Even the ransom of a rich prisoner or two soon disappeared in the payment of such debts of honour as could not be avoided.

Of course there remained the possibility of wealthy marriage, which in a country like the Netherlands, that was full of rich heiresses, was not difficult to a high-born, handsome, and agreeable man of the ruling Spanish caste.

Indeed, after many chances and changes the time had come at length when Montalvo must either marry or be ruined.

For his station his debts, especially his gaming debts, were enormous, and creditors met him at every turn.

Unfortunately for him, also, some of these creditors were persons who had the ear of people in authority.