The reason of his flight was a mystery to none, but as it was immediately followed by an intrigue with Spain, it seemed ingenious to Henry to make, use of a transparent pretext to conceal the ugliness of the whole affair.
He hoped that the Prince would be arrested at Breda and sent back by the States.

Villeroy said that if it was not done, they would be guilty of black ingratitude.

It would be an awkward undertaking, however, and the States devoutly prayed that they might not be put to the test.

The crafty Aerssens suggested to Barneveld that if Conde was not within their territory it would be well to assure the King that, had he been there, he would have been delivered up at once.

"By this means," said the Ambassador, "you will give no cause of offence to the Prince, and will at the same time satisfy the King.