He was indisposed to do so, and pleaded sickness.

The States, determined that the name of Nassau should not be used as an encouragement to disobedience, and rebellion, then directed the brother of Maurice, Frederic Henry, youngest son of William the Silent, to assume the command.

Maurice insisted that his brother was too young, and that it was unjust to allow so grave a responsibility to fall upon his shoulders.

The States, not particularly pleased with the Prince's attitude at this alarming juncture, and made anxious by the glamour which seemed to possess him since his conferences with the revolutionary party at Utrecht, determined not to yield.
The army marched forth and laid siege to the city, Prince Frederic Henry at its head.

He was sternly instructed by the States-General, under whose orders he acted, to take possession of the city at all hazards.