His displeasure at the course pursued by the leading nobles, particularly by the Prince of Orange, was already no secret.
Philip, soon after the adjournment of the assembly, had completed the preparations for his departure.

At Middelburg he was met by the agreeable intelligence that the Pope had consented to issue a bull for the creation of the new bishoprics which he desired for the Netherlands .-- This important subject will be resumed in another chapter; for the present we accompany the King to Flushing, whence the fleet was to set sail for Spain.

He was escorted thither by the Duchess Regent, the Duke of Savoy, and by many of the most eminent personages of the provinces.

Among others William of Orange was in attendance to witness the final departure of the King, and to pay him his farewell respects.

As Philip was proceeding on board the ship which was to bear him forever from the Netherlands, his eyes lighted upon the Prince.