CHAPTER XII.
James still presses for the Payment of the Dutch Republic's Debt to him--A Compromise effected, with Restitution of the Cautionary Towns--Treaty of Loudun--James's Dream of a Spanish Marriage revives--James visits Scotland--The States-General agree to furnish Money and Troops in fulfilment of the Treaty of 1609--Death of Concini--Villeroy returns to Power.
Besides matters of predestination there were other subjects political and personal which increased the King's jealousy and hatred.

The debt of the Republic to the British crown, secured by mortgage of the important sea-ports and fortified towns of Flushing, Brielle, Rammekens, and other strong places, still existed.

The possession of those places by England was a constant danger and irritation to the States.

It was an axe perpetually held over their heads.

It threatened their sovereignty, their very existence.