occasion: besides they haue subtil and actiue spirits among them, although they be souldiers, to answer pertinently to euery point, as it appeares by their an∣swere. [ B]

The archduke had at that time but small meanes to force them to obedience, they beeing * 1.70 growne strong, and in a manner protected by the vnited prouinces, who had contracted with them, that in time of need they might retire themselues vnder the walles & ordnance of the townes of Breda, Berghen vp Zoome, and Seuenberghen, and to furnish themselues with all necessaries for their money.

Matters standing vpon these tearmes, Octauio Frangipanny the popes Nuntio, was sent from the archdukes vnto the mutiners, to be a mediator betwixt them. Hee persuaded them vnto three things: the first was, Not to serue the enemie: the second, To content themselues with [ C] reasonable conditions: and lastly, Not to suffer themselues by any meanes to bee seduced with the religion of heretickes. Whereunto they made answer, that during their liues they would neuer alter their religion: that they would make no composition with the prince, nor the enemie, but vpon meere necessitie: and touching the third point, they would not giue eare to any reconciliation, before their banishment and proscription were reuoked and called in againe.

And afterwards in October the Nuntio went to them againe (vpon hostages giuen) to Hochstraten, where he was kindly entertained and feasted by them, especially by their chiefe commanders, captaine Frederigo a Neapolitane, and captaine Roderigo a Spaniard, with their Electo, who gaue him very kind words: but their conclusion was, That the squadron desi∣red [ D] not to enter into any treaty, before the banishment or proscription were called in, & some place of strength, as Thyenen, Dyest, or Vilvoorden deliuered vnto them for their securities; and then they said they would bee ruled by reason: but the archdukes would not heare of it.

After that, in December, and diuers times after, the Nuntio went vnto them, but there was nothing concluded, and they conueyed him with a thousand horse to the gates of An∣tuerpe. It is said the archduke had secretly caused a generall pardon to be offered vnto them, with three hundred and fiftie thousand crownes to be giuen among them all, that hee might not be troubled with a tedious reckoning, which would be long ere it could be cast vp; and that in the meane time, vntill the money were paied, they should haue some strong place for [ E] their securities: and euery moneth (beside the said summe) thirtie thousand crownes for their entertainment; but they would not accept thereof, saying, that it was much lesse than had beene offered to any that had formerly mutined. And in this estate they continued long, com∣mitting all the insolencies that could be, to get money.

The generall Estates beeing assembled at Brussels, held opinion that they should be paied; but the councell at warre, and the kings councell called de la Hazienda, were of contrarie opi∣nion, saying, that it was fit they should be punished, and that it were better to leuie new soul∣diers with that money, to punish them, and to make them an example to others: whereupon they resolued to raise two new regiments, the one vnder the earle of Biglia, and the other vn∣der the baron of Rotenau, a knight of Malta, with some horsemen vnder the duke of Au∣male, [ F] and the baron of Rhosne, and of Lorraine, beeing put in great hope of money to be sent out of Spaine.

Bax and du Bois both colonels, going forth on the eight of October with foureteene cor∣nets of horse, of the garrisons of Breda, Berghen, and Geertruydenbergh, to doe an exploit in

Henault, whilest that the mutiners of Hochstraten were busie in the Wallon parts of Brabant, [ A] and that the archduke hauing beene at Venloo and Thoren was going from his armie. These * 1.71 two colonels beeing within three miles of Mastricht, and comming to Bilson, they had in∣telligence giuen them of eight cornets of horse that had conuoyed the archduke, which lay neere them, without any feare of the enemie, beeing the bands of ordnance of the earles of Mansfeldt, Buren, and Busquoy, with three cornets of Wallons, and two of Italians; they came in the night time to the villages where they were quartered, where they charged their guards, and forced their quarters; some were slaine, some fled, and some were taken prisoners in their beds: the captaines themselues were not there: there were fiue cornets taken, and one burnt in a church; the spoile was great, they tooke about fiue hundred horse, and two hundred prisoners, these cornets were brought to the Hage. Monsieur Chalon a bastard to Rene of Cha∣lon, [ B] prince of Orange fled and saued himselfe.

Diuers ships of warre beeing sent out of the vnited prouinces, vnder the lord of Oxdam, to serue the Queene of England, some of them in the winter time had charge to attend the com∣ming of sixe galleys which Dom Frederick Spinola was to bring out of Spaine, to ioyne with the rest which he had at Sluys in Flanders. At the first they were eight gallies, but two were burnt by sir Richard Luson and the English men, before Setuval in Portugal. The admirall galley wherein Spinola himselfe was, was called saint Louis, the captaines name was Cardina∣lin, with another captaine called Cascalis d' Auila, with a companie of souldiers. The vice-ad∣mirall galley was the saint Ioan, the captaine Pedro de Vergas, with two captaines, and two companies of souldiers. The third galley was called Padillo, the captaine Hasso, with another [ C] captaine, and a companie of Portugals. The fourth galley was called the Lucera, the captaine Calliados, with another captaine and souldiers. The fift galley was called saint Philip, the captaine Roderigo de Neruais, with a companie. The sixt galley was called the Iacinthe, the captaines name was Louis de Camous, with a companie: so as in all they had nine companies of souldiers, whereof two were Spaniards, and seauen were Portugals, beeing nine hundred strong, and a thousand and fiue hundred gallie slaues; each galley had three brasse peeces and no more. And although the Netherlanders were aduertised of their comming, yet the lord of Oxdam was forced to goe into Holland for victuals, leauing Iohn Adrianson Cant his vice-admirall in the moone Gerbrant Adrianson Schal van Horne in the Bausome of foure hundred tunnes, Hendrick Hartman in the Lionesse of Rotterdam, and Gerbrant Iohnson in the Hope of [ D] Enchuysen: which ships were commanded to saile westward for the Queenes seruice, but as yet they staied there to meete with these gallies, and so did a shippe of the Queenes called the Hope, wherein sir Robert Mansel commanded; with his pynace called the Aduantage, in the which was captaine Ionas. All these concluded that the vice-admirall Cant, and Gerbrant A∣drianson Sch•…•…l should lie in the downes, where there also lay one of the Queenes shippes, cal∣led the Answer, commanded by captaine Broadgate: sir Robert Mansel himselfe lay halfe seas ouer, betwixt Douer and Callis, with his pynace, and the two Holland shippes not farre from him.

Vpon the sixt of October in the fore noone, sir Robert Mansel descried the gallies, and they * 1.72 him; but beeing a mistie weather, they bent their course along by the coast of England; or if [ E] the hardest fell out, finding that two Hollanders ships were very neere, they meant to board them (as some prisoners confest) little esteeming of two or three ships of warre; but it seemed they had espied the Queenes shippe, and therefore they rowed backe againe, hoping, that night beeing come, and beeing somewhat darke, they should passe by the one coast or the o∣ther, and so get into Dunkerke, or Nieuport: the which sir Robert Mansel perceiuing, hee sent captaine Ionas with his pynace ouer to Callis, and the coast of Flanders, to aduertise the Ne∣therlanders fleet thereof, that they might attend these gallies and compasse them in, he him∣selfe doing his best to keepe them still in sight: the like did the two Holland ships, who by winding and turning, had gotten betweene him and the gallies, and so chased them vntill the funne was almost set: in the meane time they shot off a great peece to warne those three [ F] shippes which lay in the downes; whereupon they set saile, and put to sea: sunne beeing set, the gallies began to saile keeping vnder the coast of England: the two shippes of Holland were now behind them: sir Robert Mansel obserued their course, and knowing they should fall among those ships which laie in the downes, hee made ouer to the coast of France, to meet

with them, if they should offer to crosse ouer to the coast of Flanders; but hearing the ord∣nance [ A] goe off, hee made towards the Goodwyn sands as fast as he could, to encounter them * 1.73 there.

The Queenes shippe, and the two Hollanders beeing somewhat neere vnto the galleys, shot violently at them, but the weather beeing calme, the galleys outrowed them; yet the wind rising at northeast, they pursued them for the space of two or three houres with all their sailes vp.

The gallies past so neere vnto Douer cliffes, as certaine Turkish slaues, hauing found meanes to file their chaines asunder, leapt into the sea, and swamme to land, and so freed themselues from slauerie and bondage. Sir Robert Mansel beeing neere vnto Goodwyn sands, espied one of the gallies before him, and comming within his musket shot, hee dischar∣ged [ B] thirtie great shot at her, and brake her sprit-saile; wherewith he heard the men make a pit∣tifull crie, and seemed to come towards him, vnto whom he made offer to saue their liues, if they would yeeld: in the meane time the other fiue gallies came towards her, among the which he discharged all his ordnance; yet holding it no discretion in him to suffer his ship to be boarded by fiue gallies, and so well manned as they were, he gaue them leaue to passe away.

The foure shippes of Holland had them still in chase, beeing thwart of Grauelyn, about tenne of the clocke at night, Gerbrant Iohnson Schal of Horne with this shippe of foure hun∣dred tunnes, met with one of the gallies called Lucera, running vpon it with full sailes, be∣hind the mast, so as the gallie slaues sate vp to the wast in water, crying miserecordia, and made [ C] no resistance, then Gerbrant shot two demie cannons among them, wherewith many were slaine and wounded: the gallie could no longer vse neither sailes nor owers, neither could shee helpe herselfe, her poope beeing broken downe, and her rudder gone; whereupon cap∣taine Gerbrant sought by all the meanes he could to free himselfe from her, fearing to bee boarded by so many men.

After that captaine Hartman in another ship of Holland, fell vpon the same galley, thinking that he had beene the first had ouertaken her, he saued aboue fourtie of her men, and so got from her againe, yet one of his men stayed in her. After that Gerbrant Schal boarded her a∣gaine, and fiue of his men leapt into the galley, but by meanes of the pittifull crying & calling out of his men, the gallie beeing readie to sinke, he fetcht away his men with his boat, hauing [ D] no will, or fearing some greater danger, to saue any more: they staied so long by the gallie * 1.74 (beeing about midnight) as they might see her masts lying vpon the water, and presently af∣ter sunke.

Iohn Adrianson Cant the vice-admirall met with the gallie called Padillo, the which hee did stemme, and did great hurt vnto himselfe: three other Holland shippes attending for them, * 1.75 hearing the ordnance go off, came in and charged her, wherewith shee sunke, but they saued many of the men in their ships.

Thus these wearie gallies sought to saue thēselues, making no resistance, and yet were neere the land: the admirall draue vpon the land of Schouven, being chased by a ship before West∣capel, where he thought that by reason of the fowle weather, it must of force haue sunke, [ E] whereupon hee left her: but Spinola who was in her, cast much of his goods ouer board, and * 1.76 promising the slaues their liberties, at the last he got to Dunkerke. One of the gallies got to Callis without any hurt, but the slaues ranne away, two others beeing sore beaten and shot through, ranne a ground vpon the coast of Flanders: of those two which Cant and Schal o∣uersailed, there was not one peece to be found: and afterwards the captaines contended who should haue the honour of this action.

Thus of Spinola's eight gallies, two were burnt in Portugal, two other were sunke vpon the coast of Flanders, and the other foure were forced to runne a ground, whereby they were in a manner made vnseruiceable: wherein Gods iudgements are to bee admired, for that those were the same gallies wherein the Netherland sailers had beene made slaue, and [ F] were forced to rowe.

And it is worthy the noting, of the ship wherein Gerbrant Iohnson was captaine, which had ouersailed the first gallie, called the Lucera, that the master had beene three yeares a

slaue in the same gallie, and in as great miserie as any man could endure; beeing put into it [ A] when as he came into Spaine with his shippe laden with marchandise, which beeing all con∣fiscated, * 1.77 the men were put into the galleys, and were al shauen as other Turkish slaues are ac∣customed to be: wherein God shewed his iudgement in reuenge of his miseries, the galley wherein he had beene prisoner, beeing ouerwhelmed by him, and captaine Colliado who had tyrannized ouer him, hauing both his legges strooke off with a great shot, whereof hee af∣terwards died in captaine Hartmans shippe, seeing his galley sinke before his face, to his great griefe and vexation.

This master beeing a lustie man, could neuer bee released for any ransome, vntill all the Netherland prisoners were exchanged for the admirall of Arragon.

Frederick Spinola preserued the greatest part of his treasure, which was esteemed to bee * 1.78 [ B] worth aboue two hundred thousand ducats, the which he caused to be presently minted at Antuerpe, with the archdukes stampe.

In this defeat there were about a hundred and eightie prisoners, slaues, and others, fisht out of the sea, and carried into Holland: the gallie slaues had their libertie giuen them, with a sute of clothes, and a peece of money to carrie them into their countries, or where they pleased.

There were at the same time some seauen shippes of warre of Dunkerke at sea, the admiral whereof was so chased by the shippes of Zeeland a day and a halfe together, as in the end shee was forced to runne on ground neere vnto Albertus sconce, vpon the coast of Flanders, where the shippe burst, but they saued the ordnance and some other implements. The vice-admirall [ C] Adrian Derickson got into Dunkerke, hauing beene well beaten in the Spanish seas, by the English and Dutch, and lost aboue halfe their men. The herring Buisses went then to sea with ordnance and small shot in them (notwithstanding their wafters) wherewith they might make some defence, vntill the ships of warre came to relieue them.

This yeare in Nouember the vnited prouinces intended to make an iucursion into the duchie of Luxembourg, for that they had refused to pay their contribution: the charge was giuen vnto Lodowick Gunther earle of Nassau, with these foure colonels, Edmonds, Ghi∣stels, Dommeruille, and Marquette; he had two hundred French, two hundred English, two hundred Scots, two hundred Germans, and two hundred Netherlands, with three and thir∣tie cornets of horse, three field peeces, and fiftie waggons; that is, eight for the munition, [ D] foure for cont Lodowick, one for each colonel, and the rest for the horsemen. They went from Nymeghen the third day of Nouember, and came into the countrey of Iuilliers; and then they tooke saint Vit by composition; the souldiers swearing not to beare armes in the duchie of Luxembourg for the space of two moneths after, and to depart with their ensignes, armes, and baggage, and that the bourgers should compound for a reasonable ransome: and then for a moneths space they ranne ouer all the countrey of Luxembourg without any resi∣stance, forcing them to pay contribution; for that Peter Ernest earle of Mansfeldt, gouernor of the countrie had forbad them to pay any, for which cause many houses and villages were burnt, whereas they found no body at home to ransome them.

The archduke sent certaine troupes thither, but for want of money they lay by the way, [ E] and did feed vpon the poore countrey men, and wasted the countrey, as if they had beene enemies.

Cont Lodowicke brought many gentlemen and pesants prisoners with him, and among the rest, the abbot of saint Huberts, who were put to ransome. There was little else done all this winter.

In the moneth of August, monsieur la Biche gouernour of the towne of Hulst, made an attempt with two thousand men for the archduke, vpon Berghen vp Zoome, thin∣king to haue surprized it, the towne at that time hauing but a small garrison; but hauing marcht in the night time within halfe a mile of the towne, the gouernour of Berghen vp Zoome caused two peeces of ordnance to be shot off, to giue warning to them of Ter∣tolen [ F] of the enemies approach; who finding themselues to bee discouered, returned pre∣sently.

But to returne to the siege of Oostend: the archdukes men seeing that their batterie * 1.79

vpon the goullet wrought not that effect which they expected, and that notwithstanding the [ A] shippes past in and out, they caused an engine to be built, which they called a float, the which * 1.80 is like a floore or plancher made of light boards, swimming vpon the water, with defences a∣ble to carrie a cannon, which should stoppe the entrie of the said goullet; the which they did thinke would alwaies rise with the tide, and that it could not be carried away, nor broken: the which they brought vnto the brinke of the goullet, but the waues of the sea brake it in peeces, and this inuention was as vnprofitable as the rest.

The archduke hauing published a proscription (as wee haue said) against his mutined souldiers, hee went to besiege them in Hochstraten, where hee brought them to great ex∣tremitie; notwithstanding that they were well fortified with three ditches, and three ram∣pars, whereas he found great resistance. Monsieur de Rhosnes sonne was slaine there (who in his time had beene marshall of the archdukes campe, and was slaine before Hulst) yet they [ B] (finding themselues prest in this manner by the archduke) prouided for their safeties, and made an accord with prince Maurice, to take them into his protection, vntill they should bee reconciled vnto the archduke; the which the prince accepted, knowing well enough, that without their troupes, and during their mutinie, the archduke could not greatly annoy the vnited prouinces.

Whereupon the prince went to relieue them, and raised the siege, and by that meanes did hold by prouision the said castle of Hochstraten, and that of Carpen, in the dioces of Co∣logne: for securitie of which places, and of their persons, the Estates put them in garrison in the Graue; the which (hauing made their accord with the archduke) they deliuered into the [ C] Estates hands, who in like manner restored Hochstraten and Carpen. And this was all the archduke got by his thundring proscription.

You haue heard how that vpon the sixt day of October, in the yeare 1599, Enno the new earle of Embden, was quietly installed in his earledome; but afterwards by certaine practises he drew many gentlemen and others (who before had beene enemies to his father and him∣selfe) to bee of his faction; namely, two gentlemen called Yonkers van Kimphousen, and van Risom, and some of the chiefe bourgers of Embden, as Syndicus Dotia Wiarda, the two bour∣gomasters, and the secretarie: and he maried his daughter, beeing heire of Esens, &c. to his brother Iohn earle of Embden, with dispensation from the pope, vpon promise to maintaine the Romish religion, and to bring in the Iesuites, as hee had done in Paderborne, all his hou∣shold [ D] seruants beeing catholikes, beeing the religion which his father and predecessors had expelled out of the countrie: which made many to doubt that hee had some enterprise in hand for the king of Spaine, or for the archduke, to the preiudice of them of the religion in east Friseland, and the vnited prouinces, making his gouernment absolute and monarchiall; who vnder pretence of aiding the emperour in the Turkish warres, raised chimney money, tributes, with other like burthens and taxations, seeking vnder hand to ouerrule the whole countrey.

And for that they of Noorden (a towne not farre from Embden) refused to install him in the yeare 1602, for that the said towne did belong vnto his mother, the king of Suethlands daughter, for her dowrie, denying also to paie those extraordinarie exactions: wherefore [ E] cont Enno (hauing leuied many souldiers vnder the former pretence) went with three com∣panies of foot, and two cornets of horse before the towne of Noorden, their commaunder beeing Yonker van William Kimphousen, who entred the towne, and disarmed the bourgers: and then he commanded them to come into the market place, where hauing enuironed them by the souldiers, who bent their armes against them, a gybbet beeing set vp, their sentence of * 1.81 condemnation was read; which was, That they had forfeited both their liues and goods, with al their priuiledges: but their liues were spared, paying him thirtie three thousand Reeks dol∣lers, and that for fiue yeares they should pay chimney money: then hee caused the bour∣gers to goe vnder the gallowes, in signe that they had deserued it.

In the end they were forced to giue him fifteene thousand dollers, and to deliuer him cer∣taine [ F] persons into his hands, to deale with them as he pleased, whereas he vsed certaine priuate gentlemen very cruelly: and vpon the second day of Iune they, were forced to submit and humble themselues vpon their knees at his feet, and to craue pardon of him, and yet neuerthelesse he carried many of them away prisoners: besides, at the same time hee also 〈1 page duplicate〉〈1 page duplicate〉

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banished diuers of the chiefe magistrates and bourgers of Embden, by vertue of the empe∣rours [ A] decree. * 1.82

In regard of these cruell proceedings of the earle of Embden, they of the towne of Emb∣den sent their bourgmaster Philip Sicken and Iohn Amelinck, vnto the Estates of the vnited * 1.83 prouinces at the Hage, to make their complaints against the earle, for that (contrarie to the cō∣tract made at Delfziel) he had sought to intreat them with all rigour and extremitie, threat∣•…•…ing to deale with them, as he had done with them of Noorden; and that hee leuied many souldiers (vnder pretence to serue the emperour in the Turkish warres) more than hee could well pay; as also that hee had secret practises for the king of Spaine, to attempt some∣thing against the towne, through the fauour of the saylers, who were much inclined vnto him: hoping thereby to attaine a neutrall trade into Spaine. These things bred great i•…•…alou∣sies [ B] in the Estates of the vnited prouinces, whereupon they granted aid vnto them of Emb∣den; so as vpon Whitsonday, captaine Crwope entred into Embden with foure companies of Friselanders, the riuer also beeing shut vp with shippes, euen at the very instant when as cont Enno was with his troupes within a mile of the towne, thinking to haue entrance by meanes of his fauourites: and at the same time there were certain deputies sent from the estates to re∣concile all matters, but it was in vaine.

Hereupon the earle fortified the villages of Hinta and Larrels, with other villages, to com∣mand the riuer of Ems▪ and at Logherhorn he made a very strong sconce, with fiue great bul∣warkes, and another sconce at Eylsemerziel, to master them of Embden, and to keep the ships from comming to the towne. [ C]

They of Embden seeing themselues thus coopt vp by the earles sconces, were suters all the summer vnto the vnited prouinces for aid; they beeing busie at the siege of Graue; the which beeing taken, in the beginning of winter (giuing friendly aduise to the earle to desist from his pretended enterprise) they sent monsieur de Bois a gentleman of Brabant, with nineteen com∣panies of foot, of diuers nations, and some cornets of horse, the which passed the Ems the last of October, notwithstanding that the earle had foure thousand men; and first he besieged the fort at Hinta, the which he battered and tooke by force: from thence hee went to Grietziel, which yeelded by composition: some other sconces were abandoned: Knocke was yeelded with the ordnance: at the last du Bois came to the great fort of Logherhorne, in the which there were seauen hundred men, the gouernour was Yonker William van Kimphouse•…•…, there [ D] were in it sixteene brasse peeces, all cannon and demie cannon, and whole and halfe culue∣rins, with eight yron peeces, beeing well furnished with all manner of munition; the earle in∣tending to make it his chiefe seat for the warres. Monsieur du Bois made his approaches be∣tweene two bankes, which they should haue let if they had beene souldiers: the fort was not fully finished; so as the gouernour Kimphousen seeing himselfe in some danger, vpon the thir∣teenth of Nouember yeelded the fort by composition, to depart out of the same with their colours flying, armes, and baggage, to leaue the ordnance behind them, and to be conueyed to Lierort; all prisoners to be released, and good quarter kept, with other conditions. Hauing taken al these forts in 3 weeks space, monsieur du Bois returned to Embden, where he was ho∣nourably entertained, and the next day he went to field againe, to lodge his souldiers in the [ E] villages during the winter time, and to force them to pay him contribution towards the en∣tertainment of his troupes.

The vnited Estates did aduertise the electors and other princes of the empire (who were incensed against them) what reason had mooued them to vndertake this course; beeing ad∣uertised out of the archdukes court, that all this preparation made by the earle of Friseland a∣gainst the towne of Embden, tended to no other end, but to deliuer the towne vnto the Spa∣niard; whereby he might enter freely into the ri•…•…er of Ems, and into that hauen, and so haue meanes to ruine the vnited prouinces, and the borders of the empire: wherefore they had v∣sed all meanes possible to reconcile the earle, and the towne of Embden; but the earle had not onely broken the contract made at Delfziel, but to the preiudice of his neighbours had built [ F] many forts along the riuer of Ems, vsurping that which was neuer allowed to his predecessors. Besides, they had many other reasons which mooued them to suspect the earle and his bre∣thren; for that of late one of them had beene sent into Spaine, and did serue vnder the arch∣duke; and for that the Spaniards did hold that the earledome of Friseland did belong vnto

them, as appeareth by the articles of peace made at Veruins; beeing also daily informed from [ A] the court in Brussels, what great matters were expected out of east Friseland against the vni∣ted * 1.84 prouinces: wherefore they intreated them to conceiue well of that which they had done, not onely for their owne, but also for their neighbours good; and to assure themselues that they would not fauour nor aid them of Embden in any thing that might bee preiudiciall to the priuiledges of the empire, or emperour: but yet they could not forbeare to assist them in their great necessitie.

Enno hauing receiued this losse, went to make his complaint to the imperiall chamber, lea∣uing the gouernment of Friseland to his wife, who was daughter to the duke of Holstein, with Yonker Kimphousen and his councell, but the next summer the earle went into Holland, where a reconciliation was made. [ B]

In the latter end of the yeare, there was an enterprise made vpon the castle of Wachten∣donc in Gueldres, by meanes of a fisherman who carried straw in his boat by the riuers of Niers into the castle: at one time he carried ten or twelue souldiers hidden vnder the strawe; and after vnder another burthen of straw did lay captaine Lambert Pasman, with 14 souldiers more: passing by the castle bridge, the fisherman intreated the sentinel (beeing acquainted with him) to lend him his hand, to leape on land, the which he did; but the fisherman drewe him into the water, and slue him: then the rest leapt out, and seized on the castle gate, with the helpe of those that were there before: with whom there ioyned certaine souldiers of the garrison of Gueldre, who lay neere to it in ambush. Monsieur de Rihouen the gouernour was taken prisoner: they of the towne could not preuent it, beeing so suddainly done; but within [ C] three houres after (with the aid of the garrison newly come from Oostend) they intrencht themselues against the castle; and captaine Cloet, and captaine Quaet hearing thereof, beeing thereabouts with their horsemen, they entred into the towne, & besieged the castle: the which being in some want of victuals, within sixe daies they compounded, and deliuered vp the ca∣stle, departing with their armes, and 20 wagons to conuey their hurt men, all prisoners to bee set at libertie, and captaine Quaet remaining gouernour, vntill monsieur Rihouens returne.

They of Oostend did annoy the archdukes campe all they could, hauing since the begin∣ning * 1.85 of the siege, vnto the moneth of March, 1603, spent aboue 100 thousand great shot, sen∣ding their cannon often into Zeeland to be changed, or new cast. And vpon the 6 of Aprill they made an enterprise vpon the Spaniards sentinels vpon the east side: and as some of their [ D] men were vnder the platforme to hearken what they did, they were discouered, and presently the alarme was giuen throughout all the campe, the which forced them to retire backe a∣gaine.

The thirteenth of April the wind was very high, the which blew downe many old walles, couerings of houses, and the church steeple; vnder the ruines whereof there was a man slaine, and another had both his legges broken▪ all the Spaniards gabions on the east side were in a manner ouerthrowne, and their new works vpon the goullet wonderfully shaken. The night following the Spaniards gaue a generall assault vnto the towne with great forces: they pul∣led vp some hundred piles at the halfe moone on the east side, but they were repulst and for∣ced to retire. On the west part they did assault the Porc-espic, and brought two hogsheads [ E] thither full of pitch and rozen; but in the end they were repulst. They gaue another assault to the Polder rauelyn, from the which they were at the first repulst; but they returned with such * 1.86 furie, as they became masters thereof, with the Polder square, or Catte, West-square, and South-square, although there were vpon the Polder square a demie cannon, with some yron peeces, which were not idle. Hauing taken these places, they put all to the sword, and in the morning they slue all that were liuing in cold blood; and then they hung vp a gunner, and threw his bodie out of the trenches in scorne: the assault continued foure houres.

The same day, beeing the foureteenth of April, at nine of the clocke at night, the besieged made a sallie vpon these Cattes or squares, from the which they were repulst, whereas they lost in these assaults, captaine Frist, the lieutenant colonel of the Suitsers, two ensignes, one of [ F] English, and the other of Suitsers, and foure hundred men; whereas the Spaniard had almost 1000 slaine, which made them out of hope euer to win the towne by assault. The besieged redeemed the bodie of the lieutenant colonel of the Suitsers, for a hundred dollers, the which was brought into the towne.

During all this time, there went many ships in and out to Oostend, bringing in souldiers, [ A] and great store of munition, so as at one time there were 80 companies in the towne; yet did * 1.87 they not passe freely, without the losse of some ships and men: whereunto the Estates men were so well accustomed, as they did willingly expose themselues to the hazard, little regar∣ding the enemies cannon. Wee may see what custome can doe, as we haue shewed in the •…•…iege of Leyden, whereas not onely the inhabitants, but euen the cattel did accustome them∣selues vnto the warres.

On the seauen and twentieth day of May, early in the morning, the wind beeing •…•…asterly, * 1.88 a high water & a calm sea, Dom Frederic Spinol•…•…, generall of the gallies by the archdukes com∣mandement (who omitted no opportunitie to annoy them of Oostend) went out of S•…•…luse with eight gallies and foure fregates well appointed with slaues and mariners, and manned with two thousand and fiue hundred musketiers. He first shewed himselfe at the west end of [ B] the ditch or hole of Scluse, betwixt the sands called the Franche-pol, rowing to the east end of the said ditch. The shippes and gallies of the Estates, and of prince Maurice beeing admirall generall▪ seeing what their intent was, weighed anchor, and hoist vp their sailes, bending their course •…•…astward, although they had both wind and tide against them, beeing in a manner a calme. Spinola's gallies hauing the aduantage both of winde, tide, and sunne, went northward beyond the Franche pol▪ into the W•…•…linge or Gulfe, turning their prowes against the fleet. About fiue of the clocke, the eight gallies diuided themselues into two equall parts, beeing a little distant one from the other: beeing thus in order, they came furiously, and with great cries, after their accustomed manner, to charge the Estates armie. The two first gallies did [ C] set vpon the shippe of Ioos de Moor, vice-admirall, called the Golden lyon: Dom Frederick•…•… Spinola commanded in one of these galli•…•…s, the which had no f•…•…gge vpon her mast, but onely aboue the captaines chamber. Moor defended himselfe valiantly, and his ordnance did great spoile vnto the enemie; so as Spinola himselfe had his deaths wound, and died before he could get to shoare. There were foure other gallies that pursued the ship of captaine Legier Peterson * 1.89 of Groningue, called the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, or flying dog: one of them tooke her on the right side of the stearne, and striking her with his spurre made her giue backe. At which time the master gunner of the Dog gaue fire to a peece, which raakt through the gallies, and made a way, as if a wagon had past through them, and ouerthrowne all it had incountred. The blacke galli•…•… of Dordrecht in the which Iacob Michielson commanded, encountred with the other [ D] two gallies: this fight hauing continned a while, two of the gallies which▪ were neere▪ vnto Legier Peterson, forsooke her, and went to charge the gallie of Zeeland, called the Flight, in the which Cornellis Iansen of Gorrichom was captaine, who plaied his part as well as the rest, and without doubt had wonne great honour, if there had not fallen out an accident of fire in the gallie. The other two gallies did also leaue Legiers shippe, and rowed against the blacke gal∣lie; one of the which, was Spinola's vice-admirall, carrying a flagge vpon her mast. These foure had wo•…•…ke enough with the blacke galley, the which defended it selfe so valiantly, as not∣withstanding they were all grapled vnto her, meaning to draw her into Scluse, yet were they forced to abandon her after a long fight. The blacke gallie being thus freed, it went to charge those gallies that were in fight with Ioos de Moor the vice-admirall. Another shippe of cap∣taine [ E] Quirin Hendricks of Zirrixee, called the Old dog▪ although it were not in fight, yet did shee much harme to Spinola's gallies, entring among the rest, and seconding them with her ordnance; and especially against them that fought with the viceadmirall, and the blacke galley.

The slaughter was very great, especially in the Spanish gallies; neither partie shewing any base cowardise, they were so eager one against another with cannon, musket, and harguebuse shot; and then they came to the halfe pike, two hand sword, co•…•…telas, and other armes, that it was a fearefull sight to behold: so as in the end the Spaniards fainting, seeing such great abun∣dance of blood runne out at the skuppet holes of their gallies, they •…•…led in great disorder to S•…•…luse; yet carrying backe all their gallies, beeing fauoured by the neerenesse of their re∣treat. [ F]

There died in this sea fight, the generall Frederick Spinola, with aboue eight hundred of his men▪ and a great number of them hurt. * 1.90

Of the Estates side, there were sixe and thirtie slaine; among the which, was captaine

Iacob Michelson, and his lieutenant; the viceadmirall Ioos de Moor, and captaine Leger Peter∣son, [ A] with some threescore others, were hurt. In the viceadmirall, and in the gally of Zeeland, * 1.91 there were some Englishmen of the garrison of Flessingue, who did exceeding well, of the which there were eight slaine, and some fifteene hurt. Ioos de Moor the viceadmirall, commaun∣ded at this fight, in the absence of the seignior William van Haulstein, who was admirall vnder prince Maurice: he hearing the noyse of the ordnance, parted presently from Flessingue, with fiue ships of warre, and one fregate, to come and succour his companie before the ditch, but the fight was ended, and the enemie retired, before he came. In this battaile the saying of the royall prophet Dauid was verified, That victories proceeded not from the force and strength of man, but from the ayd and assistance of God.

Elizabeth Queene of England, of famous memorie, being dead, vpon the foure and twenti∣eth [ B] day of March, and Iames king of Scotland called to the succession of the crowne; vpon the 8 of Aprill the vnited prouinces did write a letter vnto the king of England, as followeth.

Most high and mightie prince, as we were with great reason grieued in our soules, for the * 1.92 newes of the death of the most high▪ great, mightie, and soueraigne princesse, the queene of England, of most worthy and famous memorie, in regard of the great loue and affection shee

did alwayes beare vnto our estate, and for the ayd which we did still receiue from her princely bountie, for our defence and preseruation, against the king of Spaine and his adherents, wher∣by the remembrance of her shall for euer remaine eternized in vs and our posteritie: so were wee much comforted, and reioyced in our hearts, to vnderstand, that your Maiestie with a ge∣nerall applause of the Estates of the whole country, was proclaimed the true and lawful heire, [ C] successor, and king of the kingdomes of England, Fraunce, and Ireland; and the rather, for that wee assure our selues, that your Maiestie comming to the succession of the said kingdoms, will not onely continue your princely grace, and accustomed fauour, but will also of your princely inclination, inherit the same princely affection towards vs and our estate, which the aforesayd noble queene, of worthy memorie, hath left vnto you; thereby to continue your gratious ayd, and bountifull assistance, for our preseruation, for the welfare of all Christendome, and your owne good, against the common enemie, as we haue long hoped and expected the same. And in effect to shew the resolution we haue alwayes had to please and serue your Maiestie, so wee beseech almightie God (for the first part of our dueties) to blesse your Maiestie in this successi∣on, to his glorie, and the propagation of his holy word▪ to exalt your Maiesties gouernment, [ D] with all state and happinesse; and to giue your Maiestie health and long life, not onely to the glorie and comfort of your owne kingdomes and subiects, and of our estate, but also to the good and peace of all Christendom, against the insatiable ambition of the Spaniards, and their adherents: To which end we most humbly beseech your Maiestie, seeing it pleased the afore∣said queene of famous memorie, in her later dayes, to grant vs leaue to take vp certaine souldi∣ers in England, for to fill vp and make compleat the English companies, that serue vnder vs, as wee likewise besought your Maiestie to suffer vs to doe the like in Scotland, for the Scottish companies: that it will now please your Maiestie to grant vs the effect thereof; that wee may at this present take vp the said souldiers both in England and Scotland, to be transported into the Netherlands, there to be imployed in our seruice, as the necessitie of our cause requireth, and [ E] especially for the preseruation of the towne of Oostend: wherein we refer our selues to your Maiesties consideration, kissing your princely hands with all humilitie, beseeching the almigh∣tie God, to preserue your M. throne in al happinesse & glory, and your princely person in long life & prosperitie. Dated as aforesaid, & signed by the generall states of the vnited prouinces.

Presently after this letter, they sent an honorable embassage into England, the embassadors were▪ Henry Frederic, earle of Nassau, yongest sonne to the late prince of Orange, Walraue, ba∣ron * 1.93 of Brederode, monsieur Van Olden Barneuelt, counsellor for Holland, and Iacob Valck, treasurer of Zeeland; beeing accompanied with diuers gentlemen, as the lords of Baten∣borgh, Schagen, Trelongh, Herdenbrooke, Borselle, with many others. These embassa∣dors arriued in England the 14 of May, eight daies after the kings entrie into London, and vp∣on [ F] the seuen and twentieth of May they had audience; where, besides their congratula∣ting of the kings comming to his new kingdomes, they layed open vnto him the estate of their affaires, and craued a supply of souldiers, according to the contents of their letters: the

which was deliuered both by mouth and writing: but for that it is but a repetition of that [ A] which hath gone before, I forbeare to insert it. * 1.94

The king made them a friendly answer, in generall tearmes, excusing himselfe, that he was * 1.95 but newly entred into his kingdome, and beeing ignorant of the estate and power thereof, hee thought it requisite, first to settle his owne affaires, and to be fully informed of all particulari∣ties, beeing most conuenient rather to seeke peace than warre; and that with all friendly care and affection he would continue all loue and friendship with them, as his predecessor had done, with many other exceeding good wordes, wherewith the embassadours tooke their leaues.

The archduke hearing also of the death of the Queene of England, sent a gentleman cal∣led Nicholas de Schosy into Scotland to sound the kings mind, how he stood affected, whether [ B] to peace or warre; and hearing that he had beene alwaies inclined to a good peace, he sent to all the coasts of Flanders, commaunding them not to touch nor molest any English man, nei∣ther by water nor by land; but to vse them with all loue and friendship, and withall, to set all their English prisoners at libertie. And at the same time he sent an embassadour into Eng∣land, which was Charles earle of Aremberg, knight of the golden fleece, chancellor of estate, and admirall generall for the archdukes, beeing accompanied with his sonne, the baron of Seuenberghen, the earle of Bossu, the baron of Robles, the lord of Wakene, the lord of Swe∣vigem, the earle of Phirtburg, the baron of Neuele, with many other gentlemen, his embas∣sage tending (besides congratulation) to mooue the king to a peace, and to crosse certaine de∣signes of the vnited prouinces; and for that the plague was great in London, hee road west∣ward [ C] with the king: whither also the king of Spaine sent Iohn Baptista Taxis, earle of Villa-me∣diana, his postmaster generall, in embassage, who still sollicited the king vnto a peace: where∣upon the king sent master Ralph Winwood in Iuly, to be his agent in Holland, with commissi∣on to let the Estates vnderstand that the archduke had made offer of a peace vnto him, where∣unto he would not giue any eare, vntill hee made them acquainted therewith, and to vnder∣stand if they would enter into treatie.

In the meane time the earle of Basigny, sonne to the Lord of Boxtel, wrot twice vnto the vnited prouinces, desiring a pasport for himselfe, and for the pentioner of Antuerpe, to come into Holland, from the Estates of Brabant; but they made him answer, that he should send his charge and propositions in writing, whereunto answer should be made: but he wrot againe [ D] for a pasport to come in person, for that his commission might be better deliuered by word of mouth, than by writing▪ but he could not preuaile.

About this time, and whilest the armie lay before Oostend, there was great dislike and iarres among the archdukes souldiers; for the Netherlanders could hardly agree with the Spaniards, nor the Spaniards like of the Italians: Dom Louis de Velasco a gallant souldier, be∣ing generall of the artillerie, was made generall of the horse, and the earle of Busquoy gene∣rall of the artillerie; but there were many commaunders which refused to serue vnder Velasco, as the duke of Ossuna, who had raised two companies of horse, the which he discharged, ei∣ther through pride, or for want: Dom Alonzo d'Aualos desired pasport to depart, and so did Dom Augustin de Mexia, chastelleyn of Antuerpe: at which time there were foure thousand [ E] souldiers leuied in Arthois and Henault by the duke of Arschot, and by commission from the archduke, with promise that they should be paied by the Estates of the countrey; but bee∣ing almost readie to march, the archduke himselfe would needes receiue the money and pay them; which made the Wallons to shrinke and run away.

It was said the yeare before, that the earle of east Friseland, was in controuersie with the towne of Embden; whereupon this yeare in Marrh, he came into Holland, to the Estates of the vnited prouinces, whereas all matters were debated betwixt him and the towne, and at the last by the means of mediators, they were recōciled before the general Estates, the which agreement was comprehended in 15 articles, dated the 8 of April. There were two draughts made of this accord, the which were signed and sealed by the earle, and the towne seale of [ F] Embden put vnto them: & at their requests they were sealed with the Estates seale, wherupon the earle took his leaue. Vpon the 18 of April the Estates sent commissioners to Embden, to cause thē of the town to accept the contract. The commissioners did what they could to haue

the earle performe the accord, and to haue it signed at the meeting of the Estates of the coun∣trey; [ A] but the earle still sought euasions, and at the last made no account thereof; so as in the * 1.96 end the commissioners after much toile, returned into Holland, reinfecta. The reasons were (as the earle said) that the remitting of all spoils and wrongs done, contrarie to the emperours command, belonged onely to the emperour, and not to the parties: that the emperour had reserued all difficulties touching the causes of Embden, vnto himselfe, and therefore the par∣ties might not by meanes of the vnited prouinces, make any alteration or interpretation ther∣of: that the aforesaid imperiall resolution was giuen in forme of a sentence, and to bee obser∣ued by oath by both parties; so as now they ought not to doe any thing to the contrarie, nor alter the same, and that there were diuers points contained there, which did onely belong vn∣to the emperour himselfe. But the chiefe obstacle, as it hath since appeared, was in regard that [ B] the emperour disliked of the earles going into Holland, and that he had sought strange medi∣ators in his causes; wherefore he caused all the said articles to be made void by Charles Nutzel his agent.

Whereupon the said Nutzel and Miximilian de Cochy, were sent from the emperour vnto the vnited Estates; but Nutzel beeing forced to stay in east Friseland, expecting (as he said) another commission, de Cochy came to the Hage vpon the fifteenth day of Iuly, and there had audience of the Estates: where he made a repetition of all the proceedings of the towne of Embden, and how they were reconciled; and that since they of Embden had begun to rebell: wherefore the Emperour had beene forced to send out certaine commaundements a∣gainst them, vpon especiall petition, and had forbidden the Estates to aide them of Emb∣den; [ C] yet since he had vnderstood that contrarie to his commandement, they had assisted them with some souldiers, and vpon Whitsonday last past had taken in the towne, and then made open warre in the countrey, taking diuers houses and sconces, and spoiling the whole coun∣trey, forcing the inhabitants to pay contribution; whereof they desired restitution. Hee also complained of certaine famous libels, and deriding verses that were cast abroad, desiring them to forbid the publishing of their apologies in their iurisdictions. And after some conference with the said commissioner in the Hage, hee deliuered them a certaine reply touching the last argument, answering to euery article, to shew why it ought not to be performed.

This embassadour had his answer from the Estates the seauenth day of August, contai∣ning a declaration of the wrongs which their enemies had done vnto the empire, and of the [ D] pretended monarchie of Spaine▪ who sought to subiect all vnder them: and therefore in the peace at Veruins, they had reserued certaine pretences and rights vnto the countrey of Emb∣den, and had practised vnder hand to seize vpon the towne and countrey, and to appropriate it vnto themselues: and that the marquesse Ambrosio Spinola had commission to conquer it, and to withdrawe it from the empire, as they had done the countries of Gueldres, Zutphen, Vtrecht, Friseland, Oueryssel, and Groningue, wherein they proceeded without any opposi∣tion or interruption: and for that it would tend to the great preiudice and hindrance of the vnited prouinces, they could not refuse to aid them of Embden; wherefore they intreated the emperour not to misconstrue their action.

And touching the accord which had beene made betwixt the earle and the Embdeners, [ E] they said that the earle came willingly, and of his owne accord, into Holland, desiring them to be mediators for the making of a good peace; the which was done according to the con∣tract made at Delfziel, wherein they had not done any thing that might in any sort blemish the emperours honor & reputation, & that whatsoeuer had bin treated by thē as mediators, was contained in the emperours resolution, and the aforesaid treatie (beeing wel vnderstood) the which was at that time but plainelier laid open and set downe; hoping that the empe∣rour could not take it in ill part, &c. with other humble speeches. Whereupon the Estates hauing defraied the embassadours charges during his aboad there, and honoured him with a chaine of gold worth 1200 gulderns, hee left the Hage, and so this businesse of Embden was not ended, by reason of some iealousies. [ F]

The besieged in Oostend had certaine aduenturing souldiers, whom they called Lo∣pers, * 1.97 of the which, among other captaines, were the yong captaine Grenu, and captaine Adam van Leest. Their armes which they bore were a long and a great pike, with a •…•…atte head at the neather ende thereof, to the end that it should not sinke too deepe

into the mud, a harguebuse hung in a scarfe (as wee haue said of Frebuters) a coutelas at his [ A] side, and his dagger about his necke, who would vsually leap ouer a ditch foure and twentie * 1.98 foot broad, skirmishing often with the enemie, so as no horsemen could ouertake them, before they had leapt ouer the ditches againe.

The second of Iune these Lopers brought in foure prisoners, whereof one was a sentinel perdue. And two nights after, the besieged made a sallie vpon Luys-bos with a hundred men, they wonne the enemies platforme and trench, and turned their owne ordnance against them, wheras they cloyed two peeces, & slue the corps de guard, with the gunners and other officers of the ordnance, whom they found there. The besieged lost there the lieutenant of the colonels companie of cont Ernest of Nassau, the first lieutenant of Hausman, the yong baron of Sancy, a french man; and Grouestein colonel of the Frisons was hurt, with many more: so as in the end hauing a new supply from the campe, the besieged were forced to re∣tire. [ B] They buried all them that were slaine together, the common souldiers both of the towne and the campe were laied in the downes, and the men of command were buried in the towne.

On the twelfth day of Iune, the besieged set fire on the west square, the which burnt all night: and on the foureteenth day the Spaniard beganne to batter the halfe moones from the Polder square; among others, that of Slimmer, to the which the night following they gaue an assault. The gouernour of Oostend fearing that if the enemie should winne that place, he would build a fort which might greatly preiudice and annoy the towne, for that it should take from them the means to transport their materials; and with all they might there [ C] make a bridge ouer the goullet, which no man could impeach, and by that meanes go•…•… from one campe vnto the other in lesse than halfe an houre, whereas now they must imploy aboue sixe: hee resolued with the councell of estate to preuent it by the best meanes he could. The same night the enemie passing at Beck-aff, vpon a bridge of ladders, and other deuices, were receiued by tenne or twelue musketiers, which played vpon them, and so gaue the alarme, re∣tiring withall vnto their troupes, where they attended the enemie, who arriued in a manner with them, crying, Kill, kill, it is wonne, it is wonne; but being furiously charged by them of the towne, they retired with more speed than they came. If they had charged home vnto the halfe moones, they had beene entertained in the like manner; for they were exceeding well manned. The next day the besieged found many dead, and a part of the enemies bridge [ D] broken.

On the thirteenth day of Iuly, colonel Dorp, who had beene gouernour of the towne, de∣parted early in the morning; and at the same time the seignior Vander Noot (who had com∣manded there in the beginning of the siege) returned, bringing with him 4 companies of his Zeeland regiment. On the two and twentieth day, the besieged did set fire of Luys-bos, the which did burne vp all the bauins and other wood, and all the loopholes, and there was a great fire in the middest of it, the Spaniards did what they could to quench it, but it was in vaine. The next day the besieged planted gabions without the halfe moone of the Polder, with an intent to raise another halfe moone, but finding the ground too we•…•… for that purpose, they left it. [ E]

After that prince Maurice had freed the castle of Hochstraten, which was besieged by the * 1.99 archduke Albert, thinking to force the mutined souldiers that held it to submit themselues, he came with all his armie, beeing some 130 ensignes of foot, and 36 cornets of horse, on the 18 of August, before the towne of Boisleduc, the which he did inuest, and campt before and about the village of Fucht, the which he fortified, and intrencht himselfe after his accustomed man∣ner. And whereas the prince had before made a certaine accord with the said mutiners, they went and campt betwixt Boisleduc and Heusden, in the village of Vlumen, beeing some 13 cornets of horse, and the rest foot, to the number of 3500 men, one and other: who hauing fortified the church of the said village, the footmen were lodged in cabbins, and the horsemē in the houses. This troupe being wonderfully incensed against the archduke, by reason of his [ F] proscription, did then weare all greene scarfes, wherupon they were for a time called the green Gueux; keeping that passage well and faithfully, by the which victuals came vnto the princes campe. Besides, their horsemen were still in field, doing much mischiefe to the archdukes men, and great seruice to the prince, and the vnited Estates.

The third day, after that the prince was lodged at Fucht, the archdukes armie also approa∣ched, [ A] vnder the commaund of cont Frederic vander Bergh, who camped at Dykendonc and * 1.100 Oudwater, neere vnto the towne; so as the two armies were within musket shot one of ano∣ther. But the prince being first arriued, had the choyce and aduantage of the ground, cam∣ping in a place which they call Petter, where there are certaine small hills somewhat rising: on those that were neerest vnto the enemies campe, hee planted certaine ordnance, the which did continually shoot into the archdukes campe, annoying it verie much, by reason of the scituation, and the neerenesse of the place: yet the archdukes men did not forbeare to fortifie, hauing a great number of pioners: The prince did also fortifie with all speed, so as within few dayes hee made admirable trenches within musket shot of Fucht port, be∣fore the which they of the towne had certaine halfe moones, which had beene made be∣fore: [ B] by the which port they of the towne made a sallie on the two and twentieth day of the moneth, vpon prince Maurice his campe, the which was like to a simple skirmish, without any effect.

On the 23 day, three cornets of the princes horse did in the open field charge the enemies horsemen, who were forced to retire with good speed, some being slaine vpon the place, and some taken prisoners.

The prince, through the commoditie of these high hils, did so annoy the enemie, as cont Frederic was forced to abandon his workes begun, giuing the prince leaue to take them, and finish them: whereupon he went by a low way, and past the riuer of Hekel, vpon planks laid vpon masts of ships, euen vnto Saint Anthonies port, whereas hee caused certaine ord∣nance [ C] to bee planted, making the passage of that port so dangerous, as the besieged dam∣med it vp.

On nine and twentieth of August some foure thousand men went out of the archdukes campe passing (before the port of Orten) the riuer of Diese vpon two bridges of boats which were brought thither, marching towards a place, called the Deutere, a quarter of an houres march from the towne, right against Saint Iohns port, where they began to fortifie, thinking by that meanes to hinder the princes approaches vnto the towne; who considering what ad∣uantage this might giue vnto his enemies, hee resolued to charge them, incouraging his French and Scottish men (whom hee had chosen to that end) who went earely on the second of September from the campe, after that the enemie had had three dayes respit to fortifie. At [ D] the verie instant when they should charge, prince Maurice caused an alarme to bee giuen throughout all his campe, which made cont Frederic thinke that he went to assayle him: du∣ring which alarme, an assault was giuen vnto the fort by the French and Scottish; but they were brauely repulst, and with some losse: whereupon the prince sent them certaine new companies to second them; who returned againe with a great resolution, and finding * 1.101 the defendants dismayed, they forced it at the second assault: Of which number few esca∣ped, for the townes-men kept their port shut, so as most of them were slaine, or drowned in the waters neere adioyning, except some two hundred, which the princes men tooke priso∣ners, among the which there was an Italian marquesse, whom they thought to present vnto the prince, but he dyed of his wounds by the way. This fort thus woon, the prince went thi∣ther [ E] in person, and for the better ordering of things, he lodged there all night. But let vs re∣turne to Oostend.

All the rest of the moneth of August (at the siege before Oostend) was spent in doing the * 1.102 worst they could one vnto another, either by their fire-workes, or with their ordnance, their aduenturers going forth many times, and bringing in prisoners: neither did the ships passe in and out free from danger. One among the rest hauing thirteene sicke men, and fiue women in her, going foorth, hauing her helme shot off, fell into the Spaniards hands, who hung vp the sicke men, except one, which could not goe vp the ladder, him they slew: as for the wo∣men, after they had rauisht them, and stript them, with all indignities, they sent them backe * 1.103 vnto the towne. This was an act, among others, of Spanish martiall discipline. [ F]

On the last day of August, the aduenturers brought in a horse man of the Spaniards, which they had taken prisoner, and two dayes after they brought in an ensigne, a corporall, and an enginer.

On the nineteenth of September, fortie ships going out of the towne, there were six sunk, [ A] and two taken by the Spaniards, one of them being laden with stuffe of great value, the which * 1.104 was a good bootie for the enemie; and yet they hung vp the pilot of the said ship: in reuenge whereof, they of the towne hung vp the horseman which had beene taken.

During this moneth the gouernour caused the new hauen to bee repaired, making it more commodious for the ships, than before. The infectious sicknesse which was in the towne, be∣gan to swage, the towne being better furnished with good phisitians and chirurgians, & being daily better fortified. At that time there entred eighteene companies of supplies, sending the sicke and wounded men backe into Zeeland.

On the thirteenth of October there appeared without the towne thirteene great barks, and foure ships, comming from Sluce. It seemed they would make another float vpon the goul∣let: [ B] wherefore they of the towne made readie to receiue them: and as at night they brought one, they were forced to carrie it backe againe presently. These barks and ships were manned with the slaues of Sluce. And vpon the three and twentieth of the moneth, they brought a∣nother, which was great and thicke, the which they planted almost halfe neerer towards the East rauelin, than the rest; where they opened fiue loope holes, and shot furiously against the bulwarke of Peckel: so as the besieged were forced to retire their ordnance a little, hauing at that instant no other place, from whence they might shoot at this float, but the bulwarke of Peckel.

On the six and twentieth of October the Spaniards planted a peece of Ordnance behind their float, with the which they made foure or fiue shot vpon the East rauelin: but the tyde [ C] rising, they drew backe their canon with much trouble. The besieged did what they could to annoy this float, beeing much troubled to drag their ordnance from one bulwarke to ano∣ther, to shoot at this float, which the enemie sought to strengthen all hee could, with peeces of wood, and beating in of pyles behind, to make it stand firme: bringing afterwards ano∣ther float, which went from the end of the first vnto the banke of the goullet: but on the twentieth of Nouember there came a violent wind from the sea, which brake it quite, bee∣ing before much shaken by the towne canon, so as there remained in a manner no signes thereof. Yet the Spaniards were not so contented: for on the fiue and twentieth day they planted another, which was also broken in peeces, partly with the wind, and partly with the towne canon, so as when there came a spring tide, the pipes were parted and dispersed here [ D] and there, whereof many beames and other stuffe did float vp to the town: and so this inuen∣tion proued fruitlesse.

Ambrosio, marquesse Spinola, (brother to Frederic, generall of the gallyes at Sluce, slayne in the last sea fight (as wee haue sayd) had an enginer, called Pompee, who did vaunt, That hee would make an artificiall bridge, on the which they should goe through the goullet to the assault: of which bridge wee will discourse by and by, as of a deere and too costly follie.

On the eighteenth of December, there came one and fortie sayles into the towne, euerie * 1.105 one in a manner touched with the enemies canon, and yet all of them were saued, except one which sunke, and another laden with victuals, was abandoned by the pilot, and yet it en∣tred [ E] into the towne. With which ships, there arriued the seigniour of Ghistelles, to bee gouernour of the towne, and the seigniour Vander Noot gaue him place, and returned into Holland, on the three and twentieth day of the moneth, on which day the captaine of the blacke gallie came into Oostend, with an hundred and fiftie mariners which he brought with him.

On Christmas day, the Spaniards brought another float, which was not verie great, a∣gainst the which they of the towne shot continually, day and night, with eight peeces of ordnance, and could not breake it, it was so strongly bound together; and besides they la∣boured at it continually. They brought also another float, on the West part, the which they planted in a certaine place which looked towards the Porc-espic, beeing better than the [ F] other, for that the water is not so broad, as in the goullet, but being neerer vnto the towne, it was easily fired.

At that time the marquesse Spinola, generall of the archdukes armie, cast and displaced

aboue six hundred men, as well commaunders and captaines, as commissioners and treaso∣rers; [ A] whereof some had put to the kings account, or to the countrey, fiue stiuers for euerie ba∣uin, * 1.106 whereas they bought them for halfe a stiuer. This was ill husbandrie: but as the prouerbe sayth, A princes treasure is subiect to filching. The Estates did not husband it after this sort: for the maintenance of the armie, the Flemings did contribute twelue thousand crownes a mo∣neth, comprehending the munition, forrage, and stuffe for building, to bee deducted by the other prouinces out of their taxe, for the terme of six moneths, beginning the first of No∣uember. And the better to incourage the souldiers, they promised (Oostend being taken) to pay them all their arrerages; and moreouer, to giue them foure moneths pay, with a pasport for any one to retire, that would demaund it.

It was also sayd, That the archduke hauing resolued in counsell, not to leaue the siege of [ B] Oostend, whatsoeuer it cost him, hee demaunded how long the duke of Parma had beene before Antuerpe: and answer beeing made him, About eighteene moneths (although hee were not a full yeare) hee sayd, Hee was not then eighteene yeares; and although we should continue so long before Oostend, yet wee would haue it, yea if wee should imploy all that is in the king of Spaines power: whereupon hee sent for the rest of his armie, which was at Kempen, expecting 14000 new Spaniards and Italians, to reenforce his campe, being resol∣ued to set vp his rest before Oostend.

This Summer the princes of Germanie had assembled at the towne of Regensbourg, * 1.107 where the archduke Mathias, the emperours brother, represented the emperours person: at which assemblie, most of their conference was about a contribution to bee leuied for [ C] the warres against the Turke, the which should bee for the entertainment of sixteene thousand foot, and fiue thousand horse, both Winter and Summer: wherein there were many difficulties propounded, especially by them of the borders of the empire, which lay neere the Netherlands, touching their warres. Whereupon they did generally conclude, That there must bee some meanes put in practise, to draw them to a peace: but yet they could not agree vpon the articles, which should bee propounded to both parties that were in warre; nor yet to threaten them by proclamation, to bee enemies vnto the em∣pire, that would not accept of such reasonable articles as they should propound vnto them.

In the end they concluded, to send certaine embassadours to persuade both parties, [ D] and that with the aduice and counsell of the princes electors of Cologne and Cleues; and that there should bee a collection of money, whereby they might force them that would bee obstinat.

The emperour at that time had sent embassadours to the princes of Saxonie and Meu∣bourg, * 1.108 who also had commission to mooue the king of Denmarke, to bee a meanes for the making and concluding of a peace in the countries of the Netherlands: To which end the emperour sent a letter to the Estates of the vnited prouinces, bearing date the foure and twentieth day of December, in the yeare 1603, containing the great complaints of the borderers of the empire, especially of the duke of Cleues and Iuilliers, not onely for the insolencies committed by the souldiers of the vnited prouinces, but also by the mutinous [ E] souldiers, who at that time were harboured and maintained in their territories; shew∣ing, that they had committed many oppressions and insolencies: and that they for their parts had often protested and promised, That the borders of the empire should bee no more so spoyled and wasted, but that their souldiers should bee kept in good order and martiall discipline, and that such as offended, should bee punished. Wherefore once a∣gaine (in regard that his request was reasonable and iust) hee thought it good and expe∣dient to admonish, and straitly to charge and commaund them, That restitution might bee made, for the oppressions and wrongs which had beene done, according to their owne letters and promises; and especially, that order might bee taken touching the mu∣tinous souldiers, which had ioyned with them, and were then vnder their protection, [ F] and had a place of retreat deliuered them; for that the princes electors, and others, at their last assembly at Regensbourg had resolued speedily to remedie these insolencies by force: and therefore hoping that they (to satisfie and content the empire) would bee carefull

to preuent all future disorders, and to do that which equitie, right, and iustice required; where∣in [ A] they should doe him a special seruice, the which hee would acknowledge with all grace and * 1.109 fauour, &c.

The vnited Estates hearing of the comming of these new souldiers (for whom they * 1.110 wrought dayly to make breeches, dublets, and other apparell; for that commonly (especial∣ly the Spaniards) they come all ragged, and almost naked) besides, that the archdukes commaunders had found meanes to put some souldiers into the towne of Boisleduc, be∣ing incamped neere vnto it, knowing well what obstinat people were in the sayd towne, hauing tryed them in the yeare 1601 (when as, vpon the like occasion, and for the extreame frosts, prince Maurice was forced to rayse his siege) the sayd Estates and prince Maurice were resolued to imploy their men and meanes otherwise, and to retire from Boisleduc [ B] before winter, and in the meane time to refresh their men, to bee the better disposed in the Spring.

Vpon the first day of Ianuarie 1604, according to the custome of the warre, they of * 1.111 Oostend, and the archdukes campe, did salute one another with their canon and mus∣ket shot, which cost many of them their liues: and on the sixt or seuenth day, the lo∣pers or aduenturers, brought a corporall and two souldiers prisoners into the towne, by whom they vnderstood, that the archdukes campe was fortified with fiftie ensignes of foot, and seuen cornets of horse; and that they did expect the archduke to see a generall assault giuen in all parts of the towne (the which an Italian which came voluntarily out of the campe into the towne, did confirme) and that vpon the first darke night they [ C] would assault the halfe moone which is vpon the goullet, where they would imploy Pompees bridge. The which was made in forme of a chariot, vpon wheeles which were fifteene foot high, and six foot broad: The bridge was on the hinder part supported by a high crosse beame, halfe of which bridge before, was to bee drawne vp, and let downe, by two cables, which past thorough two pullyes, the which were fastened to both the ends of the crosse beame: That which did beare the bridge, was a great mast, beeing an hundred and fiftie foot long, planted before the chariot: The bridge was threescore paces long, and sixteene broad. But this engine was made vnprofitable by the towne canon, beeing nothing else, but an inuention to bring men to the slaughter, as that of the duke of Alua at the siege of Harlem, and of prince Maurice before the towne of [ D] Steenwicke.

At that time the East rauelin had beene in a manner ouerthrowne by the tempest, so as the enemie had better meanes to annoy the comming in and going out of the towne, than before; who brought another float vpon the West part by the sand hill, ioyning to the old hauen: yet from the fifteenth of Ianuarie, vnto the nineteenth of Februarie, there entred aboue an hundred and fiftie vessels, great and small, with foure canons, two minions, and ten companies of souldiers.

