MAURICE AND OLDENBARNEVELDT The conclusion of the truce did not bring, with material progress and trade expansion, internal peace to the United Provinces.

The relations between the Prince-stadholder and the all-powerful Advocate had long been strained.

In the long-drawn-out negotiations Maurice had never disguised his dislike to the project of a truce, and, though he finally acquiesced, it was a sullen acquiescence.

At first there was no overt breach between the two men, but Maurice, though he did not refuse to meet Oldenbarneveldt, was cold and unfriendly.

He did not attempt to interfere with the old statesman's control of the machinery of administration or with his diplomatic activities, for he was naturally indolent and took little interest in politics.