It was felt by the leaders of the States that as mortal a combat lay before them with the Earl of Leicester, as with the King of Spain, and that it was necessary to strike a severe blow, in order to vindicate their imperilled authority.
A commission was appointed by the high court of Holland, acting in conjunction with the States of the Provinces, to try the offenders.

Among the commissioners were Adrian van der Werff, John van der Does, who had been military commandant of Leyden during the siege, Barneveld, and other distinguished personages, over whom Count Maurice presided.

The accused were subjected to an impartial trial.

Without torture, they confessed their guilt.

It is true, however, that Cosmo was placed within sight of the rack.