The first of March the wind was verie great at the West and North-west, with a fu∣rious tempest, the which did verie much harme vnto the towne. The tyde did rise so high, as many were forced to leaue their lodgings and houses, so as the most antient of [ E] the towne sayd, they had not seene the sea so high in fortie yeares. This storme con∣tinued vntill the fift day of the moneth; it did quite ouerthrow the rauelin on the East side, with the counterscarpe vnto the East gate of the towne. The S•…•…roo-dique, that is to say, the dike made of straw, which kept the water from vnder the souldiers feet, was broken in diuers places. The Spaniards halfe moone, vpon the goullet, was not free, nor yet their Luys-bos, whereof there fell betwixt the two batteries, aboue an hundred paces, euen to the foot of the rampar, with the principall batterie towards the sea, so as there was not any thing left standing: and had not their new worke beene, Luys-bos had beene quite carried away with the water, with the souldiers, and all that was within it. The old towne of Oostend, had a good share in this wracke, and if the wind had not [ F] fallen somewhat the third day, the towne had beene in great danger. A great part of the sand-hill was quite ouerthrowne: the porc-espic was not touched, but the counter∣scarpe was quite carried away. The archdukes workes on the West side, and their new appro∣ches

towards the old square and West square, were ruined, except that which they had new∣ly made [ A] vnder the halfe moone of the Polder, the which stood firme. * 1.112

On the 6 of March the besieged abandoned the fort of Beckaff, which the archdukes men perceiuing, they cast themselues into it: but soone after, fearing there was some hidden fire∣workes, which might blow them vp, they forsooke it: and that day there were spent on both sides, aboue 3000 great shot.

The one and twentieth day of the moneth, in the after noone, the seignior of Ghistelles, co∣lonell, * 1.113 and gouernor of Oostend, was slaine with a musket shot: being opened, they found that the bullet had pierced his heart. His bowels were buried in the towne, and his bodie was im∣balmed, and sent to Vtrecht. Colonell Loon was chosen gouernor in his place: And the next day M. Dauid d'Orleans Iegeneur, and chiefe controller of the fortifications, was hurt, being the [ B] most famous man of that facultie, in Christendome: hauing giuen order for all things, he past into Zeeland.

All this moneth the Spaniards toyled at the sap on the side of Albertus fort; so as Catris, master of the camp, with the Bourguignons, were lodged in the counterscarp by the polders, whereas Catris was shot thorough the bodie with a musket, whereof he dyed, Rouville his sergeant maior hauing beene slaine the night before. The seignior of Torres was sent to com∣maund in his place, who made a faire escape, hauing a grenado, or ball of wild-fire, fallen at his feet. Captaine Liestre, brother to Catris, was sore hurt there, and so was the seigniour of Ma∣laise, lieutenant colonell of the Liegeois; the sergeant maior of which regiment, called cap∣taine L'Ensant was slaine. You may see how daungerous it was to lye so neere vnto the [ C] towne.

The Estates of the vnited prouinces, and prince Maurice, hauing for the reasons aboue men∣tioned raysed their siege from Boisleduc, seeing the archduke to continue his siege obstinatly before Oostend, the which he held straitly besieged by land, and did daily importune it; and although hee had not much preuailed in his designe, notwithstanding his great expence of money, and losse of men, they were resolued, in the Spring, to draw their armie together, and to force the archduke to rayse his siege, or at the least to prouide him worke in some o∣ther place, so as hee should bee constrained to leaue Oostend, and turne towards them, or to draw away some of his forces, and giue them some respit to breath, from his continual alarms and assaults, hauing beene now besieged almost three yeares. For the effecting of which de∣signe, [ D] the Estates and prince Maurice caused all ships and boats fit for that seruice, to bee staid, both in the countries of Holland, Zeeland, and Friseland, to the number of three thousand at the least, one and other; the which they caused to come to the townes of Dordrecht, Rot∣terdam, Gorchum, Schoonhouen, and other places. The rendez vous beeing giuen them before the castle of Ramekins in Walchren, which is one of the islands of Zeeland; they of Amsterdam, Horne, and Enchuysen, did furnish fiue hundred sayle. It was an admirable thing to see the souldiers and mariners, which came to Dordrecht, for whose seruice the said ships were made readie, as well to transport the men, as for the artillerie, munition of warre, prouision of victuals, wagons, horses, sackes to fill with earth, pipes full of fresh water, and all other things necessarie for such an exploit as they had designed, being a goodly fight to be∣hold [ E] this equipage.

On the one and twentieth of Aprill prince Maurice parted from Dordrecht, with some foureteene thousand men, of the which there were twentie cornets of horse, being accompa∣nied by all the ships of warre, and others, which were come from diuers parts; the which con∣tinued the whole day, from morning vntill night, before they were past. Being come to an an∣chor before the hauen of Middlebourg, and along the side of Arnemuyden, they were found to be three thousand and fiue hundred ships of warre, besides such as carried munition, and the baggage of the armie: at which place the prince did consult with the Estates, where hee should land in Flanders.

On the 24 of the moneth, the gates of the towne of Arnemuyden stood open all night, and [ F] proclamation was made by the drum, That euery souldier, vpon paine of death, should pre∣sently imbarke in the ship where he was appointed: the which being done, & hauing a wished tide all the fleet past towards Ramekins and Flessingue, bending towards the coast of Wal∣pen, the which is at the mouth of Sluce; and hauing a South-east wind, they put them∣selues

betwixt Cadsant and Walpen, in the blacke hole, whereas they landed, the place [ A] beeing verie necessarie and commodious, lying but two leagues from Flessingue, and one * 1.114 from Sluce.

On the six and twentieth day they entred into the isle of Cadsant, without any oppositi∣on. Such as were in guard in the blacke hauen, and in certaine other places, fled, so as the prince marched directly to the fort of Hofsted: and hauing taken it, hee went to the fort of Lyppine, causing the captaine (who commaunded there) to bee summoned to yeeld the place. Who answered, That hee would first see the canon before hee did yeeld it. Where∣upon the prince sent him word, That if hee attended but one volley of the canon, hee would put all within the place to the sword: yet for that the captaine had spoken like a souldier, the prince commaund two canons to bee brought, the which were no sooner seene by the besie∣ged, [ B] but they yeelded.

Those of the fort of East Vlyet, were also summoned to yeeld, who made no other answer * 1.115 to them that were sent, but by the canon: but seeing the ordnance planted, in the euening, they yeelded, leauing within the fort their artillerie, munition, and victuals, beeing some six hundred men in it: so as the whole isle of Cadsant, with all the forts, were in the princes possession. In the meane time the rest of the armie was busie to discharge their ships in the said island.

The archduke being aduertised of the princes landing in that quarter of Flanders, hee sent some troupes from his campe before Oostend, who arriued the six and twentieth day, and in∣trencht themselues in a halfe moone, on the West part of the hauen of Sluce, to stop the prin∣ces [ C] passage.

On the seuen and twentieth day the prince sent home some of his ships, with souldiers, and with them the blacke gallie, towards the mouth of Sluce, to passe his men in shaloups: but the archdukes, men beeing there, to the number of one thousand horse, and three thousand foot, camped neere vnto the sayd mouth or entrie, and their ordnance beeing planted euen with the water, they gaue them such entertainment, as they were forced to retire, with the losse of some mariners: notwithstanding the prince had two batteries on this side the hauen, either of six peeces.

The next day there was little attempted, but onely the prince assured himselfe of the isle of Cadsant, and the archdukes men wrought in their trenches and fortifications. The prince [ D] caused certaine peeces to bee brought vnder the castle of Sluce, to annoy the gallyes which lay within the hauen, but they drew them into the towne, and then they shot little of ei∣ther side.

In the meane time the besieged in Oostend, hauing good intelligence of the princes lan∣ding, began to reioyce, hoping to haue some rest (as indeed they had for a little time) but * 1.116 they did not leaue to shoot their fierie bullets at a great bulwarke which the Spaniards had made, called Lou•…•…quen Pot, where the fire took; the which the archdukes men perceiuing, they drew forth their ordnance, and suffered it to burne.

Prince Maurice hauing done what hee desired in the isle of Cadsant, beeing loth to loose a∣ny time, hee sent to discouer the most conuenient places to enter into the maine of Flanders, [ E] so as on the last of Aprill he past the water in person, which goes from Sluce to Isendike, where being entred without any incounter, hee presently tooke the fort of Coxie, and the lieutenant, with ten other prisoners: all those which defended themselues, were slaine. Some prisoners said, That they were much amazed, and that they of Sluce did fortifie dayly, setting their gally-slaues to worke, who serue them to no other vse in the towne.

The archduke in the meane time was constrained to disperse his forces, according to the aduice of his counsell, and of his Estates, and to diuide them into three troups: one be∣fore Oostend, the second against prince Maurice, and the third against the incursions of the mutiners, the which were about three thousand foot, and one thousand and two hundred horse; to whom were ioyned a thousand and six hundred of prince Maurice his horse, and a [ F] thousand and fiue hundred musketiers, mounted on horsebacke, after a new inuention, set vpon cuissins, the which were made the winter before in Holland.

Prince Maurice making his approaches to besiege the great fort of Isendike, he changed his mind, resoluing first to force three other forts, which lay neere vnto it, so as on the first of

May hee camped before Saint Marguerites fort, against the which there were some hundred [ A] canon shot made betwixt noone and mid-night; the which did so amaze them, that although * 1.117 there were about two thousand men, horse and foot, with the peasants, yet they abandoned the place the night following, sauing themselues by flight: And the like was done by them that were in S. Katherines, and S. Philips forts, notwithstanding that in al these three forts there were 3000 foot, and 16 companies of horse.

On the third of May the prince did in like manner besiege Isendike, whereas hee intrencht * 1.118 himselfe in such sort by land, as nothing could get in or out; causing his ordnance to be plan∣ted, and commaunding certaine ships of warre to put to sea, and to lye before it, with certaine pinaces and long boats, to stop the passage, that nothing might go in or out; so as they were verie straitly besieged, both by land and sea. [ B]

In the meane time the archdukes men which were on the other side of the hauen of Sluce, thinking now to haue a good opportunitie to recouer the isle of Cadsant, they caused a great number of boats to be brought from Bruges, in the which (and in some others that were in Sluce) they did imbarke 2000 men. But they that were appointed to guard the island by the prince (hauing suffered about a thousand of them to land) they charged them so furiously, as they put them to rout, most of them beeing Italians and Spaniards; who seeing themselues so roughly entertained, crying a la barqua, a la barqua, they sought to recouer their boats againe, where pressing to enter hastily into them, one of them was ouerwhelmed, and a great number drowned: so as they could take but eighteene prisoners, and eight boats. The prisoners were sent vnto the prince. [ C]

On the eight day of May there came three souldiers out of Isendike, vnto the princes camp, who said, That they had want of all things in the fort, and especially of fresh water: that if the canon plaid vpon them, they would not make any great resistance. Whereupon the prince sent to summon them the next day, by one of his owne trumpets, whom they slew with a musket shot. The prince being much incensed for this outragious act, committed against the law of armes (which doth not allow any such excesse, vnlesse the trumpet or drumme (beeing called vnto) doth not retire himselfe) hee sent a drumme, to demaund him that had com∣mitted this act; threatning them, That if they refused to deliuer him, hee would not receiue any one to mercie. Whereupon the besieged sent forth two of their captaines to excuse the fact; saying, That they knew not who had made the shot: and beeing desirous to enter into [ D] capitulation, the prince would neither see them nor heare them, vntill they had first deliuered him who had slaine his trumpet. In the end they presented an Italian: and then the composi∣tion * 1.119 of this strong fort was made vpon these conditions.

• 1 First, That the besieged should goe out of the fort with their armes, and as much bag∣gage as they could carrie, their matches out, and their drummes silent.
• 2 That they should leaue the ordnance, and all the munition of warre.
• 3 That for the space of 4 moneths, they should not carrie any armes in Flanders, against the prince nor the vnited Estates.
• 4 That they should furnish them with shipping, to carrie away their sicke and hurt men vnto the hauen of Sas: which ships they should bee bound to send safely backe againe; for [ E] the which they should leaue two captains in hostage, vntill their returne. According to which accord they left the fort, on the 10 day of May, at fiue of the clocke in the after-noone, beeing 600 Wallons and Italians.

The next day the prince went with a thousand foot, and seuen cornets of horse, before a little ruined towne, intrencht with barricadoes, called Ardenbourg, lying betwixt Gant and Sluce, the which is another passage, ioyning to a land which is drowned by the sea, in the which there was a regiment of Germanes, and some troups of horse, to stop the passage; but they had as little courage and resolution as the rest, flying into the marishes behind, and a∣bandoning withall, a good strong castle, into the which there were two thousand men put in garrison, the which holds Sluce besieged on that side. Thus the prince entred the second [ F] time into Flanders, sending his horsemen to scoure the countrey, euen vnto the ports of Bru∣ges, Gant, and Courtray, from whence they brought good booties; so as the Flemings found themselues more opprest now than euer, all the burthen of the war being (through their own fault) fallen vpon themselues.

When as the vnited prouinces had resolued, vpon the enterprise of Flanders (hauing con∣tracted [ A] with those of the Squadron of mutiners, who not long before were come out of * 1.120 Westphalia, where they had committed many outrages, and insolencies, vpon the poore peo∣ple, cleane contrarie to their contract made with the vnited prouinces, whereupon the coun∣trey bordering thereabouts, had held an assembly at Essens, but to small purpose) they procu∣red them to make an incursion with them into Brabant, and Henault, the prince hauing lent them certaine troups of horse (as wee haue sayd) led by the drossart of Zeeland, who had three demie canons with him, meaning thereby to diuert the warres in Flanders. These were ap∣pointed to goe by the countrey of Liege into Brabant, along by the causey, thereby to diuert the archdukes forces, and to keepe them from going strongly into Flanders: the Squadron promising to spoyle all the villages in Brabant, and to force them to contribution; whereof [ B] they themselues should haue the one halfe, and the Estates the other, towards the maintenance of their warres. This being thus concluded, the Estates troups, on the nineteenth of Aprill, went into the countrey of Kessel, and vpon the Meuse: and vpon 21 day, the mutinous Squa∣dron issued out of Graue, and marched towards the land of Cuyck, and so ioyned with the drossart of Zeeland, from whence they marched in seuerall troupes towards Mastricht, Sto∣chem, Tongres, and Thienen: and yet before they parted out of the Graue, the archduke had offered them vnder hand, three fourth parts of their pay in readie money: and that they shold quit the fourth part, in regard of the spoyles which they had made, and the contributions which they had exacted from their neighbours, and other countries: the which three parts they should receiue presently after the account and reckoning should be made: And that they [ C] should deliuer vp the castles of Hoochstraten and Carpen, and the ordnance of Erkelens: and that in the meane time they should hold Hoochstraten and Carpen, for their securities.

Whereunto the mutiners made answer, That they would haue their full pay that was due vnto them; and for their securities, Mastricht, Venloo, or Ruiemonde: and for hostages for the accomplishing thereof, they demanded the earle of Fontenay, Stephano d' Ihanna, and Dom Al∣phonso d' Aualos: which done, they would restore Hoochstraten and Carpen, with the ord∣nance of Erkelens. The archduke was moued to yeeld vnto their demands (for that there were some inconueniences doubted in Flanders: and besides, there were 800 Spaniards more at Gemblours, readie to mutine, and to ioyne with them of Graue. Notwithstanding this pro∣position, the mutiners marched forward with the Estates horsemen, thereby to make the arch∣duke [ D] the more willing to yeeld vnto their pay: and on the 28 of Aprill in the night, they came before Thienen, where the generall Estates would gladly haue had them to assault the towne in a weake place: but they followed their owne humors, causing a petard to be set vnto a port of the suburbes, the which they forced and spoyled: but in the meane time they within the towne went to armes (cont Frederic being newly come into the towne, had put all things in good order) so as they were forced to retire, with the losse of 30 men, and many hurt: yet they made certaine shot with their great ordnance, against the towne (but to no purpose) where one of their peeces burst. And so parting from thence, they went to Hanuyt, where they en∣tred, on the nine and twentieth day, and there rested certaine dayes; but they would not haue the villages forced to pay any contribution, but that which was behind; and yet they had pro∣mised [ E] the contrarie vnto the vnited Estates, that they might thereby giue no further cause of offence, expecting some composition to be made for them; so as the Estates horsemen could not doe otherwise, vnlesse they would haue quarelled with the sayd mutiners, for the which they had no commission. During their abode at Hanuyt, on the last of Aprill, Herman, earle Vanden Berghe, hauing obtained a pasport, entred into the towne of Graue, to make some o∣ther offer vnto them, and so to stay them from making any further inuasion: but he returned the same day; which they that were abroad vnderstanding, from that time forward they so carried themselues, as they would not commit any more insolencies; but sought delayes to win time: for being mooued by captaine du Bois, and the drossart of Zeeland, to march into Henault, and to doe some exployt there, they answered, That it was impossible for them to ef∣fect [ F] any thing with expedition, in respect of the ordnance, with other such excuses, and yet they durst not discouer their pretence, which was not to make any offensiue warre; but they persuaded the commaunders, to goe from Hanuyt to Hoy vpon the Meuse, and to leaue their ordnance there, and so to march foreward: hoping by that meanes to draw them into the

borders of Liege, for certaine dayes, and to keepe them from Brabant, and so to free that pro∣uince [ A] from the feare which their entrie had caused, the which might haue hindered their se∣cret * 1.121 treatie with the archduke.

The Estates commanders seeing their determination, were forced to yeeld; yet, after that, they found, that the mutiners themselues had aduertised them of Hoy, and willed them not to open their gates, thereby to haue some new colour of excuse, and further delay; so as com∣ming the fift of May before Hoy, the townes-men refused to open; so as they returned backe to Cassy and by smal iourneyes approched neer vnto Henault, doing nothing vpon the way, but sent out messengers, to get in the contributiō which the villages did owe, without any fur∣ther demaund, so as the Estates horsmen could hardly get any victuals: and sometimes going forth to seeke some, they were slain. Vpon the 10 of May they entred into Henault, betweene [ B] Binche and Berghen, and there the Squadron did flatly deny to march any further; whereof captain du Bois and the drossart did certifie prince Maurice, by their letters, being in Flanders, and got the Squadron to consent to lye there certaine dayes; which staid the archdukes souldi∣ers from going out of Brabant into Flanders, fearing least they should follow them, or vnder∣take something in their absence: In the meane time the mutinous Squadron did nothing else, but seeke by all the meanes they could, to get in the arrerages of their contribution, with∣out attempting any other thing with the Estates souldiers, which bred great iealousie and suspition.

The sixteenth of May, the whole armie (that onely excepted which was left for the guard of the isle of Cadsant) beeing dislodged from Isendyke, past by Ardenbourg, taking [ C] the way towards the towne of Dam, which is vpon the chanell which goes from Bruges to Sluce. Vpon the way, halfe a league from Dam, there is a water, which cannot easily bee waded thorough, for that it is deepe of mud; the which hath a little bridge and a sluce, whereunto the tide flowes. Dom Louis de Velasco had intrencht himselfe at this passage, being foure thousand horse and foot; whereas the passage was so narrow, as two horsemen could hardly march in front. The fort was defensible, and able to haue staid the princes armie, yet after some resistance, they quitted the place, and retired by Dam, vnto the other side of the ri∣uer. They lost at this charge two hundred men vpon the place slaine and hurt, besides many that were drowned; among the which there were eleuen captaines slain and prisoners, where∣of two were Italians, one of them Spinola's kinsman, and one Spaniard, a sergeant maior ve∣rie [ D] sore hurt, and more taken prisoners than were slaine.

The same souldiers being on the other side of the riuer, made a shew, as if they would once more attend the prince; and to that end they lodged themselues in a place of more aduan∣tage, than that which they had abandoned, hauing a great chanell, by the which the sea did flow vnto the towne of Bruges; and besides that, the riuer and the banks which did co∣uer them.

On the eighteenth of the moneth, part of the princes armie hauing beene all night in bat∣taile, * 1.122 monsieur de Chastillon hauing the point with part of his French regiment, thinking to go and charge them, he found that they had abandoned the place: So the same day, at night, the armie went and camped before Sluce: and vpon the 23 day S. Georges fort (which stands vp∣on [ E] the hauen of Sluce) was yeelded vnto the prince, but they left a peece of a match burning, the which at three houres end, should haue set fire of nineteene barrels of powder; the which was discouered by one of their owne men comming forth. This passage being won, he caused the fort of Beckaff to be assailed, with some others without the towne, whereas they did fight valiantly, and aboue all, the English shewed great courage and resolution. There the prince lost the seignior Vander Aa, captain of his foot guards, who had his arme shot off with a canon, and was thrust through the body with a pike by an Italian; yet in the end the princes men were masters of all, euen vnto the towne ditches.

On the thirtieth of May, the archdukes men, being foure thousand foot, and 2600 horse, thinking to put some men, victuals, and munition of warre into Sluce, were charged, and put [ F] to rout by the prince, all their victuals and munition being taken: There were few slaine vpon the place, wherof the number is vncertaine, for that the country is ful of marishes. Spinola's gal∣lies being to no vse in Sluce, they took forth the slaues, & sent thē out of the town, with some souldiers; who being incountred by the princes troups, were presently amazed and dispersed.

About an hundred of these slaues being chained two and two together, fled vnto the princes [ A] campe, where they were well intreated, and sent away free into France. * 1.123

On the fift of Iune, being Whitson eue, general Spinola gaue a furious assault vnto Oostend in three seuerall places, with the greatest obstinacie that might be. They renewed this assault thrice, and it continued eight houres. The Spaniards had made certaine mynes, the which did more hurt vnto themselues, than vnto the besieged, hauing giuen fire too soone. On the enemies side there were 800 men slaine, and 500 hurt; and among them the seigniour of Bos∣sompiere, who had beene a great leaguer in France. Of the besieged there were about an hun∣dred slaine, and some hurt.

On the seuenteenth of Iune the enemie gaue another assault, the which continued from two of the clocke in the afternoone, vntill eight at night, in the which the Spaniards did win [ B] some rauelins of the polders, whereas they lost 150 men, and the besieged about an hundred, among the which there was a Scottish baron, and foure captaines: This baron did but newly arriue, who taking a halfe pike, ran vnto the rampar, to incourage the souldiers, where he was carried away with a canon shot. And although the besieged in these assaults behaued them∣selues verie well, yet their enemies lodged vpon the rampars of the polders, verie neere vnto the towne, where they intrencht themselues strongly. And at the same time, during the as∣sault, there entred seuenteene companies into the towne, with munition and victuals, by the goullet.

The archduke hauing beene constrained to imploy a good part of his forces, to suppresse the insolencies and incursions of the mutiners, the which hee could not doe: hee therefore * 1.124 [ C] sought all meanes to reconcile them, the better to fortifie himselfe against prince Maurice, who lay before Sluce: the which he did, vpon promise, to pay them what was due, remitting all which they had leuied by way of contribution, with an abolition and pardon of all that was past, and reuoking and disannulling the proscription which was made against them: giuing them for their securitie and pay, the towne of Ruremonde in the countrey of Gueldres, in ho∣stage, to euerie foot-man 12 pence a day, and to euerie horse-man 2 shillings 6 pence, vntil they had receiued their full pay.

According vnto this accord made, with the consent of prince Maurice and the vnited Estates they deliuered vp vnto the archduke, the castles of Carpen & Hoochstraten, with the artillery which they had taken from Erkelens, and to the prince and the Estates, the towne of Graue, [ D] and the sixteene hundred horse, and fifteene hundred musketiers, which they had lent them, proceeding sincerely in all points: Wherein they discharged their duties, like true souldiers, and defaced the blot of rebellion, wherewith they had beene blemished. Moreouer, by their accord, they were not subiect to serue the archduke, vntill they were fully satisfied. And this was the good the archduke got by his proscription.

Prince Maurice hauing now no enemie in field, to make head against him, after that hee * 1.125 had taken Saint Georges fort, and the Spaniards hauing abandoned a halfe moone before the towne, wherein they left foure peeces of ordnance: hauing now no more obstacles, hee set downe the order of his campe, making his owne quarter on the North side, the which hee did fortifie with many trenches, and square forts, as well against the towne, as the enemie [ E] abroad. Cont William of Nassau, his cosin, gouernour of Friseland, had his quarter fortifi∣ed almost like vnto the princes. Cont Ernest, brother to cont William, was somewhatfurther off, on the West part of the towne, intrenched and fortified as the rest, with a bridge vpon the riuer of Kreck, to goe to Sternenbourg, vpon the South-west. Within the drowned land, there were foureteene ships, and some barks, the which was the quarter of colonell Vander Noot, with some square forts.

The prince hauing caused them of Sluce to bee summoned, their answer was, That they had store of powder and bullets for him. Whereupon it was told them, That the prince was sufficiently informed, that they wanted both the one and the other. And although that the prince had so straitly besieged Sluce, both by trenches, forts, and palisadoes, yet seuen [ F] hundred souldiers at one time, and eight hundred at another found a passage, and entred with some victuals and munition into the towne, through the drowned land, in view of the princes men; and yet they could not hinder their passage, by any meanes which they could vse.

The prince wisht there had entred more men, that they might consume their victuals the [ A] sooner; but fearing they should bring some munition that way, he commaunded colonel van∣der * 1.126 Noot to keepe a guard in his ships, and where as the greater vessels could not goe, he should place boats, with fiue or six souldiers in either of them, to remaine there in guard; so as it see∣med, that not any one could get in or out: whereupon there were foure or fiue messengers with letters taken in the same place.

The besieged seeing themselues thus prest, made certaine sallies, but of small importance, and to their losse, the princes canon being so planted against all their sallies, as they could not peepe out of the towne, without the losse of many men.

Certaine souldiers come from the siege of Oostend, had taken their way whereas the rest had past, where being gathered together, they called vnto them that were in the boats (thin∣king [ B] they had beene of their owne men) to passe them into the towne: who making no shew of any thing, being fortified with a sufficient number of souldiers, well armed, went to fetch

them. In the end these Spaniards finding their owne errour (but too late) cried out, Good God, whither go we? we haue committed an errour which will cost vs deere: we were blind, or asleepe, to put our selues thus infortunatly into our enemies hands. What reason had wee to leaue a good countrey, to come into these cursed marishes, and to dye of hunger in a baren

medow? Whereat the captaine of the ships begun to laugh, seeing them thus perplexed, to

whom he said, You are come somewhat too late in all things, especially in matter of enterpri∣ses, whereas time imports much: but dispaire not, we will not leaue you here, but will bring you to our store-house of cheese, where wee will intreat you so well in that respect, as you [ C] shall haue no cause to complaine: And I assure you, that if you will tell the truth vnto prince Maurice, how it stands with the siege of Oostend, I will imploy my best credit to set you at li∣bertie: the which he did; for after they had beene examined, and payd their ransomes, as soul∣diers, they were let go into Sluce.

The prince vnderstood from these prisoners, and others, That the archdukes men preten∣ded to put great store of victuals and munition into the towne; which was to depriue him of the most assured meanes to take it speedily, whereon hee did chiefely ground his de∣signe. To preuent this danger and inconuenience; besides the approaches and fortifications of his campe (wherein the souldiers and mariners laboured continually) hee fortified the seigniour Vander Noot with some troupes, commaunding him in particular (for that the [ D] drowned land was his quarter, and did import him most) to haue a care that this con∣uoy entred not into the towne. The like charge was giuen by the prince to all the other quarters.

The besieged expecting this conuoy, they sent forth fifteene hundred gally slaues, and fiue hundred souldiers, at the verie instant, when as the tide was gone out of the drowned land; but they could not passe, by reason of the good order which the prince had set, and their carefull guard. Some fourescore and ten of these slaues escaped, who came and yeelded themselues at the princes campe, who after hee had asked them some questions, suffered them to goe where they pleased. In the meane time this conuoy approached secretly, the which being come vnto the drowned land, they were so entertained by the ordnance, as [ E] they were forced to retire, without putting any victuals into the towne.

Vpon this alarme giuen to the campe, the prince pursued them with a part of his armie, * 1.127 and hauing ouertaken them neere vnto Dam (in the same place where hee had defeated the others some dayes before) euen as they had caused some of their wagons to passe ouer, af∣ter that hee had shot two vollies, with two field peeces, which hee had brought with him, hee charged them sodainely: their horsemen, beeing a thousand, fled to Dam, whither the footmen followed; and the carters left their horses, to saue themselues. Thus this con∣uoy was put to rout, of the which there were a great number slaine, and two hundred priso∣ners taken: they had an hundred wagons laden with meale and other victuals and munition, which they had laden at Bruges; all which was lost, and serued to victuall the princes campe: [ F] who hauing intelligence, that there came another troupe of 3000 men, which were neer vn∣to Moerskerke, he marched directly to them: who hauing but notice of his comming, put themselues in rout, of which there were many slaine, and 120 prisoners, with 18 wagons of vi∣ctuals, * 1.128 which were carried to the campe.

The besieged being out of hope of all reliefe, were amazed, and did trye if they could free [ A] themselues of their vnnecessarie mouthes, especially of their slaues, whom they sent once more * 1.129 out the same way; but they were beaten backe into the towne, as before, and yet some fortie of them escaped.

There was another letter surprised from the gouernour vnto the archduke, whereby hee did aduertise him, That he was straitly besieged without the towne, but within he was incoun∣tred with two cruell enemies, hunger and gally slaues.

The besieged and the besiegers entertained one another daily with their shot, but they with∣in the towne were better husbands, reseruing their shot and powder at greater need, for an as∣sault. There appeared dayly some of the archdukes troups, to giue courage to the besieged, and to trye some meanes to succour them: Once among the rest there came 9 corners of horse [ B] towards cont Ernests quarter, who seeing good guard kept, retired, through fauor of the night, without any exploit.

The prince in the meane time, as well to keepe the souldiers occupied, as to be prepared for all euents, caused diuers trenches, platformes, and bridges to bee made, as well to passe ouer waters, as to goe couered vnto the assault. Sometimes a dike brake in the campe, which filled all their trenches with water, and made them worke for eight dayes to repaire it: during the which the besieged seeing that the princes men shot not at them, they cryed out, Where is now your canon haue you layd it to pawne in the Lombard? be gone ye beggers, be gone. To whom they answered, You shall see it but too soone, to your losse, with the which wee will haue you shortly, and then wee will goe and rayse the siege of Oostend, with other such souldier like threats. The besieged [ C] had set a float neere vnto their castle, to plant some ordnance thereon: the princes men went thither with boats, but they were so entertained with musket shot, as they were forced to retire. The prince did often visit his whole campe, and past into Cadsant, to set al things in order, cau∣sing his men to repaire and fortifie, where hee saw it needfull. His armie grew daily stronger in men, and souldiers arriued howerly, both Switsers and other nations, by bands of twentie, * 1.130 thirtie, or more. There came foure hundred Switsers at one time, the which, with others that came before, had their quarter vnder cont Ernest. The lord of Termes arriued also, with a good troupe of French horse, who was verie kindly entertained by the prince, and after they had walked about an hower with cont William of Nassau, they supt together.

There was verie good martiall discipline, and seuere iustice in the campe, which made all [ D] things verie good cheape; there comming great aboundance of victuals out of all parts of Holland and Zeeland. The campe seemed a good towne, and there was a storehouse well fur∣nished with munition, and all other things necessarie.

The besieged shot much at the princes ships which lay in the hauen, to driue them out, or to sinke them: but the captaines hauing commaundement to continue there still, they van∣quished their importunat shooting by patience, so as they were forced to cease, and to spare their powder. The princes men shot at the wind-mils within the towne, and beat them downe.

By reason of the inundation of the countrey, which was couered with water, the towne could not bee so straitly besieged on all sides, as the prince desired: for there are certaine me∣dowes, [ E] and other places, which the sea doth inuiron, or couer, at a high water, and the tide be∣ing spent, they are left drye: there they incountred daily, and still some were slaine, or taken prisoners. Wherefore the prince, to spare his men, that he might be the better able to resist the succours which the besieged attended, made a defence, that no souldier should go to the war, without commaundement, vpon paine of death; causing a souldier to bee hanged, who had beene saued from the gallowes twice in one day, to giue example vnto the rest.

The vnited Estates commaunded publike prayers and fasting throughout all their prouin∣ces, to craue assistance at Gods hand, in this important action. The prince did also command the like throughout all his armie, forbidding them to buy or sell any thing that day, vpon paine of death. [ F]

If the prince did presse the towne without, hunger did afflict them more within: among * 1.131 other necessaries, they had great want of wood to bake their bread, so as they were constrai∣ned to pull downe houses to that end; which made them to practise all meanes to write vnto the archduke, and to acquaint him with the estate of the towne. A Spaniard went out of the

towne on horsebacke, to trie if hee could finde a passage, but being discouered by the guards, he fled backe into the towne leauing his horse behinde, the which was drowned. * 1.132 [ A] The next day he returned againe with eighteene musketiers, and hauing past the same way which hee viewed before, hee had layed his companie in ambush at a certaine passage: soone after there went eight Switsers whom they slue; which they of the campe perceiuing, they did inuest them, and cut them all in pieces. The besieged made also a sallie, but the guards were so well placed, as they were still forced to retire.

The fourth of Iuly Cont Henry Frederick the princes brother, with Cont Ernest, and Lewis, with some soldiers, being wearie to lye so long idle without any action, went euen vnto the gates of Dam, where as the sentinell gaue the alarme presently: these yong noble men stay∣ing to braue it before the towne, were soone charged with the garrison which was much [ B] stronger than themselues, so as they were forced to retire with the losse of foure or fiue horse.

The mutinous soldiers of Hochstraten hauing made their peace, and compounded with * 1.133 the Archduke, being two thousand strong, they went to serue him in Flanders at the reliefe of Sluse, where they shewed themselues more forward than any, and diuers of them were slaine: but many of them hauing receiued their full pay, ran away, some home into their own coun∣try, others fearing punishment went and serued prince Maurice; among the which two of the chiefe being both horsemen, left their fellowes being in Roemonde, and went to the Graue, (their names were Thomas Viller and Papouken) with a good troupe with them, who vpon the 17 of August came before Sluse to the princes, armie, where they carried themselues verie va∣liantly; so as Papouken being banished out of the vnited prouinces, for that he had been one of them that had sold Geertruydenbergh, in regard of his valour and experience, was reconci∣led [ C] to prince Maurice.

The prince assuring himselfe to take Sluse by famine, caused his batteries to cease, for that he would spare his powder and shot.

And the Archduke weighing the necessitie of the besieged, and the great importance of that place, meaning not to deferre it, after the taking of Oostend, as he had hetherto done, hee resolued to succour them: to which end he sent the marquesse Spinola with a good number of the best soldiers which he had before Oostend. The prince knowing his victory to depend * 1.134 only on the preuention of these succors, prepared himselfe to resist them, visiting his campe often, and giuing order for the guards and fortifications, and for all things necessarie to re∣ceiue [ D] them, resoluing to attend them in his trenches, and not to meet them. He sent to all the tents and shops of marchants, pourueyers, and victualers, to know how many men they had, commanding them when the alarme should be giuen, to come to a certaine place, where they should be armed. They of the towne did often make signes with fire to them that came to succour them, the which they might easily discerne.

On the 28 of Iuly, their succours camped betwixt Bruges and Dam, being ten thousand men, who conducted six hundred wagons laden with meale, and other prouisions to relieue the towne: from thence the Archdukes men went before Mittlebourgh, the which they tooke by composition, yet the castle held out 4 or fiue dayes longer for the prince: then they passed close by Ardenbourg, where as they skirmished with the garrison of the towne, [ E] where as there were some of the Archdukes soldiers taken, by whom they of Ardenbourg vnderstood part of his designes, whereof they did aduertise the prince.

The 29 and 30 of the moneth, they shewed themselues toward the quarter of colonell Vander Noot, and there tooke a little fort which the princes men had abandoned. In the meane time they played so furiously vpon them from three batteries, as they were forced to giue backe: they left sixe and thirtie men in this fort, the which was presently recouered by the princes men, and those within it put to the sword. The besieged meaning to make a passage for their succours, the next day made a sallie with two hundred men, who carried a certaine bridge to cast ouer the chanell, but they were driuen backe into the towne, without any ex∣ploite doing. Spinola seeing that he could not enter into the towne by the quarter of Vander [ F] Noot, he sent some part of his troupes to campe neere vnto the village of Lapschuyre, by the which he thought to finde a more easie passage.

The prince knowing that the enemies designe was to cast himselfe into the towne by the fort of Pimster Blom, in 48 houres he made a great trench to cut off his passage. Those which

laboured making some shew of feare, for that the enemies small shot played continually vp∣on [ A] them to hinder their worke, they were commanded not to giue ouer, vpon paine of hang∣ing. * 1.135 Spinola's men made sundrie attempts to force the campe, but they were still repulst with losse. The prince seeing the enemie camped so neere him, caused▪ 64. pieces of ord∣nance to be mounted betwixt the qua•…•…ters of cont Ernestus and Vander Noot, commanding the cannoniers to discharge euery piece once in an houre both day and night; the which did a great execution, and slue aboue 500 men in 24 houres.

The besieged in the meane time did all they could to fauour their succours, and did often send of their men towards Spinola; whereof some past, but most of them were taken by the way. Spinola also for his part omitted nothing that might be put in practise; hee caused cer∣taine caualiers and batteries to be made in his trenches to shoot into the princes campe, espe∣cially vpon a bridge 400 paces long, the which was before the marriners fort, making a shew [ B] as if he would attempt to enter into the towne that way. The prince (to preuent this designe and the wild fire which they might cast vpon this bridge) fastened masts there with anchors, and shot furiously from thence vpon Spinolas pioners, the which disappointed that designe.

Omitting to make a particular repetition of all the batteries, skirmishes, and ordinary exer∣cises of souldiers before Sluce; in the end the number of Spinolas men decreased dayly, as well through the spoyle which the princes canon made, as by reason of other discommodi∣ties: and as it is an ordinarie thing, that one mischiefe drawes on another, the soldiers be∣ing * 1.136 tyred with such toyle, ran away to the prince in troupes of 40 or 50 at a time, the num∣ber whereof in a short space came to seuen or eight hundred men; beside those that did steale [ C] away by other means. The prince sent them which yeelded themselues vnto him into Zee∣land, and so to passe from thence where they pleased.

This did trouble Spinola, but the necessitie of the besieged did much perplex him, seeing there was no meanes to make a passage into the towne, but by a generall combat: wherefore he resolued to force the princes campe, and on the 6 of August, hauing discouered that cont Williams quarter was the weakest, he assayled it in the morning: his horsemen had euery one a musketier behinde him, they charged and entred the trenches, where they did fight valiant∣ly on both sides; whereas the combat was doubtfull and cruell. At this fight •…•…hey of the towne caused their bels to be rung, to mooue euery one to pray vnto God for the good successe of the archdukes armie: some cried out victorie alreadie: the aduantage inclined sometimes [ D] to one part, sometimes to another. In the end the princes men recouered their trenches, and forced Spinolas men to slye. There were a great number slaine of either side, but the grea∣test number were of the archdukes men, who were slaine in the retreat. At night Spinolas men presented themselues before the same place, as if they had an intent to charge againe, but see∣ing the princes men more resolute than before, they retyred. Yet Spinola not satisfied with this assault, hauing discouered a marish place toward Lapschuyre, where there were no ships in guard, he sent certaine men in a boat, who found the place full of stakes and piles, so as there was no meanes for their boat to passe: one of them cast himselfe into the water to swim into the towne, but being discouered by the sentinell, he returned.

Their wants were exceeding great within the towne; the best bread was made of all sorts * 1.137 [ E] of graine mingled, and the soldiers had three quarters of a pound a day allowed to euery one. There was some controuersie betwixt the gouernour and the generall of the galleys, for the distribution of bread, for that they gaue none vnto the galley slaues, who labored more than the soldiers: they were forced to eat dogs and cats, and sometimes they might heare the wo∣men and children make lamentable cries: which made many without feare of danger to come and yeeld themselues at the princes campe, who receiued them courteously, and gaue them to eat. In the end, finding that it would make their victuals to last the longer, and would protract his victory, they hauing also stayed vntill the extremitie, and put him in hazard of a battaile, he did forbid them to suffer any more to passe; whereupon three offering to come forth, they made a signe vnto them with their hats to retire, the which they refusing to doe, [ F] they shot at them and slue them. Yet some few daies after there came a corporall forth with 12 soldiers, and yeelded themselues, to whome they gaue their liues.

The•…•… made a sallie of 40 men on the 14 day of August at night, and being in fight, there came 50 of the archdukes men to ioyne with them; but they found such resistance, as either

of them was forced to retire from whence they came, without any great effect. This was [ A] done, to get a messenger to passe: and indeed a resolute souldier during the fight, cast him∣selfe * 1.138 into prince Maurice his trenches, entertaining the sentinell with words, that hee might get away; saying, That he was the round: the corporal being come at the sentinels call, deman∣ding the word, he slew him, and so past on.

Spinola being well informed of the estate of the towne, and seeing that he could not releeue it, nor enter, as he had imagined, he retired in great hast, without sound of drum or trumpet, in the night about 10 of the clock, on the 16 of August: and the same night he went with al speed by Ardenbourg, vnto Ostbourg, where, without any stay, he went before S. Katherines fort, in the which there were 70 souldiers in garrison for the prince; the which he battered, and tooke by composition. The besieged did their dueties▪ and would not yeeld, vntill they had filled [ B] their ditches with dead men.

The prince being aduertised of Spinola's retreat, he tooke a certaine number of souldiers out of euerie quarter, and went after him. Spinola seeing himselfe pursued, put his armie into bat∣taile, neere vnto Ostbourg behind a dike. The prince charged him furiously, hauing giuen the point vnto his musketiers. In the end Spinola was forced to retire, leauing 300 of his men vpon the place. The prince lost some •…•…0. The same day the prince sent to aduertise them of the town that their succours were defeated: and his men burnt Spinola's campe. For all this Spinola fled not, but had another designe, meaning to enter into Cadsant, wheras the besieged would haue made a bridge. He took S. Philips fort also by composition, hauing not then aboue 4000 men in his armie. The prince hauing obserued his designe out of Vander Noots quarter, went to Co∣xie, [ C] by the which Spinola must passe, sending cont William before, to hinder his passage at a cer∣taine small square fort; the which Spinola did charge furiously: and the princes men made such resistance, as they spent al their powder and shot, defending themselues a good space with their pikes, halberds, and swords; who were in danger to be forced, but for the vertue and va∣lour of cont William (who had withstood the assault in his trenches, on the 6 of August, & now againe he performed the dutie of a couragious souldier, and a valiant captaine, giuing a good∣ly example vnto his followers.) In the mean time the prince sent them 4 fresh companies, with powder and shot, the which did so incourage his men, as they repulst their enemie, and slew three or foure hundred vpon the place; among the which was the marquesse of Renty, of the house of Lalaine and Croy, Alphonso Borgias, a commaunder of the Spanish foot, and mon∣sieur [ D] Maintenon, a French man, with diuers other men of commaund; whose bodies, with the souldiers permission, were ransomed.

From thence Spinola went and camped before Isendike; but in the end, seeing his number so decreased, and his souldiers so daunted with so many losses, hee retired, and effected not any thing, being the 18 of August. The same day the besieged, being without all hope of succours, they sent an It•…•…ian captaine, called Lippin, vnto the prince, to demand 6 or 7 daies libertie, to * 1.139 aduertise the archduke of the estate of the towne, and to treat of their yeelding. To whom the prince answered, That he would giue them six weeks, as soone as six dayes. The women and children stood vpon the rampars, attending the princes mercie; who refusing to giue any time vnto the besieged, in the end Lippin besought him to send three hostages into the towne, for [ E] their securities, that should come the next day out of the towne, to treat with him.

The next day betwixt 8 and 9 of the clocke, the prince sent Elst, Eckeren, and a Frenchman, all three captaines: and there came vnto the camp Lippin, the sergeant maior of the towne, & the earle of Styerems lieutenant; who trifling out the time in long discourses, and impertinent de∣mands, the prince said vnto them, Chuse one of these conditions, If you deliuer vp the towne * 1.140 on the 20 of this moneth, I will suffer you to depart with your armes, matches light, bullets in the mouth, colours flying, and all that belongs vnto souldiers. If you attend vntill the 21, you shall carrie away nothing but your swords. And if you stay vntill the 22, I will haue you at my discretion.

Hereupon two of the deputies, leauing the third in hostage, returned vnto the towne, with * 1.141 [ F] these conditions, and the night following they returned, betwixt 11 and 12 of the clocke, ac∣cepting the first condition: and the articles of accord were as followeth.

1 That all church-men might depart with their ornaments, goods, and all that belonged vnto them.

2 That the gouernour, captaines, officers, and souldiers, of what condition soeuer, as al∣so [ A] the captaines of gallies, and all other officers and free marriners of the said gallies, might de∣part * 1.142 freely vnto Dam, with their baggage, armes, and colours flying, bullets in their mouthes, drummes sounding, and matches light: and to that end they should haue barks and boats to conuey them to Dam, for the which they should giue hostages, vntill they returned.

3 That the gouernour, and the seigniour Aurelio Spinola, should bee bound to deliuer in∣to the hands of such as his Excellencie should depute, all the gallyes, barkes, and fregates, ord∣nance, powder, and all that belonged vnto them: as also the towne canon, munition for war, and all other engines and instruments, without any fraud or spoile done vnto them.

4 That the gally slaues should be all set at liber•…•…ie, without any exception, and it should be lawfull for them that would follow the garrison, beeing once at libertie, to doe it freely. [ B]

5 That all prisoners should be deliuered without ransom, vpon condition, That the go∣uernor, and the seignior Aurelio Spinola, should procure, that captaine Saye, hauing been taken prisoner with the marriners, by them of Boisleduc, & captaine Iay of Raed, being prisoner with his men in Viluoord, as also the three mariners of Breda, being prisoners at Gant, shall bee set at libertie, euerie one paying a moneths pay to those that tooke them, and their charges: or for want thereof, the said Aurelio Spinola, shall promise, vpon his faith and word, vnder his hand and seale, to put himselfe prisoner into his excellencies hands.

6 That no man shalbe detained for any debt or money, which the bourgers haue lent vn∣to the gouernor and others, the gouernor promising to giue them satisfaction in the towne of Bruges. [ C]

7 That all muster-masters, and other officers, which haue mannaged the accounts & pay∣ing of souldiers, may also depart freely with their mouable goods and papers touching their charges, not taking away any of the charters or registers of the towne.

8 That all officers and commissaries of the victuals, of the admiraltie, and of the king of Spaines armie shall do the like.

9 That the gouernor shalbe bound to deliuer the castle this night into his Excellencies hands, that he may put 200 men into it.

10 That to morrow the garrison shall depart out of the towne.

Made in the campe before Sluce, the 19 of August 1604.

Behold how the vnited Estates tooke this towne of Sluce, by prince Maurice, their great cap∣taine, [ D] and admirall generall, euen in view of the archdukes armie. There were found in it ele∣uen * 1.143 great gallies, wherof 7 were verie much shaken (but afterwards repaired by them) the rest were verie good and new, with a great number of other sorts of boats; 84 peeces of brasse, and 24 of yron, with great store of powder, bullets, and other munition for war; the which made them much stronger, both by sea and land.

And with these honourable conditions they departed out of Sluce, being about 4200 men, almost hunger starued.

The Estates after this conquest, being contented for this yeare with the importance therof, spent some time in fortifying Sluce, and Isendike, the which they did inlarge more than halfe, and haue made it a good towne, with a capable hauen: they fortified Ardenbourg also, and [ E] other places, in the which they haue many Oostends; and so much the stronger, for that they are neere one vnto another: Besides, these places are more commodious to make war in Flan∣ders, being in the heart of the countrey, and neere vnto Bruges, and other greater townes than Oostend, which is in a remote quarter, among the downs and sand hils, the which they might block vp with forts, and so leaue it, as they did since the yeare 1599, whereas Sluce is the key of traffique. The news of this losse was soone diuulged, the which caused great murmuring, and sodaine alterations in the countries thereabouts. In Holland and Zeeland there was nothing but giuing of thanks to God, bonfiers, banquets, and ioy; yea at Oostend (whose end drew neere) the souldiers shewed their ioy with their canons and muskets. In the archdukes country there was nothing but heauinesse, the people murmuring, and saying, That what they feared, [ F] was come to passe, seeing that Oostend held good after the losse of Sluce. Some did imagine, that the prince would go with his victorious armie, and raise the siege of Oostend, and that by meanes of the intelligences which he had in some townes, he would strangely shake the arch∣dukes affaires: But things fell out otherwise, as we will shew.

The archduke hauing lost Sluce, resolued to haue Oostend, rather to repaire his honour [ A] and losse, than to reape any fruits of his three yeeres labour, holding that his reputation was * 1.144 not in so great danger, as the good of his wiues countrey which he enioyed; whereas now there was no practise nor inuention omitted to take the towne: And the besieged, being encouraged by the victorie of Sluce, made a wonderfull resistance: there was a generous e∣mulation, and miraculous deedes of armes.

There were diuers mynes made, which wrought diuers effects, sometimes hurtfull to the besieged, and sometimes to the assaylants. Spinola hauing made his approches, by mine and other deuises to Sandhill, he resolued to giue an assault; but finding the Spaniards vnwilling, and to flye from all seruices, for the enuie that they bare vnto him and to the Italians, he made choise of the Germane regiments, vnder the earles of Folgia, and of Barlaimont, being most [ B] of them old soldiers and of great resolution; who after great resistance tooke Sandhill, and slue all that had not retired in time, the which was a great losse to the besieged: it was said, that Spi∣nola gaue vnto these soldiers out of his owne bounty fortie thousand gulderns to drinke, with great thanks and commendations.

The besieged expected succours daily, but they fayled them, as there is nothing more doubtfull than the euents of warre. There was great hazard in the reliefe of Oostend, the which although the siege had been raised, could hardly haue been kept, and in the end would haue wearied the vnited Estates, especially wanting succours from England, by reason of the peace concluded betwixt the kings of England and Spaine: besides it might be dangerous for the Estates armie, if they should faile in their attempt, or receiue any af∣front, [ C] whereby there would haue growne an ineuitable mischiefe, which was the diuision and weakning of their army, the which would haue giuen a great aduantage vnto the ene∣mie: wherefore they resolued to fortifie the towne of Sluce, with all their armie, the importance whereof made them not to apprehend the losse of Oostend.

The besieged in Oostend hauing attended succors a moneth after the taking of Sluce, and had sent often vnto the vnited Estates, and to the prince aduertising them in what estate they * 1.145 were, and that the archdukes Germanes had taken a part of the towne, from whence in short time they might cut off their hauen, and depriue them of the benefit of the sea; they thought that without doing wrong vnto their honours, they might lawfully compound with so cou∣ragious an enemy: besides they had aduice from the prince, to make the most honourable [ D] composition they could, being of opinion that the Estates should not charge themselues any longer with that towne, seeing they had taken Sluce, which was held of farre greater impor∣tance, and so many other new forts conquered, the which they must furnish.

According to which aduise monsieur Marquet gouernour of the towne of Oostend, with the councell of warre, entred into treaty with the marquesse Spinola; and hauing first sent a∣away their best ordnance into Zeeland, leauing some only for a shew, they yeelded the towne vnto the archduke, leauing it all ruined, and without inhabitants, after a siege of three yeeres * 1.146 and eleuen weekes (the which hath not been seene these many hundred yeeres in Christen∣dome) and departed the 22 of September, with their full armes, and marching like soldiers in battell, with foure peeces of ordnance, and munition for tenne shot, (the most honou∣rable [ E] composition that could be) and passing along by Blankenbergh they went vnto the princes campe, being yet about Sluce, busie in his fortifications.

The archduke hauing Oostend at command, would needs goe see in what estate the towne was; whereas they found nothing but hils of earth and trenches, and heapes of stones of the houses and churches which had been ruined with the canon, where they had worke inough to repaire, so as he was forced to entertaine his army there all the rest of the summer, before he could bring it to any good order, and cast downe his trenches, with many of the forts. For the repeopling of this towne, he graunted goodly priuiledges, and gaue land by inheritance to them that would build and inhabit there, with immunitie of excises and customes for cer∣taine yeares, and accommodating the garrison as well as he could. [ F]

It is vncertaine what numbers were slaine during this siege of Oostend, yet it is sayd, that there was found in a commissaries pocket, who was slaine before Oostend the 7 of August before the yeelding thereof, diuers remarkable notes and obseruarions, and among the rest what number died without in the archdukes campe of euery degree.

Masters of the campe	7. * 1.147
Colonels	15.
Sergeant maiors	29.
Captaines	565.
Lieutenants	1116.
Ensignes	322.
Sergeants	1911. [ A]
Corporals	1166.
Lanspisadoes	600.
Soldiers	54663.
Marriners	611.
Women and children	119.

All which amount to 72124 persons.

Which number is not so great considering the long siege, sicknesse, and the cold winters vpon the sea coast, in so cold a clymat, fighting against the elements. It is vnknowne what number died in the towne, the which is thought was much lesse, for that there were not so many in the towne, who were better lodged, had more ease, and were better victualed. [ B]

At the same time about three hundred horse of the vnited estates, made a sudden incursion into the countrey of Luxembourg, whereas they surprized the towne of Arlon, the which they spoyled a whole day together at their pleasures: then carying away their bootie, and ma∣ny good prisoners, they came to Duyts right against Cologne, where hauing shipt their goods and prisoners, they sent them by the Rhin into Holland, and they returned by land into the vnited prouinces, to their garrisons.

The Marques Spinola hauing (as we haue sayd) finished the siege of Oostend, and wonne thereby much honour and reputation, he was sent by the archdukes into Spaine, as well to * 1.148 giue an account of his actions, as to procure a new prouision of money, and to receiue the re∣ward of his seruices from the king; the which were such, as at his audience in the kings cham∣ber, [ C] his maiesty saluted him with the name of duke of Saint Seuerino, whereof he gaue him the title, he made him lieutenant generall to the archdukes in the Netherlands, gaue him the earledome of Vogira in the duchie of Milan in Italie, with a pension of twelue thousand crownes a yeere for his diet; commanding he should be put in the number of the Grandos of Spaine, besides other goodly rewards which the king gaue him.

Sluce being taken, Lodowike Gunther earle of Nassau, who had maried the countesse of * 1.149 Walckenstein, and Broeke being sicke, died in Sluce: this Lodowike was the sonne of old Iohn earle of Nassau, and brother to William and Ernest earles of Nassau, being a gallant yong earle, and one that was much lamented, hauing been employed in many great enterprizes: and at the same time prince Maurice, and diuers others were also sicke. [ D]

In remembrance of the long siege of Oostend, and the winning of Sluce, there were cer∣taine counters made in the vnited prouinces, both of siluer and copper, the one hauing on the one side the picture of the towne of Oostend; and on the other the townes of Rhinberke, Graue, Sluce, Ardenbourgh, and the forts of Isendyke, and Cadsant, with this inscription round about it, Plus triennio obsessa, hostirudera, patriae quatuor ex me vrbes dedi. Anno 1604. Oostend being more than three yeeres besieged, gaue the enemie a heape of stones, and to her natiue countrey foure townes. Another counter, hauing on the one side the siege of Sluce with this inscription. Traxit, duxit, dedit. Anno 1604. On the other side were the armes of Zeeland, and round about it, Beatus populus cuius adiutor deus.

The towne of Vtrecht did also make a triumphant peece of coyne, both of gold and siluer, [ E] where on the one side stood the siege of Oostend, and on the other the siege of Sluce, all the forts and hauens, and on both sides round about was grauen, Iehoua prius dederat plus quam perdidimus. 1604.

The king of England being quietly seated in the royall possession of the crowne, the king of Spaine, and the archdukes had sent their embassadours into England to make an ouerture of a peace (as wee formerly shewed) and this yeere, on the nineteenth of May certaine commissioners came into England to that end, during the siege of Oostend and Sluce: for the Archdukes came the earle of Arembergh, sir Iohn Richardot president, and sir Lewis Vereyc∣ken, secretarie of estate; and for the king of Spaine came Alexander Rouido, doctor and coun∣cellor for the king in Milan, who had in his company as an assistant Martin de la Falia, Baron [ F] Van Niuele: but Dom Ioan Fernandes de Velasco, Constable of Castilia and Leon, duke of Frias, ea•…•… of Hara &c. councellour of estate, and for the warres, had only full power and authority to conclude for the king of Spaine; who remaining sicke at Wynoxberghen in Flanders, by vertue of his commission, gaue authoritie to Ioan Baptista Taxis earle of Villa

Mediana, and to doctor Rouido to treat. What followed in this treaty, I thinke it needlesse to [ A] insert here, being so well knowne to euery man. * 1.150

After the conclusion of this peace betwixt England, Spaine, and the archdukes, the gene∣rall Estates of the vnited prouinces called sir Noel Caron their agent (then resident in England) to come home into Holland, and to acquaint them with the estate of England since the peace with Spaine; whereupon the king gaue him letters of recommendation, with certaine instru∣ctions concerning the money which was owing by the vnited prouinces vnto the crowne of England, the king desiring that embassadours should be sent ouer vnto him to that end, the which was done accordingly. The general Estates returned sir Noel Caron back into England, giuing him the title of their embassador, and commission to cary himselfe so in all places: the * 1.151 which made many to wonder, and the Spanish embassador to storme, who presently deman∣ded [ B] audience, and made his complaint vnto the king of the wrong was thereby done vnto the king his master, who was dishonored thereby, contrary to the league and friendship which was then betwixt them, desiring that all accesse vnto the court in that quality, might be deni∣ed him, as being sent from such persons as had traiterously fallen from their lord & soueraigne prince, with many other bitter words, and full of spleene. To whome the king of England made answere, That hee was not yet informed of any such matter, and that when as hee should be fully certified thereof, he would make him an honorable and a reasonable answer: and afterwards vpon conference with his councell, he told the Spanish embassadour, that he had no knowledge of the Estates resolution, but yet he thought it good to let him know, that by the contract of peace made with Spaine, all neutrality with the Netherlands was allowed [ C] him: saying moreouer, that as he was no author of their separation from Spaine, so would he not break the league and friendship, that hee found his kingdome to haue made with them; neither was it for him to censure the errours and faults of the Estates, (if there were any) nor * 1.152 to make answere for them: shewing him further, that hee was not restrained by the contract from giuing audience vnto any of their seruants, in what quality, or howsoeuer they would name him, leauing that to their discretions: and that he would shew himselfe vnto them, as he had been accustomed to doe: and that it was no wonder if hee followed the example of o∣ther princes, who would not doe any thing that was inconuenient, and not beseeming their mutuall friendship, who had already receiued their seruants by the names of embassadors, and sent theirs vnto them, with the like titles. With which answere the Spanish embassador con∣tented [ D] himselfe.

This yeare in May Peter Ernest earle of Mansfeld, gouernour of Luxembourg, died in the * 1.153 Netherlands, a man who in his life time had been in many honorable employments: and for that he was one who had managed many causes in the Netherlands, I thought it fit to make a briefe relation of his life.

He was borne in the yeere 1517, and brought vp in the court of Ferdinando king of the Ro∣manes, and afterwards emperour: at 18 yeres of age, in the yeare 1535, he was with the empe∣rour * 1.154 Charles the 5, at the siege of Thunis, and was caruer to the emperour: in the yeare 1543, he came into the Netherlands, and commaunded a company of horse before Landresie: in the yeare 1544, he was made lieutenant colonel of 1000 horse, vnder the baron of Brederode, [ E] and had a company of 200 horse for himselfe: in the yeare 1545, he was made gouernour of the dukedome and earledome of Chiny and Namur: in the yeare 1546, he was made knight of the order of the golden fleece. Not long after in the French warres hee ouerthrew 1200 French foot and horse, hauing but 50 horse in the foreward of the emperours army before Aspremont, and afterward tooke the said castle of Aspremont: in the yere 1552. being sent by Marie queene of Hongarie regent of the Netherlands, as Generall of the army into Fraunce, he tooke the townes of Astenay, Montfalcon, Grenu, Pree, and others: after that being in the towne of Iocoy, he was besieged and wounded, and the towne being taken, he was led priso∣ner into France, where he remained fiue yeares; and in the yeare 1557, he was set free vpon a great ransome. The same yeare he was sent embassador from the emperour to an assembly of [ F] the princes in Germany. Hee was made marshall ouer the Dutch regiments before Saint Quintins, where, in that battaile he gaue the first charge, and ouerthrew the enemy, where he was twise shot in the thigh: some hold opinion, that if he had not been, the battaile had not been giuen, nor yet won: in the yeare 1558, he was marshal of the field in the king of Spaines

armie before Dourlans, where the king of Spaine was himselfe in person. In the yeare 1565, he [ A] was sent by the king of Spain with a sleet of ships into Portugall, to fetch the prince of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 * 1.155 bride from Lisbon, whom he brought into the Netherlands. In the yeare 1566, in the begin∣ning of the troubles in the Netherlands, he was by the duchesse of Parma made gouernour of Brussels; and was a meanes to moderat the said troubles. In the yere 1567, he pacified 〈◊〉〈◊〉 trou∣bles in Antuerpe, and continued gouernor there vntill the comming of the duke of Alua: after which time he did conuey the duchesse of Parma vnto Plaisance in Italie. In the yeare 1569, he was sent into France by the king of Spaine, to aid the French king against the Huguenots, where he won great honour at the battaile of Montcounter, where he had his right arme la∣med. In the duke of Aluaes time he had the charge of 2000 horse in Luxembourg, when as the prince of Orange was before Berghen in Henault. In the great commanders time he was marshall of the campe, and commanded ouer 2000 horse, at such time as Lodouike earle of [ B] Nassau was slaine at Mockerheide. In the time of the Estates gouernment, he was with others of the counsell of estate, taken by the tumultuous people, and committed to prison, where he remained fiue moneths, with great hazard of his life, beeing in danger to bee murthered by the multitude. In Dom Iohn of Austria's time (when as a peace was made, and the Spaniards to depart out of the Netherlands) he had charge to conuey a great number of them into Italy. After that, the peace being broken, he tooke part with Dom Iohn, and so continued vntill his death. In the prince of Parma's time, he was marshall of the field, at the siege of Mastricht; and after that he went with some troups into Gueldres: then he was sent into Henault, and made gouernour of Arthois, Henault, Ryssel, and Douay (vntill that the prince of Parma had perfor∣med [ C] the contract made with them) where he tooke Cortrick, the castle of Quesnoy, Mor∣taigne, Saint Amant &c. In the said duke of Parma's time, hee was sent thrice to field, and tooke Bouchain, Niuelles, Villeuoorden, &c. Hee was with the duke of Parma at the siege of Antuerpe, and did helpe to recouer Coesteins dike from the Zeelanders; who had taken it from the duke of Parma. He was twice chosen lieutenant gouernour and generall of the Ne∣therlands, and of Bourgoigne, and was gouernor generall after the duke of Parma's death, wherein he continued, by commission from the king of Spaine, vntill the comming of Erne∣stus archduke of Austria; after whose death, in the yeare 1594, he was againe made gouernour for a time. And in the yeare 1597, vnder cardinall Albertus gouernment, he was made marshal of the field; the which he did execute, although he had beene gouernour himselfe. Being very [ D] old, he retired himselfe into his gouernment of Luxembourg, and there dyed, being 87 yeares old. His bodie was buried in his chappell, by the old cloister of Saint Francis, in the towne of Luxembourg. He maried with Marguerite, daughter to the baron of Brederode, by whom he * 1.156 had three sonnes and one daughter: the first was Charles earle of Mansfeldt▪ a gallant souldier, who dyed in Hongarie (seruing vnder the emperour against the Turke) without issue. His se∣cond sonne was slaine in a quarell betwixt him and the vicont of Gant. The third sonne was Octauius, earle of Mansfeldt, who was slaine before Knodsenbourg sconce. His daughter ma∣ried, against his will, with Palimedes, bastard to Rene of Chalon, earle of Nassau, who was slaine before Saint Desir, and in his mothers right was called prince of Orange and of Chalon. This Palimedes had two sonnes, both which serued vnder the archduke, the one dying of a wound which he had receiued; and the other being a colonell, was in suit with the bastard son of Peter [ E] Ernest, earle of Mansfeldt, touching the inheritance.

