This was the paper placed in the hands of Saint Aldegonde during the informal negotiations of the preceding year.

An answer was accordingly given, but couched in such vague and general language as to be quite without meaning.

The estates then demanded a categorical reply to the two principal demands in the petition, namely, the departure of the foreign troops and the assembling of the states-general.

They, were asked what they understood by foreigners and by the assembly of states-general.

They replied that by foreigners they meant those who were not natives, and particularly the Spaniards.