In addition to these annual taxes he proposed a payment once for all of one per cent., "the hundredth penny," on all property, real or personal.
Such a demand was contrary to all precedent in the Netherlands and an infringement of time-honoured charters and privileges; and even the terror, which Alva's iron-handed tyranny had inspired, did not prevent his meeting with strong opposition.

The proposals had to be referred to the provincial estates, and everywhere difficulties were raised.

All classes were united in resistance.

Petitions came pouring in protesting against impositions which threatened to ruin the trade and industries of the country.

Alva found it impossible to proceed.
The "hundredth penny" was voted, but instead of the other taxes, which were to provide a steady annual income, he had to content himself with a fixed payment of 2,000,000 guilders for two years only.