This was done, but there was no satisfactory arrangement possible, and the deputation returned to Utrecht, the States-General to the Hague.

The States-Provincial of Utrecht urged more strongly than ever upon the assembly of the Union to save the city from the hands of a reckless and revolutionary government.

The States-General resolved accordingly to interfere by force.

A considerable body of troops was ordered to march at once upon Utrecht and besiege the city.

Maurice, in his capacity of captain-general and stadholder of the province, was summoned to take charge of the army.