To concentrate an immense attack upon the Archdukes in the Spanish Netherlands and the debateable duchies would have for its immediate effect the expulsion of the Spaniards out of all those provinces and the establishment of the Dutch commonwealth on an impregnable basis.

That this would be to strengthen infinitely the Huguenots in France and the cause of Protestantism in Bohemia, Moravia and Austria, was unquestionable.

It was natural, therefore, that the stern and ardent Huguenot should suspect the plans of the Catholics with whom he was in daily council.

One day he asked the King plumply in the presence of Villeroy if his Majesty meant anything serious by all these warlike preparations.

Henry was wroth, and complained bitterly that one who knew him to the bottom of his soul should doubt him.