Has history many more instructive warnings against the horrors of arbitrary government--against the folly of mankind in ever tolerating the rule of a single irresponsible individual, than the lesson furnished by the life-work of that crowned criminal, Philip the Second?
The longing for peace on the part of these unfortunate obedient Flemings was intense.

Incessant cries for peace reached the ears of the envoys on every side.

Alas, it would have been better for these peace-wishers, had they stood side by side with their brethren, the noble Hollanders and Zeelanders, when they had been wresting, if not peace, yet independence and liberty, from Philip, with their own right hands.

Now the obedient Flemings were but fuel for the vast flame which the monarch was kindling for the destruction of Christendom--if all Christendom were not willing to accept his absolute dominion.
The burgomasters of Ghent--of Ghent, once the powerful, the industrious, the opulent, the free, of all cities in the world now the most abject and forlorn--came in the morning to wait upon Elizabeth's envoy, and to present him, according to ancient custom, with some flasks of wine.

They came with tears streaming down their cheeks, earnestly expressing the desire of their hearts for peace, and their joy that at least it had now "begun to be thought on." "It is quite true," replied Dr.Dale, "that her excellent Majesty the Queen--filled with compassion for your condition, and having been informed that the Duke of Parma is desirous of peace--has vouchsafed to make this overture.