This yeare, during the winter time, the prouinces vnder the archduke, sought to haue the * 1.157 generall Estates assembled at Brussels; the which the archduke would not allow, for that the vnited prouinces had written vnto the chiefe townes in Brabant and Flanders, aduertising them of certaine designes of the archdukes: which letters were discouered by some of them vnto the archduke, whereupon he did forbid the receiuing of any such letters; commanding they should bee brought sealed vnto him, which bred certaine iealousies and distrusts, for that many had giuen him aduice, not to suffer the generall Estates to assemble, who without doubt would propound such matters vnto him, as he should be forced to yeeld vnto them; the [ F] which might be some blemish to his honour and reputation: whereof they of Holland had intelligence, by certaine letters which had beene intercepted, whereof they did aduertise the rest: so as the assembly of the generall Estates would not be tollerated: yet euerie prouince as∣sembled apart in their owne iurisdictions. Out of Brabant they sought to haue three hundred

thousand gulderns, which at the first the bishops and prelats (in the name of the whole cler∣gie) [ A] flatly denied, vntill they did see better order in the gouernment, and better discipline a∣mong * 1.158 the soldiers. They of Brussels refused to pay chimny mony, and so did they of Flanders: but there was some hope of a peace, and to that end certein articles of peace were dispersed a∣broad, as if they had come from the king of Spain; and at that time there were both letters and embassadours sent to the Hage in Holland. It was also reported that the marquesse Spinola at his comming into Spain, had 300 thousand gulderns a moneth promised him by the king, with other summes of money to pay the mutynous soldiers, and for the entertainment of the archdukes court: wherewith the Estates and the common people were put in good comfort, & so contented themselues for a time. The archduke with the helpe he had from the prouin∣ces that were vnder his command, and by means of certaine bils of exchange that were come * 1.159 [ B] vnto him, he began to make preparation for the warre, for the yeare following▪ the which was very great, making new leuies of soldiers, both in Spain, Naples, Milain, Germany, & the Wal∣lon prouinces, as also in England, Scotland & Ireland: which according to the treaty of peace made with England, might not be denied him.

The vnited prouinces began also to thinke vpon their preparations, for that vpon the 16 of * 1.160 October past the councell of estate had informed the generall Estates what was to be done concerning the wars: desiring that an armie might bee sent to field in the beginning of the nextspring, wherby they might fortifie such places as they had gotten in Flanders: as also that some course might be taken for the payment of all their arrerages of debts, the which could not be discharged the yeare before, for that their receits were lesse than their disbursements; [ C] and therefore they were growne indebted, the which must necessarily be paied: and although their great charge for the defence of Oostend, then ceased; yet they must fortifie their places in Flanders, and pursue their victorie, keeping the enemy occupied with an army in field, who gaue out that they would inuade the vnited prouinces with two armies together: wherefore they desired, that the ordinary taxation of the 7 prouinces might bee collected, in the which three parts of Gelderland with Buren and Zutphen were accounted for one prouince. They also required 600 thousand gulderns extraordinary, for wagons and horses to draw them, and other charges of the armie for six months, with three hundred thousand gulderns for the fortifications. That Ardenbourg was to be fortified with nine sconces lying about Co∣xie, Cathalyne, Oostbourg, and one by the house of Weelde, and a halfe-moone consi∣sting [ D] of three bulwarks before Sluce, with diuers other small sconces; for the which they demaunded three hundred thousand gulderns; and for warehouses and other necessaries for them, other three hundred thousand gulderns. They required also three hundred thou∣sand gulderns for the payment of the interest, wherewith the Receiuer generall stood charged.

There was a demand of 4 stiuers vpon euery barrel of beere, to be paied by them that drew it, and twenty stiuers vpon euery barrell of salt, towards the payment of the money due to the king of England; as also to haue consideration of the general interest, and that they would continue the conuoy•…•…s & licences. To aid the admiralty with 400 thousand gulderns, which they were in arrerages, notwithstanding all booties and prizes. That they would consent vnto [ E] 8000 gulderns for Drenthe, and 1300 gulderns a moneth for Linghen; all reparations to be therein contained. That the impost for salt, should be paied by the panman, with the pasports and conuoyes: and the money comming thereof to be collected into one purse. That the con∣tributions of Holland and Zeeland, shold be collected, and the mony brought in before De∣cember: and that the prouinces might not be brought into any arrerages.

To this end vpon the first of Nouember, the Estates sent vnto the prouinces to gather the monthly contribution, as followeth viz. of Gelderland & Zutphen monthly 28286 gulderns 2 stiuers, 7 deniers; of Holland, 337646 gulderns, 4 stiuers, 8 deniers; Zeeland, 83029 gulderns, 4 stiuers, 5 deniers; Vtrecht, 35131 gulderns, 18 stiuers, 7 deniers; Frizeland, 69721 gulderns, 16 stiuers, 11 deniers; Oueryssel, 16770 gulderns, 1 stiuer, 8 den. Groningue, 39271 gulderns, 16 [ F] stiuers, 2 deniers; Drenthe, 5368 gulderns, 4 stiuers; Linghen, 2792 gulderns, 6 stiuers, 8 deni∣ers; Wedde, 350 gulderns. All which amounts (not accounting Drenthe, nor Linghen) vnto 609877 gulderns, 7 stiuers, and 2 deniers; which is the ordinary contribution of the vnited Estates monthly, not accounting the admiralty, nor other forcible impositions vpon extraor∣dinary

causes: so as it seemed the vnited prouinces had resolued to make an offensiue warre [ A] the next yeare, and to that end they raised 100 new companies of foot, more than they had in * 1.161 pay before, with 36 cornets of horse: besides, they had contracted with the marquesse of Aus∣pach, for 1000 Dutch reisters to bee newly leuied. They did also expect great aide from the French king: they of France aduising them to go early to field, with 170 or 200 companies of foot, and 36 or 40 cornets of horse, that they might attempt something before the marquesse Spinola were ready. And this was their designe for the yeare following.

This winter and the precedent, there were great means made to procure a peace in the Ne∣therlands, especially by the emperour and the house of Austria, who did affect it the more in regard of the diuision of the empire; and the rather for that France and England had now abandoned the vnited prouinces, but especially for that the empire was much troubled with [ B] the Turkish warres, the which might be aided by the soldiers of both parties, if they could be once reconciled: the let whereof was imputed to the vnited prouinces. for the archduke see∣med tractable, and willing to yeeld to any reasonable conditions, so as he might retaine the so∣ueraignty. But being ready to enter into a treaty of peace, and the prouinces vnder the arch∣dukes gouernment in good hope thereof, the bad gouernment in Hongarie and Transilua∣nia bred an open rebellion; so as Stephanus Botschkay tooke vpon him to be their leader: and besides this disordered gouernment, bad pay & mutiny of the soldiers, they sought by means of the Iesuits, to force mens consciences, and to alter their long reformed religion in so dange∣rous a time, of ciuill and forraine wars; and for that cause they grounded their rebellion vpon the same foundation, which the Netherlanders had done, as breach of priuiledges, gouern∣ment [ C] of strangers, and constraint of conscience, the which gaue cause of suspition vnto the Emperour, and the king of Spaine.

In the meane time there were many things propounded how a peace might be made: the * 1.162 which for that it is a matter of great importance, I haue thought it fit to bee inserted. One ter∣ming himselfe a Netherlander, & yet dwelling out of those countreys, sets down his opinion in three speciall points, and first concerning the bad gouernment of the vnited prouinces: Se∣condly, that they will not be still able to continue the wars: and thirdly, that they shalbe forced to submit themselus vnder Spain, France or England. Of these 3 points he maketh a long dis∣course; and also of the forces and qualities of each one in particular. If any man would argue and maintain that it were the best course to yeeld the countreys ouer to prince Maurice, in re∣gard [ D] of his great seruices done for the same, with perpetuall confederation and league with France and England, thereby to defend and support the said prouinces: hee was of opinion that it would be too difficult a matter for prince Maurice to vndertake so great a quarrell with the Estates of Holland and Zeeland; and that they which are so well seated, and at this present in the gouernment would not willingly giue their consents, vnlesse they were forced therun∣to by the said kings. Therfore he setteth downe a means how to settle the archdukes after ano∣ther maner in the said Netherlands: which if it were not found good & conuenient, then they should deuise how to further prince Maurice in this designe. The meanes hee speaketh of are, That seeing the king of Spain and the archdukes are so vnited, as they are not to be trusted in regard of the maxime of pias fraudes, holy deceits, that therfore to bring the 17 prouinces into [ E] a perfect vnion, they must procure the kings of France and England to bee mediatours to the king of Spain to yeeld vp al his right absolutely vnto the archdukes, vpon pain of breaking the league with them: the emperor also, in regard of affinity, & France, must likewise resigne al ma∣ner of pretences, vpon condition that their heires males (after the maner of the Salike law) by this or any other mariage of them both, and no other, shall succeed; and that after both their deaths without heires males, that neither the king of Spain, nor the emperor (in regard of their great suspected powers) shold inherit the Netherlands, but it should descend to the rest of the heires males of the emperors Ferdinand & Maximilian, with the like conditions: and if it so fell out, that the said successor in the Netherlands were chosen to be emperor, he should then like∣wise giue ouer his title to the Netherlands, vnto the next heires males of the same house: and that if the whole house of Austria should chance to die, and be extinct, only the emperor and [ F] the king of Spaine remaining, in that case it should be lawfull for the said prouinces to choose themselues another prince, where they pleased; that all the Netherlands might continue vn∣der one Lord and Prince.

It should bee also necessary that the king of Spaine should giue security for the effecting [ A] thereof vnto one of the two kings aforesaid; which if hee refused, then the said kings of Eng∣land * 1.163 & France with the Netherlands shold force him therunto, with the consent of the empe∣ror; which he affirmeth is easie to be done, by many reasons by him alleaged; & for that cause men must take heede of the Iesuites maximes, or subtile fetches. He also maketh answere to many arguments obiected to the contrary by the Spaniards, who would not endure to be cut off from their patrimoniall inheritance: but Christian peace ought to persuade him thereun∣to, that so he may employ all his power against the Turke: therewith he setteth downe certein articles to be obserued in this peace, which are 6 in number; which if the king of Spaine will not agree vnto, and that the said articles were not liked on either part, then the kings of France and England, shall seeke to put the said countreys (if it were possible) into the hands of prince [ B] Maurice of Nassau; but the other contract with the archdukes (he saith) were better: he shew∣eth moreouer, what profit all Christendome may expect and attend by the said peace, where∣in we should neither feare pope nor Iesuite, but call a generall councell, whether it were with the good liking or otherwise of the pope; and according to the decrees thereof, to begin a war against the Turke, in such order as monsieur la Noue describeth, whereunto all other princes would willingly giue consent: and by that meanes the golden world would begin againe.

Another being a catholike and vnder the archdukes gouernment setteth downe certaine reasons for a peace, as followeth. He sheweth the strength of the vnited prouinces which are compassed in with the seas, and great riuers that are nauigable, hauing great store of shipping, * 1.164 therewith to prouide them of all things necessary: and on the other side hee setteth downe [ C] the difficulties whereunto the prouinces vnder the archdukes commaund, are subiect: As that their soldiers can hardly liue or get any thing from such an enemy, but would bee ouer chargeable to their owne countrey: that the aid which they had out of Spaine was great in shew, but in effect small, and was most of it drawne from the vttermost parts of Italy, and the deepest parts of Spaine, and that many times it was intercepted by the way, and being come, it did melt like snow against the sunne; that by protracting of the soldiers pay, mutinies did arise. That the vnited prouinces are alwaies first in the fields, and that they could thereby giue the first onset: that Spaine of it selfe is poore, that the Hollanders tooke his gold, siluer, and traffique from him at the Indies: that his mynes are drawne drie: that the yong king is not so sparing as his father; and so his charges are greater, and by that, meanes money grew [ D] scant, and mutinies daily increased, so as to pacific the soldiers, and to giue them some con∣tentment (besides their robbing and spoyling of the countrey) they are often paide twelue or fifteen stiuers a day for a footman, and foure & twenty stiuers a horsman, & not any other are full paid vnlesse they mutine; so as there hath not been any gouernour, but that hath had 2 or 3 mutinies in his time. He sheweth that since the archdukes gouernment there haue been 20 mutinies; as at Diest, Ardres, Carpen, Caleis, La Chapelle, Weert, Chastelet, Dorleans, Cam∣bray, the castle of Antuerpe, the forts of Saint Andrew and Creueoecur, the ships in the riuer of Scheld, in 2 fortes vpon the Scheld, the Sas of Gant, Sluce, Hulst, Hochstraten, and the fort of Isabella before Oostend, &c. and that these mutinies were likely to increase, for that they make no musters, as they were wont to doe, allowing the soldiers 4 stiuers a day: which [ E] the old soldiers perceiuing seeke to mutine, thereby to be paid the rest of their account; and when they are paid, they will be sure to haue securitie for their money receiued, or els fearing punishment, they run away, knowing that they may expect no preferment.

Furthermore, he setteth downe the Spaniards high minds, who will rather see the Nether∣lands goe to ruine, than they will yeeld; adding withall, that there is no likelyhood of peace to be made by men of seuerall religions, for that they had lately caused a poore woman to be buried quicke, hauing been better to haue banished her, seeing shee could neither teach nor preach.

Touching the attayning to a peace, by meanes of the warres; their mighty neighbours would not endure it, the Spaniards high mind being suspected by all the princes of Europe: [ F] and that although the Hollanders were forsaken of all other princes, yet it was to be seene by the defence made in Oostend, what a taske it would be to vanquish them, most of their forts, lying on the sea coast, the which can hardly be besieged, or kept from reliefe.

To conclude, seeing that he perceiued nothing els but disorder and despaire, he feared that

the French trumpets would in the end sodenly awaken them, the causes of warres being as [ A] great between both the kings as euer; which he sheweth by likelyhoods of enterprizes, by co∣uert * 1.165 pretences and reasons to moue them thereunto, and what were to be feared if the French men should once shew themselues vpon the frontiers; how hardly could it be preuented, but that vpon some conditions they would put themselues into the French kings hands, & so they should presently be inclosed by the enemy, as by the Hollanders and the sea, and by the French men, hauing nothing but Luxemburgh open, which might easily bee shut vp; so as there were no aide to bee expected but from heauen, which doth not open euery day to shew forth miracles: but setting miracles aside, hee asketh, where they should haue corne to to bake and brew withal, if the plough goe not, and where should they get salt, wine, & muni∣tion if France were stopt; so as they should then be as in a towne besieged. [ B]

That the Hollanders seeking their owne profit, and winning certaine townes by force would alter the catholike Romish religion, which ought to be vpheld by all the meanes that may be.

These things notwithstanding, yet he doubted not so much of the matter, as long as there was one that knocked at their dore (meaning the French king) finding it in no sort conuenient for the prouinces vnder the archdukes commaund, to agree with the Hollanders alone, doubting the successe of the duke of Aniou; but with a mightier power, who should be able to giue them peace, and to maintaine it, and to chase away the Spanish garrisons: wherefore he counselleth them (to preuent such mischiefes as threaten to fall vpon them, to hold the ca∣tholike Romish religion, & to enioy an assured peace) to put the country into the French kings [ C] hands, whereunto they should find the Hollanders both ready and willing; and although the Hollanders would not agree thereunto, yet they should bee vnited to so mighty a king, who would be able to defend them: and for that the same had in times past been moued vnto him, it was not to be doubted.

That the Spaniards (only interessed herein) were far from them, & had lost the passage out of Italy, by means of the peace made with Sauoy: that they had garrisons but in 9 places, as in the castle of Antuerpe, Gant, and the Sas, Hertogenbusch, Nieuport, Oostend, Duremond, Cam∣bray, Ruremond, & Dixmuyden, & that in some of them there were but few spaniards; in other some they were mixed with other soldiers, and in the rest the inhabitants were the strongest; and that of all those places there were but three that were strong, yet would they not bee able [ D] to withstand so mighty a king. In this sort he imbaseth the archdukes forces, to whom he as∣cribeth many spirituall vertues, but with some imperfections, who with the Infanta without children, would be wel content to be vnburthened thereof. The great grauity of the house of Austria, hindreth him from being familier with his subiects, and thereby much diminisheth his authority.

He saith further, that all Christendome (except Spaine) would like of that proceeding, and it would make traffique and trade of marchandise to flourish throughout al Europe.

Furthermore that the two mighty and disunited kings, after the vniting of these countries could not well hurt or preiudice each other, as they did in times past, hauing the Pirenean mountaines and the sea for their frontiers; and so they would suffer Christendome to liue in [ E] peace, and conuert their forces against our common enemy the Turke: That the Netherlands shold depend & adhere vnto an assured gouernment, in regard of the Salique law, without be∣ing subiect to change: That the Frenchmens natures are better to be endured than the Spani∣ards & agree better with the Netherlands: and that such conditions might be made, as al dif∣ficulties should be preuented, and their priuiledges maintained, yea increased.

Touching religion, it was well seen & apparent, how orderly they are dealt withal in France, without forcing any mans conscience; which in truth hath bought more men into the right way, than euer any force or violence (vsed to that end) did.

To conclude, he extolleth the fruits of peace, traffique and trade of marchandise: and tou∣ching the trade into the Indies, he referreth that to the Hollanders & Zeelanders themselues. [ F]

That all preferments, gouernments, states and offices of the country, which now are in the hands of Spaniards, and other strangers, should be granted to none but naturall borne sub∣iects of those countreys. To be short, he saith, that the Netherlands should not be giuen to France, but rather France to the Netherlands, and that there were neither wals nor forts that

could seperat the mutuall league and friendship of France and the Netherlands. This is their [ A] opinion, that would greedily ioyne the Netherlands vnto France. A third person, naming * 1.166 himself a stranger, and an vpright indifferent partie, who had nothing to win nor to lose in the * 1.167 Netherlandss, setteth downe his opinion, touching peace, excusing his boldnesse, and diuides his propositions into 3 points. The first, Why both parties ought to seeke after peace: The second sheweth diuers means that are and may be produced to attaine vnto peace: The third, shewing which should be the best means, and wherefore they are not to be reiected by neither of the parties.

Touching the first, he makes a learned discourse, to shew the necessarie vse of peace and vni∣tie. After war, peace ought to follow, although it cost both parties deere, and therefore reason and necessitie ought to moue men thereunto. The Turke ought to be withstood, and the tu∣mults [ B] of Hongarie pacified. The euents of the Netherlanders long continued wars, ought to make them wise, after so many battails, and towns won and lost; and so many enterprises made both by land & by sea, without any end. The Netherlands is a theatre of war and ciuil broils. That men had seene the siege of Oostend continue so long, so furious, fierce, and bloudie, as it seemed vnnatural, and our successors would hardly beleeue it, neither can we read of any such; both parties being so earnest and resolute, as if the successe therof wold haue ended those wars. That at the last the vnited prouinces had lost Oostend, but on the other side, they had profited so much thereby, as they had won 3 or 4 townes, and more forts, for it; and could annoy Flan∣ders more than euer they did before. He saith, it is true, that the K. of Spain is a mightie prince of many countries & kingdoms, that he hath great alliances with the Romish Catholikes, and [ C] hath great numbers of men, and good soldiers, so as the Hollanders themselues confesse, that they are not able to master him by force, and yet strong ynough to withstand him, and to de∣fend themselues: but on the other side we must acknowledge, that Holland and Zeeland, &c. in mens iudgements are inuincible countries, in regard of their waterie scituation, being inha∣bited by a people accustomed to the seas, and who by land feare not the Spaniards. And al∣though the countries are but small, yet they are able to raise great summes of money, drawing all other merchants for trade vnto them, by means of their merchandise and sea-faring. Adding thereunto, their traffique into the Indies, the which increaseth daily, so as now they care not for the prohibition of trade into Spaine or Portugall. And as they haue good store of money, so they haue a great number of good souldiers and commanders, with lesse charge than their [ D] enemies. They are not likewise without friends, both Catholikes & Protestants, which repine at the greatnesse of Spaine: and although the kings of France and England haue peace with the archdukes, yet they would not willingly endure the Spanish gouernment there. Both par∣ties that make wars, may take Germany and France for an example, where they may see, that religion will not be planted by the sword; being forced, at the last, to let euerie man serue God in peace, as they would afterwards yeeld account for the same, and without scandalizing one another: wherby they found themselues best at ease, and by that means kept their men, wealth, and trades, at home in their owne countrey. The Spaniards mistake themselues, to think to set∣tle the Catholike Romish religion onely, in the Netherlands, & to chase away the Protestants with the Spanish Inquisitiō: the Netherlanders are of another nature. The learned are of opi∣nion, [ E] That by force and constraint, men may make many hypocrites and Atheists, but no true Christians. The Spaniards are persuaded, that the vnited prouinces wil be weary of the wars, and that the common people (being to much burthened with taxes and impositions) will take armes, and compell the Estates to make peace; but the hope therof is small, so long as they in Holland, Zeeland, &c. (liuing in the heat of war) flourish, & become as rich as if it were peace: And although they pay great contributions, yet they sell their wares accordingly, with good gaine, and reasonable vent. And although there are some that are discontented, yet the num∣ber of them is but small. But to the contrarie, they of the vnited prouinces, are in good hope, that the prouinces vnder the archdukes command, will not be able any longer to beare their great burthens: for besides the great exactions and oppressions of the souldiers, on both [ F] sides, the sea and nauigation is for the most part taken from thē, wherby the inhabitants grow∣ing poore, at the last they must seeke some meanes to free themselues of the Spanish gouern∣ment: But that is preuented, first by the great power of Spaine; secondly, by reason of the iea∣lousie betwixt the archdukes and the vnited prouinces; and thirdly, by the diligence of the

clergie, being against it, as bishops, preachers, and Iesuites, who forbid the people, vpon paine [ A] of damnation, not to ioyne with heretikes. Many make them beleeue, that the Hollanders (be∣ing * 1.168 masters) would either by policie or power, chase away the Catholikes, and bring in the Re∣formed religion. Thus much for the first point.

Touching the 2, How to find meanes to attain to a peace, he saith, That the King of Spaine had called the vnited prouinces to meet at Cologne, in anno 1579, and makes mention of the the principal articles treated of at that time: and how as then the prouinces of the Netherlands would haue had the authority of the general Estates established, and the religious peace main∣tained, according to the pacification of Gant: and so they granted to acknowledge the king for their soueraigne lord. But since that time the case was altered, the prouinces by extremities and long wars, being estranged one from the other, since the murther of the prince of Orange, so [ B] as now there was no dealing with Holland, &c. to acknowledge the K. of Spaine, or the arch∣duke, for their soueraigne: for that they thinke it not good, to lose their freedome which they haue so happily gotten; and that if they must of force do it, they had rather submit themselues into the hands of any other prince, than vnder Spaine or the archduke, whom they durst not trust, as being hardly induced to beleeue, that princes can forget forepassed iniuries. Wherup∣on he asketh, If a peace then will neuer be made, and the shedding of Christians bloud neuer restrained, the which (to the great preiudice of their neighbors) had continued these 40 yeres? If there were any apparence, that the archduke in 10 yeares space, could find the meanes to o∣uercome the Hollanders, it were an easie matter to let him go on in the recouerie of his right: but if we should attend vntill the one or the other partie were vanquished, we shold expect an [ C] endlesse worke. The vnited prouinces offer to make peace with the prouinces vnder the arch∣dukes command, not comprehending the archdukes, or the K. of Spaine therin, against whom they say, they will defend themselues, as long as they assaile rhem; but that it is not pleasing vn∣to the other prouinces: neither would it be a full and effectual peace, but in the end breed an alteration, the king persisting to recouer his right, by all the meanes he can. There might be a truce or abstinencie from war, made for 10, 20, or 30 yeares, vntill the splene and hatred of both parties were somewhat cooled and appeased: or else that a continuall abstinence from wars on both sides, might be concluded, each holding that he hath: and so liue in peace and friend∣ship together, keeping garrisons vpon their frontiers, the king & the archduke surceasing their pretensions, vntill that God sent them other meanes; liuing in peace, as France and Spain do, [ D] the French king leauing his kingdom of Nauarre in the king of Spains hands. Touching truce or abstinence from war, it were to be doubted, that the vnited prouinces wold not trust them; and the other meanes were verie good, if the king and the archduke would hearken thereunto. But he saith, there is yet another meanes to end these bloudie wars, which had ouerthrowne and ruined so many townes, and bin the losse of so many souls and bodies, whereunto all the Estates proceedings ought to tend, and put to their helping hands. Old diseases require other maner of cures than new: there must be a means found, that should be acceptable vnto either partie. He acknowledgeth, That the vnited prouinces, and namely Catholikes themselues are wholly estranged from the king of Spaine, so that neither he nor his house is not to expect any good seruice at their hands, for a long time. They haue experience of their owne countries [ E] forces: they haue learned that which they knew not, and now were vsed to liue in freedome, and not accustomed vnto the yoke. They dayly read and heare their fathers tell, what fearefull cruelties haue bin vsed against them, and executed vpon their forefathers, friends, and compa∣nions, which is the cause of new hatreds, and strengtheneth their rebellion: and, to bee briefe, their children suck hatred against the Spaniards, from their mothers brests. What then shal the king of Spaine and the archdukes do with such rebels? shall they (for their pleasures) alwayes liue in armes, and troubles, vnprofitably spending their treasures and reuenues? and shal a Spa∣niard say, That the king shall rather hazard and aduenture all his kingdoms and power, than leaue or lose his right? But we must answer with a politike & true reason, and say, If men stand so much vpon their right, why go they not to recouer Thunis and Goletta againe? All honors [ F] and dominions haue their casuall fortunes and periods. The empire of Rome might well a∣ford to haue that which belongeth vnto it. The time was when Spaine had not those large li∣mits * 1.169 which now it hath: who can say, or tell, whether he shall hold it still? God giueth, and God taketh. The house of Austria long since made great wars against the Switsers, to bring

them vnder their subiection againe, but at the last they thought it better to leaue their right, [ A] than to labour in vaine, and to lose both men and money. And if euerie man would seeke for * 1.170 his right with all extremitie, who should liue in peace? But hee saith, Hee would not that the king and the archdukes should simply resigne their right (although neither the one nor the o∣ther euer yet possessed or enioyed any thing in Holland or Zeeland) but would rather haue them to imitat the example of the children of Albert duke of Saxonie; who, after that their fa∣ther & they had long made war against thē of Groningue, finding that they were stil to begin againe, hauing to do with a stiffe rebellious people, they esteemed them vnworthie to bee ac∣counted their subiects, and so sold them for a great summe of readie money, vnto the emperor Charles 5, with al the rights they had vnto them, & returned into their country of Mesnia, there to liue in peace. In like maner the K. of Spaine, being so much incensed against the vnited pro∣uinces, [ B] as he cannot affect thē; what can he do better, than by mediation of the kings of France and England, or of the princes of the empire, or by meanes of the prouinces which are vnder his command, than to purchase a peace vnto himselfe? that is, hee should compound with those of the vnited prouinces, for a good summe of money, whereof the interest might yerely amount vnto as much, as in times past the vnited prouinces did yearely pay vnto the king to∣wards his wars: and so to let them liue in peace and freedome, renouncing all right which he pretends ouer them. Themistocles once gaue profitable counsell vnto them of Athens, but for that it was not honourable, it was by Aristides aduice reiected. Now if this counsell be found both honourable and profitable for both parties, why should it be reiected?

Touching the vnited prouinces, he saith, That he saw no reason to the contrarie, why they [ C] should refuse it; but the K. of Spaine and the archdukes would not so easily be drawne vnto it, although they had no great reason to reiect it. Would it not be verie profitable for him, to receiue a great summe of money (which should be paid at certaine dayes, with interest for that which should not be presently paid) of the vnited prouinces, for the redemption of their free∣domes; whereby he should peaceably enioy the reuenues of the other prouinces, the which by meanes of a peace, would be inriched by trade and traffique, and so saue the great charges of continuall wars? The king of Spaine and the archdukes should therby haue meanes to gather great treasures, wherewith (in stead of the vnited prouinces, which is but a small continent of ground) they might go and conquer new countries and kingdoms vpon the enemies of Chri∣stendome. Concerning the honourablenesse of this action, it were no disgrace at all, but a [ D] great honour and commendation for them, throughout all Christendome, that for the good and welfare of Christendome, they had made a peace, and ended the miseries of war, washing away the teares and bloud of poore men, and giuing them cause to praise and thank God, and to pray for their prosperities and welfares. For as men esteeme the kings power to bee great, to seeke his right by armes, so would it tend to his greater reputation and honour, that hee had yeelded freely thereunto, without any compulsion, only in regard of the common welfare and peace. Hee said further, That he had heard, that this king of Spaines father, before his death, had resolued, to end these wars by some means or other; and that he saw no better course. But if it should be alledged to the contrarie, That hereby men counsell the prouinces to disioyne themselues one from another: answer might be made, That they had alreadie beene disunited [ E] many yeares, without any meanes of reconcilement: and that the Netherlands had not al∣wayes beene vnited, some of them hauing bin purchased: and therefore he might sell them a∣gaine. And if any man would obiect, That others might follow the example of the Hollan∣ders: answer may be made, That let them first striue and withstand the kings forces fortie yeres together, and then let them speake. The king of Spaine also hauing peace with the vnited pro∣uinces, and no enemie in Christendome, will be more respected than he is now.

This was the counsel of this peace-maker, concluding with a petition vnto the prelats, no∣blemen, and magistrats, representing the Estates, That they would put their helping hands thereunto, or else find out some better meanes, which might as easily bee effected by either partie. [ F]

Thus haue I declared, as briefly as I can, the aduice of these three counsellors vnto peace, the first being one that is fled out of those countries, who would haue the archdukes setled there by authoritie of the neighbour kings. The second a Romish Catholike, who to assure the Ro∣mish religion, would haue the Netherlanders giue themselues to the French king, and driue

the Spanish forces beyond the mountaines. The third being a neutrall person, would haue the [ A] vnited prouinces, to buy their freedome of the king of Spaine or the archdukes. * 1.171

How these propositions of peace like the parties that are in armes one against the other, the reader may iudge by that which on both sides hath since ensued, each partie seeking to doe as he thinketh good; for that at the same time there were certaine articles, to the number of 27, both printed & written, published abroad in the vnited prouinces, and in the other countries vnder the archdukes gouernment, especially, as it is thoght, to procure the prouinces vnder the archdukes command, to liue in better hope, and more quietnesse, attending peace, through the mediation of France and England; as also to disappoint the assembly of the generall Estates. Which articles beeing presumed to bee set forth by the archdukes procurement, at the same time there was an admonition written, and sent out of Holland, to persuade the people, not to [ B] credit any such fained and deuised articles, which were made but for a shew. Which admoni∣tion, for that it sheweth the truth of all the proceedings and causes of the wars, with their cir∣cumstances, I thought it good to insert, being as followeth.

It seemeth (O Netherlands) that this yere you shalbe hardly assailed, both by politike coun∣sell, * 1.172 and by force of armes, and that the archduke Albertus of Austria, will imploy his power to vanquish you, and all cunning practises to circumuent you: but you need not feare his pow∣er, as hauing felt the vttermost force thereof, and valiantly withstood it: but in regard of cun∣ning practises, I thought it conuenient to giue you some counsell and forewarning, as being so much the more to be feared, seeing they come not openly, but wil couertly and secretly vnder∣mine you. There is much spoken of the archduke and the Infanta's good natures, and of the [ C] inward affection and loue, which they beare vnto these countries; and that now you ought to lay aside all mistrust and iealousie, in that you shall not haue to do with a Spaniard, but with a naturall borne German prince; not with a king, who dwelling far from you, knowes little of you, and therefore respecteth you the lesse, and who, in regard of his great power, you feare and are in doubt of; but with a prince, who shall dwell both with you, and amongst you, as a father with his children, who hath no other countrey than this, no other treasure nor riches, but that which he shall receiue from your hands, and therefore will not relye vpon his owne force and riches, but vpon the hearts and loue of his subiects, as the ground and foundation of his greatnes, who wil gouern according to the priuiledges and antient liberties of the country, and will force no mans conscience. To conclude, one that wil cure al diseases, and in an instant [ D] make you forget all forepassed troubles and miseries. These are faire glosing speeches, but first of all you must be aduertised, that these are not the words of the duke of Brabant, and of the In∣fanta themselues, but in trueth, they are nothing else, but the common peoples talke, at first in∣uented and giuen forth, by cunning bad minded people, and since that receiued and diuulged abroad by some simple and honest men, who being deceiued, themselues helpe to deceiue o∣thers, seruing onely to draw men on, and to circumuent them, thereby to driue you from the good counsell, and wholesome admonitions, of those that seeke your good, to make you hear∣ken vnto their false and venimous discourses: being assured, that you shal presently be intrapt, as soone as they can get you to giue eare thereunto, although you knew of the deceit before, not much vnlike to the moath, that flying to the flame of the candle burneth her wings. And [ E] you must assure your selues, that you cannot hearken vnto their speeches, without great preiu∣dice and disgrace, no more than a yong modest maid can with honestie lend her chast ears to a lewd alluring tale: whereof in former times (to your great preiudice) you haue had good ex∣perience: which is, that there was neuer any treatie of peace made, but that whole prouinces, or so•…•… speciall townes fell away: the said treaties of peace being by the simpler sort begun, with much hope of good proceedings, but in the end they euer found, there could be no good assurance made for their priuiledges, much lesse for the religion: and yet some were by the like proceeding so deepely ingaged, as they could not free themselues, as the examples of Ga•…•…, Bruges, & others, are yet fresh in memory: but with more disgrace shal you be circumuented, if you suffer your selues to be drawn away, for that comming to the effect, you shall find, that [ F] these speeches thus cast abroad, are nothing else, but newes told in streets and in mils.

The duke of Brabant will say, That his meaning was not so: and you by this presentation which you imprint in your minds, are likewise deceiued. The truth is, you shall plainly find (obseruing well the archdukes proceedings) that they are to be esteemed idle speeches, which

are cast forth in passage boats, and wagons (without any certaine author) when as men trauell [ A] abroad. For before his departure into Spaine, hee persecuted the reformed religion in diuers * 1.173 townes, and amongst the rest, there was a yong maid buried quick: thereby taking away alrea∣sons, why they should once doubt of his mind & resolution touching religion; for that what∣soeuer had bin done to a man, might haue bin coloured with som other shew, if he had sought or conspired to do any thing against his person or the gouernment.

Vpon the 10 of Ianuary 1599, he writ vnto the bishop of Paterborn, in verie rough manner, saying, That if the religion were not forbidden, that his Catholike souldiers should come thi∣ther, and that he would not keepe heretikes from spoyling, as it appeareth plainly by his mes∣sage sent to the lady Isabella, duchesse of Cleues, bearing date in Niuelles the 15 of September 1599, That in his presence it was fully concluded, to ruine and spoile the king and the duke of [ B] Cleues enemies: for such are his words. If the archduke vsed such authoritie in a strange coun∣trey, where he had no command, what hope is there, that in the Netherlands (which the arch∣duke and the Infanta hold to be their owne proper inheritance, wherewith they may deale as they thinke good) they shall haue the libertie of religion allowed them? or thinke you, that the duke in his voyage to Spaine, hath altered his mind, or that the pope of Rome (with whom he spake at Ferara) hath inspired him with a more peaceable spirit? or that the Spanish Inquisitors and Iesuire counsell, haue turned his heart? Beleeue the contrarie, without al doubt and that al these do stil counsel him vnto a more strict & seuere course. It may be, some wil say, That hap∣ly he hath receiued other counsell and aduice, from his brother the emperor: But looke into the emperors actions, where you shall see, that the towne of Aix, which by vertue of the lawes [ C] of the empire, had long enioyed the exercise of both religions, was abandoned by him, in prey vnto the enemy; and who also did looke on, and said nothing to the admirals proceedings, who vsed so great force and violence (against all right and reason) vpon the territories of the empire. Examin the actions of the rest of the house of Austria, how the archduke Ferdinando not long since hath by force banished the religion out of Styrmarke and Carinthia, which had bin al∣lowed therein, since the time of the emperor Ferdinando, his grandfather, making no account of the complaints & protestations of the Estates of the countrey, but esteemeth them as wind, which is an introduction to a ciuile war, and a meanes to lose the whole countrie: wherin nei∣ther the authoritie of his grandfather and father, the bloudy wars in France and the Nether∣lands, nor yet the neerenesse of the Turke, that bordereth vpon him, can moue him to any tol∣leration [ D] touching religion: neither will he once remember how vnreasonable a thing it is, to force and restraine his subiects in that, which the Turke himselfe permitteth vnto his: which example agreeth with the answer made by the K. of Spaine, to Charls archduke of Austria: for that when as the emperor Maximilian (a peaceable prince, and no persecutor of the religion, but temperat in all his actions) sent his brother Charls, archduke of Austria, into Spain, to moue the king vnto the like temperance, setting before his eyes, the commendable example of the emperor Charls 5 his father, who had allowed the religious peace in Germanie, and willed all men to obserue it, before that the common people were brought into dispaire, and were quite fallen from him: He made a full and a resolute answer, That he would rather lose the countrie for euer, than endure the least wrong that might be offered touching religion. You know well [ E] also, in the peace of Cologne, in an. 1579, what fauor he granted to them of the religion; which was, that he would neither burne nor hang them, but that they should be banished out of the countrey, and must seeke for harbor and protection (like the Iewes, & misbeleeuing Heathen) in other countries. This is the meaning of all the house of Austria at this present: all moderati∣on and mildnesse dyed with the emperor Maximilian, and his sonnes haue suckt a bitter hatred out of their Spanish mothers brest, against the religion: and by their daily conuersation with the Iesuites, are more & more confirmed therin. This is that which in the contracts of mariage, made between the archduke & the Infanta (and was openly sold in Brabant, so as there is no doubt of the authoritie therof) was so firmly set downe, That they shold make no alteration in religion, vpon paine of forfeiture of the said countries, which in such a case the king of Spaine [ F] may lawfully seize into his hands againe: shewing, without all doubt or dissimulation, how firmely they will hold with the Inquisition of Spaine touching that point: so that it would be a ten fold blindnesse, and madnesse in any man, to thinke, that the archduke & the Infanta (in regard they haue a vain hope at one time or other, to be masters of Holland & Zeeland) would

conforme themselues in religion, and grant them any libertie therein: for the prophesie saith, [ A] That necessarily the last Monarchy must be erected in Spaine, as in the beginning the one suc∣ceeded * 1.174 the other out of the East into the West, that is, out of Asia into Grecia, & from thence to Rome; the which is so imprinted in the hearts of the king and the Spanish counsell, as they esteeme all meanes of accommodation to be needlesse, and do constantly beleeue, that they shall be masters ouer all, and at last, in spight of al the world, shall satisfie their desires. And they are persuaded, that by means of such accommodation in religion, they should break all corre∣spondencie with the pope, and thereby ouerthrow all hope of their expected Monarchy. Ne∣uerthelesse, if according to the necessitie of the time, hee seemeth to be any thing conformable therein, and granteth some libertie to religion, it will be no other thing for you, but for a while to saue you from ruine; the which shalbe broken againe, when as the Spanish and Iesuiticall [ B] counsell (whereunto he is so strictly bound) shal thinke the necessitie past; according to the old canon, That they are not bound to haue any faith or promise with heretikes, which they name rebels; who, as the Spaniards say, haue falsified their faithes both to God and to the king. Look what doctor Ayda, a Spaniard, auditor generall of the prince of Parma's armie, writeth in his booke of Martiall Law, printed in Antuerp; saying, That all contracts and treaties made be∣tweene the prince & his subiects, that beare armes against him, are of no force nor power: and that the subiects cannot helpe the same; but they shall do wisely, by humble petitions to craue pardon at their princes and lords hands, and to commit their cause to his discretion. Which Spanish doctor, you ought heartily to thanke, for his so true, round, and vpright dealing with you, and to gouerne your selues thereafter: if not; at some time or other, you may wrongfully [ C] complaine, that you were deceiued, for that doctor Ayda can plainly tell you, that he had war∣ned you thereof before, and that you despised his counsell. But to returne to our former mat∣ter. Marke what good meanes they haue on the other side, to deceiue you, and to make al pro∣mises (with a grace and faire shew) to be of no effect: for that when you shall haue obtained any freedome in religion (which neuerthelesse shall neuer be) the duke of Brabant may plain∣ly say thus vnto you, Seeing I haue let you enioy the freedome of your consciences, because you haue alwayes said, That God onely ought to rule ouer the same: yet at the least shew me obedience in other worldly matters. And so, if he can by your simplicitie attaine thereunto, to place all the officers, judges, and magistrats, in towns and prouinces, that he may haue the forts and strength in his owne power, and become master of the whole: then assure your selues, to [ D] haue the yoke laid vpon you: no man being so simple, but that perceiueth, that the archduke in few yeares (for it is a poore host that cannot forbeare one reckoning, much better princes and kings, that haue long armes) will bring the matter to such a passe, and so well conforme the Estates to his appetite and will, as they themselues will make petitions, and intreat to bee relea∣sed of the exercise of the religion, in such sort as he shalbe moued to breake his word, and to al∣ter the articles, not of himselfe, but at the earnest suit of the Estates of the country. Thus much you are in this respect to expect, touching religion, and the libertie thereof, being the first and weightiest point. And touching the priuiledges of the countrey, I can tell you, that the arch∣dukes heart and intent, is far from these faire shewes, and great commendations: For proofe whereof I will not lead you far, but by his own actions will shew you; and say, That if he were [ E] from his heart addicted to gouerne and rule so fatherly, as it is giuen forth, and to redresse the complaints of the prouinces in this respect, he would at least begin to make some shew of this good resolution vnto the Estates of Brabant, Flanders, Arthois, and Henault, the which now for these 20 yeres together, haue sued, and longed to bee freed and discharged from all strange souldiers: that the counsell might bee all of Netherlanders, and the offices giuen to naturall borne subiects: being verie apparant, that although they haue neglected their common coun∣tries cause, and like slaues submitted themselues vnto the Spaniards, they are not trusted in any thing of weight, but thrust out of the counsell, and strangers preferred before them, who com∣mand in their castles and forts, vsing all disorders, and threatning the Estates with forcible con∣tributions, and that so impudently, as in Antuerpe they haue forced the bourgmasters, to ap∣point [ F] certain strumpets to serue their turns, making them their bawds. And is not this a suffici∣ent forewarning, wherby you may conclude, that the archduke for your sakes (whom hee cal∣leth heretikes & rebels) wil not shew any fauor, when he sheweth so little vnto thē, that like o∣bedient subiects humbly fal vpon their knees? he cannot do otherwise, nor make any alteration

In preiudice of the King of Spaine, of whome he holdeth these countries as in fee, and [ A] with other hard conditions (according to the contents of the contract of marriage) * 1.175 hath bound the same with vnspeakeable Infraction of the said Prouinces freedome vnto the Crowne of Spaine, thereby to inioy the Kings aid, and on the other side faithfully to aid him to the erecting of his pretended Monarchie.

It is well knowne vnto them that these countries beeing seperated from Spaine, and inioying their liberties and freedomes, such a Monarchie can neuer be raised; and therefore they haue long since resolued (whatsoeuer it cost) to reforme the pri∣uiledges of the Netherlands, that without hinderance of the same, all the power and meanes of the Prouinces (whether it bee money, ships, hauens, sorts and all other thinges) may be vsed to the subiecting and conquering of the neighbour countries, [ B] as Germany, France, England, and all others, as their actions not long since put in practise did sufficiently declare, how neere they would haue attained to their pre∣tence, if they had had the Netherlands absolutely vnder their command; whereby you may conceiue what pollicie is vsed, when men make you beleeue, that the Arch∣duke (in regard of his weakenesse) is lesse to bee feared, and that from henceforth you shall haue to doe with your owne Prince, and not with the King of Spaine, and other strangers; and that therefore you ought to laye all distrust aside; whereas now it shall bee worse for you then euer, in steed of one, you shall haue to doe with two, and in steed of one that is far of from you, to whome all thinges must bee written ouer Seas, and his resolution to bee attended in matters of great importance; you shall alwayes [ C] haue the Archduke readie to imorace all occasions to surprize you.

By meanes of the Kings absence, and the staying for his resolutions, wee haue often seene many disseignes made voyd and lye dead, but the Arch-duke alwaies sitting still by you, and looking vnto you will alwaies bee listning and prying into all occasions, and will strike when he seeth his time, to your miserable destruction and ouerthrow: much lesse also ought you to suffer your selues to bee deceiued by vaine wordes, that the Arch-duke is descended of Duch blood, and is no Spaniard: but I say that beeing borne of a Spanish mother, so strictly bound vnto the King of Spaine, so Catholikely giuen of him-selfe, and perswaded and incensed by the Iesuits, you haue cause to ex∣pect lesse grace, fauour and courtesie to releeue your miserable Estates, then of any naturall Spaniard.

[ D]

But now you may aske me, what will be the issue? shall wee still bee distrustfull? and shal we cast away al hope of euer obtaining a good peace? Heere-vnto I make answer, that subiects must indure and beare much wrong and iniury at their Princes hands, be∣fore they rise vp in armes against them, not onely for their conscience sake, (seeing that God hath made them subiects vnto them, and also commandeth them to be obedi∣ent and subiect euen vnto Infidell and Heathen Princes and Magistrates, and to pray for them) but also in respect of other worldly considerations, and for that ciuill armes borne by subiects against their Princes (although their case be good and lawsull) doe often times breed more mischiefe, then the tyranies of Princes, which men thereby hope to withstand; and may well be likened to a Phisition, who curing of one disease, [ E] breedeth a worse, and many times bringeth the sicke patient into danger of death: Wherefore they ought to arme them-selues with patience so long as there is no other meanes or councell to be had: but when the subiects with all their patience, and long sufferance cannot preuaile, and the wrongs offered them by the Prince are so great, as all diuine and humaine lawes permit them, to deny him obedience, as you with all possible and earthly meanes, humilitie, patience, prayers, intreaties and humble pe∣titions haue to the vtmost acquitted your selues, and not till then (forced through meere extremitie) sorsaken your Prince, when as he (in steed of answering your petitions) caused your Ambassadors to bee put to death; filled your townes and Prouinces with [ F] Spanish executioners, and brake the articles wherevnto he was sworne at his install∣ment, seeking to rule both ouer your soules and consciences; then I say there is no o∣ther councell nor meanes for the subiect that hath forsaken his Prince, but to be coura∣gious in fighting to defend his freedome, as before he was humble in induring wrongs,

arming himselfe with a constant and fitte distrust against the deuises and practises of * 1.176 [ A] his Prince, for that the naturall enmitie that is betweene the Cat and the Mouse, can∣not bee more vnreconcileable, then the ingrafted hatred and wrath of a great incensed potentate and Prince against his subiects, by whom hee findes himselfe to bee left and reiected:

You shall finde no examples neither in ancient nor moderne histories, that the subiects which once haue fallen from their Prince, or that defended their owne free∣domes, or were fallen into greater slauerie and misery, could euer finde any meane to worke their reconciliation, and to procure restitution to their former estates, vnlesse that their territories and countries were so strong and mightie; as they had their owne assurance within themselues, thereby at all times to force the agreement made to be [ B] held and obserued, and to with-stand the Princes attempts which hee should make to the contrary. Some say, there was neuer any warre seene nor heard of, but at the last it was ended by peace, and that quarrels ought not alwayes to continue and bee with∣out end. I acknowledge that also to bee true, and desire by my counsell to leade you vnto a good, happy, and an assured peace, for that peace is obtained either by an accord or by victory. Potentates and Princes may helpe themselues by both the said meanes; and when victory denieth it them, they may seeke to make an agreement, and being made, trust therevnto; for that by meanes of hilles and valleys, or deepe seas, they are commonly seperated one from the other, whereby one cannot so hastily inuade the other, each of them hath his gouernment apart, and holdeth his sword and strength in [ C] his hand, to bee his owne warrant, as soone as hee shall finde any cause of distrust; but betweene you and the reconciled enemy there are no walles to part you. You must lay your heads in his lap, deliuer vp all your aduantage, armes, and gouernment, and haue no meanes at all of warrant, assurance, or trust, but at your deadly enemies dis∣cretion and mercie, which in so hard a case is dangerous to prooue. And therefore you must seeke by victorie to get peace, with resolution, either to dye valiantly, or couraigously to obtaine the victorie. The third meane or midle way, of againe recei∣uing the once lawfully forsaken and disauowed Prince, diuerse countries and nations, (whereof too many examples are extant) haue hardly attained vnto, but by meanes of valiant and couragious continuance in armes, which some haue wisely chosen, and [ D] haue in the end obtained a desired peace and rest, whereof I will set downe a fewe examples, which are very well knowne vnto euery man, and as yet fresh and perfect in memory.

By this meanes the Switzers being hardly dealt withall by the house of Austria, would no more subiect themselues vnder the same yoake, but by meanes of their con∣stant resolution, they obtained such freedome, as at this day they are seene to flou∣rish; and yet their warres continued not any thing the longer. God Almighty by his wonderfull prouidence, ordered the matter in such sort, as the house of Austria itselfe refrained from armes, and in tract of time had neede of the ayde and assistance of the Switzers, who after they had made warres together for the space of a hundred yeares, [ E] and many times made peace and truce for a time, which was alwayes broken by the house of Austria: at last Sigismond Duke of Austria made a perpetuall peace, per∣mitting them to enioy their full freedome, the which the Emperour Maximilian the first, and Charles the fift (both of the house of Austria) did afterwards ratifie and confirme, and had great ayde and assistance from the Switzers in their Italian warres. In like case also they of Denmarke would by no meanes bee perswaded to accept of Christian King of Denmarke, whom they had driuen out of the countrie, although the Emperor Charles the fift his brother in lawe and others, both by armes and intrea∣ties imbraced the cause, and yet neither the Switzers nor the Danes had not so waigh∣tie, lawfull, nor well grounded a cause for the leauing of their sayd Princes, nor yet [ F] endured the hundred part of the oppressions and wrongs, nor shewed so much pati∣ence as the Netherlanders: but the example of the Machabees (which is found in the holy Scriptures) is most agreeable with your case concerning religion, for they would

not be any more vnder the yoake of Antiochus, whom they had reiected but conti∣nued * 1.177 [ A] so long in armes vntill the Prince him-selfe became weary, and suffered then to liue in peace, so you by a valiant resolution and continuance in armes are to expect and hope for a great furtherance and blessing from God almighty, who thus long hath so wonderfully assisted you, and will still helpe and assist you, in regard that you are com∣pelled to fight, not onely for your old and commendable fredomes and liberties, but also for his and his Churches honor. Now al men of any sound iudgement wil conceaue whether the present Estate of the Netherlands at this day, be not like vnto that, and it is to be hoped that the King of Spaine and the Archduke Albertus, will at the last by your constant resolutions, be brought to the consideration of the bad aduise and coun∣sell which they haue thus long followed, and be weary of this pestiferous warre, (being [ B] a canker eating into their tresure, and ouerslipping and neglecting of other notable oc∣casions and conquests, and great danger and trouble for many of their countries and kingdomes) and will giue place to better counsell, as their progenitors did in respect of the Switzers, suffering the Netherlands peaceably to enioy their freedom and re∣ligion, and vse there aid and friendshippe in other actions which may procure them ten times more profit, where-vnto all Spanish nations that border on the seas, (in respect of their necessary trade and mutuall trafficke) will be great furtherers, and by humble petitions (if they see your constancy still resolute to continew,) moue the King to yeeld therevnto, for that without doubt they indure more trouble, and hinde∣rance by the prohibition of sea-faring, then the Netherlanders, other-wise the King [ C] that last died would not haue permitted the same for so many yeares euen in the heate of all his warres.

This is the true, and onely meanes to attaine vnto an assured peace and quietnesse, all other meanes and agreements are mixed with many cares and suspitions, the com∣mon nature of men cannot subiect them-selues after the leauing and reiecting of their King, neither can he put any assured trust or confidence againe in you, nor you in him, al∣though (in regard of your good nature, and vpright heartes) you suffer your selues to be perswaded to cast of all feare and distrust, (wherin alwaies the weakest haue the greatest cause) and to iudge other mens hearts by your owne, hoping that men will deale in like-sort without faulse-hood with you, as you do with them, and yet there is no∣thing more certaine then that the said distrust will neuer be remooed out of the King [ D] and the Arch-dukes hearts, which no man knoweth better then their owne counselors that speake so much of casting of all distrust, for they will alwaies put their nobility in mind•…•…, of that which you once haue done, and that you will attempt to do it againe at someother time, counseling them therefore by preuention so to shorten and clip your wings, and to put such a bit into your mouth, as they may be assured and out of doubt thereof. These arguments, and naturall reasons grounded vpon mutuall care cannot by any meanes be taken from you, for say that the Emperor, the Pope, the King of France, England and other Princes make promises, and bind them-selues, that the Articles concluded shall bee truly and fully obserued and kept, what will that helpe you? you must neuer the lesse lay your head in your reconcled ennemies lap, you must [ E] liue vnder his fauor and at his deuotion, but when soeuer you are executed, or other wise oppressed, and haue no meanes nor power to helpe your selues, which of these cautions will you charge with his promise? before what iudge wil you plead your cause? who shall serue execution vpon the principall debtor or the suerty? paraduenture you thinke, that if the Pope warrenteth the contract, and put his seale there-vnto, with de∣claration that the old cannon (which is not to hold any faith with heretickes) in that respect shall bee of no force, that as then you are well assured, but say that the Pope that now is did it, who shall assure you that his successor will confirme it? may he not say, my predecessor erred, I haue the the power to breake (as being voyde and of [ F] none effect) what so euer is done against the Catholike Religon let it bee done by whome soeuer it will? but bee it that the Poope saith not so, may not the King of Spaine him-selfe maintaine, and say that vppon many waighty reasons, hee being a soueraigne monarch, (who is not subiect to any iudge what soeuer,) may discharge

himselfe of his contract and dispence there-with; according to the argument of * 1.178 [ A] Docter Ayala aforesayd, as in effect the King that last died brake and recalled al his con∣tracts made for certaine years with the Italian marchants? and thus you shall finde your selues intrapped on euery side wheresoeuer you turne you.

As touching the securitie of Princes and Potentates, it is meere follie once to thinke, that any sureties will beginne or vndertake for to make warres in your be∣halfe, no man halteth for an other mans lamenesse, the charges and the troubles of warres are so great, as no man will take them in hand for the loue or profit of strangers, yea men feare to enter thereinto, although they should thereby reuenge their owne wrongs.

Looke into the Articles of peace made betweene the Kings of France and Spaine in the yeare of our Lord 1598. haue not the Spaniards by taking of townes vpon [ B] the confines of the Empire, by ouer running Cleaue-land and other neighbour coun∣tries, and by ransaking, spoyling and offering of a thousand wrongs broken the same? and yet France will not make any warres in the behalfe of those coun∣tries: looke into the example of the Queene of England, of famous memorie late de∣ceased, that although the King of Spaine, sought by many practises and open force to inuade her crowne and countrie, yet how vnwilling shee was neuerthe∣lesse, to assaile him with a iust offensiue warre, but was content to defend her owne, notwithstanding that by your aide, and with halfe charges shee might haue assured her Estate. What hope haue you then to expect that any forraine Prince (when soeuer [ C] you shalbe oppressed, and that the charges must onely fall vpon him) will reuenge your wrongs?

To speake of the Emperor it is needelesse, for that no man is so simple as not to conceiue that there is more partialitie then trust to bee expected at his hands. But you say, the Emperor and the Princes of Germanie, yea and the whole Empire doe of themselues offer to imbrace our cause, and as good mediators will procure vs a good peac: shall wee distrust both enemies and friends, and heare no mans counsell?

I answere, that you haue more then to many reasons, to suspect all whatsoeuer, that commeth from the Emperor, not onely in regard of his neerenesse of bloud vnto [ D] the King of Spaine and the Arch-duke, but in respect of his owne actions and pro∣ceedings against them of the Religion of Aix, and namely against his owne subiects in Bohemia, Hungaria, Austria, Slesia and other his countries, hauing also winckt at the Admirall of Arragons actions, and left the oppressed subiects of the borders of the Empire comfortlesse. As touching the Empire, and the Princes thereof, although that many of them are well to be trusted, yet diuers of them depend vpon the Pope, and con∣sequently on Spaine.

In the yeare of our Lord 1598. you saw the bad agreement that was amongst them, and the slowenesse they vsed in helping and comforting of their oppressed members, togither with the badde gouernment of their affaires, by reason of the [ E] great number of diuerslie affected leaders. All of them togither, by their Amba∣sages, and admonitions, seeke to procure a peace, for the profit and commoditie of the Netherlands, but much more for their owne, perswading themselues, that by the Netherlandes warre they receiue some hurt and preiudice, and fall into ma∣ny extreamities, seeking and desiring therefore to cease them, let the Religion and your preuiledges doe as they may. And whensoeuer artciles should bee broken, they will doe much lesse for you, then they haue done for their vnited companions and members of the Empire, negligently ouerslipping the great daunger that ap∣procheth them, as soone as the Netherlanders (which God forbid) should bee brought into subiection, and they that vnderstand the same, (as there are some,) will neuer [ F] giue you counsell, to liue vnder the Spaniardes subiection, but will humblie thanke you that you still continue as a stronge bul-warke for them, and turne awaie the warres.

Touching other Princes of Christendome there is no hope to be had, in regard of their

weakenesse. Therefore, beloued Netherlanders, helpe your selues, and God will help * 1.179 [ A] you, be not deceiued by cunning practises, seeing you haue by armes maintained your cause so long, put not your trust in any man, but in the vprightnesse of your cause, and Gods assured aid, who for these 37. yeares in strange alterations, and feareful accidents, hath vpholden, defended, and brought you to this present estate, & from henceforth by his mighty hand shall lead and conduct you: if you hold fast by his word, and will follow his starre of direction, as the wise men in the East did, thinke often vpon things past, & set former actions before your eyes, and therein, as in a cleare glasse you shall rightly learne to know Gods mercies shewed vnto you: were not the first beginning of these troubles wonderfull and strange? In anno 1566. there rose such a zeale in the chiefe Noblemen of the Netherlands, to defend the liberties of their natiue country, as they [ B] bound themselues there-vnto. There was such an assemblie of the common people in all townes by thousands, such a common hatred against the Inquisition, as all Chris∣tendome spake thereof, and made men iudge that nothing could stoppe or hinder the violence of such a streame. But by Gods prouidence (who would try and proue your constancies, confounding all this great shew and hope, by the subtile direction of a woman, and the fearefull approach of the Duke of Alua, which seperated the vnited Gentlemen, and caused the common people to flye or to hide them-selues) The Duke of Alua comming with a handfull of soldiers in regard of the great numbers of the In∣habitants of the Netherlands, without any contradiction, did what hee pleased in cut∣ting off heades, hanging and burning, and building of Castles: some of the great Prin∣ces fledde the country, some did helpe to further and fortifie his cruelties, no man [ C] durst striue against it, or once put forth his hand, as if they had all beene bound or sencelesse, and as then the hope of any releefe was much lesse, then the feare of any opposition, and the dispaire more greater, then the ioye and content was in the beginning.

The Prince of Orange with the aid of his friendes in germany, and some releefe of such as fledde out of the countrie, twise brought a good number of horse and foote with him, which without feare might haue gone against the Turke; past ouer the Meuze, en∣tred into the heart of the country, & gaue some new hope, but his power, and your com∣fort was of as smal continuance, as a fire of straw. The Duke of Aluaes crueltie (especi∣ally after the first enterprize) was more strengthned then impaired, and in the second, [ D] (which was partly grounded vpon the fauor and aid of France) the French men soone fell from him, and murthered those of the religion, whereby the Prince perceiued, that hee had leaned to a deceitfull reed, that not onely fayled him, but thrust him through the hand. He was forsaken of the Dutch soldiers, and so if there were any hope resting, it was soone taken away: but when as the case seemed desperate in re∣gard of men, God appeared vnto you with some comfort, who stirred vp the hearts of them of Holland with a new zeale, to receiue the Prince of Orange, and to re∣sist and withstand the Duke of Alua, to the great admiration of all worldy wise men, who esteemed it for madnesse, that Marchants, Saylers and Fishermen, and a na∣tion who (in regard of their continuall and long peace) were vnaccustomed to armes, [ E] and as vnfitte (as it seemed) for the warres (as a Cow to daunce) esteemed so little of the Duke of Alua, as they thought it needlesse for them to put garrisons into their townes, durst begin so stout a peece of worke, against the power of such a King, against the most renowned Generall or Leader of an Armie in Christendome, to whome all the other Prouinces (which had the greatest part of Noblemen and Gentlemen amongst them and such as had borne armes in the French warres) had submitted, bowed and kneeled; besides that hauing no other support to relye on but a Prince who had beene forced to leaue the field, who was abandoned by his sol∣diers, and was refused entrie into any of the townes of Brabant, Flanders, and others, and which is more who acknowledged his owne weakenesse, and least they should [ F] be deceiued, fore-warned many of their townes that they should ouer-rule their zeale, and not bee so hastie, but first to prouide for money, victuals, munition and other necessaries, make strong their townes and then shew them-selues as enemies, sending

them word also, that if they had not good regard to them-selues, they might bee ouer∣runne, * 1.180 [ A] before they could send them soldiers to aid them, who can esteeme this but for a wonderfull worke of God? who helpeth not when there is least need, but sheweth his power in assisting when men are almost in dispaire, that they may onely ascribe the glory vnto him, and praise and thanke him the more.

