Their own dignity and security ought not to permit such great bodies of troops of both belligerents permanently massed in the Netherlands.

Still less ought they to allow these Provinces to fall into the hands of the Spaniards, whence they could with so much more power and convenience make war upon all kings, princes, and republics.

This must be prevented by one means or another.

It ought to be enough for every one that we have been between thirty and forty years a firm bulwark against Spanish ambition.

Our constancy and patience ought to be strengthened by counsel and by deed in order that we may exist; a Christian sympathy and a small assistance not being sufficient.