Barneveld was in all civil affairs dictator, chief magistrate, supreme judge; but he occupied this high station by the force of intellect, will, and experience, not through any constitutional provision.

In time of war the Prince was generalissimo, commander-in-chief of all the armies of the Republic.

Yet constitutionally he was not captain-general at all.

He was only stadholder of five out of seven provinces.
Barneveld suspected him of still wishing to make himself sovereign of the country.

Perhaps his suspicions were incorrect.