All particuler accidents, whereby GOD almighty (during the warres in Hol∣land) hath shewed his gratious aid and mighty power, as when after the losse of Har∣lem▪ hee sent the spirrit of dissention amongst the Spanish armie, that the towne of Al•…•…kmaer had time to breath, and to defend it selfe: when miraculously hee wrought the releeuing of Leyden, when wi•…•…h a short thawe he set at libertie the frozen shippes of war in the Zuyder-Zee, and presently againe caused the Riuer to freese, when they [ B] being vnfrozen were past by Horne, with other strange effects, which for breuitie sake I will omit; it is a sufficient wonder, that this weake, vnarmed and as vnaccustomed a nation to the wars, as any whatsoeuer vnder the cope of heauen, without any other Po∣tentates aid, could for the space of foure yeares togither, withstand the great power of such a Monarch, who was so much incensed with bitter hatred and spleene against this small Prouince, as he left his great aduantage, which the victory wonne by Don Iohn at Lepanto had giuen him against the Turke, to reuenge his wrath conceiued against them of Holland and Zealand; and to that end hee made a truce with the Turke, and maintained peace with all his neighbours thereabouts, that hee might heere imploy all his •…•…orces and treasor, hauing also as great and strong an armie, [ C] composed of a number of old experienced soldiers of diuers nations, as Spaniards, Germaines and Italiens, and of braue commanders with aboundance of Ordinance, Munition, Victualls and all other necessaries for the warre as euer was seene: in these foure yeares it was seene, that by reason of the Kings mighty power and force, and the weakenesse of the parties defendants, which were not accustomed to armes, many townes and Forts were beseeged and taken, the rest seeming in a manner to wauer, so as they of Holland and Zealand were glad to hearken to the peace of Bre∣da, where the country people were offered libertie to sell their goods, and to go and dwell in other places out of the countrie, where-vppon they chose rather to fight and die valiantly in their owne countrie, then to wander comfortlesse in strange [ D] Regions.

But when the enemie after the winning of Ziriczee, thought to set his foote vp∣pon their throates, and that hee held the victory assured in his owne hands, and that some of the neighbours grieued, and others laught and thought that as then they should suffer the punishment of their follie. To conclude when all the wise men of the world, thought Gods helpe to be furthest from them, it was neerest vnto them, who prouided in such sort as the other Prouinces which seemed to sit vnder the great Kings grace and protection, were more impatient to beare the great oppressions of the soldiers their friendes, then Holland and Zealand were to indure the bloody blowes and woundes of their deadly enemies, vsing a kind of releefe; whereon the [ E] wisest and sharpest witted of them all neuer dreampt off, which was that both Ab∣bots and Prelates with diuers others, who had all that time aided the enemie to sub∣uert the religion, and the liberties of Holland and Zealand, now vnexpected, relee∣ued and deliuered them out of their necessitie and trouble, making the peace at Gant with them, from the which (that your eyes and hearts might againe bee with∣drawne from mortall ayde, and relye more vppon GOD) they fell againe, and remayned no longer constant therein, but vntill that their countriemen and those of the religion had gotten their heads aboue water, and taken breath: after that you sought other forraine ayd, the which how much greater they were in outward appearance, and worldly respect, the greater blow they gaue vnto your Estate, [ F] some made the shippe euen to cracke againe, and some ranne it almost on ground.

You are alwayes much bound to praise and commend the affection of the fa∣mous and praise worthy Queene of England, although some of hir Commanders

brought your Estate for a while into no small combustion: the best, most ass•…•…ed, * 1.181 [ A] & most constant ayd you had alwaies from your selues, yet before all things you must craue it at GODS handes▪ who till this time neuer fayled you at all.

What better assurance of his fatherly regard and care for your preseruation, can you haue, then that hee hath defended you, contrary to all mens expectations, not onely against the power and force of forreyne enemies but also against so ma∣ny domesticall deceipts, practises and treasons? your owne protectors and Gouer∣nors sought to deceiue you; as the Earle of Renebergh in Freezeland and Ouer∣issell, the Earle of Bergh in Gelderland and in the Earldome of Zutphen, and the Prince of Chymay in Flanders.

The chiefe of your Deputies, sent to the treatie of Cologne in anno 1579. [ B] as the Duke of Arschot, the Lord of Grobbendoncke, and the Abbot of Maroles, were better affected to the enemie then to you, and sought to deliuer you into their: handes, but all their long pretended councell, and (as they thought) most secretly contriued, Gods powerfull hand confounded, and like Achitophels wisdome brought it to nought. It is not impossible in mans iudgement, that the losse of so many townes, so many treasons, so many crosses in battailes giuen in the field, as at Har∣denberge heath, at Gemblours, at Northoorn, at the Borentang, at Boxum and elsewhere: The losse of the strongest townes in the countrie, which were partly ta∣ken by force and famine, and some willingly falling from you, could not ouerthrow yours, nor better the enemies state? You see the people by meanes of ouerthrowes and other losses, became vigilant, wiser, and more prouident: all your losses were to [ C] your furtherance, and the enemies victories turned to his owne hurt: the populous and rich townes of marchandise vnder his command, by his triumphes, in the twinck∣ling of an eye became poore, desolate and empty both of men and tafficke: yours in all crosses and aduersities, had meanes to increase and inrich them-selues, Villa∣ges became Townes, and weake Townes made inuincible; those that before were great and strong, you were forced to make them more spatious & greater, because they could not comprehend the multitude of people which sought to inhabit within them.

Euery yeare you haue built an innumerable number of shippes of war, made in∣finite store of Ordinance, all manner of weapons, munition, and other necessaries for the warres; but aboue all the experience of the warres increaseth, and teacheth [ D] yo•…•… rightly to know how to vse that power and meanes which God hath giuen you. You haue reduced your contributions into good order, GOD sheweth you how to trade in strange countries, which before were not knowne by you, and blesseth the same euery yeare more and more, in dispight, and to the subuersion and hinderance of the Kingdomes of Spaine, and with no small admiration of all nations, who there∣by see, that God withdraweth the trade and trafficke from the King, and the whole countrie of Spaine, and directeth it vnto you, and giueth you such power at Sea, as you are able to inuade Spaine and other places: To the contrary they see that all the Kings proceedings goe backeward, that the cancker and cursse is falne in∣to his treasor, that hee notwithstanding all his money of the Indies, must breake [ E] his credit with the Marchants and disauow his contracts, that hee is continually vexed with mutinies of soldiers that are vnpaid, they see clearly that as now their reputa∣tion and name is greater then his power, that hee must indure that you inuade and braue him in his owne countries and Hauens, and that in steed of striking ter∣ror into others, hee him-selfe must feare. Finally hee must needes bee blinde, that from these wonders doth not acknowledge his fatherly blessings vnto you, and his wrath and displeasure vppon the Kings house, who acknowledgeth not the honor, power and dignitie wherein it is placed by God, but to the rooting out of his word, and Church, to the procuring of all troubles in Christendome, and to the ouer-running of [ F] strange countries, where-vnto they had no right, wherein they haue shedde much Christian bloud, for the which God is iustly offended.

Therefore oh Netherlands, seeing you haue for so many yeers defended your free∣domes of soule and body, and likewise spent so much blood and treasor in the sayd

quarrell, and caused your name and fame to bee spread abroade throughout all the * 1.182 [ A] world, now at the last leaue not of your labour, when the greatest wants and greatest dangers are past. That which remaineth (with the helpe of God) is but small, now you doe dayly see your enemies decay both in power and riches, and their ruine appro∣ching. You haue seene the end of King Philip the second, that with all his treasure, wise counsellors, great respect, authoritie and experience, and continuall labour for thirtie yeares together, lost more then hee gotte from you. Much more hope is there then that by Gods grace you shall goe thorough with the cause to your honor against his sonne, whose counsell, authoritie, and experience is nothing comparable vnto that of his Father, who findeth the spring of his treasures exhausted and drawne drie, and his credit weakned, whose imposts and reuenues (by meanes of forbidding trade [ B] and traffike, and your happy new trade) decrease, and his charges increase, for that con∣tinually both by Sea and by land, vppon the coast of Spaine and others his king∣domes, hee must arme against you, and withall thinke vpon his owne defence, where∣as his father o•…•…ely practised and deuised how hee might ouer-come and vanquish you.

Suffer not your selues (as in the beginning you were deceiued by the Duches of of Parma) to bee againe now at the last circumuented with policie and faire speeches, for the treasure of Spaine will not come so aboundantly vnto them as it hath done, neither shall they bee able to drawe it from the bare and impouerished Prouinces, (which through their gouernment will soone bee wearied, and seeke some alteration) [ C] bee not slacke yet for a short time to continue your liberall contributions; for the free∣dome that is bought therewith, is not to bee valued by any treasure: you neede not so to feare and apprehend their forces, for that you haue not to do with the Duke of Alua, with Don Iohn, nor the Duke of Parma, whose wise conduct, experience in armes, dili∣gence and fortune was to bee feared, whome you neuerthelesse haue valiantly with∣stood, but with yong and vnexperienced Commanders and Leaders, vnder whose go∣uernment you may already marke an alteration in the enemies marshall discipline and counsels, and consequently in his proceedings: whereas to the contrary you are blest of God, with such a generall of your Armie, as you neuer had before, whose seruice the Empire of Rome requireth against the Turke, and such a one as the King of Spaine [ D] with all his treasure (although it were ten times greater) cannot equall. You haue the fauour and good will of all neighbour Princes and Potentates, who although they aide you not with open armes, yet they wish your good, for the feare they haue of the Spa∣niard, so as all furtherance is on your side. The enemies Prouinces lye open to you, and yours by meanes of the riche water, land, and strong townes shutte from them. His hauens in Spaine, Indies, Brasilia and America, are knowne vnto you, and easily to bee sayled vnto, so as at your pleasures, you can enterprise any thing against them: but hee hath prooued and tryed, that your Hauens and Sea-townes, need not to care for his fleetes. Sea-faring, meanes for money, experience of the warres, and autho∣ritie, are increased amongst you, and decayed with him; your cause, the longer, the [ E] more it is fauoured; his from yeare to yeare is worse, because hee incenseth first one and then another, as not many yeares since hee did vppon the Lords of the Empire.

Besides all this, you are to put your trust in the equitie of your cause, and in Gods fauour, who here-to-fore hath sundry times assisted you in greater necessitie: whom you (besides incurring the shame and disgrace of all the world, both to you and your posteritie) shall offend, and make him with-drawe his fauours from you; if that for∣getting his benefits, and distrusting his fauour, now without cause, either to spare your purses, or vpon an immagined further rest and ease, you will leaue and forsake his word and true religion, as the Gargasens (because of their Swine) intreated Iesus [ F] Christ to depart out of the countrie: for that as God and Belial cannot agree toge∣ther, so cannot you by meanes of the true religion at this time, obtaine a peace with the King of Spaine, the Arch-duke Albertus, and the Infanta, (whome I place all in one degree) but through your valiant resolution and continuance in armes, you

now remaine assured of religion and your freedome, and in time are also to hope of * 1.183 [ A] a good peace with Spaine and all his friends, no lesse then that which the Switzers ob∣tained from the house of Austria, where-vnto God almightie send you his grace, with wise counsell, and mutuall loue and vnitie.

And you Romish Catholikes, (amongst whome I know that there are many that wish and desire the freedome of your natiue countrie) bee not perswaded that in re∣garde of your religion, your burthens and charges vnder the Spaniards gouernment shall bee any thing diminished; for there will bee still some cause of offence found against them that haue any thing to loose, as beeing friends and wel-willers to Pro∣testants: were it onely but for that they haue not done their indeuours, made resi∣stance, nor borne armes against their neighbours and kinsmen. This is the crime of [ B] omission, for the which the whole nation of the Netherlands were condemned by the King and the Spanish Inquisition, and the execution thereof committed to the Duke of Alua, as the Histories written by Catholikes themselues, in honor of the King suf∣ficiently declare.

This is that which Vergas President of the bloudie councell, in the Duke of Aluas time sayd. Heretici fraxerunt templa, Boni nihil fecerunt contra, ergo debent omnes pati∣bulare; that is, The heretickes brake downe the Churches, the good did not seeke to hinder nor let them, and therefore they must all bee hanged. For these reasons Iohn Baptista Taxis in Anno 1595. wrote vnto the King from Brussels; that his Maiestie ought by no meanes to consent by any contract of peace, that the Spanish garrisons [ C] should depart out of the countrie, for that it would bee a blemish to his authoritie, for sayd hee, your Maiestie cannot build vpon those of the Catholike religion, in re∣gard that deuotion is onely found amongst a few old men and women, which cannot fight, the rest will altogether thrust their heads into one hood. And although Taxis had not so plainly shewed this distrust which is had of you, vnto the King and his counsell, yet the deeds themselues declare it; for all the world knowes, that the No∣blemen of the Netherlands (notwithstanding their reconciliation with the King) are not trusted, but with hearts griefe, must see, yea and frette that the Spaniards are preferred not onely to bee Councellors, but to the highest dignities, to gouernment, and other preserments, and they despised, reiected, and badly dealt withall. It preuai∣led Lamorall Earle of Egmont nothing at all, that hee laboured to chase away the [ D] Preachers, and that in all things hee shewed himselfe to bee a deuoute Catholike: for notwithstanding all this hee lost his head. His sonne, who to winne more credit with the Spaniards, openly sayd, that his Father had his iust rewarde, being in pri∣son was despised, and after long imprisonment, was at last hardly released by the King in exchange with a Gentleman called Mounsieur la Noue, and others likewise were re∣leased by the like vnequall exchange.

And when as the Baron De Selles, Champigni, the Bishop of Ypre, and the Lord of Auchi were prisoners to the Estates, the Duke of Parma was so slowe in seeking their deliuerie, as the Barron De Selles dyed in prison with melancholie and griefe, complaining that he and his brother the Barron De Noircarmes seruices were badly [ E] rewarded. The Barron Van Hese was beheaded vpon a surmised crime, many others were made away here and there in diuers places, as Vrias was, and little lamented. Charles Earle of Mansfield had such strong Pepper giuen him by the Spaniards, that hee left the Kings seruice in the Netherlands, and went to serue against the Turke in Hungarie where hee dyed. It is needlesse to rehearse many examples; you see before your eyes, how that they of Antwarpe, Gant, and other places, haue gotten nothing by liuing like faithfull Catholike subiects vnder the King, for that notwithstanding they must bee slaues to the Spanish nation, and beare the intollerable abuses, wrongs, molestations & iniuries, of the Spanish garrisons, & yet their complaints can∣not [ F] be heard, nor any iustice done vpon the offenders; which may serue for an example and fore-warning vnto all Catholiks, that haue dwelt in the vnited Prouinces, vnder the command of hereticks. (as the Spaniards & Iesuits call them) what good intertainment they were to expect, if the Spaniards were absolute maisters, & yet they haue a strōger

and a more assured argument, to confirme the same, from the example of their Estates * 1.184 [ A] of the Kingdomes of Naples and Arragon, and the Duchie of Millan, who haue with∣stood the inquisition, not because they had any sauor of the true Religion, but for that they perceaued, that no man could liue so catholikely, but he should be subiect vnto the proceeding thereof, and that it serueth for a meanes, without exception of any priue∣ledges, iurisdictions, freedomes, and countries customes, to iudge all persons and for all causes whatsoeuer, as it manifestly apeareth by the history of Anthonio Perez, with whom the King being so much offended, as hee could not apease his wrath against him, because according to his countries priueledges, hee was to bee cald in question before the Iudges of Arragon, and not by any other strange Iudges, hee caused him to bee prosecuted by the inquisition, although hee were not accused of any matter [ B] touching Religion.

A Gentleman of Spaine, borne in Salamanca, and that came with the Duke of Alua out of Spaine, beeing in my house, sayd openly, that in their towne their was no man of any estate or quality, but would gladly loose one of the ioyntes of his fingers, that hee might bee released of the feare they haue of the inquisition. The marchants of Lisbone beeing the greatest Catholikes in the world, at King Philips first com∣ming into Portingall, sought to buy out that feare of the inquisition, onely crauing this small fauour, that the inquisitors should commit no man to prison, without making them acquainted with the cause, and letting them know their accusers; that they should adiorne them to appeare in open court, and that no man should bee condem∣ned [ C] vpon any witnesses depositions, without giuing a copie thereof vnto the par∣ties condemned; that they might answere therevnto and disproue the witnesses.

Finally, they sought nothing els but reasonable audience before they were con demned, and an ordinarie course of lawe, according to all right, equitie and reason, but it might not bee graunted vnto them of Lisbone (although they offered two milions and a halfe, and would gladly haue giuen foure) for the inquisitors would not bee brought to such a straight, but would hold their vnrestrained power and li∣bertie, to condemne euery one that they once catch within their nets, although they haue no other witnesses then the prisoners owne sworne enemies, or some base villaines, which otherwise will not bee credited for a matter of three guildens, or els [ D] such as they themselues haue subborned, as Annas and Chayphas, did against Christ, and yet they did better then the inquisitors doe, because they brought the witnesse before him.

The generall Estates of the vnited Prouinces beeing well acquainted herewith, al∣though they were Catholikes, yet could not allow of the bringing in of Bishoppes, per∣ceauing that it tended not so much to the aduancement of the Catholike religion, as to ouerthrow the priueledges of the countrie, and to bring in an absolute gouernment, where, at the assemblie of the Estates of the countrie, they sit, and ouer-rule them, and by that meanes would looke into all mens proceedings, thereby to demynish the anci∣ent libertie of voices, and of the speaking for their priueledges.

[ E]

In the yeare of our Lord 1576. the catholike Prouinces, yea and many Abbots, and Prelats themselues, finding this decay of their preueledges, for the defence thereof made a contract with Holland and Zeeland, although God did suffer, (for the sinnes of the country which as yet were not punished) that some fell from them againe, whereof many beholding the bad successe, were much greeued thereat. Therefore bee not so mad nor blind, to let this insupportable yoake, (against the which they of Arragon, Na∣ples, and Millan stroue, and resisted) with faire promises to be brought in among you, thinke for certaine that the inquisition shall bee more rigorously executed in these countries then in any other places, for that the true Religion hath here beene longer exercised, and hath taken deeper roote then els where, so as the Spaniards esteeme all [ F] the Inhabitants of the country to be heretikes: and I tel you true, that you shal in many parts be in worse case then those of the religion, for they, knowing that there remaineth no grace nor mercy for them, will make away, and with distrust and fore-sight arme themselues against it, but you, by means of your ouer much credulity shal fall into their

nets, fire, and sword when you least thinke thereof, and when you speed best, although * 1.185 [ A] euery man escapeth bodyly punishment yet with vnspeakeable greefe hee shall behold, the ouerthrowing of the countries lawdable freedomes and priueledges, and shall not once dare to looke vp, nor speake one word against it, but the Spaniards will raile at them and call them Viliacos, Lutheranos, Tradidores &c.

As often as you behold your children, you shall with sighes thinke, that you bring them vp to bee slaues vnto the Spaniards, and that your successors, and posterities, shall see an vnspeakeable alteration in the estate of the countrie. The riches, trade, and sea∣faring, (which by their good policy, iustice, and priueledges is much augmented) shall by altering thereof also decay, and be carried into strange countries, as it is already dri uen out of Brabant, Flanders, and other Prouinces, considering that euery man seekes to rule f ecly. The Spaniards and the Arch-dukes counsell, will by all secret and open [ B] practises seeke to deminish the glory and welth of the country, they will bee glad to see the Inhabitants imploy themselues to till and plow the land and to milke their Cowes, neither will they grieue that the number of shippes and rich Marchants decaies, for that in their iudgements it hath beene the meanes, which brought the Prouinces to so great welth, and hath so long maintained the warres; and that the meaner sort of sub∣iects are more tractable to bee gouerned. You see already that the Arch duke and the Infanta, by their contract of marriage are bound to forbid your trade into the East and West Indies. Herein you haue an example of Portingale, where King Philip at his first comming to that crowne considering, that the sayd country was as strong of ships and saylers as al the territories of Spaine, & that the same in time might blemish his au∣thoritie [ C] and absolute command, hee purposely disarmed and weakened them at sea: and reiecting the Portingall pilots and masters of shippes, he imployed all other nations in them; so as many saylers of portingall giuing themselues to tilling the land and o∣ther labors, the old dying, and the number which increased but small, in nineteene yeares, the marriners were so decaied, as the King himselfe, in setting out of his fleetes found the want of them.

Thus shall the Spaniards weaken and disarme the Netherlands, which haue proui∣ded them so much worke, for these thirty yeares, that so they may not feare the like re∣sistance. They will put the old resolutions againe in practise, thereby to bring all the countries (with their seuerall rights, customes and priueledges) vnder the lawes of [ D] one absolute Monarchie, and roote out all the markes and memory of the Netherlands freedomes: and causing you to leaue your owne naturall language, they will bring in the Spanish tongue, as they haue already done in the Indies.

To conclude they will make such an alteration, as with in these fiftie yeares men shall not know their owne natiue country. Beleeue it for certaine, that this is no vaine fable, but a true forwarning, built vpon a good ground. Learne at the last, that they vnder pretence of the catholike Religion, couer their ambition, and oppression; be not otherwise perswaded, but that you are to feare all the fore-passed euells, not onelie from the Duke of Brabant, but also from the King of Spaine, who although he beareth the name, yet the Spanish Councell, spirit and resoluti∣ons, [ E] (in matters of importance, whereon the Estate of the countrie, and the wel∣fare of the same dependeth) shall alwaies gouerne. Wherefore cast away all diui∣sion and distrust which strangers entertaine amongst you, thereby to ruine you: liue in vnitie with those that haue spent so much bloud for the liberties of their na∣tiue countrie, and seeeke not to burthen the freedome of your conscience, but suffer God and the holie Ghost to rule ouer them, beseeching him to mooue euery mans heart to seeke after the right way of saluation.

Vpon the fifteene of may Prince Ma•…•…rice hauing gathered his horse and foote togi∣ther * 1.186 marched towards Berghen vp Zoom, causeing 80. companies of foote to be shipt [ F] in Zeland, vnder the conduct of Ernestus Earle of Nassaw, (as it seemeth) to make an en∣terprise or to besiege Antwerp, if he could be master of the point of Flanders on the o∣ther side of the riuer but the winde being stronge, & contrary in some reaches of the ri∣uer of Scheld; Ernestus could not land his men as he was appointed, (as al enterprises are

subiect to water, wind and weather) yet he valiantly passed by the Spanish sconces, * 1.187 [ A] called Peerle and Ordam, which furiously shot vpon them; it seemeth that if Cont Er∣nestus could haue brought his shippes to Cloppers bancke or dike, and there haue landed certaine companies of men, they might haue done what they intended, but the winde beeing contrary, and they thereby driuen to shoare, they sought with certaine shallops and great boates to land some men on Flanders side, but beeing somewhat slow in the execution, they were easily repulsed frrom thence by a small number of the enemy, wherein the night did much helpe them, which made the soldiers to doubt that the Spaniards were much stronger: where-vppon they were somewhat abasht, and the ra∣ther for that they had no Ordinance with them: for although that the Marquesse Spinola had beene gone with certaine soldiers into the land of Waes, to view Issendicke Fort, [ B] that hee might attempt some thing against it, yet by meanes of an intercepted letter brought to Mounsier van Rollegum, Gouernor of the crosse Sconce, there were more men placed there, by Don Inigo de Mendoza Gouernor of the Castle of Antwerp, to the number of three thousand, with some Ordinance, who fell vppon this small number of Prince Maurice his men, which were sette on land (lying behinde the bankes) they beeing not aboue three hundred, whereof part fledde againe into their shallops and * 1.188 boates, the rest were defeated and slaine, whereof fourescore were taken prisoners and carried into the Castle of Antwerp, amongst the which was Captaine Legier, Lieutenant to Captaine La Croix, and a Sargeant. The Burgonians had almost taken Collonell Dorp, but he leaping into the water saued him-selfe, not without great dan∣ger of his life: it is thought that there was not aboue one hundred slaine, whereof one [ C] was Captaine Michael Tutelaer and his Lieutenant Francis, sonne to Francis Tutelaer, some of the shallops were suncke and burnt. This was done vppon the seauenteenth of Mai•…•… in the morning, when as Earle Ernestus thought to haue made a bridge ouer the Scheld, about Ousterwele, their ships of warre, and others being come within sight of Antwerp; but their enterprize failing by reason of the wind and other accidents, Cont Ernestus went with all his men and shipps to Ousterweele on Brabant side, where hee landed them, and marched towards Eckeren, where Prince Maurices armie then was, who went backe againe to Berghen Vp. Zoome, the ships with their prouision sai∣led * 1.189 backe againe, shooting against the fort aforesaid, and they at them, at which time the [ D] Gouernor of Ordam was slaine.

This attempt bred a great alteration in Antwerp, the rich beeing in great feare, and the poorer sort wishing the enemies might haue good successe, euery man according to his humor. Notwithstanding that Spinola had at least eight thousand men thereabouts, and vpon Flanders side: presently there-vpon the prices of all victuals did rise, many men packt vp such things as they had and fledde to Mechelen and Brussels, but there were foure companies of horsemen sent presently into the towne, the which were lod∣ged in such Innes as had good fourage, without any cost or charge to the Bour∣gers, but when they heard of the enemies retrait the horsemen also left the towne. [ E]

Prince Maurice parting from Eckeren, beseeged the Castle of Wouwe, which ly∣eth in a marish ground a League from Berghen vp-Zoome, a very strong Castle, be∣ing * 1.190 the Marquesse of Berghens chiefe house: the which a French man lying there in garrison for the Estates, sold some eighteene yeares agoe vnto the Prince of Parma, and it since became a harbour & retre•…•… for theeues. This garrison did wonderfully an∣noy the ships, which past betweene Holland and Zealand, beeing alwaies readie on * 1.191 the water, to take such ships as for want of winde were becalmed, and forced to stay or lye at anchor, setting vppon them with certaine Scutes which they kept hidden vnder the water, taking the passengers and saylers out, and carrying them to Wouwe, where they kept them til they paid their ransomes: here the Prince planted his ordinance be∣fore it, they within the Castle slue some of his men which were busied about their [ F] workers, but searing to be forced, and that the Arch-dukes would not hazard an armie to releeue them, vppon the thirteenth of Maie they yeelded it vp vpon composition, hauing aboue eighty fiue men in it, amongst the which foure of them were of those which had sold Gheertrudenbergh and were banished from thence, who were excluded

out of the capitulation but the Marquis of Brandenbergh begged their liues. Marquis * 1.192 [ A] Spinola caused some of the Captaines of Wouwe to be executed for that they gaue it so lightly ouer. In the meane time the Marquis Spinola drew all his •…•…ces neere-vnto Antwerp, and lodged at Mercxon and Damme, and the horsemen at Berchen and Wil∣ricke, and by that meanes defended Antwerp, and made a bridge ouer the Scheld, from the towne wharfe vnto Flanders side, by which meanes hee might ioyne his diuided forces (which laie in Brabant and Flanders) vpon any occasion together as neede * 1.193 required.

The admonition to the Netherlands, to disswade them from a peace, being published, * 1.194 about the same time the Emperor sent Maximilian de Cochi his commissioner to the Hage to demaund a pasport for certaine Ambassadors which should bee sent from him [ B] to treat of a peace betweene the Archdukes and the Estates of the vnited Prouinces. This Maximilian de Cochi had the yeare before declared vnto the generall Estates in the Hage, how carefull and desirous the Emperor was of the wellfare and common good of all Christendome, in regard that hee found it to bee so much thretaned by our Arch-enemy the turke, together with his rebels in Hongary and elsewhere: to which end he now required a pasport from the states, for certaine Ambassadors to be sent from him and the Princes of the Empire, with certaine soldiarsto come from Cologne and go backe againe: The which bred some ielousie in the Estates, as if they sought by their comming with so great a number, to breed some alteration and tumult among the common people, for that all men did affect and desire peace, and that generally they * 1.195 [ C] sought to be vnburthened of their long continued contributions and exactions, where∣with they were tired, where-vpon the Estates sent him an answer in writing, giuing him to vnderstand, that they had receiued the Emperors letters bearing date the second of Aprill, as also the letters from the heigh and mighty Princes, the Archbishoppe of Mentz, and Christierne the second Duke of Saxony, Electors: Wolphe Dieterich Arch∣bishoppe of Saltsbourg, Philipe Ludwighen Paltsgraue, and the Bourguemaisters and councells of the townes of Cologne and Nuremberg, by the hands of Maximilian de Cochi, one of the Emperors houshold, together with a proposition in writing touching a peace to be made with Spaine and the Archdukes; shewing, that they had often found it by experience, what harme and preiudice the vnited Prouinces had before that time [ D] receiued by the like treaties of peace, which had beene propounded, and offered to be•…•… made, by the intercession of the Emperor and the Princes of Germany: and that there∣fore they found it not fit nor conuenient for them, to enter into any such treaty againe, being well knowne that the Spaniards and their adherents sought by all prac∣tises and deuises to conquer and subdue the Netherlands, and to make it their Sedem belli, and from thence inuade their neighbour Princes, and the poore subiects of the Empire, and to prescribe them lawes, hauing conceiued a generall monarchy in their imaginations, with this supposition (as a Maxime of Estate) that neither Christendome nor the whole world could be well gouerned, vnlesse the Pope of Rome were supreame head and gouernor in spirituall causes. This being duly weighed and considered, they [ E] said, there could not any good grow nor be expected from such treaties, but rather great harme and preiudice to the Emperor and to the whole Estate of Germany, whereof they said they would not be the Authors, being well informed how much it did import all Christendome: and therefore they besought his Imperiall Maiesty and the Princes of the Empire, in all honorable and humble manner, not to trouble them∣selues therewith. And to the end the Emperor, the Princes and townes might bee the better assured of the sincerity and good meaning of the saide generall Estates, they protested before God, the Emperor, and all Kings and Princes. &c. that the long and bloudy warres where-with the Netherlands had beene punished and afflicted for the space of forty yeares, by the force and armes of the Spaniard, was not more [ F] greuous to any one then vnto them, and none wished more to bee quietly gouerned, and in the feare of GOD, then they, and that there was not any nation vnder the Sanne whatsoeuer, that would more gladly enioy such goods as they had gotten by their honest endeauors and labour, (both without and within the country) then the

Netherlanders: but seeing that with all their long patience, they could not turne * 1.196 [ A] the Spaniards hearts, nor diuert their forces, who sought the ruine and subuersion of all their pri•…•…edges, with the losse of their liues and goods; notwithstanding any mediation an•…•… intercession of the Emperor and the Empire, they had beene forced to take armes in hand, and to defend themselues both by Sea and land, with vari∣able fortune, attending the helpe and assistance of GOD, after many offers of peace: and therefore by the aduise and councell of neighbour Kings and Princes, they had taken their last resolution, and setled the gouernment of the Netherlands in peace, beeing freed and discharged from all othes made vnto the King of Spaine, according vnto the force of their priuiledges: And therefore all vnpartiall Kings, Princes and common-weales, did hold and esteeme the vnited Prouinces for a free [ B] estate, which are qualified, and endeuour to gouerne and rule their countries in popular order and forme, or by the election of a Prince: and in that qualitie the sayd Estates had made diuerse contracts and leagues with sundry Kings, Princes, and common-weales, and had for the space of foure and twentie yeares, by the e∣speciall grace of GOD, and the assistance of mightie Kings, Princes and common∣weales, and by their owne great care and dilligence, taken vpon them a free go∣uernment against all the force and power of their enemies, with an intent to main∣taine the same happily, and so to end these long and bloudie warres. To which end they had (in the yeare of our Lord 1600.) begunne to treate with the Estates of those prouinces, which are vnder the Archdukes command, for the good of [ C] the whole Netherlands in generall, the which was done by word of mouth in Berghen vp Zoom.

And againe this yeare of our Lord 1605. by Letters, the which were carelesly and negliently deliuered vnto the Arch-dukes, whome they with-out offence to GOD and their honors, cannot esteeme but enemies to the Nether∣landers; knowing well, that seeing they doe acknowledge the sayd Arch-duke and the Infanta for their Soueraigne Princes and gouernors; they must also of necessi∣tie acknowledge the King of Spaine, the Councell of Spaine, and the Spanish Inquisition. And as for their Netherland causes, they were gouerned and ruled altogether by the Spanish and Italian Commanders and Protectors, as it hath of [ D] late appeared and beene seene, by a Commission giuen vnto the Marquis Spino∣la, to the disgrace of the Arche-dukes, Prelates, Lordes and Estates of the Ne∣therlands.

But if they sought by that treatie to bring the sayd Estates of the vnited Pro∣uinces, to consent to any thing against their obteyned, and till then continued go∣uernment and rights, tending to the dishonor of God, and preiudiciall to their safe∣ties (from the which they prayed him to defend them) they humbly intreated his Imperiall Maiestie, and the sayd Princes and Townes, not to aduise them to any thing that might tend to the furtherance and aduancement of their Spanish des∣seignes, not onely in respect of the inhabitants of the Netherlands, but for the gene∣rall [ E] good of all Christendome.

But if the vnited Estates by the ayde and assistance of the Emperors Maiestie, Prin∣ces, Estates and commonalties of Germanie, for the maintenance and support of their resolued, vndertaken, and now for many yeares continued gouernment, might ob∣taine the meanes to chase away from their frontiers, all such as seeke the subuersion of the Netherlands, they would acknowledge it for a great grace and fauour, whereof if they might bee assured, they would vppon their request, make a more plaine and ample declaration, and let them know by the effects, how much they did grieue at these bloudie warres. But if the sayd Treatie tended to no other end, they then intreated the Emperor, Princes and Townes, in regarde of the good of [ F] the Netherlands, and the reputation of the whole Empire, to take their refusall of a pasport, with the time and place of meeting in good part.

Touching any wrongs done, or insolencies committed by their souldiers vpon the frontiers of the Empire, as also concerning the raising of new licences, tolles and

other Imposts, they sayd, that they did hope to take such a course, as they should haue * 1.197 [ A] no iust cause of complaint: But in the troublesome time to giue ouer any townes and Fortes, which they for the good and seruice of the Empire, and •…•…o withstand the enemies inuasion, had beene forced to take (to their great charge) and till then held: they did presume that the Emperor, Princes and Townes, would hold it to bee con∣trarie to all pollicie and lawes of Estate: and so much the rather, for that the Mar∣quis Spinolas desseigne was to passe his armie ouer the Rhine, from whom the fron∣tiers of the Empire were to expect no better then they had found, at the hands of the Admirall of Arragon, in the yeare 1598.

This was the Estates answer vnto the proposition made by the Emperor, Princes and Townes, desiring Maximilian de Co•…•…hi, to make a fauourable report of their sayd [ B] answer, their letter bearing date the last of May, 1605.

In March this yeare Cont Frederic Vanden Berghe, Brother to Cont Herman, had a * 1.198 certaine enterprise vpon Rhinberk, the which beeing discouered, fayled, so as hee was forced to retire, yet without any losse of his men.

This yeare in Aprill the King of England sent his Ambassador into Spaine, to see * 1.199 the King sweare the peace; and at the same time hee sent Edward Lord Seymor Earle of Hertford, sonne to the Duke of Somerset, vnto the Archdukes, to the same ef∣fect: who arriuing at Dunkirke with a gallant traine of Noblemen and Gentlemen, were honourably receiued there by Diego Ortes Gouernor of the Towne: The Baron of barbanson, brother to the Earle of Arenbergh, Captaine of their Highnesse Ar∣chers, [ C] attended him there. All the Ordinance of the Towne was shotte off in a man∣ner against the Estates shippes of warre which laye before it, who in like manner to doe the Earle honor, discharged all their Ordinance. Hee had the like reception giuen him at Nieuport by Dom Pedro d'Alega the Gouernor, and at Bruges by Monsieur de Croselles (of the house of Montmorencie) Gouernor of the Towne, and great Bayliffe of Franke. Thether the Earle of Busquoy Maister of the Ordi∣nance was sent to entertaine him. The Earle comming to Alost, hee was mette by the Earle of Ligny, the Baron of La Bastie a French-man, with diuerse other Gen∣tlemen; whether the Duke of Aumale sent a Gentleman with letters of congratula∣tion vnto the Earle.

The Earle approching neere vnto Brussells, within a mile of the towne, hee was [ D] first mette by the Duke of Aumaule, then by the Duke of Arschot the Marquis Spino∣la, two Poland Dukes, the Marquis of Hauerec, the Earle of Aremberg, the Prince of Palestrina, the Prince of Caserte, Dom Louis de Velasco, Cont Theodore Trivulce, Cont Frederick Vanden Berghe, and many other Noblemen and Gentlemen. The next day after his arriuall at Brussells, hee was visited by the Marquis of Laguna, sonne to the Duke of Medina Caeli, Ambassador for the King of Spaine with the Archdukes.

At the Earle of Hertfords comming to Brussells, the Archdukes were attended on * 1.200 with great estate, wherof I will make some particular relation: and first of the Inf•…•…ntaes ladies without any distinctiō of precedence. First there was the Lady Iohanna of Chas∣sincourt [ E] her Chamberlaine: the chiefe of her Ladies of honor, were the Countesses of Vsedale, Busquoy and La Fere: her Maides of honor were the Lady Claudia Catherina Liuia her Sewer, and cousin to her Chamberlaine, the Lady of Croy her Caruer, the Lady of Selles, the Lady of Montmorencie: the Lady Maria Manuel a Spanish La∣die, the Lady Magdeline de Bye, the Lady of Marle, the Lady Vincentia of Ferrara, the Ladyes Ermesyna and Clara, daughters to the Earle of Aremberghe, the Lady of Ba∣lanson Cousin to Varambon, the Lady Marguerite of Bourgondie, Cousin to the Earle of Busquoy, with twelue other waighting women, most of them Spa∣niards. [ F]

There were then also present (to honor the Infanta) the Countesse of Mansfeldt, daughter to the Earle of Egmond, the Countesse of Aremberghe, the Marquesse of Berghen, the Countesse of Egmont, the Countesses of Barlaimont, Lalaine, Solue,

Bossu, Fontenay, Berghe, Bye, Essingen, Fressin and Bruay, the Countesse of Saint * 1.201 [ A] Aldegonde, the Countesse of Bassigny, and the Countesse of Malespina. The Lady of Brabanson, the •…•…ady of Liekerke, the Lady of Terrayse, the Lady of Blancheual, the Lady of Liques, the Lady of Chassey, the Lady of Liliers and diuers others.

Vpon the Archduke their attended the Earle of Essengen, the Earle of Saint Alde∣gond, * 1.202 the Marquis of Monte-negro his Mayordomo, Don Pedro de Ponce, the Vicont Octa∣uio his chiefe chamberlaine, DonGaston Spinola vice chamberlaine, Don Innigo de Mendosa, Don Diego de Mexia, Don Diego d' Acuna, Don Alonzo d' Aualos. Don Inigo de Borgia, Brother to the Duke of Gandia and Captaine of the Castle of Antwerp, the Earle Enenbergh, Cont Frederic vander Berghe captaine of the garde, the Lord of Brabanson, brother to the Earle of Arembergh, captaine of the Archers with many others. [ B]

Besides al these attendants, there were diuers knights of the order of the golden fleece, as the Duke of Arschot, the Marquis of Haurec, the Earle of Aremberg, the Marquis Spinola. There were also the Earle of Egmont, the Earle of Solme, the Marquis of Robaix sonne to the Earle of Ligny, the Marquis of Renty sonne to the Earle of Solme, the Earle of Busquoy, Henin, Hochstrate, Rassingen, Isenburgh, Bee, Euerbergh, Bossu and Fresin, most of them young Earles. The Lord of Seuenber∣gen Sonne to the Earle of Arembergh, the Lord of Chalon Nephew to the Earle or Mansfeldt, the Lord of Wesemael, the Lord of Vendesy of the house of Mont∣morency. [ C]

Of strange noblemen there were the Duke d' Aumale, the Duke of Ossuna, Don Iohn de Medicis base brother to the Duke of Florence, the Prince of Caserta a Neopolitaine, the Prince of Palsterino a Columnese, the Marquis of Malespina of the house of Pal∣uoisin, Cont Thedore Triuultio, Don Louis de velasco generall of the light horsemen, with many other Spaniards and Iraliens, that were commanders in the army. With this Attendance the Arch-duke receiued the English Ambassador, with all honor and state; but whilest they were feasting and merry at Brusselles Prince Maurice had an enterprize vpon Antwerp, so as Spinola, velasco, vanden Bergh, Busquay with many cmomanders were forced to packe away speedely for the defence of the coun∣try. The Earle of Hertford hauing seene the Arch-duke sweare to the contract of [ D] peace, leauing Sir Thomas Edmonds there for Ambassador leeger, tooke his leaue of the Arch-dukes, hauing performed his legation and charge with great ho∣nor and bounty; from Brusselles he went to Antwerp, and so into Zecland, where hee tooke shipping for England.

Prince Maurice hauing taken Wouwe castle, hee made a generall muster of his army and vpon the second of Iune hee past ouer the Scheld into Flanders and landed neere to Isendike, leauing the forts vpon the riuer well apointed of men, as in Lillo there was Abcl van Catz bailife of the marquisate of Campuere, making a shew as if hee would haue beseeged the Sas of Brugges, and so drawe the war into the enemies contry, but Prince Maurice could begin no seege, for that the Marquis Spinola, was still at his heeles redy to charge him, by meanes of the said bridge ouer the Schelld, which [ E] Prince Maurice doubted at the first, and therein hee was of a contrary opinion to all the estates, holding it more profitable for them to go to the Rhine; and for that cause to assure his conquest of Sluice, Isendike, Ardenborgh, and the sconses thereabouts, hee lodged his army at Watervliet, for that there were some speches giuen forth that the Arch-dukes had an intent to beseege Sluce, and with the great number of men which they expected from al places they would with a second army beseegeRineberke, and yet keepe a fl•…•…g campe to preuent all dangers.

Prince Maurire insconsed him-selfe very strongly at Watervliet, and to let him from attempting any thing against •…•…as and other forts Spinola came withall his power to campe by him, in a place full of wood, where they could hardly come one at the [ F] other, but onely by bankes, where they made sconses one against the other, euery day seeking some aduantage.

The Generall Estates of the Vnited Prouinces, beeing aduertised of a Fleete * 1.203 [ A] of shippes which was preparing at Lisbon in Portugall, to bee sent into the Ne∣therlands, they also made readye their shippes of warre, which attended them in the narrow Seas betwixt France and England, but in the end this great Fleete proued to bee no more but eight shippes in all, with some twelue hundred men in them, thinking to land them at •…•…unkerke, Ostend or Neuport. But the Estates shippes hauing discouered them on the fourteenth of Iune, they charged them, and sunke some, the rest retired them-selues vnder th•…•… Castle of Douer in England: where they landed their men, and stayed there aboue sixe moneths before they durst crosse the Seas for feare of the Estates shippes. In the end (hauing lost many of their men, and receiued some number of Irish-men, the Estates shippes hauing wayed [ B] their Anchors) they all recouered Dunkerke.

In this moneth of Iune, the Towne of Meurs belonging to Prince Maurice, was by certaine traytors fired, on the which the enemie had an enterprise, the which the Gouernor discouering, hee did forbid them to open the gates, for the sauing * 1.204 of any thing: Where-vppon the whole Towne (except some foure of fiue houses) was burnt, the Gouernor desiring rather to preserue the gates, walles and fort for the Prince, then the houses, and lette it fall into the enemies handes.

In Iulie following the Marquesse Spinola sent a good part of his Armie out of Flanders, causing it to march towards the Riuer of Rhyne, vnder the command of * 1.205 the Earle of Busquoy, the which past a League aboue Cologne, going from thence to lodge at Dugts a Village opposite vnto the towne; and some dayes after in Keysers-Weert, [ C] where hauing gotten a passage to passe the rest of Spinolas men ouer the Rhyne, they turned head towards Friseland.

The Estates hearing that Spinola was past, and what course hee intended, they presently gathered together all their troopes out of their garrisons of Berghen, * 1.206 Breda and other places; giuing them their Rendezuous at Berke vppon Rhyne: Whe∣ther came also such companies as were in Flanders; who seazed vppon the Iland right against the towne, on the fourth of Iuly: Vppon the which day all the Burgers of Weezel which were able to beare Armes, were mustered, the which the young∣men also of the said towne did the next day, promising and swearing to assist and suc∣cor one an other▪ with all their meanes, bloods and liues. And if there were any that [ D] would transport their goods to any other place of safety that it should bee taken as good prize as their enemies goods.

Cont Henry Fredericke of Nassau, Brother to Prince Maurice, and Ernestus of Nassau his cousine, passing the ninth of the moneth with three thousand foote close by the Towne of Weezell, and Collonel Edmonds Generall of the Scottish men, with tenne Cornets of horse, approaching the rest of their troopes which were before Bercke, they made new fortifications without the towne, if happily the Marquesse Spinola should come and beseege it, as it seemed he had an intent. On the nine and twentith day of the moneth there was such a great storme of rayne and hayle in the camppe before Bercke and thereabouts, as in the memory of man [ E] the like had neuer beene seene before, it continued aboue a quarter of an houre: There fell hayle-stones of a most strange fashion poynted, and they were as big as Hennes egges. The bridge which they had made vppon the Rhyne to passe from one quarter to an other, was broken with the great violence of the wynde, and was car∣ryed downe the streame, with the carts, wagons and men that did guide them, whereof some were drowned.

On the fourth of August the Marquesse Spinola parting from Keysers-Weert with three thousand horse & two thousand foot, he left the Earle of Busquoy with fiue thou∣sand foote and eight hundred horse along the Rhyne, to guard these new Forts which hee had taken, and marcht him-selfe towards Essen in the countrie of Westphalia, [ F] and from thence to Dorsen where he past the bridge, and then to Coesvelts, & Gre∣nou, from whence he marcht towards Oldenzeel in the country of Oueryssell (the which was held by the Estates) with an intent to beseege it, the which hauing inuested, and

knowing well that it was not very strong in one place, he planted his Canon there, * 1.207 [ A] and began to batter it. The beseeged (beeing but foure companies of foote) know∣ing the weaknesse of the towne, and that they should not be long able to resist his forces, beeing better aduised then to cast away them selues wilfully, and the Bour∣gers beeing loath to haue their Towne ruined with the Canon, and them-selues in the end sackt and spoyled, they compounded with the Marquesse, vpon condition that for sixe daies space they should haue free libertie to carry what-soeuer they would out of the Towne, and whether soeuer they pleased them-selues, and that the soldiers should not carry Armes of sixe moneths against the King of Spaine nor the Arch-dukes: In which towne he left Cont Herman vanden Berghe for Gouernor, with 14. Companies of foote and 2. Cornets of horse. [ B]

Spinola hauing taken Oldenzeel, he sent his armie vnto Linghen belonging by inhe∣ritance to Prince Maurice, which as then was but ill fortefied, and weakely furnished of a garrison, the which hee resolued to beseege with all the speed hee could: but * 1.208 the scituation of the place gaue him some cause to doubt, for that hee found hee should hardly gette from thence vnlesse hee made his passage with his sword, and wonne a victory with his honour, in regard that hee should bee followed and inclo∣sed round about, but at the last hee thought it expedient in all haste to sette vppon the Towne and to make tryall thereof, wherein as hee him-selfe writte, hee found an old Gouernor who seemed to haue forgotten his occupation, and certaine young Cap∣taines who as then had not well learned it, who scarce daring to looke ouer the walles [ C] least they should bee shotte, were more busied to make their walles higher, thereby to * 1.209 defend them-selues against the Ordinance, then to keepe their enemie out of their ditches, the which they neglected, and although the towne were well flanckt in euery place, yet they suffered them to come to their ditches before their Ordinance was or∣derly plac'd, and to cutte off the water, filling the ditches with faggots, hurdles and plancks, and so to passe ouer them to the point of a Bulwarke, before they had disco∣uered it; who beeing once lodged there, they within knew not what to doe, wanting both men and knowledge to defend them-selues; so as beeing in feare, and supposing the danger to bee greater then it was, within few daies after vppon the eighteenth of August they concluded to send out a Drumme, to parle with the enemie, before [ D] that Spinola had made a full breach, or that hee thought it time to summon them to yeeld. For which cause hee granted them the best conditions that might bee to gette the garrison out of the towne as soone as hee could, knowing that Prince Maurice was marching towards him, and so (as they of Oldenzeel had done) they yeelded the towne * 1.210 vnto him vppon these conditions: That Collonell Martin Cobben Gouernor of the Towne and Castle, should yeeld it vp vppon condition that the soldiers should depart with their Coullors flying and ful armes, and might carry away what goods they could in sixe daies, and the Burgers in eight, except the Artillery, munition of warre and other prouision. Where-vpon Collonel Cobben went forth with eight Companies, and presented himselfe before Prince Maurice, who reproched him bitterly for his base [ E] cowardise, causing him to bee put in prison, with some of his Captaines and chiefe Officers of the said Towne, the which were sent prisoners to the Hage, to iustefie them-selues before the Generall Estates where they had Cousins ynow to free them from any great punishment. Spinola there-vppon beeing as it were halfe drunke with that sodaine victory, knew not well what to do, but for certaine daies lay there and attemp∣ted not any thing, hauing the way open to haue done some other exployts, giuing his enemie leysure to fortefie him-selfe and to prouide for all the places lying there∣abouts. While both the armies lay in Friseland, the Arch-duke finding him-selfe to bee strong of men which yet remained in Brabant, he resolued to enterprize something * 1.211 against Berghen vp-Zoome, giuing the charge thereof vnto Mounsier Herricourt, de la [ F] Biche Gouernor of Hulst, and Iohn Terrail a French man, who made profession to be ve∣ry expert in making of Petards and forcing of townes therewith, for the effecting of this disseigne, there were aboue foure thousand footemen and three companies of horsemen gathered togither at Beueren in the land of Waes, vpon Blockers dike, giuing

forth that they had an enterprise to doe In Cadsant, hauing all thinges prepared to * 1.212 [ A] that purpose: vppon the one and twentith of August, it being a great procession as then in Antwerp they kept the gates shutte, and about euening made out with cer∣taine horsemen, causing the footemen to bee sent out of Flanders at Callo, and so in the morning before day gotte before Berghen vp-Zoome, passing along by the drowned land, called then Northland, through the Hauen of the Towne when it was a low water, and presently entred into the fortification lying without, called Beckaff, with a thousand men, the Sentinels giuing the alarme, shotte twice at them, but the Guard in that place beeing not strong ynough to resist so great forces, left it, retyring them-selues behinde the Houwers-dike, vnder the Palisadoes of the water-milles, and defending them-selues vnder the wings of the towne. The ene∣mie [ B] hauing gotten that place, they deuided them-selues into two parts, the one part breaking downe the Palisadoes before the Sconce, which was made for the de∣fence of Saint Iohns gate, they tooke it, who thinking that as then they were within * 1.213 the Towne, cryed, Ville gaigne, courage, viue la messe, with such like wordes, but the Townes-men with the soldiers valiantly defended them-selues, both with their shotte and other short weapons, and when their pouder fayled them, they fell to it with stones, whereby the Spaniards were forced to giue backe, and to flye away be∣fore the water begun to flow. The other part of the Spaniards went along vppon the banke of the Hauen, beneath to the foote of the sayd outward worke, where in short time they caused two strong gates which were without the water-gate to bee for∣ced with their Petards, by the which they entred with their troopes to go to the wa∣ter-gate, [ C] to the which (after they had throwne downe certaine Palisadoes or defen∣ces of wood) they made fast a Petard, but it fayled, and there the maister of those workes and many others were slaine with stones, and vppon the gate the Lieutenant of Captaine Barnard Pluchart was shot, whereof hee dyed, and diuers others, but the Petard fayling, they fighting long, but to no end at all, the water beginning to flow they were forced to retire.

The Gouernor Sir Paul Bax, shewed him-selfe in euery place where need requi∣red, from the beginning to the ending, incouraging the soldiers and townes-men to doe their best, and giuing order for all thinges necessary, notwithstanding by all like∣lihood, (without Gods prouidence) the Towne was in great danger, for that but [ D] halfe of the garrison were then in guard, nor once suspecting any such enterprize, their enemie approaching with Petards and strange Instruments of warre, where-with in short time they brake downe both Palisadoes and gates, by the which they might presently passe with whole troops, and had almost put their enterprise in execution, be∣fore the soldiers and Burgers could get to the gates, the towne was so great, euery man being also at rest suspecting nothing. The Spaniards intent was (being wel assured that the towne had but a weake garrison) the water-gate being opened, to cause the sayd 1000. men to march in two parts, the one part along the walles to the Steenbergh gate, the other Southward to the Bosch gate, to open these ports, & so let their men in, where their horse-men and some foote-men shewed them-selues and gaue an alarme: * 1.214 [ E] but the Inhabitants (God be thanked) with great valour and resolution withstood them. The enemie in the opinion of many men committed a great error to leaue the out∣ward work as easily as they had gotten it, not keeping it to try their fortune, & by renu∣ing of their •…•…orces, to haue assayled the towne with more strength: of the enemie there were 30. men slaine, one being a Captaine, and 20. men taken prisoners by them of the towne, by whom they vnderstood that there were 200. men hurt at the least: when they fled they left all their munition for the wars behind them, with as many armes and weapons which they cast from them, as would arme 400. men; within the towne there was but one man found slaine, and some hurt. [ F]

The same day the Lord of Grobbendonke Gouernor of Boisleduc made an en∣terprize vppon the towne of Graue with sixteene hundred men, and diuers wagons and * 1.215 boats, thinking with his boats to put two hundred men into one of the Bulwarks & with a bridge made of dryfats and pipes to gette to the walles, but comming neere vnto the

towne his enterprise was discouered, and so hee was forced to goe backe againe with∣out * 1.216 [ A] attempting any thing, the like enterprises were attempted vpon Thiel and other places.

Notwithstanding that the aforesaid enterprise made against Berghen vp Zome failed, yet the sayd enterprisers, viz. Monsieur la Biche, Du Tarrail, and D'ette, who had beene * 1.217 Gouernor of Wouwe, would once againe aduenture an other enterprise against the sayd towne, thinking to repaire their former error, whereof they hademade tryall to their costs, who being fiue thousand foote, and fiue companies of horsemen, vpon the nineteenth of September, a moneth after the first enterprise, set forward. Sir Paul Bax Gouernor of the towne, vnderstanding that diuerse Souldiers were assembling about Antwerpe and Brussels, euery day sent some of his horsemen out, to know the enemies [ B] intent, whereof some vpon the nineteene of September mette with certaine Spa∣nish horse-men by Stabrooke, where some of them were taken, others gotte away, and about noone newes thereof was brought vnto the towne: At euening there were more horse-men sent forth at the shutting of the gates, who about ten of the clocke at night came before the towne againe, and calling to the Sentinell, told him that the enemie with his whole power was at Raesberch with Boates, Bridges and Munition, and as they thought had great troopes, or a whole armie. Wherevpon the Gouer∣nor about eleuen of the clocke at night, caused certaine peeces of ordinance to bee shotte off, and a Beaken to bee set on fire, that the Sconces at the end of the Hauen of the towne, as also they of Tertolen, Wouwe and Steenberghen, should bee ready [ C] to defend them-selues: By meanes of this shooting, the Spaniards (who were come thether in the beginning of the night) deferred their enterprise till two of the clock in the morning, in meane time both parties kept them-selues very quietly, they with∣in the towne placed soldiers, and Burgers round about vpon their walles, and two com∣panies in the market place, ready to releeue all places where need required. About two of the clocke after mid-night, those that were appointed to assaile the towne on the North-side, being come thether, and the way being long, they shotte two fierie ar∣rowes into the ayre ouer the townes, thereby making a signe that they should all as∣saile the towne at one instant, at which time they assailed it in fiue places together, viz. at the Nunnes Bulwarke, the Steenberghen gate, the Orange Rauelin, and with a [ D] Bridge layde ouer the New-hauen, and at the Polder called Saint Iames polder, all with great force and furie, respecting not the Ordinance, Muskets and small shotte out of the towne, marching as if it had beene an Yron wall; they them-selues not shooting much: at the Steenberghen gate they vsed great force, where they thought to let in their horsemen, where (in lesse then halfe an houres space) they had forced open three gates, cut downe the draw-bridge, and broken the Portcullis, so as there rested nothing but the inner-gate to bee forced open, which the Burgers fortified, and mu∣red vp with earth, wagons, and trees, which they placed against it, and by that meanes kept them from entring the Towne, casting stones downe vpon them from off the gate. [ E]

The Spanish Drummes strooke vp an alarme before the sayd gate, as if they had beene within; where-vpon their horse-men came before the towne, sounding their Trumpets, as if the gates had beene open, the Townes-men stood vpon the walles with their coulours, incouraging one the other, and giuing their enemies all the spightfullest words they could. Claes Luytsen Captaine of the company of Amster∣dam, who was in garde in the Forte called Beckaf, by the Polder, behaued himselfe valiantly, forcing the enemie with his Musket and great shotte (as they marched along) to retire, and slew diuerse of them, the which they carried with them in the wagons, where-with they had brought their Bridges, Hurdles and other furniture, which they were forced to leaue behinde them. [ F]

The like happened to them at the Rauelin, where they had two and twenty men slaine; at the Bosch gate their powder failed, but the Bridges were ready, and they had gotten ouer the Palisadoes, and a hundred of them at the least were climing vp the walles, before they within the towne could discouer them, the night was

so darke, by reason that it rained, but the Burgers continually burning Pitch and straw, * 1.218 [ A] and casting it ouer the walles, by the light thereof shotte off their Ordinance, so as at last they were all forced to retire. It was strange to see the women and children helpe the men and soldiers that fought, who climing vp the walles, brought powder, lead, * 1.219 piche, stones, and the strawe from their beds; and laying the children out of their Cradels, caried stones in them vp to the walles; this the stoutest sort of women did: the rest beeing of weaker complection, went along through the streetes, and knee∣led before their doores, lifting vp their hearts, eyes, and hands to heauen, in that sort fighting by prayers and sighes vnto GOD, which moou•…•…d the Souldiers to greater courage.

The Townes men and inhabitants without respecting of what religion they were, [ B] (whereof many were well knowne to bee Romish Catholickes) failed not one with the other to runne to the walles, and made all the resistance that possiblie they could to repulse the enemie. Sir Paul Box roade into euery place vpon his horse, holding his Bridle and Courtelax in the left hand, and a Pistole in his right hand, with a garde about him, commanding all that was necessarie to bee done. The Bougue-maisters, and also the Ministers of the reformed Church, did what laye in them, and shewed not to bee slackest, but armed themselues and went to the walles to resist the ene∣mie, and to animate the Souldiers to bee resolute.

In this sort the Spaniards hauing attempted to surprize the Towne, and finding great resistance, vntill day light, at last they were forced (with their losse) to retire [ C] to Antwerpe, leauing about a hundred men dead behinde them, the which were buryed in three pittes. It is sayd that the Barron of Amersteyn, a Noble man of Stiria, was slaine there, and nine Captaines. The Burgers going out of the gates, in great rage, kild diuerse of the Soldiers which laye wounded without the towne, and had hidden them-selues.

In the way to Antwerpe, there were many of the Souldiers found which dyed of the wounds they had receiued before the Towne, and it was knowne that they * 1.220 had laden sixe and thirtie Wagons (which they brought thether with Bridges, Petards, Ladders, Hurdels, and other municion, and left it all behinde them,) full of dead and wounded men, where-with they filled all the Hospitalls that were there-abouts. They within the Towne lost but one of their Souldiers, and had sixe [ D] other of them wounded, but many burnt; and so they gaue vnto GOD most hearty thankes for their happy deliuerie. The vnited Prouinces would haue found this to haue beene a great losse vnto them, and therefore they tooke great care to prouide better for it, for that after this enterprize the Spaniards bragged that they ment to make a third attempt, or else to besiege it with a great armie, where∣vpon the Estates of those Prouinces, sent eight companies more into it, but Prince Maurice sending fiue companies thether out of his atmie, those eight were sent backe againe into Flanders.

Whilest that Marquis Spinola was busie on the other side of the Rhine, the Earle of Busquoy, who (as wee haue sayde) was left behinde with fiue thousand * 1.221 [ E] foote and eight hundred horse, went to besiege the towne of Wachtendonke in the countrie of Geldres, the which hee tooke by composition on the sixe and twentie of September, the Souldiers departing with their full armes and baggage. All this time the Arch-dukes forces beeing so great, and dispersed on either side of the Rhine, the Estates were forced to keepe good garde in many places, and to haue them well furnished: so as Prince Maurice could not draw any armie to field, but kept himselfe close. Yet they made hotte warre at sea against the Shippes of Dunkerke, so as Captaine Moy-Lambert of Rotterdam with a Shippe of warre of Enchuysen, tooke the Admirall after a long fight, who chose rather to bee slaine [ F] there, then to yeeld himselfe to their mercy: to whome the Estates (for that hee was not cruell, nor yet their vassaile, but of Antwerpe) would haue granted his life: yea they did grieue at his obstinacie.

There were fortie of his men hanged at Rotterdam, and the rest at Enchuysen, for * 1.222 [ A] tha•…•… they were their naturall borne subiects, or had formerly serued the Estates, the which happened in October.

