He laid before the board the information communicated by Orange as to Parma's intentions.

He also explained the scheme proposed for their frustration, and urged the measures indicated with so much earnestness that his fellow-magistrates were convinced.

The order was passed for piercing the Blauw-garen Dyke, and Sainte Aldegonde, with some engineers, was requested to view the locality, and to take order for the immediate fulfilment of the plan.
Unfortunately there were many other boards in session besides that of the Schepens, many other motives at work besides those of patriotism.

The guild of butchers held a meeting, so soon as the plan suggested was known, and resolved with all their strength to oppose its execution.
The butchers were indeed furious.

Twelve thousand oxen grazed annually upon the pastures which were about to be submerged, and it was represented as unreasonable that all this good flesh and blood should be sacrificed.