If the Queen were too eager, the Provinces would become jealous, "yielding, as it were, their power, and yet keeping the rudder in their own hands." At the same time Gilpin was favourably impressed with the character both of the country and the nation, soon to be placed in such important relations with England.

"This people," he said, "is such as by fair means they will be won to yield and grant any reasonable motion or demand.

What these islands of Zeeland are her Majesty and all my lords of her council do know.

Yet for their government thus much I must write; that during these troubles it never was better than now.

They draw, in a manner, one line, long and carefully in their resolution; but the same once taken and promises made, they would perform them to the uttermost." Such then was the character of the people, for no man was better enabled to form an opinion on the subject than was Gilpin.