About this time Prince Maurice vnderstanding, that Spinola had lodged fourteene companies of Ruiters and eight companies of foote men, in a village called Mulhem vp the riuer of Roere, by the house of Brooke, the which were led by the Earle Theodore Trivultio, Lieutenant generall of the horsemen, hee resolued to set vpon them, and vpon the eight of October in the euening went out of his army, with all his horse, and foure and twentie companies of foote, of diuers nations, which hee caused to bee carried in wagons, apointing his brother Henricke Earle of Nassaw to haue the foreward and with him Marcelis Bax, each with eight cornets of horsemen. Prince Maurice him∣selfe following with the rest and three field peeces, their conclusion, was that Bax [ B] should ride thorow the Roere, and on the backe side of the village charge the Spanish quarter; and Earle Henrick with other eight companies of horse, and the foote men should ride to the village, which doing they found the Boome open; and therefore stood still to slaie for the foote men, in the meane time the Spaniards tooke an alarme, and left the village, and went to the house of Brooke, which by policie they had taken, but if they had sodenly charged the enemies, they would without doubt haue soone ouerthrowne them, for Earle Henricke riding through the village, found them in the Roere busied to passe ouer, but by his standing still, they tooke courage, and charged Cont Henricks horsemen, putting some of them to flight, but for that Prince Mau∣rice [ C] followed them, with the rest of the horse and foote, their flight was stopt, and the Spaniards by that meanes past the Roere, whom Prince Maurice gaue charge to follow, so as not onelie most part of the horsemen, but certaine troupes of Englishmen of Sir Horatio Veres regiment ouer-tooke them.

In the meane time Ma cellus Bax, past ouer the Roere with his horsemen, to stoppe the passage: but comming thether, hee found the Spanish horsemen standing to watch them, or els to goe on with some conuoy: hauing a good number of foote∣men. Where hee put the horsemen to flight, but beeing releeued by their foote∣men, they made head againe, (the waie beeing of aduantage for the footemen) ayded also by them of Miulhem, but they were once againe forced to giue backe, so as at [ D] last Bax found himselfe to bee charged by one thousand horse at the least, with whom for the space of an houre and a halfe, hee held plaie onely with foure hundred horsemen, chargeing and recharging one the other so valiantly, as Bax kept his stand∣ing, wondering that no man came to second him; at last Cont Henricke came the∣ther, whom Bax intreated to charge the Spaniardes which stood vpon the Roere, and hee would second him, the which they both did with great resolution, but Don Lewis De Velasco hauing in the meane time gotten an other companie of horsemen toge∣ther, at last Cont Henrickes horse were againe shamefully put to slight, abando∣ning their Lord, who so resolutely ledde them on, the which would haue brought the whole armie into disorder and confusion, if the resolution of Sir Horatio Vere [ E] with foure good companies of Englishmen, and one of the Scottes (belonging to the Lord of Backlough) had not beene verie great, who made a stand, and with their, pikes withstood and repulst the enemie, and were not once broken, notwithstanding the enemies furious charges. At last a troupe of Frenchmen ledde by Mounsier Dommerville came to releeue them, where hee was slaine: Earle Hen∣ricke beeing thus abandoned by his horsemen hee went with some few that were left to Baxes troupes, vpon whom all the Spanish horsemen fell, so as they doubted howe they should saue themselues, charging the enemie oster times verie va∣liantly; where the Earle to his great honour and commendation so valiantly charged a Spanish captaine, as hee bent his pistoll vpon him, which hee likewise did to him, [ F] but both fayled: wherewith the Spanish captaine thought to haue taken hold of the Earles scarse, and for to haue pulled him to him; the which Bax perceiuing, hee bent his pistoll at him, thinking to shoote him into the face, but with ouer great hast hee shot him lower in the armor, and their they sat both on horse-backe, hardly

be-sted amongst their enemies, and but weakely releeued, by meanes of the noise * 1.223 [ A] and cries which the Earles horsemen had caused amongst them; they had manie shot made at them, but in the end Baxes Nephew came and releeued them, and by that meanes they gathered some horses together, and once againe charged the head of a troupe, but were againe put backe, and in that sort they fought for the space of seauen houres.

In the meane time Prince Maurice came on with three field peeces, and some troupes of footemen, which as then were more necessarie then the horsemen, who beeing ledde on by Cont Ernestus and collonel Marquette, they discharged a volley * 1.224 of shot amongst the Spaniards, at which time, Earle Theodoro Trivultio was slaine, bee∣ing Lieutenant generall of those troupes, a braue souldier and of a Noble house: and [ B] therewith certaine horsemen led on by the Earle Henrick giuing a new charge, the Spaniards were once againe put to flight, and were driuen vp a hill; some ranne into the wood, and many saued themselues in the house of Brooke, which at the first they tooke by policie, but it was taken from them againe, and for want of good order, they recouered it againe, and so it serued them for a good retraict, many were taken and slaine in the flight, and diuers horses wonne, but such as fled into the wood, heare∣ing of Spinolaes comming from Roeroort with the whole armie gathered together againe.

After this long and tedious fight, Prince Maurice hearing of Spinolaes approch hee caused his men to returne, willing Bax to staie there to fauour the retraict, as hee [ C] did, but was ill seconded by the other horsemen, the Spaniards hauing gotten fresh supplies fell vpon them againe; and the horsemen getting ouer Roere, the Spaniards fell vpon the English foote, who valiantly defended themselues, as long as they had any powder, but the Earle of Chastillion, standing with two troupes vpon the Roere, about a hedge, shot so fiercely, as the Marquises horsemen were forced to re∣tire, and so they made an orderly retraict, the Spaniards following them still shoot∣ing, but comming to a heath, they left each other, where as Prince Maurice called for those horsemen which had fled, giuing them many reprochful speeches, and shewed them what confusion they had made amongst his men, whereas he put his greatest trust in them, and by that meanes mist so good and faire an occasion to ouerthrow his [ D] enemy.

It was thought in this fight, there were about fiue hundred of Spynolas men slaine, whereof one was the Earle Theodoro Trivultio, (whose body beeing imbalmed was the next yeare sent vnto Milane where hee was borne) and Gambarotta and others of account, amongst the prisoners one was Nicholas Doria cousin to Spinola, and o∣thers, hauing two cornets taken from them; and of Prince Maurices side they lost two Ensignes, and about two hundred men, amongst the which Mousier Dumde∣ville was one, and certaine captaines: the prisoners were Mounsier de Bethune, (who was presently exchanged for Nicholas Doria,) as also captaine Sald, captaine Pigot and captaine Ratclif, but Sir Henrie Carie, a gallant Gentleman (and Maister [ E] of the Iewell house to the King of England, after his father) was put to a great ran∣some, for that hee serued as voluntarie, and was not contained in the quarter.

This was donne vpon the nineth daie of October, which gaue Prince Maurice great cause not to put so great confidence in his horsemen, beeing as then but weake of foote, so as after that hee durst not by any meanes hazard the like againe.

This Winter there was little done in the Netherlands touching the warres, onely that the garrisons on either side made many enterprises one vpon an other, as vpon * 1.225 Nuys, Graue, Erckelens, & Deuenter, especially ouer the Ice during the frost, but they tooke no effect, the feare thereof beeing the cause which made the generall Mar∣quis [ F] Spinola to staie longer in the Netherlands then hee thought to haue done, so as it was the first daie of Ianuary before he tooke poast to passe through France into Spaine, where on the waie hee was hindered by sickenesse, and beeing in Spaine hee found more want of money then hee expected, by the bad traficke in Spaine

for that the East and West Indian fleetes were not come, as also in regard of the dearth * 1.226 [ A] in Spaine, whereby al the Spanish ryalles were paied and carried away for corne, which was brought thether in great aboundance out of France, England and other countries, so as in Spaine they were forced to vse most copper money, the which was wont to bee as plentifull of siluer as any other countrie.

In this winter also the counsell of warre assembled in the Hage to giue their censure * 1.227 vpon the gouernor and captaines of Linghen, for that they had so basely yeelded vp the towne, this counsell consisting of the Earles, Henricke, Ernest, and Iohn of Nassaw, the young Earle of Solms, the Lord Vander Noote, gouernor in Flanders, Emerie van Lidie, gouernor of Williams Stat, Mounsier van Lookeren, with some English and Scots Colonels, and other captaines with Collonel Warner du Bois, as president, which met [ B] the last of Ianuary.

They of Gelderland, with certaine of the Barron van Hemerts kindred, who was be∣headed in the Earle of Leicesters time, by rigor of lawe, said that if they were not be∣headed, that then the said Barron of Heemert had great wrong offered him, for that hee had endured three assaultes giuen against the towne of Graue, and receiued aboue a thousand eight hundred cannon shot, whereas they to the contrary suffered three bridges to bee laid ouer the towne ditches in the daie time, without any resistance, and that therefore, if they would proceed seuerely against the one, and not against them, they should then haue good cause to apeale against the Iudgement giuen vpon the Barron de Hemert. This counsell sitting tell the 11. day of February, at last they gaue [ C] sentence, that the gouernor of Lynghen called Marten Cobbe, and captaine Iohn Witte should bee dismist, and with ignominy declared vncapable euer after to beare armes, and that the Drosart Albert of Itersome, Iohn Ruysch, Iohn van Dyck, Ernestus Mellinga, Nichalas Audaert, and the Licentiate Iuthiema should bee deposed from their places, & cassiered, and should serue vnder such companies as they should be appointed vnto, to recouer their credits againe if they could.

This sentence was much spoken of, for that many were of opinion, that if at the first these men had beene censured, they had beene likely to haue lost their heads, but so much time passing ouer before they were iudged, and for that their action was not found to proceed of malice, but of meere cowardise, or want of experience, had saued [ D] their liues, whervnto also the weakenesse of the countrie at that time was some helpe, who could hardly punish them hauing many friends.

In the beginning of this springe Count Ernestus of Nassau was called by Duke Hen∣ry Iules of Brunswicke to bee Lieutenant of his army against them of the towne of Brunswycke, in whose aide the Hans townes of the East countries leauied certaine men. The said Duke gaue vnto Cont Ernestus one of his daughters in marriage, the * 1.228 which was celebrated at Wolffenbuytell where the Duke keepes his court. The Bar∣ron of Barbanson, brother to the Earle of Arembergh did leauy at that time for the Arch-duke a regiment of three thousand Germaine foote; the Earle of Busquoy one of two thousand fiue hundred Wallons, and the Lord of Luxembourg an other of the like [ E] number, which was to fortefie them vpon the iealousie they had of the duke of Bouil∣lon brother in law to Prince Maurice, least he should haue some secret intelligence with the French King, and that both of them (hauing ioyned their forces togither) should fall vpon him. For as the duke beeing in disgrace with the King, was retired to Sedan, where hee leauied men for his defence; so the King made preparation of an armie to goe and assaile the duke, but by meanes hee was reconciled to his Maiestie vpon these distrusts, the Arch-dukes sought to fortefie their army with new leauies: sending one part of all his forces into Luxembourg, and an other into Henault, Arthois, Namur and other frontier countries, but the Duke beeing reconciled to the Kings fauour, the King dismist his army, and the Duke discharged his men. [ F]

The Earle of Busquoy hauing gathered some troupes togither in march about Keesers-weert, he made shew as if hee would build some new fort vpon the Rhine, neere vnto Berck. But vpon the foureteenth day of the month about mid-night, hee surpri∣•…•…ed the towne of Brevoort; the gouernor and some of the souldiars (seeing the townes

thus taken) retired into the Castle, which they defended against the enemy. The E∣states * 1.229 [ A] horsemen which had conuoyed Cont Ernestus towards the Duke of Brunswick were by good hap returned the day before out of Germany into those quarters, who presently cut of the enemies victualls, so as the pesants could not bring them any thing vnto the towne. Cont William of Nassau gouernor of Freezland and Groning, hearing of this surprize and that the Castle held good for the Estates, sent presently all the horse and foote hee could gather sodenly together in his gouernment, who went and beseeged them that had surprized the towne: Cont Henry Frederec of Nassau was also sent from the Hage, and captaine du Bois, hauing charge to command all the forces they could get of Breda, Berghen and other places to follow them. Prince Maurice * 1.230 meaning to bee there present him-selfe parted from the Hage the twenty one of the [ B] month, carrying all his owne horses with him, with his tents and all his other bagage fit for such an exploit. But as they were vpon the way they had newes that the enemy had beene forced to abandon the towne againe, where-vpon he determined to returne to the Hage.

In the begining of the yeare 1606. Philip Earle of Hohenloo, Baron of Langerbergh, Lieutenant generall of Holland, Zeeland, West Freeseland, Bomell and Thield∣wert. &c. * 1.231 being sicke of a long lingering disease, which grew to be a generall lamenes both of hand and feet, so as hee could not stire nor helpe him-selfe, died at Iselstein vpon the fift of March, being aboue fifty yeares of age. A man of a tall comely stature, and of good experience in Marshall affaiers, but somewhat stout and hasty, hauing [ C] serued about thirty foure or thirty fiue yeares in the Netherlands in great and conti∣nuall troubles, especially after the death of the Prince of Orange, when as the vnited Prouinces were wonderfully perplexed, Prince Maurice his sonne being then very young, so as then there was not any man that seemed able to take ther cause in hand to direct their marshall affaiers, and to be tutor to Prince Maurice, but onely this Earle to whome euery man had a respect, to the end he should vndertake their affaiers, in regard of his authority and credit amongst the soldiers, as also for his skill in marshall affaires, being also very rich, and withall very bountifull and affable; hee mar∣ried the eldest daughter of the Prince of Orange borne by the Contesse of Bu∣ren, who died without children, his lands hee gaue to his brothers children, whereof [ D] Ernestus Earle of Hohenlo was then in the Netherlandes with him, and commanded his cornet of horse, being a gallant young gentleman of great hope; his funerall was apointed to be kept at Iselstein vpon the 6. of April, with the accustomed ceremonies, where Prince Maurice and others of the house of Nassau were present, with the Depu∣ties of the general Estates, the counsel of Estate, and the counsel of Holland and others; but by reason of the taking of Breuoort it was put of for a while, his body was set in a coffin in the Church of Iselstein vntill his kindred came out of Germany to fetch it, and so carried it to the country of Hohenlo.

The Arch-duke being freed of the feare he had of the French King, the garrisons of Flanders attempted a certaine enterprize vpon Sluce being conducted by Frederik [ E] Vanden Bergh which was very secretly vndertaken, but not fortunately effected.

Not long before there were two Spaniards who hauing for a time serued in Sluce, ranne from the Estates againe and gaue intelligence to them of Flanders, how that the * 1.232 watch house without Sluce which stood vpon the bridg of the East gate was burnt downe, so that as then there was no gard held, that bridg serued to come from Coxy, Cadsant, and from all the parts of the drowned land into the towne, being very long, with two draw bridges and a good pale on the one side, but onely where the sconses which had beene broken downe stood, thinking it very diffi∣cult that the enemy should attempt any thing on that side, in regard that the drow∣ned land was round about fortefied with sconces, being almost impossible for them to [ F] passe that way.

The towne gate as then was very weake, being onely of double plankes nayled one vpon the other, and along by it but a slight low wall, which they might easely climbe ouer. Mounsier vander Noot the gouernor of the towne being partly aduertised of an

enterprise to be made vpon that part of Flanders, had sent to all the sconces and forts * 1.233 [ A] round about to giue them warning thereof, he him-selfe talking his ease, not once for∣tefiing his gards neither had he any suspition, for which his negligence hee was after∣wards much blamed. It was an enterprize well managed and better executed then that which was led by Mounsier de Terrail, but by GODS prouidence wounder∣fully preuented, for that few men might easely haue effected it, there being a large plaine within the gate, which lay beteewne the towne and the castle, where they might all haue put them-selues in bataile.

The petardiers of Terrail with some others being well informed of this scituation, they concluded that on the west side, vpon the twelth of Iune there should be a slight alarum giuen, and that therevpon they should assaile the East gate, their number being [ B] three thousand sixe hundred or three thousand seauen hundred men, all old expert souldiers and most Walons, which by night past through the drowned land, hard by the crab sconce, and were not once discouered.

Wherevpon it chanced, that the Sexton of the great Church, or of the great clocke, which was heard through all the towne, about ten of the clocke at night, went vp into the steple without a candle, and as GOD would (by a meere accident) ouer∣wound his clocke which was the reason it strooke not all that night, so as the soldiars on the West side, knew not when to begin their alarum, and fearing to be discoue∣red and betrared, stood still. They at the East gate hauing stood aboue an houre watching behind the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, and not discouered, hearing no alarume giuen [ C] on the West side, w•…•…re 〈◊〉〈◊〉, doubting to bee intrapped and knew not what to do, but at last by the 〈◊〉〈◊〉 o•…•… the Petardiers who were desirous to be at their worke, they resolued to goe •…•…rd.

The Petardier c•…•…d three of his men to swimme ouer, and commanded each man to doe a seuerall worke, the first with a small petard to breake open the locke of the first draw bridge, the second to doe the like to the second draw bridge, and the third with a great petard to breake open the gate, hauing a great space be∣tweene it and the drawe bridge, and they were all three effected accordingly, the two lockes of the drawbridges being broken, the gate also flying open, and the drawbridge being let fall, the soldiers marched forward, as many as cold marche one by an o∣ther [ D] vnto the gate within the gate there was sixteene or seauenteene men in the gardhouse commanded by the gouernor Mounsier van Noots Sargeant, which Sargeant hearing some noise, went to hearken at the gate, and with the blow of the petard was slaine, those that were in gard came all out, and seeing no, man aduance towards them they put to the gate againe as well as they could: in the meane time (as I said before) the bridge stood full of soldiars, who had nothing but there cortelasses and pikes, (which was a graat error in them, as hauing more neede to haue beene mus∣ketiers) but they stood still looking one vpon the other, being much abasht, not onely for that they heard no alarume from the West side, but for that they saw no great resistance made against them. [ E]

The Petardier speaking vnto them and crying, March forward the gate is open, but they within hauing some respeit, the gate being halfe open into the which they thrust with their pikes there came presently to ayd the court of gard, (who had shot of their peeces) an English Captaine with about sixteene soldiars and Gentlemen, who lay not farre from the gate, but halfe drest, and presently after that diuers others, as the captaines •…•…oost, Broufaulx, Haultaine, and an other, •…•…euery one with there re∣diest men, and not long after the gouernor him-selfe also came; most part in their shirtes, so as if the enemy had charged them furiously, and presently clome vp the walles, although it had bin done at the first but with ten or twelue men (as it is thought) [ F] they should haue beene maisters 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉 towne, but they were so afraid of some treason for that the clocke st•…•…ucke not and euery man within the towne was so still and quiet as they were afraid to aduance and go forward. They within the towne taking courage to them-selues being ignorant what was done without, presently placed ordinance and

shot crosse ouer the bridge which caused the ennemy to giue backe, they within the gate * 1.234 [ A] also discharging their peeces furiouslly vpon them, the Englishmen (hauing nothing on but their breeches and their corselets vpon their shirts, were the first that sallied forth vpon the enemy, that was vpon the bridg, and were not much hurt by their pikes, who for that they had no muskets were furiously charged by them of the towne, for they that were in the formost rankes could not giue backe, being compelled by those that were behind them to stand close in order, the bridge being very long most of them were forced to leape of from it into the water, or else to fall downe, where the pales were burnt, so as many of them were drowned; And so they which were behind were forced to fly; the Englishmen (who besides the watch) were the first that salli∣ed forth against the enemy, had the best purses and booties, whereby most of them going out halfe naked came into the towne againe with good apparell. Thus the [ B] Archdukes soldiers were forced with great confusion to flie from an interprize which was well plotted, well conducted, but badly executed: it may bee through want of some commanders of authority amongst them, leauing all their petards and prepara∣tion, and most part of the soldiers their armes being esteemed sufficient to arme a thousand men, and were forced to fly through such a passage, as many left their shoes sticking fast in the mud; there were fifty sixe buried in one graue within the gate, besides those that were drowned and smothered, not accounting them which were slaine by the sconces without, one of the two spaniards which had fled, and descoue∣red the weakenes of towne vnto the enemy, was found dead vpon the bridge, some prisoners wer brought into Sluce, most of them being hurt, one being a Iesuit, (who [ C] had at least fourteene or fifteene wounds) hee confest that hee had come thether of meere zeale to say the first masse in the towne, hee said also, that he perceaued well that GOD would not as yet send that misfortune vnto the towne, in regard of their blody and cruell resolution, which was to murther all that were within it. No enterprize could be easelier nor better concluded then this, and whereon so much de∣pended, and yet was it most easely preuented and chiefely through feare, hauing no man of authority to command them, nor to free them of those doubts, nor that had the foresight to clime vp the walls and the gate, which were very low, where∣by they might easely perceaue, that there was no plot laied to intrappe them, but the feare which had seazed on their hearts (the which commeth from God) gaue them [ D] within meanes to giue the alarme, and to resist them.

Not long after there was a drumme sent into the towne for certaine prisoners, who said that the enemy mist foure or fiue hundred of their men, and they within very few: After this enterprize there was a faire halfe Moone made at Sluce before the said gate to preuent the like attempts. This enterpise falling out thus vnfortunately, * 1.235 Terrail (with his petardies) made great complaint thereof vnto the counsell of warre, saying that they had opened the gate, and that the soldiers durst not enter, where∣vpon the counsell of warre caused some of them to be aprehended and committed to prison, whereof three were openly beheaded for the same in Brussels vpon the nineteene of Iune, one being a Captaine called Cruycklenborgh, another was Sergeant [ E] Maior of the Irishmen, and one Wael Rasoir who had serued long time vnder the Spainard. Cruycklenborgh being a yong gentleman of good parentage in Brussels was much lamented, and great meanes were made vnto the Archduke for his life, who being much importuned by his friends, willed them to repaire vnto him againe after noone; in the meane time they were all three beheaded before noone, by com∣mandement from the counsell of warre, and that which caused the matter to be more spoken of, was, for that it happened euen at such time as the Earle of Busquoy was married in the court at Brussells vnto the cousin of the Earle of Biglia. Colonell Challon was discharged of his Collonells place and a company of horsemen giuen [ F] him, the soldiers of the Netherlands murmured much at this rigor vsed by the Arch-duke, saying, that although the Spaniards and Italians committed neuer so many offen∣ces yet they could keepe their heads vpon their shoulders, Mounsier de Terraile with the rest of his petardiers hearing what murmuring speeches were vsed among

the souldiers by reason of that execution, feared least they would secretly doe him * 1.236 [ A] some mischiefe in regard thereof, for which cause hauing made some friends vnto the French King his maister to pardon him, hee left the Netherlands and went into France, but after committing a murther in France, hee fled againe into the Netherlands. About this time in the beginning of sommer it was agreed betweene the * 1.237 Archduke and the vnited Prouinces (the better to releeue the countries on both sides,) that the castle of Wouwe, and the castle of Hoch-strate (fortefied by the mutinous es∣quadron,) should be razed, as being both a like iniurious vnto the countries, the which was as then done. The 20. of Iune there was a great quarrell and tumult in Antwerp, be∣tweene the Netherland sailors and the Spanish garrison in the castle, about a whore or some such like matter, wherein some Spaniards were hurt and a sayler slaine: the say∣lers * 1.238 accompanied with the Burgers ran in heapes to the Oue and the Minte, not farre [ B] from the castle, against whom the Chastelaine of Antwerp presently marched forth with 400. Spaniards in three troupes, and entered the Oue with such fury as if they would haue slaine all they found, wherevpon the drummes did beat an alarum in al pla∣ces about the towne, and the streets were stopt with wagons, the people crying out and saying that the Spaniards ment to make themselues masters of the towne, wherevpon the Burgers with all speed barricadoed the streets with wagons and other things, and the Boyes began to cry, kill, kill, so as it was likely there would haue beene great bloud∣shed. Wherewith the Burgers beeing moued and vp in armes, the Burguemasters with great intreaties and promises appeased them, and caused the Castelaine with his soul∣diars [ C] retire into the Castle againe, and so the matter was pacefied: the next day the Cas∣telaine and the Burguemasters, debated the matter before the Archduke in Brussels, where they had an answere giuen them. About this time there was a Burgers wife of Gant (being great with child) with her sister, murthered by a Spaniard for that shee * 1.239 had sent her daughter away, whom he followed, and (as hee said) thought to haue mar∣ried, which Spaniard after hee had done the deed, went to saue himselfe in a cloister, where because the porter would not let him in, before he had gottē licence of the Prior so to do, he snatcht a candle sticke out of his hand, and strooke him therewith, where∣vpon the people running thether, they tooke him and bynding his hands and feete, laid him in the street, vntil that the officers (being made acquainted therwith) came & apre∣hended [ D] him, for the which not long after he was beheaded, notwithstanding many high words vsed by the gouernor of the castle, who among other speeches said, that it was not conuenient they should put one of the Kings seruants to death for the murther of a woman or two, which would haue caused a tumult among the people, if they had not feared such an inuasion, as they did in the yeare of our 1576. Vpon the 21. of Iulie, Don Iohn de Silua captaine of a cornet of horse, and one of the councel of warre to the Arch∣duke, boldy entering into the Earle of Barlaymonts house, who had married the daugh∣ter of the last Earle of Lalain, with whō the said don Iohn was too familierly acquainted) was by the sayd Earles seruantes assailed and wounded in nine or ten places of his body and almost slaine, whereof notwithstanding the Archduke had giuen him warning, to [ E] auoide any such occasion, but he trusting to his owne manhood, armes, or proud sto∣make, neglected it, being hurt in that manner, he was taken and committed to prison in the castle of Antwerp by the Archdukes command, but after being cured of his wounds, he got out from thence and went into Spaine.

The one and twenty daie of Iulie in the morning, the Earle of Busquoy comming from Moocke with three thousand foote and fiue and thirty shalops or boates laden in wagons to the Wahal, at Keeckerdom he had planted two demy cannons, by meanes & vnder the fauor whereof he thought to put his boats into the water, and so to passe ouer, and also in the mart shippe of Keeckerdome, wherein he shipt the Spaniards of Don Inigo de Borgias regiment, and some of Pompeto Iustinianios the Italians regiment, [ F] with a choise companie of sixe speciall men out of euery bande in his armie, and with them hee ment to passe ouer the Wahal at Keeckerdome aforesaid aboue Nimmeg∣hen, and as they were putting off, vnder the fauour of the ordinance, each boate hauing some fiftie men in it, and sixe boates going out before them, beeing almost

ouer, collonel du Bois, (who came thether the night before, hauing heard newes there∣of * 1.240 [ A] at Nimeghen) marched to the water side, with two companies of Frenchmen, commanded by Mousier Roques, and two companies of Englishmen ledde by Sir Tho∣mas Harwood and captaine Iohn Vere, and two halfe companies of horsemen, the one collonel Edmonds, the other Sir Iohn Ratclifes, who had newly receiued the company from Richard Arthure an old souldier, who beeing sickely, had made it ouer vnto him with which companies he withstood the Spaniards landing; who sought all the places thereabouts both below and aboue, to goe to shore, where the fight continuing be∣twixt them about an houres space, at the last (hauing sought all the meanes they could to passe) they were compelled to put backe againe in great disorder, one hindring of an other, with the losse of a hundred of their men, wherof fiue were captaines, as the o∣uerlopers [ B] reported: and of du Bois men, thirty were slaine and wounded; and so the Earle of Busquoy went backe againe, to his army at Moockle, which he there fortified in an Island lying in the Meuse. It is since vnderstood that his intent was to enter in∣to the Betuwe, and to incampe himselfe, on the side of the Rhine, either aboue or be∣neath Arnhem, and that then Spinola should also come to the Rhine, and so to ioyne both together, which had beene a great furtherance for them, wherein du Bois did the vnited Prouinces verie good seruice at that time, for which cause Prince Maurice cau∣sed good watch to bee kept in euery place, by water and by land, both with horse and foote, especially along by the Isel, or where their enemies might haue the best meanes, to get ouer, placing shippes of warre in gard vpon the riuers, who kept watch with halfe their men in shalops, as also in herring boats, which sayled too and fro, and euery houre [ C] brought newes what the enemy did, so as Prince Maurice had at least a hundred com∣panies of men lying all there abouts.

This enterprise of the Earle of Busquois fayling and the enemy thereby brought to a new resolution, Spinola laie still at Lochem, vntill the last of Iulie, thinking to giue * 1.241 Prince Maurice a sodaine blow, and to that end went with his army towards Brouck∣horst and Doesborgh. In the meane time sending an other troupe of souldiers to Al∣meloo, where as then hee was gathering togither a certaine number of boates to bring his souldiers downe the riuer to Bercklenmeers bridge, and so into the Black∣water betweene Sasselt and Swol, meane time the garrisons of Linghen and Olden∣zeel came thether to him, hoping with them and by the aide of the said Scutes, vpon [ D] the second daie of August earlie in the morning to passe ouer the Black-water and to enter into Maste•…•…broke, and so to beseege Swol, and by the same meanes to take Geelmuyden lying vpon the South-sea: but Warmeloo Drossart of Salant, who laie in Swol, vnderstanding thereof, went forth with three companies of foote and cornet of horsemen and so valiantly withstood them, as after a long fight Spinolaes men were let of their passage, and forced to retire, and that in great hast, fearing that their e∣nemy had beene stronger, many of the men of both sides beeing slaine and onely by their obstinacy.

Spinola seeing that this passage also could not bee gotten, was forced to procede to his third resolution, and so vpon the third daie of August, hee went with his armie be∣fore * 1.242 [ E] Grol, whereinto Prince Maurice had put the young Lord of Dort with eighteene companies of men: beeing about thirteene or foureteene thousand men strong, at their first comming they were entertained with skirmishes; but after that hee made his trenches, and the tenth day of August he tooke two halfe moones, which stood without the towne by force, where hee had at the least sixe hundred men slaine and wounded, whereof some were of his owne kindered, and eigh or ten captaines with many officers, and amongst the rest two Earles of Embden, viz. Earle Iohn of Redbergh, and his bro∣ther Earle Christopher were wounded, they within also had much hurt, and lost captaine Appel vander Schuren Lieutenant to collonel Dort.

In the winning of those halfe moones, Spinola shewed great rigor and cruelty against [ F] his men, driuing them like beasts, both to fight and to dig vnder the enemies ordinance, by meanes of his horsemen who followed with their cortelases drawne, yet notwith∣standing, they were thrice put backe, but the fourth time hee won them with the

counterscarfes, and cutte of some part of them of the towne, so as they could not * 1.243 [ A] gette in againe, which done he placed his Ordinance for the batterie vppon the sayd halfe Moones: And beeing by that meanes close by the ditches of the towne, with all the speed and courage they could vse, they filled them vp with such stuffe as they could gette, and so vppon the thirteenth of August gotte to the walles of the towne, and also to their mynes wherein the pouder was alreadie placed, where they fought hand to hand in three seuerall places, they also shotte downe all the parapets of the walles, and began to vndermine them. The reason of this hastie and furious procee∣ding was, for that Spinola had taken certaine messengers with letters sent to them of Groll, willing them to withstand the enemie valiantly, and that they should bee releeued within three daies, as hee also vnderstood by the soldiers, which dayly [ B] went to Prince Maurice from all places, for that hee had sent for William Earle of Nassau out of Freezeland, to come with all the men that hee could spare, and for Col∣onell Edmonds out of Reinbergh; Collonell du Bois from the Betouwe, and the sol∣diers of Deuenter and Swoll, which all marched to Doesborgh, with Ordinance, Munition and all other preparations for an armie. Where-vppon Spinola vsed all the dilligence hee could to winne the towne, determining vppon the fourteenth of Au∣gust to assault it in three places at once, and to that end in great pride hee placed his men in order of battaile, and made a terrible show, and there-with hee willed a Trumpet to certifie them within the towne, that hee would giue them but one houres time to bethinke them-selues, which if they refused, hee would put them all to the [ C] sword, for that hee sayd hee would and must haue the towne, &c. Where-vppon they within (namely the Burgers) being much abasht, fell downe at the young Gouernors feete, desiring him to consider of their generall weakenesse, so as the Gouernor vnad∣uisedly * 1.244 at their request, was content to hearken vnto a composition without once shewing Prince Maurices letters to the soldiers, who promised they should be relee∣ued vpon the sixteenth of August, and there-vpon he and the Captaines without any great need, yeelded vp the towne by composition, and so issued out with 18. Ensignes, displayed, being about 1200. sound men, & 100. wounded, and 15. or 16. horsemen of Batenborghs companie.

Within it also there was a companie of New-geusen who (like to them that sold Gheertrudenbergh) were prescribed and banished in all places, but for that the [ D] composition was made for them also, they went forth and deuided them-selues a∣mongst the other companies. The Bourgers had two moneths time giuen them to consult whether they would stay or depart the towne, and so the garrison went out from thence in great hast with bag and baggage, hauing but two houres time gran∣ted them to doe it, for feare of Prince Maurices comming, and to that end had wa∣gons giuen them to bring them to Zutphen, where they arriued the next day at noone: And although Spinola was much commended for his good order and discipline, yet that garrison past not without ransacking of the men and some wagons. There was about a hundred men slaine in Groll, but many more without, some sayd eight or [ E] nine hundred, & that by reason of the great haste vsed by Spinola to win the towne, for that at the same time Prince Maurice was gone to Doesbourgh; where-vpon the 15. of August when all the Ordinance and Munition was laden ready to march forward to re∣leeue them, he had newes that the towne of Grol was taken, where-vpon presently hee dispersed his army, and sent euery man vnto his garrison, therewith to furnish al places, staying to see what further attempt Spinola would make.

Spinola hauing soone (beyond all expectation) gotten that towne, euen at such time as his armie had great want of all necessaries, and (by reason of the aboundance of rayne which then fell) was hardly lodged, his enemie beeing in field, ready to attempt some great exployte, and hee beeing but meanely intrencht, was [ F] forced to lye there, to repayre the walles of Groll, who in regard of his great want of victualls, was constrayned to retyre to the Rhyne againe, and there∣vppon determined to beseege Reinbergh, willing the Earle of Busquoy to breake vp his army at Moocke, and to inuest Reinbergh on Gelder side, the which he presently

did, first passing by Nimmeghen, as if hee would haue done some-thing there-abouts, * 1.245 [ A] causing some suspition to rise, as if hee meant to doe some-thing against Berghen vp Zoome in Brabant, by sending some of his men to Monsieur Grobbendonck, but hauing giuen the peasants charge to cast downe all his trenches at Mooke, vpon the twenty of August hee past along by the Rhine, and sodenly set vpon a ship of warre, which tooke no great regard vnto himselfe, where-as the Captaines wife had her head smitten off, hee himselfe and hi•…•… Lieutenant with diuerse Saylers being taken prisoners.

In the same manner also there was a Galey burnt by Boisleduc, through the negli∣gence of the Captaine, in the beginning of September; which Galley lay before Her∣drighsvelt, to let all incursions. Vpon the ninteenth of August Spinola raised his armie before Groll to go to the Rhine; which Prince Maurice vnderstanding, vpon the twen∣tie [ B] of August went to Deutechom, and to Eltenbergh. The one and twenty of August * 1.246 the Earle of Busquoy inuested Reinbergh towards the land beneath the towne, and shut vp the riuers and to that end, vpon the foure and twenty of August, he brought twelue Shalops into the water, where-with he caried his men ouer the Rhine, and made a bat∣tery of two Canons, to let the passage, where hee placed the Saylers of Antwerpe, and the same day Spinola went to Lippe to passe ouer there.

In the meane time Prince Maurice sent his brother Cont Henrick of Nassaw with seuen and twenty companies of horse, and foureteene companies of footmen to meete them & to set vpon part of the Earle of Busquoyes men, which were marching from Mooke and other places, but they marching towards the Meuse, and so to Venlo. Cont Henrick could not come at them, wherfore according to his further commission, he past [ C] forward to Rhein-bergh: and vpon the fiue and twenty day of August at night, put the said foureteene companies of foote into Rheinberge without any incounter, because as then the Earle of Busquoy had not inuested the towne round about: with those foureteene companies there past foure-score French Gentlemen of qualitie into the towne, one of them being Monsieur de Sonbyse, brother to the Duke of Rohan, cousin to the French King, and Monsieur de Varennes, who were excellently well mounted, and behaued themselues valiantly. Cont Henrick left the towne well furnished of all things necessary, vnder the gouernment of Monsieur Van Vtenhooue, and the trenches vpon the Weert and ouer the Rhine, were committed to the charge of Sir William Ed∣monds a Scotish Colonel, as being necessary to be well garded. [ D]

The Marquis of Ausbach of the house of Brandenborgh, being come to Prince Maurice with certaine horsemen, and hee perceiuing that Spinola would besiege Rein∣berghe, and to that end had past ouer the riuer of Lippe, vpon the eight and twenty of August he followed him with his armie, to get hard b•…•… Wesel, that he might incampe himselfe betweene Wesel and Bislicke, and to that end he presently sent for ship-Brid∣ges; there to make a Bridge ouer the Rhine: and vpon the nine and twentie of August he past by Emericke, and so to Dornick, (where hee vnderstood that Spinola made a Sconce at the mouth of the riuer of Lippe, to let him from passing ouer,) and vpon the thirty of August he went to Wesel and there insconced himselfe.

Reinbergh being round about besieged, vpon the eight and twentie of August, they [ E] within sallied out of the towne ouer the Rhine vpon Spinolaes quarter, being lead by some French Gentlemen, in very good order, and to the great losse of their enemies. After that they made another salie out vpon Busquoyes quarter, where they were dri∣uen in againe by the enemie with sixe hundred horse, but the Ordinance of the towne plaied so vpon the horse-men, as they made a great spoile amongst them, at which time the Cont of La Flesche one of the French Gentlemen, venturing too boldly amongst the enemies, was taken prisoner.

In the meane time Spinola had made his bridge from Roewort ouer the Rhine, some∣what aboue Reinbergh, and caused great store of Fagots and other furniture to bee brought thether, to assaile the trenches ouer the Rhine, at which time also Prince [ F] Maurice in-sconced himselfe, staying for his ship-bridge that was to come vp against the streame, and by that meanes lost his opportunitie and meanes to relieue the Trenches which were before Reinbergh, for that before hee was well in-sconced, and

had gotten his shippe, it hapned that Collonell Edmonds (who had then commaunde * 1.247 [ A] of the sayd trenches In the Weert, and ouer the Rhyne, vppon the third of Sep∣tember) was shotte into the head (as hee lookt ouer the wall) whereof hee dyed, beeing an old experienced soldier and one who had serued the States long, and Col∣lonell of a regiment of Scottish men, a man of meane quallitie, but by his seruice ad∣uanced to much credit, presently after his death, they within the said intrenchments began to bee in doubt that they could no longer hold the same, and vppon this ima∣ginarie feare they resolued the next night after to leaue them, and to put their men into the Weert, and into the towne, which they did, breaking downe their bridge, and by that meanes Spinola gotte great aduantage, much incumbr•…•…ng Prince Maurices seeking to releeue the towne who at the same time hauing receiued some shippe-brid∣ges, [ B] was busied about making his bridge ouer the Rhyne, and to cause the English re∣giment vnder their Collonell Sir Edward Cicile to make a trench for the keeping of his bridge: besides the los•…•…e of the great intrenchment ouer the Rhyne, they of Rem∣bercke left diue•…•…s other workes, lying without the towne, as Cont Ernestus old quar∣ter, and the sconce of Hollestrate, which gaue the enemie great aduantage, and would haue beene the meanes to haue procured a releefe vnto the towne with more ease, where-vnto the long detraction of Prince Maurice did much helpe, for that it was the tenth of September before hee battered the sconce at Lippe, and beeing put backe from thence with a light skirmish, hee went into his quarter againe, but attempting the same againe vppon the twelfth of September, hee put ouer and there insconced [ C] him-selfe, and on the thirteenth of September brought the most part of his forces ouer the Riuer of Lippe, and assayled Spinolaes sconce, vpon the mouth of Lippe, the which (presently after they saw a peece of Ordinance) yeelded vp, from whence there * 1.248 went two hundred and seauenty men: The sconce was made with sixe points, but not fully finished: and although all Prince Maurices men were very willing to charge the enemie, neuerthelesse Prince Maurice by reason that hee was not there intrenched, and without victuals, and for that Spinola lay well insconced, as also that the wayes to come to him were well couered and very close, and for that Spinolas Campe was fortified by foure Regiments (brought thether by Fredericke Earle of Bergh) the which had bene taken vp about Liege) hee put all his willing men into his quarter againe, leauing some [ D] in the sconce which hee had taken, the which hee caused to bee fortefied, and made a bridge ouer the Lippe. From that time a doubt began to rise that Prince Maurice could not releeue the towne, for that the waies were to much couered, and Spinolas campe lay well insconced, the which was the more probable for that vppon the sixe∣teenth of September about euening Prince Maurice sent all his horsemen out of his Campe with Cont Henricke to put eleuen companies more into Meurs, besides the sixe companies that were in it, which Cont Henricke that night happely performed. Ma∣ny men discoursed strangely of Prince Maurices resolution, for that hee releeued not Reinbergh, but therein (as many men iudged) consisted many difficulties, because it was not well to bee releeued but with a battaile, which is vncertaine against an enemie [ E] which had aduantages, and was stronger then hee, and winning a battayle hee could gette no more but the releeuing of the towne, and losing the battayle hee should put the countrie in danger: On the other side if they sought by approches to gette neere to the enemie, hee should indanger his armie, and giue the enemie occasion by night (on the Riuer) to go downe and enter into the Betenwe, and so bring his proceedings to a worse Estate, whereas hee thought hee did well to keepe the heart of the Countrie from inuasion, and yet held his armie whole, ready vpon and good occasion to hazard further, and so 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Spinola strike of the tippes of his hornes, which might well be repai∣red, and could not infect the bodie within, nor bring it to the vttermost extremitie: In the meane time the•…•… within the towne made many sallies, and amongst the rest vppon [ F] the seauenteenth of September, at which time they sent out three horsemen with let∣ters from the Gouernor, the which past cleane through Spinolas campe, the letters cer∣•…•…efying Prince Maurice, that the enemie approched very neere vnto them on the luyt 〈◊〉〈◊〉 side, so as they could hardly hold out sixe daies longer.

The thirteenth of September they wrotte againe that the enemie had taken all * 1.249 [ A] their fortifications from them without the Luyt gate, and that they had gotten to the ditches of the towne, and had wonne the defences without the Castle gate, and that they were also gotten to the Bulwarke of the towne; so as hee saw not how to saue all the boates, shippe-bridges, and shippes that were there, and that their powder would sodainly fayle them, but notwithstanding all this, vpon the foure and twentith day of September they made a sallie, and tooke a halfe Moone againe from the enemie, which they before had lost, where they tooke certaine prisoners: where-vpon Spinola sent a Trumpet to the towne, for which cause they ceased their shooting (which otherwise neuer left off day nor night) which made all the places round about to suspect that they were in parle, but it was but a short prolongation [ B] of time.

But Prince Maurice (notwithstanding all these aduertisements) resolued not to releeue the towne, holding it impossible, and so lay still, thinking it best for him to keepe his armie in safety, and not to consume it by ouer-venturing vppon the enemie, in seeking meanes to releeue the towne, and to no end. Vppon the sixe and twentith * 1.250 day of September, the Deputies of the generall Estates came into the Campe, to know Prince Maurices minde and resolution, or else to moue him to vndertake the releefe of the towne, where-vnto they vsed a long perswasion, but hee would not bee brought there-vnto, esteeming it both impossible and vnnecessary, where of one of his chiefe reasons was, that, that the Towne was not to bee releeued, but along by the East side of the Rhyne, and by bringing the armie neere, which could [ C] not bee done by any sodaine enterprize, but by approaches, by which meanes Prince Maurice feared, that Spinola would leaue Reinbergh, and on the one side keepe his armie still in alarme, and on the other side seeke to doe some exployt in the Betouwe, whether Prince Maurice should bee forced to go to ayd it, and in such a case his ar∣mie (beeing mixed with the enemies) could not well gette from them without con∣fusion; besides hee sayd that to bee alwayes readie, and to haue meanes to ayd those places that were of most importance, hee thought it best to keepe his Armye free and whole: which reasons by those which had experience in warres were well allowed of, and thought to bee of great importance, for that men must alwaies haue a care to keep woundes from their hearts. Therefore seeing that they could not releeue the [ D] towne, diuers of them propounded a question, whether by leauing it off, they might not attempt something else of consequence, many beeing of opinion that Prince Maurice had committed an error for that hee had not beseeged Grol, when hee saw hee could not helpe Reinbergh, but that was not so much vrged, some reasons lea∣ding to the contrary; at last they resolued to enterprize something against Venlo, to see in the meane time if they could gette it, to which end it was agreed that Cont Henricke with twelue hundred horse and sixe thousand footemen should attempt it, and that the same night it should bee attempted, Prince Maurice with the rest of the armie should lie in the way, that leadeth from Reinbergh to Venlo to preuent them that vpon the alarum giuen at Venlo would aduenture to go thither from the enemies campe. [ E]

To this end Cont Henricke and Cont Earnest with their troopes vppon the last of September departed out of their campe to Grawenweert, from thence to turne againe to Venlo, and vpon the first of October in the night to take their enterprize in hand, Prince Maurice also went from the campe the same night to the aforesaid way, but there hapned a great alteration in the meane time, for that they of Reinbergh, beeing out of hope of releefe, and perceiuing that the enemie had gotten so neere vnto the towne, as they were in great danger thereof, vpon the same day beeing the first of Octo∣ber they compounded with Spinola, to yeeld the towne vnto him. Cont Henricke be∣ing before Venlo with his Petards, brake open the gate before day light, but the [ F] alarme was to soone giuen within the towne, for that the same euening there was a company of horsemen ledde by Mounsier Van Etten Generall of the victuals, * 1.251 come into the Towne, whereby it hapned, that some of Cont Henricks men beeing alreadie entred into the Towne, were by the sayd horsemen (with some

losse) driuen out againe, and forced to retire. Prince Maurice also lay on the waie * 1.252 [ A] but to no end, for that Spinola, had commanded that no man should that night go out of the campe.

They of Reinbergh agreed with Spinola to depart the towne with armes and bag∣gage like souldiers, and with three peeces of ordinance that laie in the Weert, as also * 1.253 the new Geusen, or Saint Andreas souldiers, but they must leaue al the shippes, puntes, bridges, and the rest of the ordinance, and so vpon the second daie of October, there is∣sued three thousand men, with three companies of Ruyters, with the dead bodie of general Edmonds, it is thought there were fiue hundred lost within the towne, both dead and wounded: The French gentlemen also departed from thence with their ho∣nours, as also the gouernor and the Lord of Sweten: it seemeth that the greatest cause of the giuing ouer of the towne was, that they saw no hope of releife, and there∣fore [ B] without staying to trie the vttermost extreamitie, they made a composition in time, pretending some feare to want powder, whereof at the first they had great store, and had beene verie prodigall, for they had aboue a hundred thousand pound of pow∣der, which as then they had brought to thirty thousand pound, and there withall they had a kinde of feare so as they durst not trie the last euent of armes.

It was thought there were many of the enemies slaine before the towne, and amongst the rest three Engeneurs or maisters of the fortifications, & Pompeio Romano their chiefe * 1.254 Engeneur wounded, before it also was slaine Collonel de Tores who had the regi∣ment of Catrice, and the Lieutenant Collonel of the Barron of Achicourt, with diuers [ C] others of great quality, as the cousins of Spinola and the Earle of Busquoy. Their losse of men was found to bee so great, at also by reason of the disease and wetnesse of the weather, as their companies at the musters were found to bee but fortie or fiftie strong, so as many regiments (as amongst the rest two Italian regiments, one Cont Guydo S^t. Georgios, the other Pompeto Iustinianios) were lesse by a third part then they should bee.

By meanes of the winning of this towne, Spinola had great aduantage, and much helpe, for thereby hee had meanes to haue victualls follow him from the towne of Cologne and the country of Cleaue, and all little inough, by reason that the waies (by meanes of the great store of raine that had fallen) were so foule and deepe, as [ D] they had no sourage for their horses, the corne in many places with the raine and foule wether beeing beaten flat vpon the ground, and by the many and diuers enterprises made by the souldiers on both sides a great number of places were vtterly ruined and spoiled, and therefore the shippes, ship-bridges, ponts, and ordinance which they got in Reinberghe, came well to passe for them, Spinola was in all places commended for the good order and discipline hee obserued amongst all his souldiers, and in these Netherland warres no man better deserued it, which was the cause, that his army was not euill thought-on in the newterall countries.

The losse of Reinberghe caused no small feare in the vnited Prouinces, each [ E] towne obseruing and iudging of his owne weaknesse: that maxime or oppinion long holden by them beeing then broken, which is, that a towne which is besieged, beeing well furnished with good store of braue souldiers, and seconded with an army to aide them, might bee esteemed inuincible, but these our warres haue many and often times prooued the contrary, for which cause many faint-hearted people complained of the long warres, and the great charges thereof, wherevnto it was a great fur∣therance, that the old, stoute, resolute men, which had felt the Spanish yoake, were most of them dead, and that the gouernment of the state is not now in the hands of such zealous persons.

The Marquis Spinola hauing wonne honour in the taking of Rhine-Berck, went [ F] and lodged his armie in the countrie of Iuilliers, in the Diocesse of Cologne and there∣abouts: * 1.255 the which Prince Maurice vnderstanding, hee raised his campe and marcht with all sp•…•…ed before Grol, with an intent to recouer it againe, lodging his men in the towne ditches, without any one cannon shot.

But Spinola aduertised of this desseigne, hee presently gathers his forces together, * 1.256 [ A] and what with faire promises, and some little money, he perswaded them to march, for the freeing of that Towne: which the Prince vnderstanding and winter draw∣ing on, hee raised his campe, and so both the Armies returned to their garrisons to winter and rest their men; this was in Nouember.

The mutines of Dyest continued all this time in their mutinie, seeking to drawe contribution from all the frontiers, euen out of Germanie, vntill they were payed. * 1.257 The which the Prince Elector of Mentz vnderstanding, hee caused a dyet of the Cir∣cles to bee held at Ouerwezel, to ptouide some meanes to stop their incursions, but there was nothing effected: but in the end the King of Spaine and the Arch-dukes, were forced to giue them contentment. More-ouer Dom Ihon de Medicis, hauing [ B] three and twentie companies of foote, and foure Cornets of horse, entred into the countrie of Mont Iean, belonging vnto the Duke of Cleues, and so into the Duchie of Iuilliers, his men were Italians, and new come, committing all the spoiles and insolencies they could deuise. This did adde more to the miseries of those quarters, who had nothing common with the warres of the Netherlands.

In Ianuary 1607. the mutines of Dyest made a roade euen vnto the suburbes of Liere, the which they sayd was friend to the King of Spaine and to the Arch-dukes, and therefore subiect to contribution as well as the Netherlands, whereof th•…•…y came to doe execution; by Lont-recht, as they call it, (which is as much to say as Militarie Iustice.) But the Townes-men (who are giuen to armes) tooke armes [ C] and chased them away, with the losse of foure of them, and fiue and twentie of the mu∣tines, which made them retire, spoiling some farmes there-abouts. But in other places they did so terrifie them with threats, as they forced them of the Duchie of Iuilliers to giue them ten thousand rycx Dallers, they of Cologne seauen thousand, the Abbot of Duyts eight thousand, and that within eight or ten daies, vpon paine of military exe∣cution. They did also taxe the Abbat of Cornelis Munster at sixeteene thousand ricx Dallers, but the refusing it, did leuie men, & muster vp all his subiects to resist them. But soone after there cam•…•… an assignation out of Spaine for six hundred thousand Ducats▪ to be paied in sixe moneths: so as the mutines were satisfied according to the agree∣ment they had made with the Archdukes, and had leaue to depart freely where they [ D] pleased, yea eight hundred of them that were last proclaimed, were to depart the coun∣trie within foure and twenty houres. So as such as were in Flanders, retired some to Calais, and some into Picardie, for that their heads were rated, euery one according to his qualitie. These are the preiudiciall fruites of mutinies, who in the end (after much harme and mischiefe done) must needs be payed.

To end the troubles betweene the Earle of East-freezeland and the towne of Emb∣den, * 1.258 this yeare certaine mediators tooke vpon them to deale therein; as the King of England, by a Gentleman called M^r. Ralph Winwood, now a Knight, who lay at the Hage for the said King, and certaine Deputies for the Estates, as Iohn Ba•…•…el, Iacob Boelissen Vi∣tus Caninga, and Abel Coenders van Helpen, who propounded certaine articles vnto both [ E] parties, as to hold and obserue the last treatie •…•…ade in the Hage, and all other treaties, decrees, and contracts to remaine in full force, with-out preiudice or innouation of those of Embden, and touching ciuill actions, namely the order concerning money, and the yearely acknowledment of all that is contained in the first article of the accorde made, as also the ciuill controuersies and actions, concerning the iurisdicti∣on, they should bee left to the disposition and deciding of the cordinary iudge, with∣out preiudice to any man.

That they of Embden, according to the decree made in the Hage, should restore the Ordinance and other things which they had gotten.

Further, that th•…•…y of Embden should suffer the Earle to enter, and yeeld vnto him [ F] the imposts of the wines, and the iust halfe of the forfeitures that should bee made; vntill those matters were otherwise determined and decided. That the Comman∣der and those of the garrison should maintaine them-selues by Hunting, Fowling and Fishing, as well by land as by water, and to that end and purpose the Earle should

without refusall giue the Burgers of Embden conuenient letters for the seas, and in∣treat * 1.259 [ A] for the prisoners, that they with their shippes and goods might bee released in euery place. That the Earle should promise to suffer them of Embden to enioy the be∣nefit of neuteralitie, both by water and by land, and to doe all that belonged vnto a good Lord and Soueraigne Commander. Lastly, that all extraordinary exactions should cease and be called in againe; and all offences and iniuries should bee remitted and quite forgotten, and from thence-forth a good peace and vnity entertained on both sides. These are the principall points that were set downe and propounded vnto both parties by the said Committies, and with their consents agreed vnto, the which were found and confirmed by them to be reasonable and good, hoping they should bee held and well obserued: and if it fell out that the said Earle, or those of Embden, did breake [ B] this accord, the said Committies should mooue the King and the generall Estates, to reuenge such iniuries by force, and by no meanes permit any thing to bee done to the contrary: this was concluded in the Hage, vpon the tenth of Nouember 1606. and signed by the said Committies: after the which they of Embden deliuered the Earle his Ordinance and other munition which had beene taken from him.

Vpon the tenth of Ianuary 1607. the Earle caused the said agreement to be openly * 1.260 proclaimed.

The last of Ianuary 1607. at the earnest request and intercession of the Townes∣men of Groning, it was agreed by the generall Estates of the vnited Prouinces, that * 1.261 the Castle made there to keepe the towne in awe, should bee opened and throwne [ C] downe towards the Towne, at such a time when as euery man did iudge it was not to bee done: for the effecting whereof an Ingeneur was sent thether vpon the third of Februarie.

This yeare the yong Earle of Brooke a Nobleman of great hope, riding out of * 1.262 Holland to the house of Brooke vnto his brother, with a small conuoye of horse-men, was intercepted and watched for in the way, by certaine Spanish Souldiers (vpon ha∣tred which in times past they had borne vnto the Earle his Father, and yet had reuen∣ged it at their pleasures,) vpon the way as he went by Wesel, with foureteene horse∣men, the Spaniards mette him, first taking his Secretarie who roade before, and him they stabd with Bodkins, to make him tell them the trueth of his Lord; who being thus [ D] tormented, was forced to confesse his comming after, then there followed two of the Earles pages, whom they presently slue, for that they would not confesse any thing of the Earle; after that came the Earle with foure horse-men, and some Gentlemen, vpon whom the Spaniards fell, and because he would not yeeld himselfe, they shotte him into the body, and after cruelly murthered him, giuing him diuerse wounds after that hee was dead, doing the like to some of the Gentlemen that were with him; yet some of the company escaped. This acte was much abhorred by all the country there-abouts.

The 7. of February Cont Henrie assembling a good number of horse-men of the vnited Prouinces, and certaine footmen (which he set vpon peasants horses) he thought there-with to charge two regiments of Spinolaes horsemen, lying dispersed in the coun∣trie [ E] of Limborgh: And vpon the eight of February hee began to set forward, but the said regiments vnderstanding thereof, got into the next towne there-abouts, whereby * 1.263 that enterprise was disapointed. Where-vpon Cont Henrick returning back againe, fell vpon a small towne called Erckenlens, wherein Frederick Vanden Berghe lay.

And vpon the eleuenth of February in the morning, by the meanes of a Petrad, he entred it, and tooke the Earle of Berghe prisoner, and about fiftie of his horsemen; the rest being out of the towne: and for that the Burgers of the said towne during the time of their ne•…•…tralitie, had vsed much crueltie and hard dealing against the soldiers which serued the vnited Prouinces, as also being then strengthened with a garrison of their enemies, he suffered it to be spoiled, and after burnt it, and so they departed with [ F] the bootie gotten therin.

As the King of Spaine had prepared a great fleete of shippes, of all sorts, well man∣ned * 1.264 with Soldiers, and furnished with all things necessary, meaning to annoy the vnited Prouinces all he could. So likewise the vnited Prouinces being duly informed thereof,

they for their parts did also arme to sea twenty seauen shippes of warre and foure for * 1.265 [ A] victualls and munition. Of which fleet they made Iames Hemskerke of Amsterdam Ad∣mirall, whose wisdome, courage and experience, together with his loyallty and loue to his country, was wellknowne to all the world by his many good seruices.

Vpon the twenty fiue of March hauing all things redy, hee sailed out of Texel with * 1.266 sixteene shippes of warre and one pinace, with whome there ioyned the foure victu∣allers, there came three also from Enchuysen, and three from Horne making twenty two shippes of Warre: vpon the twenty seauen day they came vnder the Ile of Wight, where they found three shippes more of Zeeland, and fiue of Rotterdamme with an other pinace of Amsterdam. There was a forth shippe of Zeland runne on ground, so as they tooke the men and munition out of it, and put them into other shippes. [ B] On the twenty nine day they set saile from the Ile of Wight, and two daies after the Admirall Hemskerke (hauing all his fleet together) went on with an Easterly winde towards Portugall and Spaine, so as on the tenth of Aprill they came vnto the height of thirty six degrees neere vnto the riuer of Lisbone. There the Admirall called his * 1.267 captaines and councell aboard, where they resolued to enter into that riuer with their whole fleet, and to set vpon the carraques and gallions which they should finde there. But the Admirall being certenly aduertised by his spies (which hee had sent into Lisbon in an English shippe) that the carraques were most of them gone forth, and that there remained but eight or nine, not halfe furnished and without artillery. More∣ouer hauing intelligence from certaine French shippes comming from Saint Lucars [ C] and from Cabiz, that there were sixteene gallions gone towards the West Indies, and ten others well appointed lying in the straight of Gibraltar, with many other shippes appointed for warre, attending there such of the vnited Prouinces shippes as should come out of Italy and the Leuant seas, which they knew were many. This made the Admirall to take a new resolution to goe and visit this fleet euen in the straights. Then they bent their course towards Cape Saint Vincent, where they turned on the left hand, and lost sight of one of their company: there they met with a shippe of Flushing, which came through the straights on the twenty day, telling him that he past through the Spanish army in the night, and being out of the Straight, they semed to him in the morning as if they would take their course towards Cadiz, for that they could notly within the straight, the wind being Easterly. [ D]

The Admirall hearing this, continued his course, and on the twenty foure of Aprill they past close by the riuer of Saint Lucars, and the Baye of Cadiz but they could not learne that any shippes were entred, where the Admirall had fully resolued to charge them, were it in the riuer of S. Lucars or in the Bay. The same day he had certaine in∣telligence * 1.268 of the Spanish fleet, by a Frenchman which came out of the road of Gibral∣tar, who duly informd him of the strength and Estate of the Spanish army. At night (for that the wind was westerly) thy bent their course southward, towards the coast of Barbary, from whence in the morning they turned againe towards Spaine: when the Admirall came into the narrowest part of the straight, he called all his Captaines a∣board, etting them vnderstand what the French man had said vnto him, where they did [ E] aduisedly consult of their affaiers, and in the end resolued to set vpon the Spanish fleet, appointing euery one his place how hee should fight. The Admirall Hemskerke with Captaine Moye Lambert should charge the Admirall, the Vice-admirall Alteras with captaine Bras should vndertake the Spanish Vice-admirall, and so euery two shippes of warre should take'a galleoun to taske, the two Pinaces and a barge were appointed to lie out at sea, to charge any ship or gallioun that should offer to fly, but the foure victualers should lie a loose. The Admirall hauing set all things in good order, hee incorraged the Captaines, recommending vnto them the honor and profit which this victorie would bring vnto their country, telling them that hee would bee the first, [ F] and intreating them to lay aside all feare, where-vpon they did all sweare ioyntly vnto him that they would follow him and obey him vnto the death: where vpon euery one departed to his ship. Then they sailed towards Gibraltar to seeke the enemy, whome they descouered about noone, being at anchor in the Baye of Gibraltar, within cannon

shot of the towne and Castle. * 1.269 [ A]

They were in all twenty one, that is nine great galliouns and foure shippes of warre, with a great shippe of Lubecke of foure hundred lasts, who was come into the roade, to stay for a winde to goe to Cadiz, their were foure French shippes, and three pri∣zes, two of Enchuysen and one of Rotterdam; all which shippes they had manned with soldiars, to attend the Estates army; for the Duke of Medina Sidonia hearing that they had past before his riuer and before Cadiz, he presently dispacht a post to Gibraltar, to aduertise the Spanish fleete of the comming of the Estates men, wishing them to stand vpon their gard: They had the like aduertisment sent from Cadiz, so as the same day they did •…•…ortefie their army with three hundred men, of the which there were a hundred caualiers, which came voluntarily to serue the Admirall, so as the Admirall had about seauen hundred men abord his shippe, and the Viceadmirall some foure [ B] hundred and fifty, as it was since vnderstood by prisoners. The galliouns were well appointed with brasse ordinance, and euery one had two hundred and fifty soldiars at the least, besides marriners. The Admirall was Don Iuan Aluares d' Auila, borne at Esturges, an ancient knight, who had long serued the King of Spaine at sea, euen all the time of Don Iohn of Austria, his shippe was the Saint Augustine, of eigh hun∣dred tonne: the Admiralls sonne (bearing his owne name) was Captaine of that galleoun; the names of the other Galeouns Iomit for breuity sake, the repetition being not greatly necessarie.

The Admirall Hemskerke hauing the Spanish fleete in sight, hauing praied vnto [ C] God, and set things in order, hee bent his course directly towards them, and caused his flag to be nayled fast to the toppe of his maine mast, that it might not be dismoun∣ted, promising a hundred rialls of eight to any one of his men that should bring the Spanish Admiralls flag, exhorting his men to shew their valours and resolutions, promising them they should freely enioy what-souer they should take from the ene∣my, without any question, the which (together with their Admiralls resolution) did so incourrage them, as they thought the time long vntill they were ioyned with the ennemy.

