The envoy begged to be informed if any hope could be entertained of a future arrangement.

Orange replied that he had no expectation of any, but advised Doctor Leoninus to be present at Dort when the estates should assemble.
Notwithstanding the unfavorable result, of this mission, Don John did not even yet despair of bending the stubborn character of the Prince.

He hoped that, if a personal interview between them could be arranged, he should be able to remove many causes of suspicion from the mind of his adversary.

"In such times as these," wrote the Governor to Philip, "we can make no election, nor do I see any remedy to preserve the state from destruction, save to gain over this man, who has so much influence with the nation." The Prince had, in truth, the whole game in his hands.

There was scarcely a living creature in Holland and Zealand who was not willing to be bound by his decision in every emergency.