He moreover, as security for the expense and trouble, demanded the city of Sluys.

The first detachment of troops, under command of Colonel Vander Tympel, was, however, hardly on its way, before an alarm was felt among the Catholic party at this practical alliance with the rebel Prince.

An envoy, named Ottingen, was despatched to Zealand, bearing a letter from the estates of Hainault, Brabant, and Flanders, countermanding the request for troops, and remonstrating categorically upon the subject of religion and loyalty.

Orange deemed such tergiversation paltry, but controlled his anger.

He answered the letter in liberal terms, for he was determined that by no fault of his should the great cause be endangered.