The Spanish Admirall hauing in like manner descouered the States fleet, he called for the Maister of a shippe of Rotterdam, a prisoner whome he set at liberty, and [ D] shewing him the Estates shippes, he asked him if he thought they durst come vnto him, where-vpon the other answered. Sir with your good fauor I thinke, they dare do it: The which the Admirall could not beleeue, seeing he had so great aduantage, lying vnder the fauor of the towne and Castle, yet when hee perceiued that they came with full •…•…ayles towards him, hee caused his cable to be cut, (for he lay at the point) and retired more into the Baye, towards the towne, so as he had the Vice∣admirall and three other galleouns to couer him, the which the Admirall Hemskerk perceiuing, he went on his course, leauing the Viceadmirall and the galleouns on his left hand, causing an anchor to be set on the toppe of his prowe, redy to let downe: commanding they should not let it slippe before that hee was grappeled to [ E] the Spanish Admirall, forbidding them also to shoot, vntill they were very neere vnto the enemy, and so hee sayled towards the Admirall; being in the head of him, the Spainard made the first shot, but did no great harme; the Admirall Hemskerke an∣swered him with two peeces from before, and presently grapled with the Spaniard, letting slippe his anchor.

The Spaniard with the second shotte he made slue a young Gentleman, and the boullet passing on by misfortune strooke of the Admirall Hemskerkes left thigh close to his body, where-with hee fell, and the same boullet carried away a gonners * 1.270 hand, where-with he was ready to giue fier. This valiant Admirall fealing death appro∣ching, incouraged them that were about him all he could, intreating them to pro∣ceed [ F] as they had well begon, and to put an other in his place, then recommending his soule to GOD, hee gaue vp the ghost. And thus this braue Captaine died like a right soldiar in his armes.

In the meane space they shotte so furiously of eyther side, both with their Canon and * 1.271 [ A] Muskets, as the•…•… could not see for smoake. Captaine Lambert, who had charge to se∣cond his Admirall (whose death was not knowne vnto the rest, vntill the victory was assured) charged the Spanish Admirall first in poupe, making a great spoile of his men, then hee came in flanke behinde the Admirall Hemskerke; annoying the Spa∣niard all hee could with his Ordinance. It is a hard matter to describe how furi∣ously they did fight on both sides. For although the Estates shippes were not halfe so well manned as their enemies, yet hoping of victorie they did fight like Lions, and partly to bee reuenged of that which the Spaniards had made them suffer, as well in prison, as in their Galleys, and other-wise.

When as the Admirall Hemskerke went on first to charge the Spanish Admirall, * 1.272 [ B] all the other Shippes followed him, according to their direction, the Spanish Vize-Admirall was grappled with, and (after halfe an houres fight) set on fire, during this charge, and as the fire begunne, there was one of the Estates men fetcht downe the Vize-Admirals Flagge, and carryed it into his shippe, for which vali∣ant act hee had fiftie ryals of eight giuen him as the Admirall had promised: but the fire increased in such sort, as the Estates shippes could hardly free them∣selues from fiering, so as they burnt some part of their sailes: but no man sought to quench the fire in the Spanish Vize-admirall burning downe to the Keele. Such as escaped the fire cast themselues into the water, and were most of them slaine, the rest were all in a manner taken prisoners. [ C]

A Galleon which lay behinde the Spanish Vize-admirall was also in fight with three * 1.273 of the Estates shippes, after some fight Lange Hendricke one of the Estates Captaines was slaine with a Musket shotte. They of the Gallion seeing their Vize-admirals Flagge downe, they presently planted one vpon their missen Mast, but it was soone pulled away by a Hollander, and the Galleon fired, which burnt euen vnto the water: an other Galleon was so plyed with the Canon, as it was soone sunke.

The rest of the Spanish Fleete beeing retired more into the Baye with their Admi∣rall, seeing how the game went, plyed the Hollanders with their Canon, who answe∣red them in like manner, but yet they neuer came to handie blowes, nor to graple, but in the end one of the Spaniards with much shooting, and inconsideratly, set fire of his owne shippe, which driuing downe, fired an other that was before him; [ D] the rest terrified with these fiers, cutte their Cables and ranne on ground, seeking nothing more then to saue their liues. And among others the Lubeck shippe was set on fire.

All this time the Spanish Admirall was in fight with two shippes, which did so plye him with their Ordinance, as hee left shooting, putting forth a white * 1.274 Flagge in signe of a parlee, the which stayed not the batterie. In the meane time, another Galleon being in fight, was set on fire, the men thinking to flie in their boates to their Admirall, who made no more resistance, came vnto the Admirall of Holland. One of the Estates Trumpeters went vp and pulled away the Spanish Ad∣miralls Flagge, for the which hee had a hundred ryalls of eight as the Admirall [ E] Hemskerke had promised. The Spanish Admirall being thus vanquished, hauing lost many men, they threw themselues by ten or twelue at a time into the sea seeking their safety by swimming, but the Hollanders being in their boates slue all they met withall in their furie, so as the dead carcases did lye floating in the Baye, as if it had beene in a champian field. This battaile began about three of the clock in the after noone, and en∣ded foure houres after in the euening, when as the Estates had a full and absolute victo∣rie. * 1.275 This hardie and dangerous battaile was attempted by the valour and great reso∣lution of the Admirall Hemskerke, and happily ended by ten or twelue shippes at the most. The next day morning the Spanish Admirall being runne a ground vpon the [ F] Sandes, they of the towne went forth, cut downe her maine Mast, & then set fire on her, easing the Hollanders of that paine.

It was an admirable and fearefull thing to see these Gallions and shippes burne, especially when the fire came to the poulder, then it was like vnto a horrible thunder.

The Sea and land were couered with smoake for a long time, like thicke cloudes which * 1.276 [ A] mounted vp to heauen.

Besides the Admiralls Gallion there were fiue others burnt, with an other great shippe of warre which the Spaniards had taken at Sea, and that of Lubecke: There was an other Gallion sunke, the other two ranne a ground, the which were so battered * 1.277 and torne as they were not fitte for any more seruice. There was also run a shoare a French shippe, that of Roterdam, and one of Enchusen, and al the rest of the Spaniards ships of war were run a ground here and there neere vnto the shoare.

There were not aboue fifty Spaniards prisoners, who confest that there were 4000. men in their armie, of the which there were 2000. lost at the battayle, among the which * 1.278 was their Admirall, and many other Captaines and Gentlemen, whose names could [ B] not be recouered. Among the prisoners was Don Iohn Aluarez D'Auila the Admirals sonne who was carryed into Holland. Of the Hollanders side, the Admirall Hemskerke was slaine at the first charge, with some 100. men, and about 60. hurt.

On the 26. day the Estates ships withdrew them-selues a little from the towne and Castle, and drest their hurt men, as well as they could: during their abode there, they might see many soldiers both horse and foote vppon the sands, running towards Gibraltar, for they did confidently beleeue that the Estates men would make an at∣tempt to spoile the towne, where they were in such feare, as they began to pack vp their baggage, and to flye away.

On the seauen and twentith day the Estates armie past ouer to the Coast of Barba∣rie, [ C] sayling so neere the Towne of Ceuta and other places belonging vnto the King of Spaine, as they shotte at the shippes, many of them beeing on horse backe fearing their descent. But they past on vntill they came vnto the Rode of Tituan, a strong Towne fiue Leagues from Ceuta, belonging to the Moores, there to repare their shippes which had beene spoiled with the Canon: comming before the towne they were curteously intertained: The Gouernor with many Turkish Gentlemen, went aboard to welcome them, offering them all friendship and assistance, and sending Oranges and Lymons, with diuers other sort of fruites to refresh them, shewing great signes of ioy for their victory. Those that were a shoare were much honoured of all men. The Gouernor offered to lend them good numbers of horse and foote, if with [ D] their ships they would attempt any thing vppon Ceuta, but they excused them-selues vpon other disseignes.

Their shippes beeing well repayred, and all things in good order, the Vice-Admiral Alteras was made Admirall, and Peter Werhoef was Vice-Admirall: then they tooke councell which way they might annoy the enemie more: in the end they concluded * 1.279 that the Vice-Admiral with part of the Fleete should go to the Islands to seeke their aduenture, and the Admirall with the rest should lye vppon the Coastes of Spaine and Portugall, and two of their victuallers with a shippe of warre, should carry backe the Admirall Hemskerkes body imbalmed into Holland, who arriued at Amsterdam the fift of Iune, where three daies after hee was interred with an honourable Military [ E] pomp, as his loyaltie and great seruices done vnto his countrie had well deserued: his * 1.280 body was carryed by twelue Captaines, beeing accompanied with all rites and Cere∣monies belonging vnto such a Commander, and followed by the Councell of the Ad∣miraltie, Magistrates of the townes, Collonels, Councel at war, Captaines, Officers, Gentlemen, Marchants aduenturers to the East Indies, with al the chief Burgers of the towne, in very good order.

The generall Estates for a perpetual memorie of his seruices, caused a goodly tombe to be built vp for him, with his armes ouer it, and on the West side there was a faire ta∣ble of Iette, in the which were grauen in golden letters, the painful voyages and vertuous acts done by him in his life time. * 1.281 [ F]

It had long beene sought and practised in the Netherlands how to at∣taine vnto a Truce or surceance from armes, but the Vnited Prouinces re∣membring what happened to Sextus Pompeius, sonne to Pompeius the great vpon his Treatie with the Emperour Augustus, they alwayes feared it, yet at the last it

brake forth after a strange manner. In May 1606. Monsieur Walraue van Wittenhorst, * 1.282 [ A] Drossart of the land of Kessel, came for that purpose to the Hage in Holland, but as then he could effect nothing touching the same, nor yet once haue audience granted him: after that in December following he came into Holland againe with one maister Iohn Geuart Licenciate in the lawes, and Secretarie of Tournhout, making knowne to some of the Estates that they had instructions dated In May, containing that the Arch∣dukes were wholy addicted, to cease the long continued bloudy warres, and to reduce the countrie vnto a good peace, vpon such reasonable conditions, as the Prouinces should be well content there-with, which was, that they knew the vprightnesse of their intents, and that they desired nothing else but that which was their owne, and that therefore they were content that the Estates themselues should aske what they [ B] thought conuenient to demand of them for their owne securities, wherein they would giue them all-reasonable satisfaction, and that if they would hearken therevnto, or to a truce for many yeares, they should appoint time and place, and they would agree there-vnto, yea although they thought it not good to haue it openly done, but secretly, and by few men there-vnto appointed, and that their meaning was not to cir∣cumuent them, &c.

Besides this the Archdukes had written a letter of the 12. of December 1606. that they had once againe sent the Gentlemen aforesaid into Holland, to make an offer of a treatie of peace, and that if they were more addicted to a truce then to a peace, they should certifie their mindes therein. The Archdukes (in regard of their great affection & desire to peace) might willingly hearken there-vnto. Wher-vpon they began to deale [ C] priuatlie one with an other, but for that they had no letters directed vnto the generall Estates, they thought it not good to make the matter openly knowne, before they had further commission from the Archdukes, for which cause in December, the sayd Ge∣uarts went in all hast to Brussels, & from thence brought a Commission from the Arch∣dukes, bearing date the third of Ianuary 1607. containing a charge imposed vpon the said Monsieur Van Horst, and Secretary Geuarts, that they at the first assembly of the Estates, should in their behalfe signifie vnto them, that they were ready to hearken vnto a peace, and for the treating thereof, were content to appoint Commissioners, & to giue the Estates all reasonable contentment, or that if they would rather hearken vnto a truce, that the Archdukes were also content to do it, for such time as should be agreed [ D] vpon. Who being come vnto the Hage vpon the ninth of Ianuary with this Commis∣sion, * 1.283 they presently began to craue audience for the same of the generall Estates, and vpon the tenth of Ianuary they spake with Prince Maurice: and after that vpon the thirteenth of Ianuary, they had audience giuen them by the generall Estates, where they declared the effect of their charge and commission, desiring the Estates withall to remember and call to minde the doubtfull euents of warre, and there-vpon to dispose themselues to a good peace or truce, thereby to reduce the countries vnto quietnesse and to their ancient prosperitie, &c.

Where-vnto, vpon the seauen and twenty of Ianuary, answer was made them, (after some rehearsall of that which had past in former times) that the Estates perceiued [ E] that the Arch-dukes still continued in their groundlesse pretences, of hauing right and lawfull title vnto the vnited Prouinces, whereas they affirmed before all the world, and know it to be euident and apparent, that there was no manner of title to be preten∣ded by the said Archdukes vnto the said vnited Prouinces, but onely by force and bloo∣die warres, and that to the contrary the sayd generall Estates, vpon good and lawfull pretences by them alwayes held and maintained, and without doubt presume the same to bee grounded vpon right and reason; and to the vnitie made amongst the sayd Netherland Prouinces, hoping once againe to reduce and ioyne all that which by force and practises had beene taken from the sayd vnion, with violation of the so∣lemne decree, whereby the Netherlands, by so inuincible and lawfull reasons, are de∣clared [ F] to bee a free state, which decree from the fiue and twenty of Ianuary 1582, the∣therwards by diuerse publike acts and declarations, and by the mightiest Kings and Po∣tentates of Europe had beene confirmed. And for that cause they had determined to

endeuour with all the force and power they could make, to recouer the same, and that * 1.284 [ A] as then for that time they could giue no further answer therein, then such as in former times they had made to the Emperors Maiestie and other Princes, which was, that they held 〈◊〉〈◊〉 for a Maxime that they could not by any godly, honourable, nor as∣sured meanes, deale with those that contrary to the aforesaid decree, maintained and would affirme them-selues to haue right vnto the vnited Prouinces, or that continued in the said pretence, protesting against al the wrongs that the said Prouinces or members thereof, in proceeding with so lawful a cause might sustaine therereby. Here-with the said Commissioners departed, to make report of their proceedings, after which time the said Mounsier van Horst wrot a letter vnto the Estates to certefie thē that the mea∣ning & intent of the Arch-dukes was not by that treaty to get or pretēd any aduantage [ B] vpon or against the vnited Prouinces, but to let them remain as they are, & that if they were content to treat in that manner, he would be content to hearken there-vnto, as be∣ing ready to do it. In the end of February▪ one Iohn Neyen Prouincial for the Franciscan * 1.285 Friers (son to M•…•…rten Neyen who had bin wel acquainted with William Prince of Orāge) came from Brussels into Holland, as Deputy from the Arch-dukes; who at his first com∣ming staid very quietly at Ryswicke, from whence he certefied the reason of his com∣ming; which was to know the cause why the proceedings of Mounsieur van Horst tooke no effect, and after that he had particularly spoken with Prince Maurice, he had licence to come to the H•…•…ge, where he had conference with diuers persons, and also had audi∣ence of Prince Maurice, to whom he said that the Arch-dukes meaning was not by the [ C] treatie of truce or peace to make or strengthen his title better, nor yet worse, but to treat with the Estates in such qualitie as they were. Where-vpon it being giuen him to vnderstand, that the Arch-dukes must acknowledge that State to be a free State, be∣fore they could enter into any treatie with him, the said Frier Iohn Neyen took vpon him to bring the Arch dukes there-vnto, thereby to shun al further blood-shed &c. And to that end vpon the 9. of March he departed in Prince Maurices Pinnace, and went to the Scheld and so to Antwerp. A fit man to deale with a free nation, being eloquent and wel spoken, and (in outward apparance) simple and without deceipt.

By the mediation of this Deputie imployed by the Arch-dukes (who vppon the 17. of March returned to the Hage againe) it was so wrought on both sides, as they resol∣ued [ D] to proceed to a treatie, vpon the receit of this declaration following.

The Arch-dukes haue thought it conuenient to certefie the generall Estates of the * 1.286 vnited Prouinces, of their offer, which is, that they (desiring nothing more, then to see the Netherlands togither with the good inhabitants of the same, free from the miseries of these bloody wars) vpon good deliberation declare by these presents, that they are content to t•…•…eat with the generall Estates of the vnited Prouinces, in qualitie, and holding them for free countries, Prouinces & States, where-vnto they pretend not any title: whether it be by way of perpetual peace, or truce, and abstinance from armes for 12. 15. or 2•…•… ye•…•…res, at the choyce of the said Estates; al vpon reasonable conditions. In the which conditions, whether it be by conclusion of a general peace, or a truce and [ E] abstinance from wars, it shall be agreed that each partie shal hold that he hath, vnlesse that by them & the Estates (thereby to accommodate the Prouinces by exchanging of any townes and places) by acommon consent it shal be otherwise agreed vpon▪ as also concerning the manner and assuring of mutuall nauigation, trafficke, commerce with their dependances, togither with their interuentions, consents and confirmations of that which shal be granted and concluded vpon: and further hauing duly considered of the Estate and scituation of the vnited Prouinces, and desiring to deale sincerely and without deceipt with them, as also to giue the sayd Estates time to consider and resolue vpon that which shall bee most conuenient for their good and best preferment. They are content that such persons as are borne in the Netherlands & by them to be appoin∣ted [ F] as Deputies, shall be assembled with the like number of Deputies appointed by the said States, at such time & place, as the said States shal chuse: and that the things before mentioned may the better be performed, whether it be by a continuall peace or a truce for a time, they are content that for the space of eight moneths next insuing, there shal

be a truce and abstinance from all beseegings or surprizings of townes and fortes, in∣uasions * 1.287 [ A] or taking of prouinces or quarters, or making of new sconces, so that the Estates aforesaid will agree vnto this prouisionall truce, within eight daies after the sight heere∣of, and before the first of September next insuing, deliuer their mindes in writing (tou∣ching the truce aforesaid, togither with the time and place which they shall chuse) vn∣to the said Arch-dukes. Dated in Brusselles vnder the hands and seales of their High∣nesses, the 13. of March. 1607.

Where-vnto the Generall Estates made answer by an other declaration as fol∣loweth.

The generall Estates as States of free Countries and Prouinces, (wherevnto the Arch-dukes pretend no title at all) desiring also nothing more, then to settle a chris∣tian, honourable and an assured end and release of the miseries of this warre, vppon [ B] due deliberation, and by the aduice of his Excellencie, and the Councell of Estate, haue accepted of the declaration made by the said Arch-dukes, who therein declare the aforesaid vnited Prouinces, to bee free countries, where-vnto they pretend not any title, as also of the truce and abstinance of armes (for the time of eight moneths next insuing, beginning the fourth day of Maie) from all beseeging and surprizing of townes or sortes, inuading or taking of Prouinces or quarters, with the making of new sconces, and doe in like manner allow of the offers, and presentations made by the Arch-dukes, concerning the communicating and report to bee giuen vnto those to whome it app•…•…rtayneth, and to certefie the same by writing vnto the sayd Arch-dukes &c. Before the first of September next insuing: so that the said Arch-dukes [ C] &c. on the one side, and the generall Estates of the vnited Prouinces in quali∣tie as aforesaid on the other side, haue faithfully promised, and by these presents doe promise to hold and maintaine the said declarations and prouisionall truce, and to restore and repaire all wrongs directly or indirectly done, in or concerning the same: and the said Arch-dukes &c. promise within 3. mone•…•…hs next insuing, to pro∣cure the like consent and agreation touching this matter from the King of Spaine, for as much as concerneth him, and to deliuer the same vnto the said generall Estates, to∣gither with all generall or particular renunciations and the assurances belonging there-vnto. In witnesse whereof there were two writings made both of one tenor, signed and sealed by the Arch-dukes, togither with the common and accustomed [ D] signature of their Secretarie, and by the Estates of the vnited Prouinces, in the qua∣litie aforesaid, sealed with their great Seale, and subsigned by their Secretary, giuen in Brussels, & at the Hage the 24 of Aprill, 1607. vnderneath there stood, I Iohn Neyen Commissarie general haue signed these presents, and I C. Aertsens, as Deputie for the generall Estates of the vnited Prouinces. This was done vpon the 10. 11. 12. of April, but so that vppon the 24. of Aprill, letters of assurance were to bee deliuered on both sides, vnder their great Seales, the cōtents, words, sil•…•…ables & distinctions agreeing with the Act aforesaid; they were so dared as aforesaid, that they might both agree, & there with the Monke vpon the 13. of Aprill went to Brusselles, and was by Prince Maurices Pinnace brought to Delfs Hauen. This agreement was with all speed first certefied vn∣to [ E] the Gouernors of townes, and forts in Holland, and vpon the 13. of Aprill the decla∣ration insuing was sent vnto euery particular Prouince and towne, commanding a ge∣neral day of praier & fasting to be made throughout al the country vpon the 9. of Maie following. Against the 24. of April the general Estates sent their commission of agree∣mēt & accord vnto Lillo vpon the conclusion of a truce made for 8. moneths, by their Commissarie Dericke vander Does, there to deliuer it vpon the receipt of the like com∣mission sent from the Arch-dukes, to which end also the Frier came to Lillo, hauing set downe the same agreement vnder the act of commission: but for that Vander Does made some doubt to receaue the same in that manner, the Fryer rode in al hast to Brussels, to haue it made in the same order as the Estates had done theirs and therein vsed [ F] such expedition, as it was effected on the eight and twentith day of Aprill: the com∣missions and agreements were deliuered on both sides, at which time Verdoes had a chain of gold giuen him for a reward frō the Arch dukes, but for that the said Frier Iohn

Nayen had commission to make some further explication of the said treatie and truce * 1.288 [ A] for eight moneths, hee desired to go to the Hage, where-vnto Verdoes had no commis∣sion, but finding that he had no answer of his letters sent vnto the Estates, he tooke the sayd Fryer Iohn Nayen to the Hage with him, where (after some consultation) vppon the eighth day of Maie, hee had audience of the Estates, and had further con∣ference with them about the interpretation of the truce, and there-vppon they con∣cluded vppon an other Act, bearing date the first of Iune, declaring thereby that the truce concluded for eight moneths should also hold good in the North Seas, and in the Chanell betweene France and England, to the Sorlinghs, which should begin the fourteenth of Iune, from the which time all prizes (not beeing shippes of warre) should bee restored againe: That after that the King of Spaines agreation should bee [ B] sent out of Spaine, all the shippes of warre should bee commanded to depart from the Coast of Spaine, and that all prizes taken there within sixe weekes after that, should bee restored againe: and that during the truce, the places following on the States sides, should bee free from all inuasions or incursions what-soeuer, Viz. the Emes, Dullaret, the country of Wedde, Drente, Couoerden, the Riuer Vande-vechte to Bec∣umund bridge, the Newe-vecht to Swoll, from Swoll to Koten, from Koten downe the I sell to Isleoort, and the countries North and Westward lying behinde them, from Isleoort to the Rhyne as farre as Grauen-weert and the Countrie lying on that side West-ward from the said towne of Grauenweert along the wall to Gorcum, and the countries lying North and West, the Meuse from the Towne of Graue to Gheertru∣denbergh [ C] and all the countries lying Northward on that side the Merweed, and fur∣ther all streames and waters betweene Holland and Zealand, with the Islands sepera∣ted by ebbes and floodes, with Lislo and Scluse, both to bee included: and on the Arch-dukes side, the Countries of Luxembourgh, Namur, and all the Countries lying beyond them, and in Brabant all that lyeth beyond the Dummer and Grethe to the Schelde, In Flanders all that lyeth beyond the Leye, passing ouer the small Riuer of Mande, beyond Roetselad to Dixmuden and Nieuport, and so to the Sea, within the which limits no hostilitie should bee vsed, but what wrong soeuer was done should be recompenced and restored againe; but without the said limits no man should trauell without a passeport, and that the soldiers might freely passe along not making any ar∣mies, [ D] neither might they surprize any townes or places. And therewith the Fryer vp∣pon the 5. of Iune depart•…•…d from the Hage, hauing offered to Secretarie Artesens a good present, but he would not accept thereof, vnlesse he had lycence so to do from the Estates and Prince Maurice.

Heere-vppon throughout all the whole Netherlands there was great ioy, euery man hoping, wishing and praying, to bee once released from these long and bloody warres: the report thereof beeing spred abroad in the neighbour countries, it mo∣ued great admiration at such a sodaine truce, and bred much suspition, all men won∣dring much what might bee the cause that moued them there-vnto: Men could not bee perswaded that the Arch-dukes would so much imbase them-selues, neither yet [ E] the vnited Prouinces; as to seeke it, or that the one should offer so much, and the other giue credit there-vnto: But it was so secretly done, as it bred great admirati∣on, for that no King nor Prince heard thereof, neither by their Ambassadours nor messengers, for in Holland few had to doe there-with, and at Brusselles only the Arch-dukes, Spinola, the President Richardot and Vereycken the Secretary, and some few others knew thereof. Where-vpon the Nobilitie and the Councels of particular Pro∣uinces complained much that they were not made acquainted therewith. The like also was done in the Netherlands, where it was said that the French King sought to agree with the Estates concerning the taking of the Soueraigntie of the vnited Prouinces in∣to his hands, which the vnited Prouinces would not yeeld vnto, only they thought it [ F] good to put certayne townes into his hands, for his securitie, thereby to procure fur∣ther ayd from him. * 1.289

For this cause the French King sent the President Ianin, Mounsier de Roussy, and Mounsier Buzenuall as Ambassadours into the vnited Prouinces, who arriued there

vpon the foure and twenty day of May, and vpon the eight and twenty of the same * 1.290 [ A] month had audience, where first, they showed what aide their King had giuen vnto the vnited Prouinces, and then they complained that the Estates had delt so secretly with their enemy concerning a truce, without their Kings aduice, offering withall their Kings fauor and further aide vnto them, with a presentation of an ordinary prouision to aide them, as long as they continued warre, or if they made a peace, that hee might deliuer his aduise therein, and giue consent to the effecting thereof. To which end they desired them to appoint certaine deputies on their behalfes, that might treate with them touching all causes, not onely concerning the Estate of the countrie, and the meanes thereof, but also touching the reasons and considerations, that might bee most necessary and conuenient to be propounded in the treaty of peace, and best to pre∣serue [ B] their Estate in freedome. Wherevnto there were certaine committies appointed out of euery Prouince, as for Holland Mounsieur Barneuelt, for Zeland Mounsieur de Maeldere, & so of other Prouinces, who vpon the 29. of May with Mounsieur de Beye, the treasorer (hauing full instruction) they began to conferre with the French ambassadors, and concluded that they should stay there, in the Kings behalfe to aide them in the trea∣ty of peace, and to further the same. The like aide and assistance they desired of the King of England, who willed them first to send certaine deputies vnto him to giue him full * 1.291 instructions of their Estate, and meanes, to which end in Iuly they sent Iohn Berck coun∣selor, and pentionar of the towne of Dort for Holland, and for Zeland Sir Iacob van Maldere knight, into England, accompanied with their ordinary ambasador Sir Noel Caron who vpon the 16. day of Iuly had priuat audience of the King, and after that seue∣rall [ C] times of his councell, beeing well and honorably entertained and feasted in euery place, especially in London, with the King and the Prince at Marchant-taylors hall, where they were honored with certaine freedomes belonging vnto the sayd company of Marchant-taylors, whereby did appeere the old mutuall affection, and inward con∣tracts of friendship made betweene the Netherlands and the Realme of England, at last they tooke their leaues, of the King and the Prince, with satisfaction according to their desires, and promise from the King, to aide the vnited prouinces both with counsell and otherwise especially in their proceeding with the treatie of peace; promi∣sing to send Sir Richard Spencer and Sir Raphe Winwood ambassadors into the vnited Pro∣uinces, and so the ambassadors (hauing either of them a chaine of gold giuen them, one [ D] of them being also made knight) tooke shipping and vpon the tenth day of August ari∣ued in Zeeland.

I showed before that within three monethes, the King of Spaines agreation of the truce made for eight monthes was to bee brought vnto the Estates out of Spaine: and to that end the Archdukes vsed all the dilligence they could, to procure the same; which at the last was obtained, and vpon the sixteene day of Iuly Spinola wrot vnto the Estates of the vnited Prouinces to certifie them that his Secretary Birago had brought the said agreation out of Spaine, desiring a pasport for Mounsieur Vereycken to come into Holland, to deliuer the sayd agreations, and withall to proceed to some pointes touching the treatie in hand: which letter vpon the eight day of Iulie was by Spinolaes [ E] trumpet brought to the Hage, and the next day a pasport was made accordingly, whereby the sayd Vereycken vpon the foure and twenty day of Iulie came to the Hage, and that daie had audience of the generall Estates, where hee shewed them the King of Spaines agreation, placed vnder the acts made the foure and twenty day of Aprill and the first of Iune, written in Spanish, bearing date the last of Iune: the contents thereof being that his Maiesty hauing seene, the contents of those acts, sent him by his deare * 1.292 brother and sister, the Archdukes Albertus and the Infanta Clara Eugenia, Princes and soueraigne Lords of the Netherlands, touching the truce and abstinance from armes for the space of eight monthes, with ceasing from surprising of all townes and sorts, inuading of countries, and making of new forts, during the said time, as also of an in∣tent [ F] on both sides to cause certaine deputies to assemble together about the conclu∣ding of a generall peace, or long truce, as the same at large declareth•…•…, hauing well and duelie considered thereof, declareth, that not to restraine, withhold nor any

wayes to hinder the good that is to be expected thereby, hee not onely hath commen∣ded * 1.293 [ A] approued, and ratified the aforesaid abstinance from armes, and by these presents doth commend, approue, ratifie and confirme in all points the said abstinance from armes, as much as it concerneth him, promising vpon his Princely word and faith, to hold and maintaine the same in euery point, as well as if he had consented therevnto at the first and that the matter had beene begun and treated by his consent and authori∣tie, without any contradiction of the same. In witnesse whereof he had signed the same, & sealed it with his seale, dated in Valiodolid the first of Iune. That which stood vnder the act of the first of Iune, was of the same substance and almost verbatim, as neere as might bee, but both the acts vnder the which those agreations stood, were written in French, wherein (especially in the acte of the foure and twenty of Aprill) in the chiefest and most substanciall clause, there was forgotten or left out these words. [ B] Vni•…•…s en qualite, et comme les tenans pour pais, prouinces &c. The aforesaid agreation be∣ing also written in paper, sealed with the small seale, and signed Io el Rey: and to auoide all further difficulties, a motion was made that the Estates would countermaund and call home all their shippes of warre from the coast of Spaine. The Estates for their partes disl•…•…ked much, that by the said agreation the Arch-dukes should bee termed Soueraigne Lordes of all the Netherlands, and withall they found out the aforesayd error, not knowing whether ignorantly or of purpose it had beene so omitted; and there-vpon they showed him with what abuse such a fault had beene committed in the principall acte, which hee confessed to haue beene perceiued and [ C] found out also in Brussels, saying, that it was but the writers fault, who in coppy∣ing the same, negligently omitted a whole line; and for that the agreation was generall, the Arch-dukes thought good to send it, onely to let them know what diligence they had vsed therein; promising faithfully, if they would content them-selues there-with, that it should bee presently procured, if the Estates would desire it: neuer-the-lesse, hee desired sixe dayes respite to write vnto Brussels, and from thence to receiue further Commission, which was granted him: and there∣vpon hauing receiued the same, vpon the second of August, hee promised the Estates to cause the sayd agreation to bee made in an other forme, and that there∣fore they had reason to bee satisfied for that time, seeing that the Arch-dukes had [ D] written into Spaine, to certifie the King of the difficultie therein, insisting with-all to haue a resolution from the Estates, to countermaund their shippes from the coast of Spaine, and that they would vouchsafe to pleasure the Archdukes there∣in.

Here-vpon certaine dayes were spent in consultation, and diuerse conferences were had with the sayd Veryken, and at the last vppon the eight of August, an an∣swer was giuen him by word of mouth, and afterwards deliuered him in writing, containing, that the Estates declared and held the respectiue agreation to bee im∣perfect and defecti•…•…e, not onely in qualitie and forme, but also in the substance thereof, for that so many words were left out, that it was not written in French, [ E] nor signed by the King, nor yet sealed with his great seale, as also not containing an agreation of the whole proceedings, but restrained onely to certaine points, and that they made no mention of the approouing and declaration of the freedome of the vnited Prouinces, as the Arch-dukes had done, and that therefore touching the rest of the propositions, they could make no further declaration, before the first of September next ensuing, and therefore they deliuered him a writing in Dutch, French and Latin, whereby they showed that they vnderstood that the King was to make the agreation before they could enter into any further treatie, and that therefore to make a further declaration, as much time would bee spent, as had past before from the foure and twentie daie of Iulie to the first of September, and that neuer∣theless•…•… [ F] they were content in honour of the Archduke, to countermaund all their shippes of warre from the coast of Spaine, and that truly and effectually, and that all the prizes by them taken within the space of sixe weekes, beginning vpon the foure and twenty of Iuly should not bee allowed for good, but should bee restored againe.

the which answere the sayd Vereycken vpon the twelfth day of August went to * 1.294 [ A] Brussels.

The truce continewing for eight monthes aforesaid both by sea and by land, both for Spaine and the Netherlands, it gaue a great hope to all the country people, that the matter would in the end bee brought to a peace or a long truce, but some men of good iudgement held it to be a matter of greater difficulty, and that it was so ernestly follow∣ed on either side, that so they might get some aduantage, and thereby aduance their owne cause, and that it would not so lightly, nor without more rumor bee ended on ei∣ther side.

Whilest this businesse about peace, or truce was in hand, and that the Neighbour Kings and Princes, with the countries of Iuilliers, Cleaue, Leege, and East Freeseland * 1.295 [ B] busied and troubled themselues therewith, many oppinions, conceites, and discourses were made, touching the same. The greater sort, which extol the greatnesse of Spaine could not bee perswaded, nor beleeue, that the Archdukes should euer procure any agreation or consent therevnto from the King of Spaine, in such sort as it was promised, but rather thought, that there was some other meaning and intent: o∣thers to the contrary said that the hundred and fiftie mylions which the King had spent, the aboundance of bloud which had beene shed, the great mutenies, great want of money, the King of Spaine finding himselfe continually assailed and com∣passed about with such strong fleetes at sea, which were likely to take all trade by sea from him, or to incomber him much; whereby hee must of force hold the Islands and the Indies fast bound vpon Spaine, with such like difficulties, and other con∣siderations, [ C] which might cause that great King to conceiue many doubtes; especi∣ally in respect of a great rich company, which the vnited Prouinces were about to make for the West Indies, which should continue for the space of sixe and thirty yeares, wherein some great misterie or secret laie hidde, which might either make his Indies rebell or els they would assaile them in the weakest places, and thereby giue all his treasorors cause of doubt, that his treasure which vseth to come from the Indies would bee cut off, and so giue him no more credit, whereby hee should bee compelled necessarily to fall into greater charges to arme and de∣fend his farre distant Islands, and so by that meanes diuide his power farre a sunder. [ D]

They said moreouer that it was wisely, scircumspectly and necessarily done of the King and the Archdukes, willingly to giue ouer and yeelde vp their soueraignite, (as it was giuen forth) to the vnited Prouinces, finding that they were not by any other meanes of perswasions, practises, or power to bee brought to any treatie, for that their weakenesse, or any greater disgrace or losse, which they might chance to haue, might force them to seeke to bee protected by France, in which protection there was great daunger, that at the last they should bee driuen out of all the Prouinces, and therefore they thought it▪ best, to seeke to possesse the better part quietly, with a neighbourly peace, at the least till a more conuenient time, rather then to suffer the French King to inrich himselfe with the Netherlands, which would depriue Spaine of [ E] all authority, respect, and credit.

The Netherlanders for their partes, (as there are many deepe witted, and prouident * 1.296 men amongst them) could not beleeue, that it was done bona fide, and therefore that proceeding was cleane against their mindes, doubting that in the end they should bee forced to fall againe vnder the subiection of the Spaniard, vnder the name of the house of Burgondie, imagining that the ground thereof had beene layd long since, and that the truce or peace was but a breathing vnto them. They could not likewise con∣ceiue, how they should preserue their estate; maintaine the grouernment of the Pro∣uinces in vnity, withstand all difficulties that might arise: neither yet how to conti∣newe [ F] their meanes and taxations, especially if the Archdukes should ease the con∣try people thereof in their Prouinces; how they should maintaine their autho∣rity at sea, if the conuoies and lycences ceased; and holding them still, how the trade of marchandise might bee continewed amongst them, that were wont to

goe thether, where they were least burthened with exactions: neither how they should * 1.297 [ A] keepe souldiars in good order and discipline, not beeing imploied and exercised in armes; nor how religion should bee maintayned in the same estate it was: or how to bring the common people againe to beare armes, when they shal once haue felt a sauor and tast of peace, if it fell out that their aduersary should not hold his word; neither yet how to pay the great debts of the countrie, the paiement whereof is commonly raised by the warres: nor how they that were in gouernment, should bee armed a∣gainst the Spanish corruptions, which were already discouered, with diuers other things: these were the discourses and reasons of those that were of best and deepest iudgement.

In the meane time the Netherland fleete was still vpon the coast of Spaine, which men sought to comprehend in the treaty of agreemēt, that they might be called home; [ B] that so the fleete in Spaine might freely passe too and fro from the East and West In∣dies, for that they had beene forst to vnlade some of their shippes which had beene la∣den for the Indies, and to set them out for men of warre, for the defence of Spaine a∣gainst the Hollanders, which could not be comprehended in the act of the first of Iune, but it was then consented and granted to countermand the said shippes, as soone as the King of Spaines approbation should be sent, and that in the meane time they should not be releeued, with any new supplies or victualls which was in effect as much as if they were countermanded, for that want of victuals, wold bee an occasion to make them de∣minish their number and come home againe, not regarding the doubt and suspition [ C] which men had in all places, that the King would not fully yeeld to that which had beene concluded, and the rather, for that they made readie shippes of warre in all pla∣ces of Spaine, as at S^t Lucars, Cadiz, Lisbon and the Groine, the straights of Gibraltar being full of Gallies, which bred great iealousie, as if they ment to attempt some thing against Ireland, England, the Netherlands, or Embden, others thought they would goe into Barbarie, or to Alarach. At Duynkerke in Flanders they made great hast to build * 1.298 the ten great shippes, (part of the thirty which they had vndertaken to make,) whereon they set fiue hundred men on worke, being Spaniards, Italians and Netherlanders, each man his seuerall worke, some of them beeing of 200. tonne, the least was of a hundred and fiftie tonnes, but by the answere of the eight day of August, it was consented, to [ D] countermand the aforesayd fleete, and that after the time then set downe, they should take no more prizes, and therefore many men thought they would soone come home.

The mutinous souldiers vnder the Archdukes made many incursions in the country, the Archduke seeking all the meanes hee could to pacefie them, and in August hee got grant of sixe hundred thousand duckets, to bee paid by a hundred thousand duckets a month for the space of sixe monthes, (which had long beene promised) to pay the soul∣diers withall the Archduke also sought to discharge all his vnnecessary troupes, as Wallons and others. The Spaniards and Italians were put in garrison in seue∣rall places, and a great part of them at Dornick, where they were some what strictly lookt vnto, and might not increase their numbers, for that when they were desirous to [ E] goe out of the towne, euery one had a token of lead giuen him, without the which no∣man might enter into the towne: at Cortrick also there were two or three hundred, & more in other places, the richest townes gaue money to be vnburthened of garrisons, the vnited Prouinces also discharged many of their souldiers, such as they might spare, as Englishmen and some high Duches, which wanted many of their number, they also discharged many ships of all sorts, but they beganne to prepare some ships for the East Indies, thereby to continue and assure that trade.

This yeare many shippes sailed out of Embden to Italy and Spaine, which in Spaine * 1.299 and Portingall were most staied and arested, vnder some pretence, either that they were partners with the Hollanders or els rebels against their Earle, from whom notwith∣standing [ F] they had letters of lycence, testimonialls, or atestations, but that would not serue their turnes vnlesse they brought particular letters from the Earle, otherwise they were esteemed to be gotten by force, and fauour of the Hollanders or Englishmen; some of them notwithstanding were set at libertie, but the rest to the number of thirty

which (were many for one towne) were hardly intreated, and the men put into the gal∣lies, * 1.300 [ A] others were compelled to serue the king there in his warre or in his shippes which went to the Indies and Bresill. These newes caused a great vprore in Emden amongst the common people, for the losse of their sea-faring men, whereof many had wiues and children in the country, which made a great assembly of women and children about the magistrate: The Earle himselfe came thether with certaine Lords his friends, which bred a suspition, that he sought to cause some tumult, his bretheren Earle Christopher and Earle Iohn being both with him, with the garrison of Linphen, where-vpon the vnited Prouinces sent about two thousand men thether, the which were lodged in the suburbes of Emden and there abouts, and withall they sent a trumpet to the Earle, with a letter as followeth. [ B]

Right Honorable; our actions haue giuen a sufficient testimonie, with what a sin∣cere intention, wee haue euer laboured (to our great trouble and charge) and doe still continue, to reconcile all controuersies and dislike betwixt your honorable father Earle Edsard, your selfe, and the Estates of East-Friseland: when as in the yeare 1595. by the contract made in Delfzile, at the request of your said father, your selfe, and the Estates of East-Friseland, wee had vnder-taken and bound our selues to bee Vmpiers therein, your Lordshippe knowes that in the yeare of our Lord 1603. at the making of the contract at the Hage, at the instant request of the De∣puties of the towne of Emden, by your Lordshipps consent, and good liking, we once againe bound our selues to maintaine the same, and to oppose our selues against all [ C] contradiction, and also that in the treaty at the last meeting of the Estates of Germany, vpon the last of Nouember, by the intercession of Sir Ralfe Winwood Ambassador for the King of England, and our Deputies, in the behalfe of the said Kings Maiestie and vs, it was agreed that if any thing were done contrary vnto the same, that some order should presently bee taken therein.

Know yee therefore my Lord, that wee beeing certainely informed that by your honors meanes and directions, not one penny of money will bee had towards the payment of the garrison within the Towne of Embden, that through want of pay, the garrison might bee brought into a mutine, and so the Towne of Embden fall into a tumult: besides that by your Lordshippes meanes, the contributions which [ D] are willingly granted by the country are not come to the hands of the appointed rent∣maister, for the causes where-vnto they are assigned (according to the generall reso∣lution). That your honor also hath made many enterprises, and caused them to bee executed, without the consent of the country, contrary to the Emperors resolution, and the former contracts: and also that it is confidently spoken in Embden, that by your honors direction, a great number of shippes which sayled into Spaine, are there arrested, their goods attached, and the men committed to prison, and hard∣ly intreated▪ and also that by your honors permission, the soldiers of the garrisons of Linghen, and such like places in the Earldome of East-Freeseland, haue runne through the said country, and committed great insolencies against the Inhabitants [ E] thereof, taking diuers of the townes men of Embden prisoners, all directly against the said contracts. Seeing then that by vertue of our contract made with your honor, wee are determined to take the said matter in hand, and to preuent all dangers which may ensue in the like; Wee haue thought it good, to send you this letter by our Trumpet, earnestly desiring, that your honor for the reparation of things that are amisse, and of all other inconueniences, would presently, or at the furthest within foureteene dayes after the receipt hereof, giue order without any further delay, that there may bee fortie thousand Gildens prepared, towards the payment of the garri∣son of Embden: and that the money rising of the willing contributions, may bee de∣liuered into the hands of the rent-maister, and left with him, to bee imployed for [ F] such vses as it is appointed, according to the resolution: that all enterprises made in the countrie, without the lawfull consent of the Estates, shall bee forborne and not attempted, and that which hath beene wrongfully taken from any man, and without consent, restored: that also without delaye, your honor will presently doe your best

indeuour, for the discharging of the Ships, Saylers, and other persons of Embden, * 1.301 [ A] which are stayed and imprisoned in Spaine. And lastly, that the souldiers of Linghen and such like places, may bee kept out of the Earledome of East-Freezeland: which if your honor faileth to doe, wee declare our selues guiltlesse of that which wee shall bee (to our great griefe) forced to doe, beeing the necessarie meanes to vrge your honor to reason, and to maintaine your honorable promises, and to preuent all future troubles and inconueniences, desiring nothing else, but that which shall bee fitte for your honor and your subiects good, well-fare, and quietnesse, as knoweth GOD, whom wee beseech to inspire your Lordships heart with some good motions, for the well-fare of your selfe and your subiects. From the Hage the third of Iuly, 1607. &c.

[ B]

Herevpon ensued no great effects, but that the Earle of East-Freezeland sent Hans Hendricke St•…•…mler, to make complaint thereof vnto the King of England, and to craue his intercession vnto the Estates of the vnited prouinces, to stay them from any force∣able proceedings, from whome hee receiued a fauourable answere: and to the Hage he sent Doctor Dothia Wyarda, some-times Sindick of the towne of Embden; Monsieur van Kinphausen, and Doctor Thomas Francius, who excused the Earle, and sayd, that hee desired to obserue the contracts and agreements made, and had giuen no cause to the contrary vnto them of Embden, but that they had conceiued a needlesse feare, which proceeded from their owne guilty consciences, which had made them to send for souldiers; with some other friuolous allegations. The towne of Embden (for the [ C] furtherance of their cause, and to mooue the Estates to proceed in their desseigne) sent Vbbo Reinets their Burgomaister and Sindick, Samuell van Winghene councellor, and Daniell Althingh Secretarie, in regarde they found that the Earle intended to keepe them in continuall alarme, and to put them vnto great charges, and by that meanes to bring them into debt, and so to drawe the Burgers vnto him: With them they brought diuerse Letters of licence, giuen by the Earle vnto the Saylers of Emb∣den bearing da•…•…e in Esens the sixt, and the thirteenth of February; one contradicting another, and some beeing of no force, vnlesse they shewed other particular letters: but at the last euery thing was ended and ordered by the generall Estates, with ad∣monition [ D] vnto them (according to the contracts) to liue in vnitie and peace, and the towne put in hope that the Estates would bee carefull of their good and pre∣seruation.

Vpon the twelfe of May, in the yeare of our Lord one thousand sixe hundred and seauen, when Fryer Iohn Nayen the Commissioner for the King of Spaine, was * 1.302 vpon his returne towards Brussels, before his departure out of Holland, hee wrote a letter secretly vnto Cornelis Artesens Secretarie to the generall Estates of the vni∣ted Prouinces, desiring to speake with him, his wife, or sonne, before hee went out of Holland, and withall appointed him a secret place of meeting: Artesens vpon the re∣ceite of this Letter (suspecting they would seeke to corrupt him with some presents) [ E] went presently to Prince Mau•…•…ice, and others of the chiefe of the Estates, shewing them this Letter, with the circumstances and contents thereof; assuring them that the Fryer intended thereby to winne him by some offers and gifts, asking their aduice how hee should carry him selfe therein; and whether hee should goe him-selfe, or that hee should send any other (the messenger in the meane time staying for his answer.)

Where-vpon Prince Maurice and the Estates thought it very fitte and auaileable for the seruice and good of the countrie, to discouer the aduersaries desseigne in this action, that hee should goe secretly thether, to heare what hee would propound vnto him, and that if hee o•…•…ered any gratuitie, hee should accept it, if it were gi∣uen [ F] as a bribe to corrupt him, but if it were done onely, to craue his furtherance for the dispatching of the Treatie as then to bee made, hee should refuse it; giuing him withall expresse commandement, to keepe it close and secret vnto him-selfe,

whereby hee should do the countrie great seruice, with these directions Artesens vp∣on * 1.303 the foureteene day of May went vnto the place appointed by the letter; and was secretly brought to Frier Iohn Nayen in Saint Agathes Cloyster in Delfe. Where * 1.304 hee entertained him verie kindely, giuing him thankes for the great seruice hee had done vnto the Archdukes, for that the first motion of the treaty of peace was beg•…•…nne by him, whereby they found, that it had brought him into a great suspition, and dislike, amongst the common people, and that for the same cause hee was hardly censured by them.

In regard whereof hee sayd that the Archdukes thought themselues ingaged in their honours to bee thankefull vnto him, beeing of themselues so nobly minded, as they would not faile to shewe their bountie vnto all those that should doe them [ B] any seruice, with many such like perswasiue words, promising to doe for him, his children, or friends whatsoeuer they would desire at their handes, and for a begin∣ning and assurance of their Princely disposition, hee said, that hee had expresse com∣mission from the Archdukes, to restore his house vnto him, which hee had in Brussels, with his patrimoniall lands and goods that were confiscated, that hee might dis∣pose thereof at his owne will and pleasure, giuing him to vnderstand withall that M•…•…rquis Spinola (in regard that hee fauored the cause) held himselfe verie much be∣holding vnto him, for which consideration hee had sent him an obligation vnder his hand, whereby hee promised that if a truce were concluded, for aboue nine yeares, or a generall peace, to giue him fiftie thousand crownes where∣of hee should receiue fifteene thousand crownes in readie money, to bee paide [ C] in Amsterdam, to the handes of any one that hee should nominate or appoint, recommending himselfe and the sayd affaires to his good discretion.

And for his owne particular hee sayd, that seeing it had pleased the Archdukes and the Marquis to honour him so much, as to thinke him fit to bee imploied there∣in: and for that the matter had proceeded so farre that hee for his part, and in his owne behalfe, would giue some particular testymonie of his loue towardes the said Artesens, and to that end, would bestowe vpon his wife a Ring of Gold with a Diamont therein: protesting and assuring him of the scincerity, vprightnesse, and worthinesse of the sayd Archduke, and the Marquis, as also of his owne; the which not∣withstanding was otherwise censured by many. [ D]

Wherevnto Artesens made answere, that hee most humbly thanked the said * 1.305 Archdukes, for their great fauour shewed him; and especially for the restitution of his house and patrimoniall lands, in regard that at the reduction of the towne of Brussels vnder the King of Spaines obedience, hee had great wrong offered vn∣to him, in this point, for that hee was debarred the benefite of the contract, which was graunted vnto all the Burgers of the towne, whereby they were inabled for to enioye their landes and goods, notwithstanding that hee at the same time was im∣ploied about some seruice that then was to bee done for the Estates, for the assem∣bling of the Generall Estates: and that touching their further bountie, hee sayd, that hee had done no more in that action then hee was bound vnto in loue and [ E] duetie, with other such like excuses; and therefore hee besought the sayd Archdukes and the Marquis that it would please them to hold him excused, if hee did not accept their bountifull presents, which seemed rather to bee giuen, to corrupt him, then as a recompence for any seruice done by him, and that therefore hee nei∣their could nor might accept them, nor yet the Ring which hee offred to giue him for his wife, giuing the Frier great thankes for his courtesie therein, and offering all seruice for his part, which hee could or might doe for them and him, alwaies ex∣cepting any thing whatsoeuer, that might tend to the breach of his oth, and blemish of his reputation &c.

Wherevnto the Frier replied; that the presents aforesayd, could not bee any [ F] waies held to bee done in manner of corruption; considering the sincere and vp∣right intents of the sayd Archdukes, Marquis Spinola, and himselfe, who affected no∣thing more, then sincerely and without any fraude to bring the warres vnto an

end; with many other good wordes to perswade him to bee a furtherer vnto the * 1.306 [ A] same &c.

Wherevpon, at last hee accepted of the restitution of his house and lands, together with the obligation; making much difficultie to receiue the Ring with the Diamont for his wife; but beeing much vrged and intreated therevnto, hee tooke it, with pro∣mise to giue the best direction therein that hee could, his oth and credit alwaies pre∣serued, and therewith they departed.

The same day, Artesens made report vnto Prince Maurice and to the Estates * 1.307 of all that had past betwixt them, offering to deliuer them the obligation and the Diamont, but Prince Maurice would not receiue them; neuerthelesse hee aduised them to take some course for the receit of the money, and withall that the matter should bee kept verie close and secret. But Artesens did often solicite the Prince [ B] and the Estates to bee discharged thereof, the which they still refused to take into their custodie, telling him, that hee had no cause to doubt any danger, seeing that hee had not done any thing but by speciall commission, wherein hee had discharged himselfe, by discouering the offers that were made him, as in duetie hee was bound; and that order was to bee taken about the receiuing of the money, wishing that they might get all the enemies treasure into their handes by such meanes, estee∣ming the Diamond to bee well worth sixe thousand Gilders: at last it was resol∣ued vpon, that the matter should bee imparted to the generall assemblie of all the Estates. [ C]

This businesse passing ouer for certaine daies together without any further re∣solution, from the foureteenth to the twelfth day of May, there was an other let∣ter sent from the Frier Iohn Nayen, vnto the sayd Artesens, whereby hee wondred verie much that hee heard not from him, nor had any assignement to whome the fifteene thousand crownes should bee payde, Artesens hauing receiued this letter, went vnto the Estates againe to acquaint them therewith, but for that Prince Mau∣rice had the second time refused to receiue the obligation and the Ring, beeing still of opinion (if they thought good to keepe the matter secret) that it was best for them to receiue the money; it was resolued amongst them, to make both the generall Estates acquainted therewith, and the ambasadors of France and England, by which meanes the matter was divulged vnto the com∣mon [ D] people, wherevpon Artesens vnderstanding that hee was charged and taxed to haue beene corrupted by the enemie, he desired the generall Estates that hee might be discharged of the obligation and the Ring of Gold, and vpon his request so made vnto them they tooke order, that the treasuror generall should keepe the said ob∣ligation and the Ring, with the Diamond, which was taken out of the gold, and valued, till further order should bee taken therein, and that the said Artesens should haue an act made in his behalfe and for his iustification, the which was published accor∣dingly, bearing date the seauenth daie of Iulie in the yeare of our Lord and Sauiour. 1607. [ E]

Notwithstanding all this, Artesens fell into great suspition, and it was giuen out that hee had beene corrupted by the enemy, for the which cause, and to free himselfe from all imputation and blame, hee caused an appologie to bee prin∣ted in his name, whereby hee excused himselfe vnto all the common people, and therevnto hee ioyned a coppie of the act aforesayd, made by the generall Estates in his behalfe, his apologie bearing date the twentie daie of Iulie in the yeare of our Lord and Sauiour. 1607. When as Mounsieur Vereycken came last vnto the Hage with the act of agreation, Mounsieur Barn•…•…uelt Councellor for Holland, let him * 1.308 vnderstand, what presents had beene giuen by Iohn Nayen the Frier, as is before mentioned, which were deliuered to Mounsieur Vereycken by the Estates, who [ F] willed him to take them with him againe, and restore them vnto those that sent them, desiring the Archdukes, that if they ment to proceede sincerelie in the treatie of peace, and sought nothing els, that they would offer no more such pre∣sents, vnto any of their subiects of what Estate or qualitie soeuer they were:

saying, that the generall Estates, and the Counsell of Estate of the vnited Prouinces did * 1.309 [ A] consist of so many seuerall persons, as they could hardly bee corrupted by presents, or promises, and that if any of them, were but once suspected, they would double their number &c. Wherevpon Vereycken excused the Arch-dukes, and layd the blame there∣of vpon the Friar Iohn Nayen, saying, that it proceeded from himselfe; and that their highnesses were not acquainted therewith, imputing it vnto the couetousnesse of the spirituallty, who iudge of other mens humors by their owne, with such like words.

In the month of September, the Netherland shippes of warre which had lyen vpon the coast of Spaine, according to the contract, came all home with their prises, and so the contract for truce at sea, was on both sides agreed and concluded, and Prince Doria [ B] was appointed by the King of Spaine to keepe the straights of Gibraltare.

In this month the gouernor of Graue called Mounsieur Silendsky was taken pri∣soner as he past along by the Meuse, to goe to Vorne, relying to much vpon the truce, * 1.310 the which notwithstanding could not helpe him: hee was brought prisoner to Boisleduc, where hee hath continued long for that they demaund to great a ransome.

The three and twenty day of September colonell Warnart du Bois president of the counsell of warre, a valiant souldier ryding with his wife to the Faire at •…•…helder∣maetsen * 1.311 and hauing there made good cheere, in the euening beeing not farre •…•…rom Est by Tielerweert was set vpon by certaine of the enemies, as hee was in his Wa∣gon, and for that hee would not yeeld himselfe prisoner, they shot him into the bo∣die, [ C] and tooke his sonne prisoner, a thing much to bee lamented, that such an old ex∣perienced captaine, who had past so many daungers, would bee so carelesse of his owne safetie, and come to so vnfortunate an end.

The Spaniards and other mutinous souldiers in Diest, for that they were not paid, did much harme in Brabant and other places, and sent a protestation into Brabant, * 1.312 that if they were not satisfied within certaine daies, they would set the gates of Diest open, to entertaine all such souldiers as were vnpaide, and so make a generall mu∣tenie, which they had bound themselues vnto the Archduke not to doe: within Herentales they were most horse-men, whereof a great part mutined in the month of October, but they were kept from any attempt by certaine Irish souldiers which [ D] did serue vnder the Gouernor there, for the which some were punished. The rest of the souldiers that were vnpaide committed great insolencies on the Countrie, murthering and spoyling the poore people, most of the Spaniards and Italians lying and feeding vpon the costs and charges of the country pesants. About the last daie of August (as I sayd before) the Archduke got an assignation for sixe hundred thousand Dukets a month, for which cause the Arckdukes counsell sought to gette the whole summe to be paide at one time, offering (as it is reported) to cut off the interest there∣of after eight in the hundred, and in Nouember they tooke Councell how to satis∣fie them of Diest. The Archdukes also intreated the Estates of their Prouinces, to yeeld to the paiement of seauen hundred thousand gilders, towards the discharging [ E] of the mutinous souldiers, which at the first they refused, but in the end they were con∣tent to paie a moitie thereof being three hundred thousand gilders, wherewith they of Diest were satisfied.

About this time it was reported that the Archduke Alberus made great meanes to bee made King of Romaines by the aide and procurement of the Elec∣tors the Archbishoppes of Cologne and Liege, with whom hee had manie * 1.313 conferences sent to him by messengers, and in the month of October t•…•…e Archdukes went to Bins, to hunt and take their pleasures, but it seemeth that beeing there they had some certaine conference about the matter aforesayd with the Electors of Ments and Trier also, but it is said that the King of Spaine is much against him, and [ F] seeketh by all the meanes hee can to preferre his brother the Archeduke Ferdinand of St•…•…ria therevnto.

The foureteene day of October the Estates of the vnited Prouinces receiued a

letter from the Marquisse Spinola, certifying them that the agrecation from Spaine * 1.314 was come, desiring passe-port for Fryer Iohn Nayen, and for Monsieur Verreyken, to come into Holland to deliuer the same, which passe-port being sent vppon the foure and twentie of October they arriued at the Hage, and vppon the fiue and twentith day had audience of the generall Estates, where they presented the * 1.315 newe ratification or agreeation made by the King of Spaine, dated in Madrill the eighteene of September, written in Paper, and in the Spanish tongue, sig∣ned Io el Rey, sealed with a seale like vnto a Proclamation, and vnderneath sig∣ned Andreas de Prada, containing an insertion of the Declaration made by the Archdukes in Spanish, also ill fauouredly written, and vnder that was written as followeth. [ B]

That where-as in the aforesaid Treatie, the Archdukes had promised vnto the Estates to deliuer them their letters of ratification and agreation like vnto theirs, with all generall and perticuler renunciations and obligations: hee therefore vp∣on due deliberation and aduise, of his owne certaine knowledge, and absolute king∣lie power and authoritie, for the effecting of the sayd promise, and for the assurance of the principall treatie of peace, or long truce, had made vnto the sayd Estates, and by these presents did make the like declaration, which the Archdukes had for∣merly made, as much as in him laye, and that hee declared himselfe to bee con∣tent, that in his name, and in his behalfe, the said Estates should bee treated with∣all, in qualitie, and as holding them at this present for free Countries, Prouinces, [ C] and Estates, to whom hee pretended no title at all, and therevpon hee accepted, allowed, and confirmed all and euery point, conteined in the aforesaid Declaration, made by the sayd Archdukes, promising by the faith and worde of a King, to cause the same to bee obserued and kept effectually in euery point, as if the same had at the first beene made and decreed by his Princely will and authority without any con∣tradiction: promising reparation & satisfaction of any thing done therein to the con∣trary: and that all things needfull shall bee faithfully performed and done, binding him-selfe there-vnto by his Princely worde, with-all perticuler and generall re∣nunciations and obligations requisite there-vnto, and that presently after the con∣clusion of the sayd peace or long truce, hee would send all necessarie aprobation [ D] for the securitie thereof, in the best manner and forme that may bee, that in the end the Estates may haue full satisfaction in all things which they request.

But with-all hee declared, that if the cheefe treatie of peace, or of long truce, there to bee treated of and handled, should not take effect, concerning the mat∣ters in controuersie betweene both parts, as well touching religion as otherwise, that then his aforesayd declaration and agreeation should bee of no force, but re∣maine as if it had neuer beene made, and that by vertue thereof it should not bee vnderstood nor interpreted, that hee had or would loose any of his right or title, nor the Estates thereby to haue any aduantage, but that all things should remaine in the same state they were, and euery man to haue his due, and that [ E] from thence-forth it should be lawfull for each party to doe as they thought good.

With this agreation (hauing deliuered a copie thereof in Spanish, French, * 1.316 and Dutch,) Frier Iohn Nayen made a long discourse of the sinceritie and vp∣rightnesse of the King of Spaine in that respect, and that hee had caused the same to passe through the hands of his councell, that it might bee the freer and more assured to take effect, although hee should dye: wherein hee sayd, hee was much to bee commended, in that hee expressed the true and vpright intent and meaning of his direct dealing therein, promising no more, nor bind∣ing himselfe no further, then hee meant to performe, and cause to bee effected, whereas other-wise if hee had meant to deale deceitfully, hee would not haue [ F] done so, but rather haue made the agreation with-out any explication, where∣as now to make knowne his iust proceeding, hee had declared his full pleasure and intent, there-by to shunne and auoyde, that which here-after might seeme to bee brought in question.

Mounsieure Verreyken also made a very long speach touching the sinceri∣tie * 1.317 [ A] and direct dealing of the Arch-dukes concerning that poynte, and of the greate inclination and desire they had vnto peace, which was plainely to bee seene, by their proceedings therein: and how earnestly they had endeuoured them∣selues to doe all thinges which the Estates had by any meanes desired, or could in any sort pretend.

