Since the king was so peremptory, he had nothing for it but to obey, but he vehemently disclaimed all responsibility for the expedition, and, in case of his death, he called on his Majesty to vindicate his honour, which his enemies were sure to assail.
The messages from Mayenne becoming daily more pressing, Farnese hastened as much as possible those preparations which at best were so woefully inadequate, and avowed his determination not to fight the Bearnese if it were possible to avoid an action.

He feared, however, that with totally insufficient forces he should be obliged to accept the chances of an engagement.
With twelve thousand foot and three thousand horse Farnese left the Netherlands in the beginning of August, and arrived on the 3rd of that month at Valenciennes.

His little army, notwithstanding his bitter complaints, was of imposing appearance.

The archers and halberdiers of his bodyguard were magnificent in taffety and feathers and surcoats of cramoisy velvet.

Four hundred nobles served in the cavalry.