As has before been said, it was not until danger stared them in the face that the burgomasters were willing to pay for their defences.

While the republican government lasted, however, this economy was practised least of all upon the fleet; and until the death of John De Witt, in 1672, and the peace with England in 1674, the Dutch navy was in point of numbers and equipment able to make a fair show against the combined navies of England and France.

Its efficiency at this time undoubtedly saved the country from the destruction planned by the two kings.

With De Witt's death the republic passed away, and was followed by the practically monarchical government of William of Orange.

The life-long policy of this prince, then only eighteen, was resistance to Louis XIV.