The general Estates hauing receiued the copie of the said agreation, and perused the same, they found it to be very badly and negligently written, by leauing out of many wordes, and some defects to be in the writing of many wordes, which were not placed as they ought to bee; and also in the forme, not being signed with the Kings name nor written in French. And after they had imparted the same vnto the Ambassadors of * 1.318 France and England, vppon the seauenteenth day they had further conference [ B] with the sayd Fryer Iohn Nayen and Verreyken, to acquaint them with the sayd de∣fects, and to knowe if there were no other agreation to bee expected; who letting them vnderstand that there was no other agreation to bee had from Spaigne; but that in the proceedings with the principall pointes of the treatie, all doubtes and difficulties might bee better seene into, and preuented vpon good deliberation, and after diuers consultations had with his Excellencie and the Am∣bassadors aforesaid.

Vpon the second of Nouember, they resolued to giue the Deputies an answer; which * 1.319 was that the said letters of agreation (according to the declaration of the Deputies) [ C] not only in the wordes and stile, but also in the sealing, insertion, and omission of ma∣ny words, were not conformable to the promises made, and that by the last clause ther∣of (besides the propositions of Fryer Iohn Nayen) there might be pretended a disanul∣ling of the sollemne promises thereby made, it being not to be contradicted: That the sayd King, and the Arch-dukes with their Councels know well, that the general Estates of the vnited Prouinces, as being Estates of free countries and Prouinces (where-vnto the aforesaid King and Arch-dukes pretend no soueraignty) by the grace of God al∣mighty, and the said assistance of such Princes as are allyed vnto them, can finde good meanes to maintaine and vphold the welfare, estate and gouernement of the sayd coun∣tries, and the Inhabitants of the same, without making any mention thereof in the [ D] principal treaty concerning peace or truce, notwithstanding any thing which might bee pretended or propounded by the King or Arch-dukes, to the contrary; vn∣lesse they would crosse or seeke to disanull the aforesayd sollemne and formall pro∣mises.

And although there might some question be made, whether vppon the said letters and propositions, they might proceed to a treatie; Neuerthelesse to the end this worke (begun for the freeing of those countries from these long continuall and bloody wars, and the setling of a godly, honourable, and an assured peace) may not be hindred, they would shew the said letters (as much as concerneth the approbation of the promises made by the Arch-dukes, and the like declaration of the said King whereby he decla∣reth [ E] that he is content, that in his name and in his behalfe, a treatie shal be made touch∣ing peace or truce with the generall Estates, in qualitie, and as holding and acounting them for free countries, Prouinces and Estates, where-vnto he made no claime; besides all generall and particular obligations which are requisite and necessary) vnto the Pro∣uinces, townes and members of the same respectiuely, and within sixe weekes next en∣fuing, giue intelligence vnto the said Deputies, whether they intended the e-vpon to enter into any treatie or not, with expresse protestation, from thence-forth neuer to make any question to any poynt of the aforesaid letters, which might bee vnderstood to be directly or indirectly against the said agreation and declaration togither with the promises of the said Arch-dukes.

[ F]

And if it were founde fitte and conuenient, vppon the sayd agreation and declaration (or vppon any other that within the sayd time, acording to the pro∣mises made, might bee sent out of Spaine and deliuered vnto the said Estates) to enter into a treatie, the Estates were of opinion, that neyther in the said Kings be∣halfe

nor the Arch-dukes, there should be any thing propounded or pretended that * 1.320 [ A] might bee preiudiciall to the state, welfare and gouernement of the vnited Prouinces or the Inhabitants thereof, contrary to the sayd promises: And that the Arch-dukes will take order within tenne daies after the receipt of the saide aduertis∣ment to send their committies (with instructions according to the originall offers) to the Hage, fully instructed and authorised, and also to vnderstand the Estates intent to deliuer their meanings plainely and effectually.

And there-vppon to make a short and briefe resolution, and that the Estates in that respect would appoint certaine Committies with the like authoritie to treat with them. This answer being made it was giuen to the said Frier Iohn Nayen and to Verey∣ken vpon the third of Nouember, and there-withall, they were demaunded whether * 1.321 [ B] they would deliuer the Originall letters of agreation, whereat they made some doubt, whether they might leaue them with the Estates, or carry them backe againe to Brus∣selles, and therefore they desired respite for certaine daies wherein Fryer Iohn Nayen might go to Brusselles, to fetch a further commission concerning that point, which be∣ing graunted them, the Fryer went from the Hage vpon the fifth of Nouember, & the fourteenth of the same moneth returned againe, and vpon the fifthteenth hauing audi∣ence giuen vnto him and to Verriken by the Estates, they gaue them to vnderstand that they had commission to deliuer the said letters, taking a note from the Estates for the receipte thereof, (declaring there-with, that the Arch-dukes had there-by performed their promise) and with a promise of re-deliuering the said letters, [ C] if the treatie went not forward; but the Estates found some difficultie therein, for that they were of an opinion that the Arch-dukes had not performed their promise, nor procured such letters (without any restraint, or appendix) as were promised, and that they were not to promise any restitution of an act, which made it selfe voyd and of no effect, if the treatie went not forward; the which vppon the sixteenth of Nouember they made knowne vnto the Deputies who seemed to consent with them, saying, that they in like manner vnderstood it to be so, and that they had written so much vnto the Arch-dukes, but finding that the Estates persisted therein, they once a∣gaine desired a further time for certaine daies, that the Fryer might repaire once more to Brusselles, for a full and absolute commission, which was graunted them, and so vpon [ D] the seauenteenth of Nouember he went to Brusselles, and vpon the nine and twenty of the same moneth returned to the Hage, with commission to deliuer the said letters as in the end they did, absolutely without any exception or promise to bee made by the Estates; and so vppon the twenty of December they returned backe againe to Brus∣sels, hauing made no speach vnto Fryer Iohn Nayen touching the aforesaid presents, where-with he had busied him-selfe.

The generall Estates or their ordinary Deputies vppon the tenth of Nouember de∣parted from the Hage, euery man to make knowne in their seuerall Prouinces the said last agreation sent by the King of Spaine, and to assemble the Estates of their particu∣ler Prouinces, and to vnderstand from them, whether they were of opinion (vpon [ E] the said letters, and as they were made) to enter into a treaty of peace or not, & against the tenth of December to meete againe, euery man to shew his commission touching that point.

Before their departure vppon the tenth of October they had receiued a letter from the Emperour, wherein he declared what charges and paines his father the * 1.322 Emperour Maximillian and him-selfe had beene at, and taken to bring the affaires of the Netherlands to a good end, and finall peace, wherefore he did now wonder they would attempt to deale therein without his aduice, or at the least without making him acquainted there-with, as seeming to haue a pretence to make the Vnited Prouinces a free state, whereas notwithstanding the Estates thereof knew well, that the said Netherlands, depended vpon him and the holy Empire, as by the ancient re∣cords [ F] of the Empire and the first institutions he could proue, and that therefore the Estates were to remember, that in regard it was a respectiue member of the Empire they might not vndertake any thing touching the same without his consent, as beeing the chiefe member of the said Empire, and that if any thing were done or attempted

to the contrary whereby the nature and propertie of the members of the Empire * 1.323 [ A] might bee altered and changed, that it was of no effect, according to the ordi∣nances and statutes of the Empire: Desiring therefore to vnderstand from them, in what estate the matter stood, and how they ment to proceed therein, that hee and the Empire might vphold their rites and priuiledges, requiring also that they would not proceede in any thing without his consent; or to per∣mit any thing to bee done, that might tend to the preiudice of him and the Empire: Which letter by some was thought to be written for an insinuation, thereby in time to pretend some cause of nullitie and disabling of all that which the Estates should conclude with the King of Spaine and the Arch-dukes touching the peace, and to make vse thereof, when they shall thinke it most necessary [ B] and fitte for them. * 1.324

The third of December Iacob Vlefelt Councellor of the Empire, and Amptman of the Castle of Hagens-kow, and Ionas Charasins Doctor of both the Lawes, Am∣bassadours for the King of Denmarke, arriued at the Hage with a good traine of Gentlemen, who vppon the sixth of December had conferenee with the generall Estates, shewing the affection which their King bare to the Vnited Prouinces, and that their commission was to aid and assist the Estates with their Councell in their trea∣tie of peace.

The Arch-dukes hauing made a reconing with the mutinous soldiers of Diest, and there-vppon giuing them satisfaction according to the contract made, hee deuided them into diuers companies, and put them into seueral places: after which ha∣uing [ C] committed no newer offence, he caused them al to be brought out of their seuerall quarters, to haue a certaine decree of banishment made against them, and openly pub∣lished, which was to depart out of the Arch-dukes countries within twenty houres af∣ter, vpon paine of death.

The letter of banishment beeing as followeth.

It is manifestly knowne vnto euery man, how long the last mutenie in Diest hath * 1.325 continued, and the great and inestimable summes of money it hath cost vs, besides the troubles and insupportable burthens and wrongs that our poore subiects haue sustai∣ned thereby: Neuerthelesse wee haue indeauored so much as at the last wee haue [ D] made a full account and reckoning with all those that haue beene partakers in the said mutinie, and payd euery one of them whatsoeuer hee could aske, to their full contentments, and withall forgiuen them, and by these presents doe forgiue them all whatsoeuer they haue done against vs, by meanes of the said mutenie. Neuer∣thelesse wee with the King our brother (beeing not bound to entertaine any man in our seruices longer then wee shall thinke good) hauing a further care of our es∣tates, for diuers good cosiderations, haue resolued that it will bee more aduance∣ment to our seruice, and quietnesse to our subiects, to send them out of the coun∣try, and to commaund them (as by these presents wee doe expresly com∣maunde.) That within foure and twenty houres after the publication hereof, [ E] they depart out of all our Countries and Territories, and not to staie any longer time therein, nor to enter or come into them againe, vppon payne of hanging, willing and commaunding as well all our louing subiectes, as others seruing vnder vs (the aforesayde time beeing expyred) to sette vp∣pon them, and to vse all the rigour and hostilitie against them that they could, as against such as are disobedient vnto vs, and are banished per∣sons withall. And that if any of them shall bee so carelesse (contrary vnto this our commaundement) to remaine still in those our Countryes, our will and pleasure is, that such persons as can apprehend any of them, and either liuing or dead deliuer them, either to the handes of Ferdinando Boischot one of our [ F] Priuie Councell, and Auditor generall of our armie, or to the Iustices of any of our Townes, they shall haue for a reward for euery head the summe of fiue and twenty crownes, paid them by the handes of the said Auditor generall, finding them

also, vppon the same payne aforesayd, not to staie, dwell or remaine in the countries, * 1.326 [ A] townes and Kingdomes of the King of Spaine, for that his meaning is not to vse their seruice any longer, and therefore wee commaund all our Iustices, Officers and others our subiects, to gouerne them-selues herein according to this our Proclamation, with∣out any fauor, partialitie or detraction whatsoeuer. Da•…•…ed in our towne of Brusselles the fourth of December. 1607.

By force of this proclamation, many of the said mutinous soldiers which could not get presently out of the country, were in diuers places •…•…ain & hanged, which although it were done by them for an example of punishment of the like mutinies, yet it bred a ielousie in many men of iudgement, that by the like reasons of state, other proceedings and contracts might in the like sort be broken and made voyd. * 1.327 [ B]

The nineteenth of December Ieronimus van Diskow and Erbghehessen vp Quees, Ambassadors for the Elcteor of Brandembourgh came to the Hage to assist the Estates in their treaty of peace, who in long time after made no motion, for that their commis∣sion was restrayned, to the comming of the Palsgraues Ambassadors, and to deale with them and not without them, which Ambassadors came not thither so soone.

The twentith of December, the Deputies of the generall Estates beeing for the most part altogether, or else hauing sent their opinions touching the treatie aforesaid, * 1.328 euery man shewed his authority and commission, which for the most part tended to this end: that notwithstanding the defects of the aforesaid letters of argreation, yet that they might enter into a treatie with the enemies Deputies concerning a [ C] peace or long truce, alwaies insisting vppon the chiefe poynte, which is their free∣dome of the countrie, and not to yeelde vnto the enemy in the least poynte thereof, nether yet in matters of state, nor concerning religion. And after much disputation amongst them, and diuers conferences held with Prince Maurice, William Earle of Nassau and the Councell of Estate, as also with the Ambassadours of France, Eng∣land and Denmarke, (for that the Ambassadors of Brandenbourgh excused them-selues for the reasons aforesaid) at the last vppon the foure and twentith day of De∣cember they wrotte vnto the Arch-dukes, that they (according to the protestations and declarations sette downe in their answer made the second of Nouember, from the which they ment not to varrie) were content to enter into a treatie with their Deputies in the Hage, and that to the same end they should send seauen or eight per∣sons, [ D] (instructed according to their offers) to the Hage so as they might be aduer∣tised before frō the Arch-duke that their meaning was to send within tenne daies after the receipte of their letter vnto the Hage, the like or a lesse number of persons (qualli∣fied as aforesaid) and with full commission and authoritie, not onely in the King of Spaynes behalfe, but also for the Arch-dukes, to make a good and short resolution, and agreement about the treatie aforesaid. And for that the truce made to the fourth of Ianuary next insuing was almost expired, they desired the Arch-dukes to consider whether it were not expedient to prolong the same for a moneth or sixe weekes more, if they thought it good to enter into the said treatie vppon the conditions aforesaid, [ E] where vnto they sayd those their letters should serue for a consent, if the Arch-dukes would send their consent there-vnto, not onely in their owne but also in the King of Spaines behalfe. They also sent the coppy of their letters to Fryer Iohn Nayen and Verr•…•…yken, with request to deliuer the originall letters vnto the Arch-dukes∣and that if they would consent to send any Comissioners, that it would please them to write their names, number, and the day of their departure from Brusselles, to the end they might send them conuenient passeports: and so they sent the chiefe letters by Graue Maurices Trumpet by the way of Seuenberghen, and an other Trumpet (by rea∣son of the frost) with a copy thereof ouer the Dussen, that if one fayled the other might be deliuered. * 1.329 [ F]

The 29. of December Hippolitus de Coly Councellor to the Elector and chiefe Iudge of Heydelbergh, Ambassador for the Palsgraue of Rhyne came to the Hage, to aid the Estates also in that treatie.

With these accidents, deliberations, difficulties & resolutions touching the affaires

of the Netherlands, this yeare of 1607. ended; leauing to the beginning of * 1.330 [ A] the next yeare, an vniuersall expectation in a manner of all the worlde, for the pacefiing of the troubles in the Netherlandes, and the ceasing of the long continued bitter warres: Wherein either partie pollitickly seemed to seeke his owne aduantage.

The Vnited Prouinces pretended by that treatie to bee free States and Prouinces, wholy released and freed from the Soueraignty, claime and pretences of Spaine, and consequently of the warre begun to maintaine the same, and that they from hence∣forth (as a free common wealth, where-vnto no man pretended any right) would gouerne and rule them-selues, according to their owne pleasures, freedomes and priuiledges, and the rather for that the enemie (hauing wholy yeelded vp his right) should from thenceforth haue no pretence nor coullor to make any more warre [ B] against them: and with this hope all those (which seemed to bee so much inclyned there-vnto) were fledde (and the rather for that they saw that this busines by most mens iudgements was vnlikely to bee brought to any good end) that by armes they lawfully might recouer againe all the townes and Prouinces which (since the Vnion made at Vtrecht) had forsaken them: and therefore notwithstanding the con∣tract and promise made by the said Vnion, they thought it better to yeelde to necessi∣tie, and by an honourable agreement to saue all the parcels thereof, which they as then inioyed, especially when as they might doe the same with such credit and ho∣nour, and thereby to attaine the expected end and freedome which they so long had [ C] sought.

Wee haue formerly declared how that the Emperor wrotte a letter vnto the ge∣nerall * 1.331 Estates of the vnited Prouinces, touching the treatie of peace; wherein hee seemed as if hee had an intent to breake it off, and by that meanes to disanull all that the generall Estates had done or should do concerning the same. Where-vpon the Estates made an answer vnto the Emperor bearing date the second of Ianuary 1608. Certefiing him that they held it very strange his imperiall Maiestie had not beene in∣formed of their proceedings in that action, neither from his Nephew the King of Spaine, nor his brother the Arch-duke Albertus, where-with if they had beene ac∣quainted, they would not haue beene so forgetfull to certefie him thereof: saying [ D] moreouer that they were well assured, that on their behalfe, both before and after the gouernment of the Arch-duke Mathias, diuers petitions had beene exhibited vnto the Emperor, Princes, and Estates of Germany, to craue his and their protecti∣on against the violent oppressions of the Spaniards, and that to their great hinderance no aid might be obtained either from the said Emperor nor the Empire, being also wel knowne that in Anno 1579. at the motion and request of the Emperour, and the Deputies of the Empire, there was a treaty of peace made at Collogne concerning the Netherlands, but they finding that their enemie during that treaty of peace, drew downe his greatest forces into the said Netherlandes to their great hurt and pre∣iudice, for which consideration, as also in regard of the forepassed violation of their priuiledges, cruelties and great 〈◊〉〈◊〉 vsed against the decreed conditions [ E] of aceptation, they were constrayned in Anno 1581. (lawfully according to the lawes and priuiledges of the Netherland Prouinces, and for the necessary defence of those Prouinces, Townes and Inhabitants of the said Netherlands which are vnited togither) to vndertake the vttermost and last remedie for the freeing of the sayde Netherlandes by a sollemne decree, and so to discharge and vnburthen the Inhabitants thereof of all bondes and othes, whereby they were bound to shewe obedience vnto the King of Spaine: Since which time, the aforesayd Vnited Prouinces by all Neutrall parties and by many Kinges, Princes and common wealthes, haue beene held and accounted for free Estates, and such as had power to rule and gouerne amongst them-selues as free common wealthes, [ F] or to chuse other Princes or Lordes ouer them, and that in that qualitie since the eight and twentith of Ianuary last past they had made many contracts of Leagues & Alliances, with diuers Kings and Princes, and with the extraordinary assistance and

aide of the sayd Kings, defended their Prouinces from great dangers both by sea and * 1.332 by land, against all the power of their enemies, and yet notwithstanding they had made [ A] knowne both vnto the Emperor, and other Kings and Princes; as also to the Estates of the Prouinces now vnder the Archdukes commaund, how much they were greeued and did lament the calamities which the Netherlanders and their neighbours, were by the sayd warres forced to indure, and that they desired nothing more, then an assured Godly, and honorable peace; which they thought would not otherwise bee well ef∣fected then by maintayning the said decree, that the vnited Prouinces are free coun∣tries, as in the yeare of our Lord 1605. they had at large written vnto the Emperor, & the Princes of Germany, thereof, and that in the yeare of our Lord 1606. The Arch∣dukes in their proposition of a treaty of peace had so acknowledged them, whē as they made them a resolute answere that they could not enter into treaty of peace with any [ B] man that would not acknowledge the freedom of the sayd vnited Prouinces, the which they had gotten held and enioyed so many yeares: wherevpon the Archdukes, first se∣cretly, and after that againe by formall writings signed and sealed by them, declared that they were content to treat with the Estates of the sayd vnited Prouinces, as E∣states of free countries; wherevnto they made no pretence of soueraignty, with pro∣mise not to doe any thing either directly or indirectly against their sayd declaration, and within three monthes then next ensuing, to procure letters of agreation and the like declaration vnto the said Estates, from the King of Spaine, which hath since beene done, as the Emperor by the acts sent with their sayd letter might plainely perceiue, and that their hope was, that the Emperor and the Princes of Germanie, according to [ C] their great and good affection alwaies borne vnto the vnited Prouinces, would not onely like well of their sayd proceedings, but also bee a meanes to further such things as tended to the assurance and fortefying thereof, and that they should not neede to write any other answere vnto the chiefe points of the Emperors letter, or touching the disanulling of their proceedings pretended by his Maiesties letters: Touching the prerogatiues of the Empire they made no mention, whether it were for that they would certefie him onelie of all the course of their proceedings in this action, and dis∣semble the rest, or for that they ment by silence to procure more furtherance vnto themselues, as to bring the case in question; or that there might bee some other thing yet ment thereby. [ D]

The seauenth of Ianuary the trumpets sent by the Estates vnto the Archdukes, re∣turned * 1.333 againe to the Hage, with letters from the sayd Archdukes, bearing date the last day of December before, written in French, certefying them that by their letters bearing date the three and twenty day of December they vnderstood their resolution to conferre and enter into treaty with their deputies, and to continue the truce for a month or sixe weekes, and that thereby they desired to know their wills and intents: wherevnto they made answere, that they had appointed the sayd persons that till then had beene vsed in the sayd affaires to bee deputies for the sayd treatie of peace, and that they should depart from Brussels vpon the fifteene of Ianuary, that the same eue∣ning they might bee at Antwerp, if two daies before they will send them pasports, [ E] and aduice that the shippes should bee ready at Lilloe, for them and their traine: and that by the letters sent them by Frier Iohn Nayen and Vereycken, they should know the names and qualities of those that were appointed to bee ioyned with them in commis∣sion concerning the said peace, and that touching the continuation of the truce, that they were content it should bee prolonged sixe weekes more, promising thereby, both in the King of Spaines behalfe, and their owne, to cause it to bee kept and maintained without any contradiction. Iohn Nayen the Frier and Vereycken also wrote letters to the Estates of the same date, certefying them that the deputies named and appointed, should bee ready to depart from Brussels vpon the fifteene of Ianuary, so they might haue their pasport two daies before, and aduice that shippes layd ready for them at * 1.334 [ F] Lilloe; desiring rather to come by water then by land, and that the sayd deputies were the Marquis Spinola, president Richardot, Secretary Mancicidor, Frier Iohn Nayen and Vereycken.

These Deputies appointed to come to the Hage for the Archdukes, caused diuerse * 1.335 [ A] of the states to growe iealous, for that there was not any one Netherlander amongst them, and that no such persons were appointed to enter into the said treatie as were promised by the first offer that was made, because that in a certaine note sent in the letter written by the States to Frier Iohn Nayen and Vereyken, they had giuen a larger li∣mitation therein, then otherwise was intended, and for that the Archdukes them-selues seemed to like well thereof, after some conference had concerning the same, it was at last agreed, that they would let such Committies come, as were then deputed, and that conuenient pasports to that end should be sent them, to the which purpose diuers con∣ferences were had by the States with the Ambassadors of forreine Kings and Princes.

The States of the vnited Prouinces being fully resolued to enter into treaty of peace or long truce with the Archdukes Commissioners, vpon the ninth of Ianuary caused a * 1.336 [ B] generall day of prayer and fasting to bee held throughout all the vnited Prouinces, to praise and thanke God for his great mercies showed vnto the said Prouinces, & with-all to desire him, that their action taken in hand might tend to his honor, and the de∣fence and preseruation of the country, together with the wel fare of the same.

It was said before, that the Archdukes deputies desired to come into Holland, rather by water then by land, but for that the frost was great they could not doe it, for which cause the States hauing dispatched their pasports for the said Deputies, sent them by * 1.337 land to Antwerpe by certaine Trumpeters, and with-all wrote their letters to Iustinus van Nassaw gouernor of Breda, and to Maasellus Bax gouernor of Bergen vp Zoome, [ C] to will them to go as farre as Antwerpe to meete them, and to conduct them to Breda, and Gertrudenberghe, and so to the Hage, for that they had sent the said deputies their pasports to come that way; but in regard of the cold wether and for that Marquis Spi∣nolaes liueries for his mē were not yet ready the time was so long protracted, as the said gouernor set not forward till the 24. of Ianuary, and then they went towards Lire, for * 1.338 that the Deputies for the Archdukes tooke that way, whether it were for that they would goe right ouer the heath, or to diuert the said gouernors from comming to Ant∣werpe, which is a towne full of inhabitants; desiring rather to haue them goe to Lide, being a towne of garrison, and so the said gouernors went to Lire vpon the 26. of Ianu∣ary, where they were well intertained by Don Alonso de Luna, gouernor of the towne, [ D] but they found not the Archdukes deputies there, for that it was the next day in the euening before they came, and so vpon the 28. of Ianuary they departed from thence with a great traine of attendants and carriage▪ and went to Hoghstrate; Marquis Spino∣la for his owne gard, hauing 180. horsemen with him. The 29. of Ianuary they entered into Breda, where they were honourably receiued, all the garrison standing in armes, and euery man as well prepared as they might be, the horsemen without the towne & the footmen within, Marquis Spinola, Richardot & Mancicidor were lodged in the castle, and the rest in the towne, and were well intertained and feasted The next day being the last of Ianuary about noone they came to Gertrudenberge, where they were also wel intertained, and from thence Spinolaes horse-men returned: that euening hee and the rest of the Deputies past ouer the Ice from Beesbos and the Merue in 190. Sleads to [ E] Dort, where the Magistrates of the towne receiued them without the gates, with such a multitude of people, as if halfe Holland were come thether to see them, and that night and the next day in the morning they were honorably feasted and intertained by the towne. The last of Ianuary after dinner they went to Rotterdam vpon Sleads, along the Merue and Meuse Banke, and were well receiued and intertained there by the Magi∣strates of the towne, and with a great concourse of people: and for that their traine was very great, and their carriage much, they sent the most part thereof before them to the Hage. The Marquis him-selfe and the rest of the Commissioners went that •…•…ore-noone to Del•…•…, where by the Magistrats & the like concourse of people they were honorably receiued but not feasted, because they had broken their fast at Rotterdam, [ F] and were certified that Prince Maurice was comming to meet them, and therefore after dinner they went towards the Hage, where Prince Maurice & his brother William Earle of Nassaw, & diuers Lords & Gentlemen met them at Riswick with 8. coaches▪ at their

meeting betweene Riswicke and Horne-bridge, they all on both sides went out of * 1.339 their Coaches saluting each other, with indifferent pleasant countenances: which [ A] done, Marquis Spinola went vp into Prince Maurices Coache, and there satte downe in the hinder part thereof, and on the right hand of the Prince, and in the fore∣end sat Mancicidor and Henry Earle of Nassau, and on the sides Richardot and William Earle of Nassau, the rest with other Lordes and Gentlemen went into the other Coaches; Marquis Spinola hauing three Coaches and diuers other wagons appointed for him and the •…•…est of the Deputies, at which time there was such a concourse of people of all degrees and qualities both of the Hage and other places as all the way both by water and land on both sides (the frost beeing very great and the y•…•…e able to beare them) was filled with the multitude, only to see the Marquis Spinola, more for [ B] noueltie then any other reason, not one considering or remembring that hee and the rest were the same persons, that for so many yeares togither, had sought by all the meanes they could practise to ruine and destroy them, and wholy to subiect their Country and estate. Most part of that countrie people are so forgetfull, blunt and foolish, and therefore cea•…•…ed not to come to the Hage from all Townes and places thereabouts (as if they should haue gone to a generall triumphe) onely to see the Deputies. At their entry into the Hage, two Trumpets went before the Mar∣quis, sounding their Trumpets passing along the streetes, as if they had entred in triumphe, to no small admiration of many men of good account, that were well∣willers to the country, who seemed to bee very much discontented thereat: In this great concourse of people, there were some which are imployed in the gouerne∣ment [ C] of the country and in the assemblie of the Estates: So hard a thing it is for those people to refraine from their foolish customes. Marquis Spinola, Richardot and Mancicidor were lodged in a faire house in the Hage, which standes by the Viuer∣bergh, (the which belonged to a Soliciter for diuers companies of Soldiers, cal∣led Goswine M•…•…uerskens) and Fryer Iohn Nayen, and Vereicken In the house of Wasenare.

The names and titles of the Deputies were as followeth. Don Ambrosio Spino∣la Marquis of Benaffro, Knight of the order of the golden Fleece, Councellor * 1.340 for the King of Spayne in his Priuie Councell and for the warres; and Generall [ D] of his armie: Sir Iohn Dedonsel otherwise called Richardot Knight, Seignior of Barley, Counsellor of Estate for the Arch-dukes, and President of their priuie councell: Iohn de Mancicidor, Councellor and Secretary of the warres for the said King: Fryer Iohn Nayen generall of the order of Saint Francis in the Netherlands, and Sir Lois Vereicken Knight, Auditor to the Arch-dukes, and principall Secretarie of Estate for the said Arch-dukes. In this sort the Deputies were brought into Holland euen into the heart of the countrie, where they might haue a 1000. meanes to discouer and learne the scituation and humors of diuers particuler places and persons, and to bee instructed therein; the which (as some men thought) shoulde alwayes bee a very greate aduantage for them, whether this Treatie of peace tooke any [ E] effect or not.

Many men here-vppon made diuers strange discourses, thinking it to bee contrary to the Estates former gouernement to suffer an enemie, yea and a * 1.341 chiefe Commaunder of the enemies sorces and Armies to enter in that sort into the heart of the countrey, there to discouer both the vnitie and dissention, strength and weakenesse, the consent of the people to the gouernement, and their detraction from the same, and that thereby they had meanes giuen them to incite diuers euill affected persons to reuolt from them. Others were of opinion that it was a great ouersight committed by the Estates, to enter into a treatie concerning so great and weighty a matter, with such Deputies as were bound vnto such instructi∣ons, [ F] from the which they might by no meanes varie: and that they ought not (knowing it before hand) in any wise to deale with them. But the Estates of the vnited Pro∣uinces being better acquainted with their owne affaires then other men, thought it their best course; thinking that the curiositie of the common people was not so

great, as in regarde thereof they should neglect their duties for the defence of the * 1.342 [ A] countrie.

And to the end that the vnited Prouinces might make the better vse, and reape the * 1.343 more benefit by the said treatie, and thereby preserue their estate, long before the com∣ming of the sayd Deputies, they made diuerse motions vnto the Ambassadors of France and England, to the end that their maisters might enter into an assured and firme defensiue vnion, tending to the vpholding and maintenance of peace, (if it should so fall out that it were concluded and agreed vpon) and the freedome of the coun∣tries, and on the other side, to ayde and assist one another, if the said peace should not bee obserued, or that it were broken by the Spaniards or the Archdukes meanes, which the sayd Ambassadors certified vnto their Princes: and to that end, vpon the [ B] three and twentith of Ianuary, there was a league made betweene the French and the aforesaid generall Estates, containing diuerse meanes and conditions, whereby they might ayde one the other, if the said peace were made, and after that broken either by the King of Spaine or the Archdukes.

The second of February Prince Maurice, with diuerse Lords and Gentlemen, went * 1.344 to salute and welcome Marquis Spinola, and the rest of the Deputies, with many com∣plements: after that the generall Estates of the vnited Prouinces, went also to con∣gratulate their comming, at which time they onely vsed a ceremoniall kinde of wel∣comming them, and so departed presently againe. After that the French Ambassa∣dors went to salute Marquis Spinola in his Chamber, at whose comming to the sayd Chamber, the rest of the Deputies, went to the Chamber doore, to meete them, who [ C] hauing saluted the sayd Marquis and the rest, and taking their leaue each of other, the Marquis himselfe accompanied them to the Chamber doore, and so left them, causing the rest of the Deputies to bring them to the streete doore of his lodging, where their Coaches attended them, which the French Ambassadors disliked, thinking that the Marquis did it, as if hee thought him-selfe of greater state then they, in regarde of his place. The same day also the Ambassadors of England went to visite and welcome him, whome hee in like manner receiued, intertained, and suffered to depart, which they also disliked. The next daye after hee was saluted by the Ambassadors of Denmarke, of the Palsgraue, of the Marquis of Brandenburgh, and other. [ D]

The third of February, the Archdukes Deputies inuited Earnest, and Iohn Earle of Nassaw, the young Earle of Hohenloe, the Lord of Chastillion, Iustinus of Nassaw, Captaine Bax, and diuerse others, to dine with them, where they were honorably in∣tertained and feasted; and the same day after dinner, they went to the Court to sa∣lute Prince Maurice and his brother, with William Earle of Nassaw, where there past many congratulations and complements betweene hem, from thence they went to see the French Ambassadors in the President Ianins lodging, who receiued them at the doore of their Chamber, and at their departure conducted them to the doore againe, and from thence caused them to bee accompanied by Monsieur de Russy to the streete doore, where their Coaches attended them: They also went to salute [ E] the Ambassadors of England at Sir Richard Spencers lodging, who also in like manner receiued them at the entery of his Chamber, and when they depar∣ted brought them no further, as the French Ambassadors had done before, each shewing thereby that their Princes were of no lesse Maiestie then the King of Spaine, to whose Deputies they were not to yeelde in any point of prehemi∣nence.

The fourth of February, Iohn van Burgh, Landt-Vooght of Hessen, Ambassador for the Lantgraue of Hessen, came to the Hage, to assist the Estates in their sayde Treatie, with the rest of the Ambassadors, who with in few dayes after had audience of the generall Estates, to whome hee deliuered the great loue and affection which * 1.345 [ F] his maister bare vnto the sayd Estates. Marquis Spinola during the time of his aboade in the Hage, was most sumptouously serued and attended on in his house; In his dining chamber there stoode two stately great Candlesticks of siluer, the which

standing vppon the flower before the table which reached much higher then any * 1.346 [ A] mans head, in the which at night they sette great waxe candles that gaue light ouer all the table: At his meales hee was serued with a rich cupboord of plate: his Chamber was richly hanged with cloth of Arras, and the like Carpets on his boord, and in his Chamber there was a cloth of Estate by the Table, but hee satt not vnder it, and alwayes when hee went to dinner or supper, all his Plate with other siluer ornaments were brought forth as if it had beene a Goldsmiths shoppe. At noone & at night hee suffered euery man that would to come into his house, that they might see him as hee satte at his meate, and euery day there was Masse saide openly in his house, wherevnto euery man that woulde might resort, vsing as greate state as if hee had beene a mighty Prince. And although many men were of opinion that it was dangerous example, to suffer so great a resort of people to flocke about his house, [ B] yet the States would not in any sort seeme to hinder or lette the same, whether it were for that they would minister no occasion of dislike or offence vnto him there∣in, or for that they esteemed not thereof, thinking it a matter of small importance to preiudice them or their Estate.

The generall Estates of the vnited prouinces, thinking it time to enter into the * 1.347 treatie of peace or truce, which was intended vppon the fourth of February, they sent to Marquis Spinola and the rest of the Deputies to congratulate them, and with∣all to aske them it they had any thing to propound vnto them, or whether they desi∣red onely to speake with their Deputies: where-vnto they made answer that they [ C] had nothing to say vnto the generall Estates, but onely at their first comming to sa∣lute them, for which cause vppon the fifth of February they sent vnto them to know if they would come vnto their councell Chamber on foote or in Coaches, and if it pleased them to come on foote, that then they would cause them to be honourablie at∣tended on, or otherwise they would expect their comming to the Court; but they made answer they would ride in Coaches, and the same day in the forenoone came to the Court, where a conuenient number of the States them-selues with Prince Maurice receiued them at their comminge out of their Coaches, and so conducted them to the Councell Chamber, where when they should enter, the Marquis shew∣ed great honour to Prince Maurice and would needes haue him to go first into the Chamber; at this Assemblie there was nothing done but onely salutations and con∣gratulations [ D] vsed on both sides, and at their rising vp, the States asking them when they would proceed to the treaty of peace or truce, Richardot made answer that they were ready and prepared to enter thereinto as soone as they pleased, and so for that time they departed, being conducted out of the Councell chamber by the Prince, William Earle of Nassau, the Barrō de Brederode & others, and when they came to the dore the prince caused the Marquis to go first out, & that day they din'd with the prince.

The Marquis Spinola being gone out of the Councell chamber, the Estates resolued * 1.348 to determine vppon the electing of their Deputies, wh•…•…ch were to bee chosen amongst them to enter into the said treaty, and after some conference had between them, at the last they nominated for the commonaltie in general of the vnited Prouinces, William [ E] Earle of Nassau Gouernor of friseland, and Walraue Baron of Brederode, Vianen Ameyden &c. And for euery one of the seauen Prouinces one, as for Gelderland and Zutphen, Cornelis van Ghenet Seignior of Koeuen and Meynerswicke, Vi∣cont and Iudge of Nymeghen: for Holland and West-Freezeland Sir Iohn van olden Barneuelet Seignior van Timple, Aduocate of Holland, Keeper of the Seale, and Recor∣der of the said countries; for Zealand Sir Iaques de Mallidere knight, Seignior van Heyes representing the Gentlemen of that Prouince: for Vtrecht Nicholas van Berke, chiefe of the saide Prouince in their Councell; for Freezeland, Doctor Gellius Helle∣•…•…a, Councellor in their Court: for Ouerissell, Iohn Sloeche Seignior van Sa∣licke, [ F] Drossart of Venlo, and Chastelaine of the Kuynder: and for Groning and the Territories thereof, Abel Koenders Thoehelphen, and others that assistted them, and at the same time they set downe certaine instructions concerning two or three pointes onley whereon they shoulde treate, and withall deliuered

them a procuration to proceed therein, most by the counsell, and instructions to be gi∣uen * 1.349 [ A] them by Sir Iohn van Olden Burneveldt, as being the wisest and most experienced a∣mongst them in matters of Estate.

The sixt day of February, the deputies for the Archdukes, and the generall Estates made their first assembly in the Hage, in a Chamber expressely appointed for that * 1.350 purpose, whereon each side hauing giuen seueral salutations, and shewed their pro∣crations or commissions to enter into treaty, the Archdukes deputies shewed a pro∣curation from the King of Spaine, bearing date the tenth day of Ianuary, and a procuration from the Archduke dated the twelfth' day of Ianuary, the first made in Madrill, and the second in Brussells, which caused no small suspition to rise amongst the deputies for the Estates, that the sayd Spanish procuration was made vpon a blanke signed, and with all it was graunted vnto the Archduke alone, and to such [ B] as they should substitute: but the Archdukes procuration nominated no substitutes: Againe in the Spanish procuration, the Archdukes were named heires and soue∣raigne Lords of the Netherlands; otherwise the said procuration was sufficiently made to giue them full power to enter into treatie with the Estates (touching peace or a long truce), in quality, and as holding and esteeming them to bee free coun∣tries and Prouinces, wherevnto hee made no pretences of soueraigntie, so as the peace were concluded in such manner and forme, and vpon such conditions as the Archdukes should thinke conuenient, to the honour of GOD, and the peace and welfare of Christendome, but vnderneath there stood at large and word for word the same clause and exception, which was set downe in the principall approbation [ C] made at the first, if the peace should not bee concluded, as well concerning Religion as otherwise.

The Archdukes procuration also was large inough, but in some places there were certaine preiudiciall clauses inserted, as amongst the rest, that the King of Spaines procuration was the same, and with the like declaration, as the Estates themselues had desired it should be. Which neuer-the-lesse was not so, for that the Estates expres∣ly protested against it, as also that the same made no mention of the aforesayd Spa∣nish procuration dated the tenth daie of Ianuary, but of an other procuration dated the eighteenth daie of September before, whereof they shewed no coppie, and that daie there was nothing further done: but onelie the viewing and deliuering of their [ D] procuration, and so they brake vp for that time and departed: when as the Archdukes deputies came to the Court in their Coaches, they were receiued by the deputies of the Estates, and so conducted into the counsell Chamber, and going out were accom∣panied by them againe to their Coaches.

Vpon the eight day of February, the deputies on both sides met againe, at which * 1.351 time the Archdukes deputies made some exception to the procuration giuen by the Estates to their deputies, aleadging that it was not ample inough, but restrai∣ned to an instruction, which they sawe not, which in such treaties they sayd was not vsuall, for that procurations made in that kinde ought to bee ample and sufficient, but the deputies resolued them therein, and said that it was made in that sort for that [ E] they were appointed to cause each article that should bee agreed on, on after the other to be ratefied by the Estates.

The Estates deputies for their partes also shewed what difficulties they found in the Archdukes procurations, (which were such as are before declared) wherein they were likewise satisfied, sa•…•…ing that they were fully authorised in all pointes concer∣ning the sayd treatie, and that they would shew and deliuer the Estates a conuenient act of substitution. And amongst other things spoken off, the Estates deputies as∣ked them, if they had full power and commission giuen them to acknowledge the vnited Prouinces to bee free countries, and to treate with them in that quali∣tie, wherevnto they freely and flatly said, I; and that therefore it was all one to [ F] them what title the sayd Prouinces in that respect would take or atribute vn∣to them-selues, yea although it were the title of a Kingdome. Wherevnto the Estates Deputies replying, asked them, why the Archdukes then bare the

armes of those Prouinces in his coate armor? whervnto they made answere, that, it was * 1.352 [ A] no strange nor new matter, for that in the same manner the King of Spaine wrot himself King of Ierusalem, the French King named himselfe King of Nauar, and the King of England bare both the name and armes of King of France, and diuers others in like sort, neuerthelesse they desired the deputies for the Estates, that what title soeuer they would atribute vnto themselues, they would haue such respect as it might bee done without any disgrace or blemish to their King and Princes re∣putations.

The leauenth day of February, they assembled together againe, wherein the Estates * 1.353 deputies propounded the first article concerning the freedome of their Prouinces, and that the King of Spaine and the Archdukes should from thence-forth leaue off and wholy desist from all their pretences to the soueraignty of the vnited Prouinces, as [ B] also of Drente, Linghen, and other places vnder their commaund and which the sayd Estates as now hold and enioye, not onely for themselues, but for their heires and suc∣cessors, together with the title and armes thereof: which article the Archdukes de∣puties desired to peruse and to take aduise therein, and so for that time they departed, sending presently a coppie thereof with all speed vnto Brussells, wherevnto vpon the thirteene day of February they receiued an answere, and in the meane time they made their complaint vnto the Ambasadors of France, England, and others, touching the strictnesse of the sayd article.

The thirteene day of February after dinner, they met againe in the Councell Cham∣ber, * 1.354 where they declared their consent and approbation as it was set downe; with this [ C] exception, so as all the rest of the pointes and articles (that should bee propounded) were concluded, wherein they sayd that they hoped the Estates also would doe some thing for the King of Spaine and the Archdukes, touching the traficke into the Indies seeing that from that time forth they should bee friends in respect thereof, and that the sayd Prouinces should haue their free trade and traficke into Spaine, and amongst other things spoken of betweene them concerning the same, at the last they sayd that the trade into the Indies was the chiefest cause that mooued the King of Spaine to make such large offers vnto them and to enter into that treatie of peace.

The sixteene day of February, the deputies on both sides met in counsell againe, [ D] where the Estates deputies propounded two articles more, the one concerning the for∣giuing * 1.355 and forgetting of al forepassed iniuries, and that no reprisales nor arrests should bee made nor suffered to bee made, but onelie for perticuler debts that might bee made on either side: the second for free trade and traficke in all the Kingdomes, Ha∣uens, Townes, and Countries of both parties, with protection, and no more nor fur∣ther molestation to bee vsed as if they were naturall borne subiects: But presently the Archdukes deputies, made answere, that they neither ment nor vnderstood, that vnder the title of free traficke, the trade into the Indies, nor any part thereof was to bee comprehended, but that to the contrary the subiects of the vnited Prouinces, should presently desist from the same, which the Estates deputies would not yeeld [ E] vnto, thinking it should bee a great preiudice vnto the freedome of the vnited Pro∣uinces, and their free trafick by sea, as also that their Estates would not by any meanes consent to leaue the same; and for that the Archdukes deputies did verie earnestly vrge the contrary, they brake off for that time without doing any other thing that day, and so they disagreed in that point, which afterwards was with great vehemency de∣bated betweene them on both sides, the Archdukes deputies saying, that the King and the Archdukes would not sell the aforesayd title of free countries and Estates for no∣thing, but rather determined to make them pay well for that title, hoping by that meanes to abate and deminish a great part of the Estates power, and much to aduance [ F] their Princes welth and traficke. Whereby euery man iudged that in time the sub∣iection of their Estate would ensue, which as then seemed to bee so much aduanced and honoured with that title of freedome: and for that cause many men beganne to murmur thereat, especially the Marchants which trade into the East Indies who

perceiued thereby that the Archdukes deputies sought to take their trafficke from * 1.356 [ A] them, and so to impouerish the sayd vnited Prouinces, and therfore they assembled to∣gether in the Hage, and made many publicke and particuler declarations vnto the states, townes and prouinces concerning the same; as also vnto the Ambassadors of forreine Princes, shewing the great preiudice and hinderance which might growe by that point, and how hurtfull it should bee vnto the whole Estate of the vnited Prouinces, as also what great trafficke and riches came vnto those countries by the sayd trade: what great returnes they had from thence: how by that meanes they d•…•…ew vnto those countries all their neighbour Princes subiects, money and meanes: and that without any charge to the countrie they entertained a great number of mightie shipps, furnished with ordinance, munition, Saylers, and other things necessarie, such as were not to bee found in many other kingdomes besides; and in regarde whereof, [ B] they were much respected and esteemed by many Princes and great Potentates, which peraduenture would not much care for their friendship, when they should once perceiue these Prouinces to bee reduced vnto such tearmes as they could nei∣ther much hurt, nor pleasure them: and to that end they deliuered diuerse and seue∣rall aduertisements, some as Merchants, concerning their trade alone, others some∣what tending to the Estate of the countrie, amongst the which one principally was worthy the noting, in regarde of many good considerations therein set downe, whereof some perticularities were, viz. That friendshippe, commerce, and trafficke, * 1.357 are necessarie consequences of peace, according to the lawes of Nature, of all [ C] Nations and of all times; commerce and trafficke beeing euident signes of peace and friendship, which are neuer refused nor denied but vnto an enemy.

So as neuer any example was found, where any peace was concluded and agreed vppon, with exception of commerce and trafficke, the which should bee no peace, but a kinde of banishment; which is neuer vsed but against enemies and male∣factors.

Furthermore, that wee who must liue by the Seas, and are the greatest Mer∣chants, and best Sea-faring men in the world, should bee forced to leaue the vse of the greatest part of the Sea, and of the richest part of the whole trafficke of the world, were one of the greatest disgraces that could bee giuen vs, and especially to [ D] seeke to r•…•…straine vs from other kingdomes and countries, where-vnto hee hath no pretence of Soueraigntie, nor ouer the Sea, whereon no man hath command, but the vse thereof (Iure gentium) is free and open for all men, and wherein no man hath any particuler iurisdiction.

This without doubt would bee a manifest subuersion of our estate, which in these chargeable and great warres, could not bee maintained with-out free trade and traf∣ficke at Sea, it beeing the onely meanes which GOD hath giuen vnto vs for our maintenance, and so consequently, as much as our Sea-faring and trafficke should deminish, so much in proportion would the power of these Prouinces decay; for that our townes and inhabitants cannot bee maintained, much lesse can wee haue [ E] any power by the particuler meanes of the rents and reuenewes of these countries, as other great countries and kingdomes may haue, but all our wealth must come from the Sea and Sea-faring.

And for that it appeareth by many declarations made, that the trade to the In∣dies exceedeth all our other traffickes by sea, what-so-euer that is vsed by vs, both for the principall stocke, number of good Saylers, and power of Shipping, it fol∣loweth consequently, that wee leauing off our Indian trade, should deminish more then halfe our trafficke, not onely by Sea, (with-out the which wee cannot main∣taine our estate,) but also by land, for that all our power and well-fare (for the reasons aforesayd) must come from the Seas, and trafficke. [ F]

Which beeing duely considered, it manifestly appeareth, that (although no Mar∣chants doe trade and trafficke, nor any man goeth to Sea, but for his owne perticuler gaine and commoditie) the common wealth should bee much more hindered, and

receiue more preiudice thereby then the particular members thereof, for that be∣sides * 1.358 [ A] that the common wealth consisteth of the particuler members, of the same who make the sayd common-wealth; and that the same is powerfull and mightie according to the priuate Estates of the subiects and members thereof, yet is it most certaine that the particuler members can liue without the publike Estates, but the publike not without the particuler, for that the particuler members may goe into other countries, where they may as well trade into the Indies, as in these coun∣tries, but the common-wealth must remaine still, and see it selfe weakened in power, according to the deminishing of the trade thereof, for that poportionaly and of neces∣sity, as much as the power thereof decreaseth, so will the number of Inhabitants, and wealth of the country decrease. [ B]

Besides all this, it is to bee considered that the saylers, which are imployed in the trade of Marchandise by certaine priuate persons, are verie manie, that without any charges or burthen to the countrie are kept and maintained in worke, and daylie at sea, verie readie at all times to bee imployed about any important affaires of the Countries good, without the which it is impossible to maintaine any power by sea, as by example wee see, that the greatest Kingdomes haue no po∣wer at sea according to their great wealthes, but onelie according to the traficke which their countries vse.

Our fore Fathers, in times past vndertooke diuers great quarrells to maine∣taine their sea-faring and traficke, which as then was verie small, for that their [ C] whole principall stocke was not to bee compared to the value of the bare shippes with the furniture thereof that now goe into the Indies: and beeing now so great and mightie at sea (as it manifestly appeareth) wee should doe our selues great wrong and iniury, by our owne consents to suffer our selues to bee banished from the two third partes of the world.

Wee should buy this title to deare, for that in steed that wee should thereby bee honoured, it would purchase vs a great reproch and contempt, not onelie a∣mongst the inhabitants of the country, but also out of the land, both of our friends and foes: our inhabitants might iustly bee offended therewith, when they should see that wee left of our trade, and that they were compelled to depart out of the [ D] countrie and Prouinces, our friends and alies would thinke and perswade them∣selues, that they were to expect neither faith nor troth at our handes, when they should see vs forsake our owne inhabitants and countrie men, to obtaine a bare title of freedome.

Moreouer finding vs to bee so much weakened of our power at sea, (which is the especiall thing whereby wee might aide and assist them) they will make no ac∣count of vs: so as entering into this treatie of peace vpon the confidence wee haue of our friends, and such as are allied vnto vs, wee shall finde our selues vtterly deceiued. To aleadge that wee ought to content our selues with the same traficke at sea which wee had before the beginning of the warres, is nothing els but that men [ E] would gladly see vs in the like weake Estate for power and meanes, as wee were at the beginning of these warres, for the better effecting of their designes, from the which God defend vs.

It is also against reason, that wee should leaue that trade▪ for although that be∣fore the warres, wee did neither aduenture nor traficke into the Indies, yet, wee had both right and freedome to doe it, Iure gentium, which was not taken from vs by any man, for the King of Spaine was bound by oth to maintaine these countries and the inhabitants thereof in the freedome of their trade and traficke, of the which without doubt the free vse of the sea, are, and traficke throughout the whole world was the maine point, and it was neuer brought in question nor once spoken of, vntill [ F] the yeare of our Lord. 1596. When as the King of Spaine made an expresse article touching the same, in the transportation of the Netherlands, vnto the Infanta,

and yet we remaine as free as euer wee were before the warres; the free nauigation and traf∣fique [ A] into the whole world lyeth open for vs, whereof wee cannot bee depriued, without * 1.359 force and violence: which beeing otherwise done, were contrarie to the meaning of the Estates, for that they being freely and resolutely determined, not to enter into any treatie of peace, before they were assured of a full and absolute graunt of the freedome of these coun∣tries, vnder the king of Spaine and the archdukes hands and seales, the said king of Spaine and the archdukes, made promise by their seuerall declarations, to treat with vs, as with free countries, whereunto they pretend no maner of soueraigntie, and yet now by this treatie they will cut off the greatest trade we haue.

It is also expresly mentioned, That each partie should hold that hee presently possesseth, vnlesse by the common consent of both parties, it were thought good, and found requisite [ B] to exchange certaine places; and now they would take from vs the most important possession that wee haue, which is, the possession and free vse of the two third parts of the sea, and the whole world: They will put vs from the places of traffique, which wee vse at the Indies, with the greater halfe of our nauigation and power by sea, without giuing vs any other places for them.

To obiect, That in regard thereof they renounce and acquit vnto vs, all their pretence of so∣ueraigntie vnto these countries; they promised to do that by their letters, and that they would not take any thing from vs, but by exchaunge, and wherein wee should our selues giue our consent.

To conclude, if wee looke into the ground of this matter, wee shall find, that it was in vaine [ C] for vs to maintaine so long warres, and to haue consumed so great a treasure, and so much of our bloud, to maintaine our freedome, if with our owne consents wee will make our selues seruile, and banished from the two third parts of the whole world. It was also needlesse for vs, to oppose our selues against the power and forces of our enemies, if wee will consent and yeeld to this article, That wee should not traffique with al nations, and which is more, not with those which are not subiect vnto the king of Spaine. It was likewise madly done of vs, to op∣pose our selues against the raysing of the tenth penie, which would haue driuen all trade of merchandise out of the countrey, when as we of our selues shall giue ouer the two third parts of our traffique and trade by sea.

The reasons and considerations that might yet bee added hereunto, are innumerable, but [ D] these seeme to bee sufficient to conclude, That although wee doe sincerely, and from our hearts desire a godly, honourable, absolute, and generall peace, yet wee would bee loth thereby to abandon the greatest and most profitable trade wee haue, and by that meanes to fall into greater miseries than euer: and yet wee protest, that wee are content to persist in our generall resolution, and the letters giuen vnder the hands and feals of the king of Spain, and the archdukes, and not to deale otherwise, than by this treatie, to hold and maintaine our freedomes, liberties, priuiledges, and antient customs, together with all that which at this present time we possesse and enioy, without the which wee would neuer haue begun nor en∣tred into this treatie.

These in effect are the principall reasons, alledged by the companie of Indian merchants, [ E] why they should not grant to leaue off the Indian trade, with many others, which for breui∣tie sake I here omit.

But for that the gouernment of the vnited prouinces consisteth of many parts, amongst the which there are many men, that esteeme not much of forreine trade and traffique, or * 1.360 at the least, not so much, but that they are of opinion, That the preseruation and mainte∣nance of the tilling of the land, and the inhabitants of the Champian countrey, concer∣ned them more, they could not enter into so good consideration touching the same, as was requisit and necessarie to bee had; wherefore the wisest men, and such as were of grea∣test vnderstanding, and of soundest iudgement, determining so to accommodat the matter, as both the one and the other might receiue some contentment thereby, for that cause had [ F] many meetings and conferences with the deputies of the aforesaid king of Spaine and the archdukes; as vpon the nineteenth, three and twentieth, and seuen and twentieth of the

moneth of Februarie, and vpon the fourth day of March: at the which assemblies nothing [ A] was done therein, but each partie resolutely held their owne opinions, and would not yeeld * 1.361 one vnto the other, maintaining them with many arguments and reasons concerning matter of state, and also with great resolution and earnest pretences; in such sort, as the Estates of the vnited prouinces, who for the most part were of opinion, That they ought not to yeeld vnto the deputies of the king and the archdukes in that point, nor in any wise to desist from the same, at the last they resolued to propound three meanes vnto the said deputies of the said king and the archdukes, hoping by the one of them, to bring them to consent and yeeld thereunto; which were, either by that treatie of peace wholly to graunt them their traffique to the Indies, and the dependances thereof, or by way of truce to permit and suffer it for cer∣taine yeares; or to leaue all those countries lying beyond the Tropicke of Cancer in wars, [ B] and either partie to take such aduantage as hee could, in those countries, without seeking a∣ny amends or recompence against their aduerse partie, on this side the Tropicke, for any wrongs or iniuries they should receiue in those parts.

But the deputies on the contrarie side, wholly refused those offers, first alledging, That it was altogether contrarie to their commission, which expresly forbad them to yeeld vnto the sayd trade and traffique to the Indies. Secondly▪ That the king of Spaine and the arch∣dukes, were princes which were addicted vnto peace, and not to warres, and therefore know not how they should graunt or consent to so strange and monstrous a contract, where∣by both warres and peace should alike and at one time bee concluded. And touching the meane or the middle course, they say, they were of opinion, That something might [ C] bee graunted therein, so as the Estates of the vnited prouinces of the Netherlands would consent and agree, that at the end and terme of the said yeares, they would desist, and leaue off the said trade. But for that the •…•…states of the vnited prouinces declared, That they had no such intent or meaning, but at the end of the sayd yeares, each partie should remaine as they were at the first, and at their owne free choyce, nothing was done in that point at that time.

The Estates of the vnited prouinces finding the obstinacie of the deputies of the sayd king of Spaine and the archdukes, made a shew, as if they would make a motion touching their trade into the West Indies, and to that end sent for the merchants of the West Indian trade causing them to assemble together, to see what difficulties might be propounded therin, [ D] and thereby to further the same.

But the deputies for the king of Spaine and the archdukes, made no account thereof, esteeming it to bee but a scare-crow, to put them in feare, and therefore still they persisted in their first resolution, making their complaints to the embassadours of the neighbour princces then resident in the Hage, holding that point to bee as vniust and intollerable for the estate of their princes, as if they had taken and held them prisoners, they could not bind them to har∣der conditions.

The Estates also for their parts, made their complaints to the said embassadors, alledging, That they being by the said princes held and esteemed for free countries, the said princes sought to impose many conditions vpon them, which the prouinces vnder their owne com∣mand, [ E] could not suffer nor indure.

In the end of Februarie the princesse of Orange came to the town of Hage in Holland, by the procurement of the Estates of the vnited prouinces, bringing with her out of Franne, an hundred and twentie fiue thousand crownes in readie money, where shee was visited and welcommed by the most part of all the embassadors, and also by the deputies for the king of Spaine and the archdukes.

The sayd deputies for the king of Spaine and the archdukes, perceiuing that they could not bring that poynt touching the trade to the Indies, to any end, or good conclusion, at the last they declared, That they would conclude vpon a truce to bee made for certaine yeares, and that to the same end and purpose they were content to proceed to some other articles, and in the meane time to bee doing therewith, or with any of the other poynts. [ F] Whereupon the deputies for the Estates of the vnited prouinces, made a motion, to

haue all the points and articles set downe at one time, which on both sides might be propoun∣ded [ A] concerning that treatie. But they made answer, That it was both inconuenient and vn∣reasonable * 1.362 to be done, as also that they were neither warranted, willing, nor prepared thereun∣to: and that some of them commended the making of peace with Fraunce and England, which was not any part of their charge; but that they were readie to deale with other poynts, and to treat of them one after another, as it is vsually done in all such treaties: and that follow∣ing that order and common rule, they were content to deale with the points of limitation of their borders on either side, touching free commerce and traffique in the prouinces of the Netherlands, and for the restitution of goods and lands, seized vpon on either side: and those beeing determined, and dispatched, to proceed vnto other points. Whereunto answer was made them by the Estates deputies, That on the Estates behalfes, there was nothing of∣fered nor propounded, that was vnreasonable or inconuenient, concerning the deliuering vp [ B] of all the articles which were to bee propounded on both sides; so that the Estates for their parts, to fulfill them, were readie, and to deliuer all the articles that might bee demaunded▪ yet not intending thereby to exclude or debarre each other, from propounding any more articles, that might bee, or were necessarie to bee intreated of, touching the peace, which they vnderstood should bee free, and at either of their choyces; but onely that they might vnderstand, what would be propounded and demaunded on either side.

Whereupon the king and the archdukes deputies tooke time to consider thereof, and for that day departed; seeking thereby (as it seemed) on both sides to get some aduantage one of the other, that the most politike might giue better instructions therein vnto their fellow de∣puties: for that some of them were of opinion, That it would bee a great furtherance vnto [ C] them, to know before hand, what their aduerse partie meant to propound touching the said treatie.

The seuenth of March the deputies met in counsell againe, where, after many protesta∣tions (that it should bee no preiudice vnto either partie, touching any thing that should bee produced or found necessarie to bee propounded and conferred of betweene them, but that either of them might notwithstanding remaine in the same estate they were) at the last the Estates deputies for their parts, deliuered eight and twentie points or articles, which they as then propounded: and the deputies for the king of Spaine and the archdukes, seuen. The articles propounded by the Estates, were set downe as plainely as they might bee done, there∣by declaring their intent, with vpright and true Netherlanders hearts, that their aduerse par∣ties [ D] might plainely and manifestly vnderstand their meanings. But the seuen articles deliue∣red vp by marquesse Spinola and his fellow deputies (who peraduenture dealt more warily than the deputies for the Estates of the vnited prouinces) were obscure, generall, short, and briefely set downe, so as they could hardly conceiue what they meant thereby, or what they would seuerally and particularly include, treat of, or desire of the Estates, in or by the same, pos∣sibly esteeming it to bee a point much tending vnto their honours, that they exceeded the Estates deputies in iudgement concerning that treatie, the said Estates deputies hauing giuen them all their meanings in seuerall and playne articles, and they to the contrarie paying them with a number of obscure tearmes, from whence few or no particularities might bee gathered. [ E]

And for that the reader may see what the articles on both sides were, and giue his iudge∣ment, I will insert them verbatim as they were giuen foorth, and the rather, for that I con∣iecture this treatie cannot bee ended in any short time, as men in the beginning did hope and expect: And for that this booke cannot bee finished and concluded, with the desired, good, and honourable peace, that hath beene so long attended, I will shew what each par∣tie, vnder the pretence and colour of the sayd articles, produced and set downe in the sayd treatie, and in what manner, and how farre foorth they haue disputed and proceeded therein. [ F]

The articles deliuered by the deputies of the Estates of the vnited prouinces, were these hereafter following.

1 First, for traffique and trade of merchandise to bee made on both sides, in the Nether∣lands, * 1.363 indifferently.

2 Touching the assurance of trade and nauigation, and the dependances thereof, in the * 1.364 [ A] countries belonging vnto the king of Spaine, the archdukes, and the Estates.

3 Renunciation of reprisals, with the dependances, and also for that which shal be made reprisals hereafter.

4 Touching the limitation of the borders and frontiers of either side, with that which de∣pendeth thereon.

5 Whether it shall presently be agreed vpon, about the exchanging or demanteling and rasing of certaine forts.

6 Touching the abandoning or ruining of the forts of Rodeort and Homburch, and of the towne of Berck, with the Weert, and the forts thereabouts, lying vpon the borders of the Rhine. [ B]

7 The disannulling of al sentences, decrees, proscriptions, and other acts made against the lords and others, of all quarters whatsoeuer, in regard of any confederations, vnions, religion, wars, and other matters thereunto belonging.

8 Restitution of lordships, and other lands and tenements, belonging to the prince of O∣range (of famous memorie) deceased, for the contentment and satisfaction of the said princes heires; not onely for that which hath beene done by the Estates of Brabant and Flanders, with the towns and members of the same, but also for that which is further demanded by cer∣taine articles, which prince Maurice hath giuen vnto the Estates in writing.

9 Restitution of all lordships, lands and tenements, belonging vnto other noblemen, gen∣tlemen, and all manner of men of meaner qualitie, taken from them by confiscation, for the [ C] causes aforesaid, not onely in the Netherlands, but in the dukedome of Luxembourg, and the earledomes of Burgondie and Charolois, with the dependances: And likewise of ships that were sent out for trade of merchandise, and were arrested or taken by the king of Spaine, the archdukes, or the Estates, since the 24 of May 1607.

