The voyage proved tempestuous, so that much of the rich tapestry and other merchandise which had been accumulated by Charles and Philip was lost.

Some of the vessels foundered; to save others it was necessary to lighten the cargo, and "to enrobe the roaring waters with the silks," for which the Netherlands were so famous; so that it was said that Philip and his father had impoverished the earth only to enrich the ocean.

The fleet had been laden with much valuable property, because the King had determined to fix for the future the wandering capital of his dominions in Spain.

Philip landed in safety, however, at Laredo, on the 8th September.

His escape from imminent peril confirmed him in the great purpose to which he had consecrated his existence.