I tell you I have made an oath to hold this city, and may God give me strength to keep my oath! I can die but once; whether by your hands, the enemy's, or by the hand of God.

My own fate is indifferent to me, not so that of the city intrusted to my care.

I know that we shall starve if not soon relieved; but starvation is preferable to the dishonoured death which is the only alternative.

Your menaces move me not; my life is at your disposal; here is my sword, plunge it into my breast, and divide my flesh among you.

Take my body to appease your hunger, but expect no surrender, so long as I remain alive.'" Leyden was at last relieved by William of Orange, who from his sick-bed had arranged for the piercing of the dykes and letting in enough water to swim his ships and rout the Spaniards.
Out of tribulation comes good.