10 Touching order to be taken for the restitution of goods arrested either by creditors or debtors, in regard of the causes aforesaid, and sold to the preiudice of the said parties.

11 Touching the arrerages of the rents of the lands confiscated, and kept from the right owners, during the wars.

12 Touching the disannulling of all gifts, testaments, and other such like things, which in regard of confederation, religion, and warrs, with the dependances thereof, haue beene found [ D] to be made, to the preiudice of any man.

13 Concerning order to be taken for the paiment of debts, and other charges, made by the treatie of the old vnion.

14 The retyring of all foreine souldiers (being in seruice vnder the king of Spaine and the archdukes) out of all the said archdukes countries, for that without their departure out of the countrey, the differences which then were to bee determined and debated, could not bee ended.

15 That the lawes of the Inquisition, and burthening of mens consciences, shall not bee vsed against saylers and merchants, that goe into Spaine, and other the kings and the arch∣dukes dominions, nor against any other of the inhabitants of the vnited prouinces, that [ E] trauell thither: and that in their ships, they shall bee free to vse their owne religion, and that for religion no shippes, merchandises, nor goods, shall bee subiect to con∣fiscation.

16 That the inheritances of such as are dead intestat, and such as hereafter shall die, in the countries belonging to the king of Spaine, the archdukes, and the Estates, shall come and discend vnto the right heires, whether they haue continued, or shall continue on the one or the other side; and that euerie one shall bee held and accounted for legitimat heire, ac∣cording to the customes of the prouinces, where the actions (that shall fall in question to bee decided) shall be tried.

17 The antient priuiledges of townes, vsed therein before the warres, shall on both sides [ F] remaine firme in the same maner that they then were, without any exception.

18 That if any new controuersie should arise (which God forbid) the saylers, merchants, and their factors, seruants, and other inhabitants, shal on both sides haue six moneths time free∣ly

to withdraw themselues, with their ships, goods, and satisfaction of their debts due vnto [ A] them; the time of the six monethes to begin presently after there should bee warning thereof * 1.365 giuen.

19 That if any thing (on both sides) bee done or attempted against this treatie, it shall be duely and fully satisfied and recompenced, and yet the sayd treatie shall remaine inuio∣lable.

20 That all prisoners on both sides shall bee set at libertie, without paying any ran∣some.

21 All ciuile actions not publikely decided shall remaine in full force, and no prescription to be alledged nor allowed, notwithstanding the warres.

22 Assurance to bee giuen for the particular treaties made, concerning the generall [ B] treatie.

23 A generall and speciall renouncing, derogation, and assurance to be made, for the kee∣ping and holding of all and euerie point of the treatie.

24 A request to bee made to the emperour and the princes of Germanie, the kings of Fraunce, England, and Denmarke, to maintaine that which shall bee agreed vpon in this treatie.

25 The acknowledging of the potentates, princes, commonweals, and townes, to bee friends and allies, and to be included in the treatie.

26 Order to be taken about the prince of Portugals cause.

27 Approbation, publication, and registring, to be made of the treatie. [ C]

28 That all such things as may be propounded for the cleere exposition of the articles, on both sides, shall and may be produced and allowed of.

The articles propounded in the behalfe of the king of Spain and the archdukes, were seuen, which were written in French, the contents being as followeth. * 1.366

• 1 Concerning limits.
• 2 The restitution of lands and goods.
• 3 For traffique out of the countries.
• 4 For vniformitie in the moneyes.
• 5 To keepe a generall course on both sides, for priuiledges and freedoms giuen to the En∣glish merchants, touching traffique and trade of merchandise, as otherwise. [ D]
• 6 Concerning religion.
• 7 Concerning the affaires of neighbour princes.

As soone as these articles were deliuered on both sides, the king of Spaine and the arch∣dukes deputies marking the number of the articles that were presented vnto them by the Estates deputies, sayd, That it would bee so tedious a worke, as it could not bee finished in a short time: and Richardot reading the point concerning the paiment of the debts of the vni∣on, said, Wee haue no money to pay debts; for all our money is consumed in the warres. The Estates deputies for their parts also, finding that their aduerse partie made an expresse ar∣ticle touching religion; and thereby remembring, that the same point concerning religion, was particularly specified in the Spanish procuration, and all the rest mentioned in generall [ E] termes; they desired the kings and the archdukes deputies, to make an explication of their intent and meanings, that they might know their minds therein, and whether by that arti∣cle they intended, to compell the Estates, to leaue their religion; the which (as beeing free Estates and countries) they had, or should haue? and whether they thought, that as yet they had any right of soueraigntie ouer those countries, whereby they might prescribe them lawes? or whether their meaning was, vnder that article, to set downe onely, how the subiects on either side should behaue themselues, when they should come in any place vnder their aduerse parties commaund, where any other religion than that which they professe, shall bee vsed? But they could get no explication thereof from the sayd depu∣ties; saying, That it beeing one of the last articles, they would make them an exposition there∣of, [ F] when they came vnto it. And being much vrged thereunto, they sayd, That they had sent a messenger into Spaine for that purpose, and that they could make no explication nei∣ther of the one nor the other, vntill such time as they should receiue an aunswere thereof

againe, or some larger commission from thence: and so for that time they brake vp the [ A] counsell. * 1.367

The Spanish and the archdukes deputies, hauing in this manner gotten all the Estates articles, as they were particularly set downe, into their hands, sought to respite and pro∣long the time for a while, that so they might fully aduertise their princes, not onely what the Estates desire and intent was touching the treatie, but also of the humors of the prouinces, gouernments, and inhabitants therereof, or as much as they had learned, and vnderstood of such persons, of diuers places, quarters, and qualities, as came vnto them by meanes of the free accesse that was permitted: which their intent was first discouered by certaine words and speeches cast forth by their followers and seruants; and after that plainely vnderstood, at their meeting, made vpon the eleuenth and twelfth of March, wherin much was spoken, protested, [ B] argued, and debated, touching the matter of truce, the traffique into the Indies, and the man∣ner, order, and freedome of the traffiques to be made into the kingdomes and countries of the king of Spaine, and the archdukes, in Europe: and after much disputation had between them, Spinola, and the rest of the deputies on their side, desired the Estates deputies, to make an arti∣cle apart, concerning trade and traffique into Europe, and what assurance should bee giuen therein; and another article concerning traffique into the Indies, which they said they would send into Spaine and Brabant, that so they might get a further and larger commission touch∣ing the same, with exception, that the said articles should bee so qualified, as they in Spaine might like thereof, and not receiue more offence thereby, and that their princes reputations might not bee thereby impaired. [ C]

And for that they did not well vnderstand the point propounded, touching traffique to Antuerpe, and other townes and places vnder the archdukes obedience, they desired the E∣states, to permit Martin de la Faille, with two or three other merchants of Antuerpe to haue ac∣cesse vnto the Hage, that they might ioyne with them in consultation about that point, that so it might bee fully resolued vpon. Wherein the Estates deputies desired time to consider thereon, and after much consultation had about the drawing of the said articles, and the assu∣rance to bee made, they were of opinion, That their best securitie was, to haue readie mo∣ney deliuered into their hands: And after they had well considered thereof, they caused two articles to bee drawne, the one for nine yeares trade into the Indies, and the other tou∣ching their trade and traffique in Europe: and at last they concluded, to demaund for their [ D] securitie of traffique in Europe, from the king of Spaine and the archdukes, the summe of fif∣teene hundred thousand duckets, to be deliuered in readie money in the vnited prouinces, as a caution thereof: and that the Estates for their parts, would leaue the summe of fiue hun∣dred thousand duckets in readie money, either in Spaine, or in any other countrey, for an as∣surance of the other traffiques.

The said articles being drawne and set downe, vpon the seuenteenth of March, in the af∣ternoone, the deputies on both sides met together, whereas the deputies for the Estates deliuered the Spanish deputies the said two articles, drawne by them; which they tooke, and said they would consider thereof, and for their parts, they deliuered a long discourse to the Estates deputies, touching traffique to Antuerpe, and other places vnder the archdukes obe∣dience, [ E] containing their opinions, how they vnderstood the same, and with what libertie and freedome it should bee permitted; which was, That their ships being full laden, might freely sayle out, or from any of their townes, to any kingdome or countrey in Europe, and with their ladings come backe againe, and passe through the Estates streames, without any further trouble or let, than hath of antient time beene vsed; as also to vnlade their wares and merchandises in the Estates streames, into their owne ships, or warehouses, by their owne men, and so to carrie the sayd wares from thence againe, without any further charge: and that no right of staple shall take place against any goods or wares, if they belong vnto the countries and prouinces, wherein the places of staple are contained. Against the which the Estates deputies protested, and especially touching the point, concerning the staple right: [ F] and after much conference and disputation had betweene them touching the same; as also about the articles and other things, each partie tooke time to consider thereof: The Spa∣nish deputies saying, That they could not in any sort determine nor conclude vpon

that treatie, before they had sent into Spaine, to haue their commission amplified, and for that [ A] the last prolongation of the truce began to expire, they said they were content to prolong the * 1.368 same againe for two moneths more, beginning vpon the first of Aprill; which the Estates de∣puties consented vnto, and thereupon prolonged the said truce vntill the end of the moneth of May.

The 20 of March the said deputies assembled together againe, where the deputies for the king and the archdukes, mooued many difficulties touching the article concerning the time of nine yeares to be allowed for the Indian trade, saying that they could not allow thereof, much lesse permit, that in the said act any mention should bee made of the tropicke of Cancer, which goeth round about the world, & which in that case would breed a canker in Spaine; & withall they deliuered vnto the Estates deputies a certain draught concerning the same, made [ B] to their most aduantage, whereupon much disputation and contention grew again between them, for that therein they seemed to adde such a condition, as at the end of the said 9 yeares, the vnited prouinces should haue small hope of any further trade into those parts, and that within the said nine years also, they should loose a good part of the said trade: yet the Estates deputies receiued the said draught to consider thereon. And proceeding further to the point of securitie, the Spanish deputies said, that it was neuer heard of before, that any money should bee deliuered for caution in such a case, and therefore they could not allow of that point, to be set downe in such order, and the rather for that they had consumed all their mo∣ney in the warres, and therefore knew not how to get any more money, or to put in any such securitie; neuerthelesse Richardot said, that the marquesse had credit enough, if hee would be∣come [ C] caution for the same, and so in iesting manner seemed to refuse that point touching se∣curitie; yet notwithstanding many men were of opinion, that it was a matter of great impor∣tance. Touching the article for traffique in Europe, they made no great question, for that they expected certaine marchants to come from Antuerpe, about the same, whose pasports they laboured with great instance to procure.

The Estates finding that the article touching their trade into the Indies, was not well liked of by the deputies for the king and archdukes, and hauing that in their hands which they had deliuered vnto them, thought it not good to stand too much vpon their owne opinions, nei∣ther yet in that respect to breake the treatie, begunne with good hope and expectation of so many men; but rather to yeeld somewhat in that respect, & to accomodate themselues nee∣rer [ D] vnto the desires of their aduerse parties: and for that cause they consulted seriously▪ a∣mongst themselues touching that point, to see how they might best frame the same, that so the countrey might not be wholly debarred from the said trade, but at the end of the said 9 yeares, they might remaine in as much freedome concerning the same, as they did before▪ wherein many difficulties were propounded by diuers men, beeing of opinion, that whatso∣euer should not be well and plainely expressed in that article, the vnited prouinces should be depriued thereof, as in the like cases it commonly falleth out with the weakest partie, for that the mightier partie doth presently take and iudge the obscure points to tend to their most ad∣uantage, and so seeke to put them in practise, whereas the weaker partie (which is loath to be∣gin warres againe) cannot withstand it, but of force must endure it, especially in a gouernment [ E] consisting of so many parts and members, as the gouernment of the Estates is, whereas the members that beare no part of the losse, are hardly to be persuaded, in regard of their own, & other mens hurts and hindrances (which neuerthelesse are sometimes by many persuasions and iealousies wonne to stirre therein) to grant to the disbursing of any great summes of mo∣ney, or to begin warre; and therefore their strict standing vpon the nicenesse of that article, was not so well liked of by all the prouinces. They also agreed to make an other draught tou∣ching their trade in the Netherlands, and other parts of Europe, thereby also to reduce it vn∣to a neerer conformitie, & more agreeable vnto the writing deliuered vnto them by the Spa∣nish and the archdukes deputies, which hauing done, they caused pasports to be drawne for two or three marchants of Antuerpe. After that, the deputies on both sides met againe vpon [ F] the 25 of March, in the afternoone, where the said draughts were againe read and considered of; but the Spanish deputies would not as then accept of them: so as after many disputations had betweene them, they brake vp for that time, to the end that euery man might consider the better thereon.

The Estates deputies vnderstanding better the Spanish deputies meaning, what they chief∣ly [ A] desired, and would be brought vnto in that respect, once againe perused and mended their * 1.369 said draught, which they restrained and limited, as neere as the said article might by any meanes be drawne and deuised with least preiudice; and while they were busied about it, Richardot (thereby to stirre vp and persuade such persons as were against it, vnto a better li∣king therof, and to dispose their mindes thereunto) desired to speake with them (which they allowed him) who beeing alone amongest them, beganne to complaine of the Estates precise∣nesse in that point, saying that the marquesse and he were much grieued, that they had beene employed in that matter concerning a treatie of peace, seeing they were like to loose their la∣bours, for that the Estates in those points sought onely to haue their owne willes, and there∣by would be the cause to hinder and breake off so good an action, as the making of peace [ B] was and would bee, desiring them therefore most earnestly, so to set downe and accommo∣date these articles touching the traffique into the Indies, and the trade and traffique in the Netherlands and Europe, in such points and tearmes, as in Spaine they might bee liked and accepted of; whereas to the contrarie it was to bee expected, that they would not onely bee disliked, but wholly reiected, and that thereby the said treatie would presently bee broken off, for the which hee seemed to be so much grieued, as the teares fell from his eies, thereby to mooue them thereunto; producing withall, many reasons why the Estates ought rather to bee a meanes to further the said treatie, than by ouer much precisenesse to cause it to bee bro∣ken off and made fruitlesse: which speeches vsed by him were no small meanes to mooue them to frame the said articles in a more indifferent manner; and the rather, for that many [ C] men were of opinion, that it behooued them to drawe vnto an end, that they might see the vttermost aduantage and benefit that the prouinces were to expect from and by the said trea∣tie of peace, and what burthens the Spaniards and archdukes would offer to impose vpon these countries, in recompence of the title by them giuen and graunted vnto those prouinces, especially for that many of them were of opinion, if that they could make the vnited prouin∣ces free from all pretences of soueraigntie of the house of Burgondie, and withall procure a peace and discontinuance of and from those long and bloodie warre (for that cause onely vndertaken and maintained) that then they had fought a good fight, and brought the mat∣ter to the desired end, and their shippe to a safe and an assured port: and for that cause they drew the said articles to as strict points and tearmes as possibly they could deuise by any [ D] meanes.

And so vpon the last day of March, in the afternoone, they met together on both sides, where they sate long, and there the last draughts of the said articles were read and deliuered; and after many discourses had betweene them touching the same, thereby to shewe the rea∣sons thereof, the marquesse determined to send them into Spaine by frier Iohn Nayen, asking thirtie eight daies time to effect the same; for that as hee past through Fraunce he was to stay there certaine daies, and hoped in that time to bring a finall answer out of Spaine touching the same.

The substance of the article made concerning traffique to the Indies, whereon the grea∣test disputation arose betweene them was, that the inhabitants of the vnited prouinces, * 1.370 [ E] should continue their nauigation into the Indies after the manner of marchants, and traf∣fique there for the space of nine yeares, from the time of the truce graunted and set downe, if that the treatie proceeded and were fully finished and determined; and to that end it was agreed that the said nine yeares should beginne on this side the cape de bona speranza, vpon the first day of September, in the yeare 1608, and on the other side of the said cape de bona spe∣ranza, vpon the first day of September, in the yeare 1609: and that they should traffique into all the places, hauens, townes, and forts of the Indies, which at the end of the aforesaid truce, shall not absolutely be vnder the power of the king of Spaine, nor his lieutenants: and in those places, hauens, townes, or forts, that are belonging vnto the said king of Spaine, they shall neither enter nor traffique into them, but by the licence and consent of those that haue authoritie and shall commaund therein, for the said king of Spaine, vnlesse it bee vpon [ F] some great extreamitie, in which case they shall bee vsed there like friends, as the sub∣iects of the king of Spaine in like manner shall bee vsed in the townes, forts, and places

that belong vnto the said States: And that during the said nine yeares, all acts of hostili∣tie [ A] vsed in those parts, shall cease, as well betweene the subiects of the king of Spaine, the arch∣dukes, * 1.371 and those of the Estates, as of all the kings, lords, towns and places, that shal as then be in friendship and league with the one or the other partie; whose names shall within three yeres bee certified by the king of Spaine and the archdukes vnto the Estates in the Hage: and on the Estates behalfe, the sayd names shall also bee certified vnto the said king and archdukes within the said time, in the towne of Brussels, as it is inserted and set downe in the treatie: and that all wrongs and dammages done, and suffered to bee done, to the contrarie, shall bee demaunded, sued for, and repaired, in the places where they were done and commit∣ted, or in the places where those that haue done the said wrongs and iniuries, dwell and re∣maine, without dealing or medling therein in any other places or forts, or by reprisals, than [ B] onely in the places aforesaid. And that two yeares before the time of expiration of the afore∣said nine yeares, the king of Spaine, and the Estates of the vnited prouinces, shall send commissioners vnto the towne of Brussels, to end that trade in friendly and quiet manner.

Touching the article made concerning traffique in the Netherlands, there was another * 1.372 draught made (but not agreed of, nor yet determined, for that the merchants that were expe∣cted frō Antuerp, were not come) seruing for a more ample interpretation of the article of free traffique, mentioned in the treatie, the contents thereof being, That the inhabitants vnder the archdukes and the Estates, should mutually traffique and trade together, after the manner of merchants, in all their prouinces, islands, townes, and places, with friendly intertainment and protection; and to the same end all their ships shal be admitted in euerie hauen of the said [ C] countries, on both sides, to vnlade, buy and sell their wares, rig and victuall themselues, and there shall stay, or depart from thence, as long as they please, and when they will, and not be charged to pay more conuoy money tolls, or other customes, than the inhabitants of the said places, or any other nation, that are licenced to pay the least tolls, &c. And that all ships of Antuerpe and other places, sailing out to other kingdomes, and returning from thence again, shall with their full ladings, haue free passage at sea, paying all the aforesaid conuoyes, tolls, and customes, as the subiects of the said countries doe, without difference of ships or wares, or exception to whom they doe belong: the right of the staple for wines, onely remaining in the antient manner, as it was before the wars. That the merchants on both sides, by their [ D] owne men and seruants, or others, may lade, vnlade, and go with their ships where and whi∣ther they will, without difference or respect more of the one than the other. That the ships of Antuerpe, or other places, shall and may freely anchor and stay for wind or companie, or lade and vnlade in the streames and riuers of Holland and Zeeland, without any other disturbance as aforesaid: which fraught, taking in, or vnlading, shall be done from boord to boord, in such ships, and by such labourers as they were accustomed to be done before the warres. That all merchants passengers, and other men trauelling into, and through the said countries on both sides▪ shall haue the like freedome for their owne chests, and other carriage, without entring the same in the toll or custome houses. That such goods as any merchants shall lay vp in the warehouses, or leaue in the hands of their factors, when time serues to bee transported, or else for that they find no conuenient ships, shall pay no more custome nor charges, than those [ E] waies that shall bee deliuered ouer from boord to boord. That the particular graunts, pri∣uiledges, freedomes, and exemption of prouinces, quarters, townes, villages, colledges, pla∣ces, or persons, graunted before the yeare 1•…•…66, and whereof euerie one, or any of them were possessed in the same yeare, and which are not contrarie hereunto, shall bee holden, maintained, and continued. That no higher tolls nor customes shall bee payed, nor in a∣ny other places than were accustomed before the troubles in those countries, and where the same were vsually payed. That all letters of mart and reprisals, graunted either in Spaine or the Netherlands, and made before the day of the date hereof, shall bee reuoked, and [ F] held of no force nor effect, vnlesse they bee vsed against such as shall doe contrarie to this treatie: and that no other letter or forme from henceforth shal be graunted, but vpon open deniall of iustice, to the vttermost sought and required; and that it bee euidently found and prooued to be so.

These and other articles which were made and drawne in this treatie, and receiued by the [ A] deputies of Spaine, to bee sent thether by frier Iohn Nayen, I thought good to set down at this * 1.373 time, not to bee esteemed as matters fteely past and agreed vpon, but that euerie man may ther∣by perceiue, how little the estates are enclined to ambition, in the articles propounded by them, and how willing and readie they are to accommodate themselues in matters that do al∣together concerne their estate, or that may serue to procure vnto them an vpright, reciprocall, and free traffique in all places; and likewise to admit the same, that in time they may shew their affection, to the like and reciprocall trade and traffique: and that they seeke not to fur∣ther themselues therein, more than other countries, which are not so necessarily bound vnto trade and traffique by sea, as these prouinces, but haue other certaine means to maintaine their estates: And that if the king of Spaine should peraduenture not like of, nor yeeld to the sayd [ B] articles, that thereby the reader might the better iudge, in whom the greatest fault consisted, either in those that haue declared and pronounced the said prouinces to bee free countries, and yet will wholly debarre them from a naturall and common freedome; or in those, who hauing right to maintaine and preserue all the parts and points of their freedome, yet neuer∣thelesse, to bee free from the miseries which are incident vnto the warres, had rather quit and relinquish a great part thereof, and content themselues with a small portion, thereby to shew the desire they haue to leaue the bloudie warres, and all ambition and desire of vaine glorie.

The Spanish deputies hauing receiued the aforesayd expositions, of the articles before * 1.374 propounded, marquesse Spinola caused frier Iohn Nayen, to inuite the eight deputies (ap∣pointed [ C] by the Estates to treat of the peace) to dine with him, vpon the first day of Aprill, and with them sir Iohn van Santen, who had beene somewhat imployed in the same; and at other times (as it was reported) had beene a student with frier Iohn Nayen: at which dinner they all dranke hard, specially frier Iohn Nayen, whether it were to shew himselfe to bee vpright and plaine in his dealings, and in the middest of his drinke to vphold, that the king of Spaine and the archdukes proceeded vprightly in that treaty, without any intent to circumuent them; or for that he would entertaine the sayd deputies in friendly manner, and make them good cheare, according to the manner of the Netherlands. After this frier Iohn Nayen, the next day, being the second of Aprill, went to Brussels, not respecting the weather, which as then was verie stormie and windie. [ D]

This matter thus brought to this point, and being vnderstood by diuers persons, how much the deputies for the king of Spaine and the archdukes, laboured to debarre these prouinces from the whole Indian traffique, with all the dependances thereof, they made many bookes concerning the same, which were printed and set forth, one vnder the title of an aduertise∣ment or forewarning, another vnder the name of a dreame, or conference, and diuers others; all for the most part tending to forewarne such as were in authoritie, and were put in •…•…ust to deale in the sayd treatie, to take heed of corruption, and of diuision and disorder in the coun∣trey, as also from all the practises of Iesuites, and others, that seeke not the peace and quiet∣nesse, but rather the disturbance of the countrey: which bookes were the better to be borne withall, for that (in so great and vncertaine an alteration of an estate, as is now likely to happen [ E] in these countries) they proceeded from such men, as are well willers to their countrey, and which take no pleasure in warres, but with all their hearts wish and desire peace, so it may bee honourable, godly, and well assured for them, yet could perceiue nothing else, but that vn∣der the shadow thereof, some secret practises might bee wrought, tending to the ouerthrow and subuersion of these countries; the which otherwise in a publike gouernment, such as is v∣sed in the Netherlands, is not well nor easily to be hindered: whereof the reader by the books themselues, shall haue better tast and information, which for that they are not pertinent vnto the hystorie, I thought good to omit, and referre the reader vnto the books themselues, which are extant.

By meanes of fryer Iohn Nayens departure for Spaine, many men began to find, that the [ F] treatie of peace was likely to continue long, for that they were to stay fortie dayes for his re∣turne backe againe; and were the more easily mooued to beleeue it, for that during his ab∣sence, little, or rather nothing at all, was done by the rest of the deputies, that thereby they

might not discouer themselues, for that they were vncertaine whether their princes would ac∣cept [ A] and allow of those articles, and againe that they were to haue a more ample commission, * 1.375 to treat of so many articles, as the Estates had propounded and deliuered vnto them, and that therefore they would so manage their businesse, either by themselues, or by others, as that fri∣er Iohn Nayen should be returned backe againe, before they would proceed any further in the treatie: and it fell out well to the purpose for them, that in the beginning of Aprill the Estates for the most part repaired to their own prouinces, and the Estates of Holland also for a time, so as thereby it rather seemed to be delayed off, by the absence of the Estates themselues, than by the deputies for Spaine; for that they alwaies gaue forth that they were readie to proceed in the treatie, although that in long time they had not once sought to enter into any confe∣rence or meeting. [ B]

Meane time there came a flying newes out of Brabant, that vpon good Friday there was a dispatch brought thither out of Spaine, the contents thereof beeing, That the king of Spaine would not graunt nor allow these countries any traffique at all into the Indies, nor to any pla∣ces thereof, and that the Estates subiects were presently to desist and leaue off the same; and secondly, That the king would haue his deputies insist and vrge free exercise of religion, and grant of churches for the papists, & those of the Romish religion, that were in the vnited pro∣uinces, and that openly and in all places; or otherwise that they should leaue off and breake vp the said treatie. Which newes made many men (that were in good hope of the treatie of peace) to be much disquieted in mind, perceiuing that the proceedings and consequences thereof were so dangerous, as without the hazarding of the whole state of the countrie, they [ C] could not graunt that point vnto those of the Romish religion, at the request and motion of the enemies of the countrie; but it could not bee vnderstood long after, whether this answer out of Spaine were of such effect or not: yet they found that marquesse Spinola and the rest of the deputies were not much pleased, when they had receiued the said answer, or were ad∣uertised thereof.

Many embassadours of forraine princes, as those of Munster, Cleue, and Cologne, when they perceiued the long proceedings of the treatie, tooke their leaues and departed from the Hage; the like did many earles and other noble men, as the earle of Benthen, the earle of Ho∣henloo (cousin to that earle of Hohenloo, which had done so great seruice to the Estates in formertimes) and others. [ D]

We haue shewed before, that frier Iohn Nayen was gonne into Spaine, and that hee was to returne againe within fourtie daies after; who not comming at the day appointed, gaue ma∣ny men cause of great suspition, and the rather, for that it was giuen out by some of the king of Spaines ministers and seruants, that the king was not resolued to leaue his soueraigntie, but to hold it still, and to further the Catholike religion: and how that in Fraunce the Spaniards boasted what great aduantage and profit they had gotten by the treatie of peace late made, reporting the same to be much more than they expected, with such like words: the frier com∣ming not againe, and Don Pedro de Toledo embassadour for the king of Spaine, beeing come into Fraunce, not onely to make certaine propositions of mariage, but also to intreat of this peace. The Estates of the vnited prouinces attended the returne of president Ianin embassa∣dor [ E] for the French king in the Netherlands, who till the comming of the said Don Pedro de Toledo, was staied by the king in Fraunce: but the said king hauing giuen audience to Dom Pedro de Toledo, he presently sent president Ianin backe againe into Holland, with letters of credit, who vpon the seauenth of August arriuing in the Hage, the next day had audience of the generall Estates; where he shewed them what great affection the king his master bare vn∣to the preseruation and maintenance of their estate, as well in peace as warres, and how that Dom Pedro de Toledo in the name of the king of Spaine his master, had made complaint vnto the French king, touching the aid and assistance which the said king gaue vnto the vnited pro∣uinces, contrarie to the treatie of peace made at Veruins, and what disliking the said king of Spaine had therof, offering all kindnesse and friendship in the king his masters name, vnto the [ F] French king, for the preseruation of their particular estates, if he would leaue off to assist, and abandon the said vnited prouinces: whereunto he said, that the king his master made answer, that he could by no meanes leaue them, and that his alliance with them was not contrarie to

the said treatie of peace made at Veruins, alledging that the king of Spaine for his part, had [ A] done much against the said treatie, or at least permitted it to be done by his ministers, which * 1.376 he declared vnto them at large, saying also, that the king aduised them to make a peace, if it might be concluded vpon reasonable conditions; and that to the same end they should with all speed mooue the deputies for the king of Spaine and the archdukes, to proceed to a con∣clusion thereof, and that they should not stay any longer for the returne of frier Iohn Nayen, for that there was no apparance nor likelihood that they should get any further or other cō∣mission, than they had alreadie, but rather a worse: and for conclusion hee said, that the king (in the meane time to supply their necessities) had granted to send them the summe of 100 thousand crownes.

Whereupon the Spanish deputies were mooued by the Estates to come to a finall conclu∣sion, [ B] but they made answer, that as yet they had no further commission from their princes, than at the first, but daiely expected the same; which the generall Estates vnderstanding, they resolued not to treat with them any more, and to that end they commanded their deputies to deliuer vp their commission: the which vpon the three and twentieth of August was cancel∣led: withall declaring and shewing by writing vnto the archdukes deputies, what they had done to procure a good peace, concluding with a protestation, that they could by no meanes find it requisite nor good for the estate of the said prouinces, and the inhabitants thereof, to treat any further therein with the said deputies, and that it was a great griefe vnto them, that contrarie to their expectations and desires, that treatie was so vnprofitably broken off, and yet neuerthelesse comforted themselues, that they were excusable both before God and all [ C] the world, in that the bloodie and long warres continued in the Netherlands, were not chan∣ged into a Christian, honourable, and an assured peace, for the ending of all the calamities, mi∣series, and troubles, which haue happened and fallen vpon the said Netherlands, and their neighbours, together with the good inhabitants of the same, by meanes of the vniust preten∣ces of their aduersaries: which declaration was made vpon the 23 of August, in the yeare 1608.

This resolution, protestation, and farewell beeing deliuered vnto the archdukes deputies vpon the 25 of August, they made complaint thereof vnto the embassadours of forraine prin∣ces then resident in the Hage; whereupon the said embassadours consulted together, to see if they could bring both parties to agree vpon some truce for many yeares: and to that end a∣bout [ D] the beginning of September, president Ianin, in the name of all the kings and princes embassadours, made this proposition vnto the generall Estates.

Your lordships may well suppose with what care, affection, and sinceritie, the kings & prin∣ces * 1.377 that sent vs hither, haue vsed all the meanes and furtherance they could to aid you to at∣taine vnto an assured peace and tranquilitie, and to obtain all whatsoeuer they thought might tend to your good and benefit therein; which notwithstanding our continuall paines taken to stay here with you, and therein to yeeld you our best aid and counsell, it hath prooued fruitlesse, to our great griefe and discontents, and likewise (as wee are assured) of the princes that sent vs hither, who were alwaies persuaded, that the issue of this treatie would haue pro∣ued more successefull than it is found to bee: and as their chiefest intents were to aid you to [ E]

make a peace that should be absolute and effectuall, iudging the same not onely to bee profi∣table, but altogether necessarie for your estate; to the same end they gaue vs commission, that if at the first it would not so fall out, that then we should propound a truce to be made for ma∣ny yeares, as soone as we should see the treatie of peace to be broken of in regard that it wil be much more profitable for you, than to returne to ruinous and bloodie warres: and for that it is now time to propound the same vnto you, wee haue thought it good to counsell and ad∣uise you to incline your selues thereunto, so as you may obtaine such conditions, as may pro∣cure profit and assurance vnto your estate; without the which, our princes desire not to mooue or counsell you thereunto: and to the same end we thought good to set downe these three articles.

[ F]

• ...

  1 That the truce shall be made with you, as with free countries, whereunto neither the king of Spaine, nor the archdukes pretend any soueraigntie.

• ...

  2 That during this truce, you shall haue and enioy free traffique into the Indies, as

• ...

  well as into Spaine, and also in the Netherlands, and in euery place vnder their obe∣dience.

  * 1.378 [ A]
• ...

  3 And that you may hold and enioy that which at this present you possesse, and that so you proceed to the rest of the conditions, which with reason may be had and graunted.

Wee partly foresee and iudge, that it will bee hard to obtaine these conditions from those princes with whom you haue to deale; for that seeing a peace doth not like them, it is to bee thought, that a truce with the like conditions will not please them: which if they reiect and refuse, then will the entring againe into armes on your side be excusable, and the willingnes and endeauours of our princes, to cease this miserable warre, shall be thereby well knowne, so as they shall haue a better subiect and cause to imploy their forces and meanes for your main∣tenance and defence: but to the contrarie, if they seeme willing thereunto, then we counsell you to embrace it, because your refusall and denying thereof, would giue them much cause [ B] of disliking; the which wee find would be as beneficiall and auaileable for you (if you con∣clude it, as we wish you should) as in a peace it selfe: certifying you also, that our kings haue giuen vs in charge to tell you, that they are content to be bound for the performance and maintaining of the said truce, as they were also willing to haue done the like concerning the treatie begun by you, if a peace had beene made.

And in the meane time you shall haue meanes to settle your affaires, to pay your debts, and to reforme and amend your gouernment; and lastly, continuing well vnited together, the truce will be as a full and an effectuall peace, and thereby in time you shall enioy all the effects and furtherances, yea and many more, than peace it selfe would haue affoorded vnto you: but to the contrarie, if you begin warres againe, we see so many difficulties and dangers ther∣in [ C] (beeing so well informed of the great aid that you shall need, not onely to maintaine your warres, in hope of your good proceedings, but also to defend your selues) as your best friends would be very doubtfull to supply your wants; but by meanes of this truce you may free your selues of all these charges, dangers, and difficulties.

We know well, that at this present you are much disquieted with the proceedings of your aduersaries, but this disquietnesse ought not so to diuert & alter you, as you should contrarie to wisdome and reason leaue and forsake that counsell, which is most profitable and safest for you, and not suffer your selues by any motion of choller to do that which should bee hurtful and preiudiciall vnto your estate.

[ D]

This is the counsell my lords, that the princes your good friends giue vnto you, who are readie to ioyne with you, and to hazard themselues in your affairs; but yet you must remem∣ber (that if you enter into armes againe) that they cannot aid you, vnlesse they themselues fall into the hazard of warres; which all wise princes desire to auoyd as much as possibly they may, and neuer desire to enter thereinto, vnlesse by compulsion and great necessitie they are constrained, or that they expect some great benefit to be gotten thereby. It is euident that this warre is not necessarily to be vndertaken by you, if by a peace for many yeares you may free your selues thereof: and it is most certaine, that if you enter into warres, you shall bee a meanes to put both your selues and vs to great charges, and be a cause of great hurt and spoile. It is our intents and meanings to giue the like aduice vnto the archdukes deputies, and if they refuse to yeeld vnto a truce, we will then tell them plainely, that our princes for your good & [ E] defence, will doe all that which belongeth vnto true and faithfull allies.

This being likewise imparted vnto the archdukes deputies, Spinola and the rest desired 4 daies time to peruse their instructions, and thereupon to returne an answer: and after foure daies were expired, they made answer, That their commission from the king of Spaine con∣tained no point nor article of truce, vpon any such conditions as were propounded, and that therefore they could not deale therein, without expresse commission from Spaine: and for that cause they desired sixe weekes longer time to procure the same; but if in the meane time the Estates would enter into treaty touching the same, they said they hoped that for as much [ F] as imported the archdukes, they should giue them full contentment. And vpon the ninth of September, they gaue certain articles vnto the Estates, which were, That the archdukes were content to enter into a treatie of truce, for seauen yeares, as well by sea as by land: That ei∣ther side should enioy and possesse that which they then held: That during the said time the

king of Spaine shall graunt them free traffique into Spaine, and that the said king of Spaine [ A] within two moneths after the conclusion of the truce, should declare whether he would cō∣prehend * 1.379 the Indies within the truce or not, and if that the king of Spaine were to be ioyned in this action, they desired twentie daies longer respite, and continuance of the said treaty, and that the said kings and princes should be aiders and assisters to keepe and maintaine the said truce, in like sort, as if an absolute peace were made.

This dilatorie answer being receiued, the generall Estates were of diuers opinions amongst themselues: & for that president Ianin embassador for France thought it expedient to let them stay the propounded time that was set downe by them to expect an answere out of Spaine; some of them resolued to grant so much time, but they of Zeeland, and many others, were of another opinion, for that they had not kept any time by them demanded and limited, & with∣all [ B] finding the peace to be in a desperate and doubtfull estate, they thought it best for them, not to hold their enemie any longer within their countrey, wherein they had so many ca∣tholike friends, and might procure many more, which might tend greatly to their hurt and preiudice: and so at last they fully agreed vpon a generall resolution, which vpon the thir∣teenth of September they caused to be deliuered vnto them in writing, the contents thereof beeing as followeth.

The general Estates of the vnited prouinces (hauing duely considered of that which hath beene propounded in their full assembly, first vpon the ninth, and after that vpon the 11 of September, by the embassadours of Fraunce and England, together with those of the princes electors, and others of Germanie, that they would graunt vnto the deputies for the archdukes [ C] sent into Holland to treat of a peace, longer time of staying in the Hage, vntill the last of this moneth of September, to attend a more ample commission out of Spaine) doe to that end by these presents declare, that they had rather see the departure of the said deputies for the arch∣dukes, towards Brussels, there to attend for their said further commission, for certaine good reasons deliuered by them vnto the said embassadors in their generall assembly vpon the 11 of September, and for diuers other considerations; but calling to mind how much they are bound vnto the said kings and princes, they are content (to pleasure them) that the said depu∣ties shall stay here to attend their said commission, vntill the last day of this present moneth: which commission must be made to confirme the freedome of the vnited prouinces, not one∣ly by the king of Spaine, but also by the archdukes and that without any restriction, or condi∣tions; [ D] and withall to acknowledge that the said confirmation shall not continue onely for the said time of truce, but for euer, to the contentment of the said general Estates, so as the said de∣puties for the archdukes, shall dispose their affaires hereafter: and for want of such full com∣mission, to depart vpon the first of October, without seeking any further delay, neither of the said embassadours, nor of the Estates, if they cannot obtaine the same. Dated in the Hage the 13 of September, 1608.

Whereupon the deputies for the king of Spaine and the archdukes, hauing receiued no o∣ther answer from their princes, and finding that their departure was so absolutely and so reso∣lutely determined and set downe, they made preparation to depart, complayning that they had so strict a day giuen them; and withall protested, that they were sorrie that a peace could [ E] not be made, doubting not, that if the Estates would haue had a little more patience, they should haue attained to a good end: this done, the deputies of the generall Estates went eue∣ry man home to their owne houses, they of Zeeland openly protesting that they would ap∣peare no more there, vnlesse the Spanish deputies were gone out of the countrey, or that they could shew an absolute commission. Vpon the last of September, when they were readie to depart, marquesse Spinola and the rest of the deputies were inuited to dine with prince Mau∣rice, whither they all came, except auditor Vereicken, for that he was hurt in one of his legges, and was carried in a coach from his lodging: after dinner, prince Maurice and the rest of the lords went with them to Risewicke, and there taking his leaue, he left his brother Henrie earle of Nassau to conduct them to Delft hauen, where the same euening they tooke shipping in [ F] prince Maurices pinnace, accompanied by diuers gentlemen, as Emery van Liere gouernour of William Staet, Haultaine admirall of Zeeland, and others, who brought them to Antuerpe, and returned backe againe; from thence they went to Brussels, where they found the people

in great expectation and desire of peace; but all the comfort they could giue them was, that [ A] they were in good hope it would be concluded. * 1.380

Thus ended this long and fruitlesse treatie of peace, betwixt the deputies for the king of Spaine and the archdukes, and the deputies for the generall Estates of the vnited prouinces (the which had filled all Europe with expectation) to the great amazement and griefe of ma∣ny good men, which did hope to haue seen an end of these long, ruinous, and bloodie warres, and the conclusion of a good, firme, and honourable peace, or long truce. But seeing the hearts of kings are in the hands of God, who directs all their actions and resolutions as he thin∣keth best, let vs Netherlanders (hauing compassion one of anothers miseries) pray incessant∣ly vnto him to inspire these princes and Estates with mild and peacefull spirits, for the fini∣shing [ B] of this good worke (if it may be) for his glorie, and the good of the countrie; whereby there may ensue a Christian peace, quietnesse, and vnitie in the Netherlands, on either side, and loue each to other, refraining to shed blood: and lastly, that the Netherlands may there∣by attaine vnto their ancient and flourishing estate and gouernment, God well serued, and euery man to enioy his owne freely, and without feare; the which the Lord God of his mercie graunt.

FINIS.

Notes

• * 1.1

  1601
• * 1.2

  The castle of Crapoll sur∣prised.
• * 1.3

  1601
• * 1.4

  The castle of Cr•…•…cowe ta∣ken for prince Maurice.
• * 1.5

  An enterprise vpō Flessingue
• * 1.6

  1601
• * 1.7

  Commissio∣n•…•…rs be•…•…wixt the French 〈◊〉〈◊〉 and the arch∣duke.
• * 1.8

  Mutinies a∣mong the arch∣duke•…•… soldiers.
• * 1.9

  1601
• * 1.10

  An enterprise to sacke An∣tuerpe.
• * 1.11

  Adolph earle of Bergh taken prisoner, and his troups de∣•…•…ated.
• * 1.12

  Rhi•…•…berck •…•…siged.
• * 1.13

  1601
• * 1.14

  The archduke resolues to besiege Oost∣end.
• * 1.15

  The descripti∣on of Oostend
• * 1.16

  1601
• * 1.17

  Oostend wal∣led & fortified
• * 1.18

  1601
• * 1.19

  Sir Francis Veer sent to Oostend.
• * 1.20

  1601
• * 1.21

  The estate of Berck.
• * 1.22

  Berck yeelded vpon honou∣rable cearmes.
• * 1.23

  1601
• * 1.24

  Oostend.
• * 1.25

  1601
• * 1.26

  Dom Catris general of the Spanish armie slaine.
• * 1.27

  1601
• * 1.28

  The estate of the besiged.
• * 1.29

  1601
• * 1.30

  Aduertisem•…•…: out of the Spanish camp.
• * 1.31

  Boisleduc be∣sieged by the prince.
• * 1.32

  1601
• * 1.33

  The estates raise their siege •…•…rom Boisleduc.
• * 1.34

  1601
• * 1.35

  T'was not your archdukes sword, but the keene frost, That saued Boisleduc, it had else bin lost.
• * 1.36

  Our archdukes sword, as well as the keene frost, Defended Boisleduc; t'was your paines were lost.
• * 1.37

  Oostend.
• * 1.38

  The Spaniards charge the English tren∣ches.
• * 1.39

  1601
• * 1.40

  The towne in danger to be taken.
• * 1.41

  Supply of vi∣ctuals comes to Oostend.
• * 1.42

  1601
• * 1.43

  Sir Francis Veer makes an o•…•…er to parl•…•….
• * 1.44

  Succours of men come to Oostend.
• * 1.45

  1602
• * 1.46

  The archduke giues a general assault to Oost•…•…nd.
• * 1.47

  The archduke•…•… los•…•…e at thi•…•… assault.
• * 1.48

  A wonderf•…•…ll s•…•…oyle of the Spaniard•…•….
• * 1.49

  1602
• * 1.50

  The archdukes souldiers •…•…utine.
• * 1.51

  1602
• * 1.52

  Graue, besie∣ged by prince Maurice.
• * 1.53

  The descrscpt•…•…∣on of Graue.
• * 1.54

  1602
• * 1.55

  Sir Francis Veer shot be∣fore Graue.
• * 1.56

  Graue yeel∣ded by com∣position.
• * 1.57

  1602
• * 1.58

  Prince Maurice dissolues his armie.
• * 1.59

  Mutinie in the admirals army
• * 1.60

  The mutiners seize vpon Hoochstrate•…•….
• * 1.61

  1602
• * 1.62

  The admirall discharged of his generals place.
• * 1.63

  1602
• * 1.64

  1602
• * 1.65

  1602
• * 1.66

  160•…•….
• * 1.67

  1602.
• * 1.68

  1602
• * 1.69

  1602
• * 1.70

  The mutiners protected by the vnited pro∣uinces.
• * 1.71

  1602
• * 1.72

  A fight be∣tweene •…•…xe gallies and certaine Eng∣lish and Hol∣land ships.
• * 1.73

  1602
• * 1.74

  One of the gallies sunke.
• * 1.75

  o Another gal∣lie sunke.
• * 1.76

  The losse of the gallies.
• * 1.77

  1602
• * 1.78

  Frederick Spinola saues himselfe with his treasure.
• * 1.79

  Oostend.
• * 1.80

  1602
• * 1.81

  The crueltie of the earle of Embden.
• * 1.82

  1602
• * 1.83

  They o•…•… Emb∣den demand a•…•…d of the vni∣ted prouinces.
• * 1.84

  1603.
• * 1.85

  Oostend.
• * 1.86

  The Polde•…•… square taken.
• * 1.87

  1603
• * 1.88

  A fight at sea with Spi•…•…ola's gallies.
• * 1.89

  Spinola slaine.
• * 1.90

  •…•…e nu•…•…ber •…•…e dead
• * 1.91

  1603
• * 1.92

  The vnited prouinces let∣ter to the king of England.
• * 1.93

  The vnited Estates sent embassadors into England.
• * 1.94

  1603
• * 1.95

  The kings answer to the vnited Estates
• * 1.96

  1603
• * 1.97

  Lopers of Oostend▪
• * 1.98

  1603
• * 1.99

  Prince Mau∣rice comes before Boisle∣due.
• * 1.100

  1603
• * 1.101

  A fort of the Spaniards ta∣ken, with great slaughter of their men.
• * 1.102

  Oostend▪
• * 1.103

  Crueltie of the Spaniards.
• * 1.104

  1603
• * 1.105

  The seignior of Ghi•…•…lles gouernor of Oostend.
• * 1.106

  1603
• * 1.107

  An assembly of the Estates of the empire.
• * 1.108

  The emperour writes to the vnited pro∣uinces.
• * 1.109

  1604
• * 1.110

  Prince Mau∣rice retires from Boisleduc
• * 1.111

  Oostend.
• * 1.112

  1604
• * 1.113

  The seignior of Ghistelles gouernor of Oostend, s•…•…ine
• * 1.114

  1604 The armie lands.
• * 1.115

  The prince master of a the isle of Cadsant
• * 1.116

  Oostend.
• * 1.117

  1604
• * 1.118

  Isendike besieged.
• * 1.119

  Isendike yeel∣ded vpon composition.
• * 1.120

  1604 An enterpise in Brabant, made by prince Maurice and the squa∣dron.
• * 1.121

  1604
• * 1.122

  The prince camps before Sluce.
• * 1.123

  1604
• * 1.124

  The mutiners reconciled to the archdu•…•…e
• * 1.125

  The dispositi∣on of the prin∣ce•…•… campe be∣fore Sluce.
• * 1.126

  1604
• * 1.127

  The conuey ouertaken by the prince, and defeated.
• * 1.128

  Another con∣uoy in rout.
• * 1.129

  1604
• * 1.130

  Many souldi∣ers come to the prince.
• * 1.131

  The besieged in Sluce in great extre∣mitie.
• * 1.132

  1604
• * 1.133

  The mutiners serue the Archduke at the reliefe of Sluse.
• * 1.134

  Spinola comes to relieue •…•…luse.
• * 1.135

  1604
• * 1.136

  Spinolas men run away.
• * 1.137

  The great want in the towne.
• * 1.138

  1604
• * 1.139

  They of Sluce demand a parle
• * 1.140

  The princes offers to them of Sluce.
• * 1.141

  The articles of the com∣position.
• * 1.142

  1604
• * 1.143

  What the prince found in the towne.
• * 1.144

  1604
• * 1.145

  They of Oost∣end resolue to compound.
• * 1.146

  An honorable composition at Oostend.
• * 1.147

  1604
• * 1.148

  The marquesse Spinola goes into Spaine.
• * 1.149

  The death of Lodowike earle of Nas∣sau.
• * 1.150

  1604
• * 1.151

  The vnited prouinces giue their A∣gent in Eng∣land, the title of their em∣bassador. The Spanish embassadour complaines of it.
• * 1.152

  The kings an∣swere.
• * 1.153

  Death of Er∣nest earle of Mansfeld.
• * 1.154

  His life.
• * 1.155

  1604
• * 1.156

  His children:
• * 1.157

  The archduke will no: suff•…•…r the generall E∣states of Bra∣bant to as∣semble.
• * 1.158

  1604
• * 1.159

  The archduke prepares to warre.
• * 1.160

  The vnited prouiaces pre∣pare for warre.
• * 1.161

  1604
• * 1.162

  Certaine con∣siderations of peace, being very weighty, containing three points. The first.
• * 1.163

  1604
• * 1.164

  The second reason to mooue men vnto a peace, made by a catholike vn∣der the arch∣duke.
• * 1.165

  1604
• * 1.166

  1604
• * 1.167

  The third dis∣course touch∣ing peace in the 〈◊〉〈◊〉, made by an indifferen•…•… partie.
• * 1.168

  1604
• * 1.169

  Note.
• * 1.170

  1604
• * 1.171

  1604
• * 1.172

  The admoniti∣on vnto the v∣nited prouin∣ces, against peace.
• * 1.173

  1604
• * 1.174

  1604
• * 1.175

  1604.
• * 1.176

  1605.
• * 1.177

  1605.
• * 1.178

  1605.
• * 1.179

  1605.
• * 1.180

  1605.
• * 1.181

  1605.
• * 1.182

  1605.
• * 1.183

  1605.
• * 1.184

  1605.
• * 1.185

  1605.
• * 1.186

  An ente•…•…pise made by Prince Mau∣rice vpon the riuer of Scheld and Antwerp.
• * 1.187

  1605.
• * 1.188

  The States men defeated.
• * 1.189

  The Gouer∣nor of Ordam sconce slaine.
• * 1.190

  Wouwe Cas∣tle beseeged.
• * 1.191

  Prince Mau∣rice tooke the Castle of Wouwe.
• * 1.192

  1605.
• * 1.193

  〈◊〉〈◊〉
• * 1.194

  The Emperor sends for a pas∣port to the Hage, for his Ambassadors to treat o•…•… a peace, which they refuse.
• * 1.195

  The Estates answer to the Emperor who refuse his re∣quest.
• * 1.196

  1605.
• * 1.197

  1605.
• * 1.198

  A vaine en∣terprise vpon Bercke.
• * 1.199

  The Earle of Hertfor•…•… sent to the •…•…ch∣duke out of England.
• * 1.200

  Ladyes atten∣ding on the Infanta.
• * 1.201

  1605.
• * 1.202

  Attendance vpon the Arch duke.
• * 1.203

  1605. Sht•…•…s & men come out of Spain•…•…: defea∣ted by the Es∣tates shippes.
• * 1.204

  Meurs set on fi•…•…e by trai∣tors.
• * 1.205

  The Marquis Sp nola mar∣cheth tovvards Friseland.
• * 1.206

  The Estates bring their armie neere vnto Rhyne∣bercke.
• * 1.207

  1605. Oldenzeel yeelded to Spinola by composition.
• * 1.208

  Spinola besie∣ge•…•… and tooke Linghen.
• * 1.209

  The indiscre∣tion of the Gouernor & Commanders in Linghen.
• * 1.210

  Linghen yeel∣ded by com∣position.
• * 1.211

  An enterprize made vpon Berghen vp-Zoome by Mounsier Hericou•…•…t.
• * 1.212

  1605.
• * 1.213

  Berghen in danger.
• * 1.214

  The Spaniard repulst from Berghen.
• * 1.215

  An enterprize vpon Graue made by the Gouernor of Boisleduc.
• * 1.216

  1605.
• * 1.217

  Bergen vp zoom once againe assailed by the enemy, vpon the 20. of Septemb.
• * 1.218

  1605.
• * 1.219

  The endeuors of them with∣in the towne.
• * 1.220

  The Spaniard retires from Berghen.
• * 1.221

  Wachten∣donk taken by the Spaniards.
• * 1.222

  1605.
• * 1.223

  1605.
• * 1.224

  Earle Theo∣doro Trivultio slaine.
• * 1.225

  1606. Marquis Spi∣nola goes in∣to Spaine.
• * 1.226

  1605.
• * 1.227

  A sentence pronounced against the gouernor and captaines of Linghen for yeelding vp the towne.
• * 1.228

  The Arch∣dukes in iea∣lousie of the Duke of Bo∣uillon.
• * 1.229

  1606.
• * 1.230

  And abando∣ned againe.
• * 1.231

  Philip Earle of Hohenlo died.
• * 1.232

  An enterprise made against Sluce by the Archduke.
• * 1.233

  1606.
• * 1.234

  1606.
• * 1.235

  Certaine captaines and soldiars puni∣shed by the Archduke for failing of the enterprize before Sluce.
• * 1.236

  1061
• * 1.237

  The castle of Wouvve and Hoghestrate razed.
• * 1.238

  An vprore in Antvverp.
• * 1.239

  Two women murthered by a Spaniard in Gant.
• * 1.240

  1606.
• * 1.241

  Spinolaes en∣terprise to get into Suider sea.
• * 1.242

  Grol besieged by Spinola.
• * 1.243

  1606.
• * 1.244

  Groll yeelded 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Spinola.
• * 1.245

  1606.
• * 1.246

  Reinbergh besieged by Spinola.
• * 1.247

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 6. 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…d 〈◊〉〈◊〉, ne 〈◊◊〉〈◊◊〉.
• * 1.248

  〈◊〉〈◊〉 why 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Mau∣•…•…uld •…•…e 〈◊〉〈◊〉 •…•…es 〈◊〉〈◊〉 b•…•…o •…•…rcke.
• * 1.249

  1606.
• * 1.250

  The Estates send to per∣swade Prince Maurice to releeue Rhyn∣bercke.
• * 1.251

  An enterprize vpon Venlo.
• * 1.252

  1606.
• * 1.253

  Reinbergh yeeld•…•…d to Spinola.
• * 1.254

  The Spani∣ards los•…•…e at the •…•…ge of Rhine-•…•…erck.
• * 1.255

  〈…〉〈…〉
• * 1.256

  1607.
• * 1.257

  The mutines of Dyest.
• * 1.258

  Peace made betweene the Earle of East-Freezeland & the towne of Embden.
• * 1.259

  1607.
• * 1.260

  1607.
• * 1.261

  The castle of Groning bro∣ken downe.
• * 1.262

  The Earle of Brooke mur∣thered by the Spaniards.
• * 1.263

  Erckelens taken and spoiled by Henrick Earle of Nassaw.
• * 1.264

  The King of Spaine & the Estates pre∣pare to warre at sea.
• * 1.265

  1607.
• * 1.266

  The Estates shippes sally towards Spaine.
• * 1.267

  They resolue to enter into the riuer of Lisbon.
• * 1.268

  The Estates shippes go to seeke the Spa∣nish fleet.
• * 1.269

  1607, The number of the Spanish fleete.
• * 1.270

  The Admiral Hemskerke slaine.
• * 1.271

  1607.
• * 1.272

  The Spanish Vize-admirall burnt.
• * 1.273

  A Galleon burnt.
• * 1.274

  The Spanish Admirall of∣fers to yeeld.
• * 1.275

  The Estates win the bat∣taile.
• * 1.276

  1607.
• * 1.277

  Their losse of shippes.
• * 1.278

  Their losse of men.
• * 1.279

  The resoluti∣of the Estates ships after the battaile.
• * 1.280

  The Admiral Hemskerke buried at Am∣sterdam.
• * 1.281

  Mounsier Hurst and maister Iohn Geuarts make an offer of peace or truce 〈◊〉〈◊〉 Holland.
• * 1.282

  1607.
• * 1.283

  The States answer to the Archdukes Commissio∣ners touch∣ing peace.
• * 1.284

  1607.
• * 1.285

  Iohn Neyen •…•…vinciall of the Fryers sent into Hol∣land to treat of a pea•…•…e in the Arch dukes •…•…ehalfe.
• * 1.286

  The Arch-dukes de∣claration touching the free∣domes of the vnited Prouinces and their desire to enter into a treaty of peace.
• * 1.287

  1607▪
• * 1.288

  1607.
• * 1.289

  The French King sent Ambassadors into th•…•… vni∣ted prouinces.
• * 1.290

  1607.
• * 1.291

  The States of the vnited Prouinces sent ambasa∣dors into Eng∣land.
• * 1.292

  The King of Spaines agre∣ation sent vn∣to the vnited Prouinces.
• * 1.293

  1607.
• * 1.294

  1607.
• * 1.295

  The opinions of the Ne∣t•…•…s, touching the •…•…ty of peace.
• * 1.296

  Considerati∣ons of the Netherlan∣ders touching a peace.
• * 1.297

  1607
• * 1.298

  Great•…•… prepa∣ration of ships of warre in Spaine.
• * 1.299

  The ships of Emden ares∣ted in Spaine.
• * 1.300

  1607.
• * 1.301

  1607.
• * 1.302

  Presents of∣fred vnto Art∣sens by Fryar Iohn Nayen.
• * 1.303

  1607.
• * 1.304

  Frier Nayen•…•… perswations vsed to Arte∣sens.
• * 1.305

  Artesens an∣swere to the Frier and his excuses.
• * 1.306

  1607.
• * 1.307

  Artesens re∣port made to Prince Mau∣rice and his opinion ther∣in.
• * 1.308

  Present•…•… gi∣uen by Iohn Nayen deli∣uered backe againe.
• * 1.309

  1607.
• * 1.310

  Mounsier Sid∣lens•…•…e gouer∣nor of Graue taken prisoner.
• * 1.311

  Mounsieur du Bois slaine by the enemy.
• * 1.312

  The mutinus souldiers of Diest in Bra∣bant.
• * 1.313

  The Arch∣duke Albertus se•…•…kes to bee King of Ro∣maines.
• * 1.314

  1607.
• * 1.315

  The second agreation made by the king of Spain touching the peace.
• * 1.316

  Friar Iohn Nayens speech vpon the deliuery of this apro bation.
• * 1.317

  1607. Auditor Ver∣rikens d•…•…la ration touch∣ing the dukes proceedings.
• * 1.318

  The states re∣solution vpon the agreeati∣on.
• * 1.319

  The States answer vq∣on the ap∣probation.
• * 1.320

  1607.
• * 1.321

  The Arch-dukes Com∣mitties makes a difficultie to deliuer the a∣greation i•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉.
• * 1.322

  A letter sent by the Emperor to the States •…•…ouching a peace.
• * 1.323

  1697.
• * 1.324

  The King of Denmarke sent Ambas∣sadors into Holland to be of Councell with the Es∣tates about a peace.
• * 1.325

  A letter of ba∣nishment made by the Archduke a∣gainst the mutinous soldiers of Diest.
• * 1.326

  1607.
• * 1.327

  The Ambas∣sadors of Branden∣bourgh come to Hage to and the States in the treaty of peace.
• * 1.328

  The generall Estates con∣sultation•…•… and resolutions a∣bout the treaty of peace.
• * 1.329

  The Pals∣graues Am∣bassadors come to the Hage to aide the States in •…•…heir treaty.
• * 1.330

  1607. The state of the Nether∣lands and the cause that moued the•…•… to the treaty of peace.
• * 1.331

  The Estates answer to the Emperors letters. 1608.
• * 1.332

  1608.
• * 1.333

  The Arch∣dukes answere sent to the Estates touch∣ing the peace.
• * 1.334

  The deputies names that were to treate of peace for the Archdukes.
• * 1.335

  1608.
• * 1.336

  A generall fast in the vni∣ted Prouinces, to desire God t•…•… 〈◊〉〈◊〉 their action of 〈◊〉〈◊〉 peace, &c.
• * 1.337

  Pasports sent to the depu∣ties of the Archduke to come into Holland.
• * 1.338

  The entrie of the Arch∣dukes depu∣ties into Hol∣land, & their entertainment in euery place▪
• * 1.339

  1608.
• * 1.340

  The names & titles of the Arch dukes Deputies.
• * 1.341

  Discourse touching their comming to the Hage.
• * 1.342

  1608.
• * 1.343

  A league made by the generall E∣states with the French king.
• * 1.344

  Seuerall con∣gratulations & welcomes giuen vnto the Deputies of the Arch∣dukes, and the liked me by them to others.
• * 1.345

  Spinolaes great magni∣ficence du∣ring his abode in the Hage.
• * 1.346

  1608.
• * 1.347

  The Estates sent to Mar∣quis S•…•…pinola to know whē he would e•…•…∣ter into treaty with them.
• * 1.348

  The names of the Deputies nominated & appointed by the States to sit vpon the treaty of peace.
• * 1.349

  1608.
• * 1.350

  The 1. assem∣blie.
• * 1.351

  The 2. assem∣blie.
• * 1.352

  1608.
• * 1.353

  The 3. assem∣blie.
• * 1.354

  The 4. assem∣blie.
• * 1.355

  The 5. assem∣blie.
• * 1.356

  1608.
• * 1.357

  Reasons aled∣ged by the Indian Mar∣chants of the vnited Pro∣uinces why they should not leaue off their trade.
• * 1.358

  1608.
• * 1.359

  1608
• * 1.360

  Diuers mens opinions con∣cerning the In∣dian trade.
• * 1.361

  1608
• * 1.362

  1608
• * 1.363

  The articles of peace deliue∣red by the Estates,
• * 1.364

  1608
• * 1.365

  1608
• * 1.366

  The arch∣dukes articles.
• * 1.367

  1608
• * 1.368

  1608
• * 1.369

  1608
• * 1.370

  The substance of the •…•…ct for 〈◊〉〈◊〉 into In∣dia, whereon they stood most.
• * 1.371

  1608
• * 1.372

  Touching the article of truce in the Nether∣lands which also was so much debated
• * 1.373

  1608
• * 1.374

  The States de∣puties inuited to dine w•…•…h the marquesse Spinola.
• * 1.375

  1608
• * 1.376

  1608
• * 1.377

  An admonitiō giuen (by all the embassa∣dors resident in the Hage) vnto the gene∣rall Estates touching a truce for ma∣ny yeares.
• * 1.378

  1608
• * 1.379

  1608
• * 1.380

  1608