After abjuring Philip in 1581--an act which had been accomplished by the Estates--the same Estates in general assembly had exercised sovereign power, and had twice disposed of that sovereign power by electing a hereditary ruler.
Their right and their power to do this had been disputed by none, save by the deposed monarch in Spain.

Having the sovereignty to dispose of, it seemed logical that the Estates might keep it, if so inclined.

They did keep it, but only in trust.

While Orange lived, he might often have been elected sovereign of all the Provinces, could he have been induced to consent.

After his death, the Estates retained, ex necessitate, the sovereignty; and it will soon be related what they intended to do with it.