Among these enemies was Ruy Gomez, the king's private secretary, who recommended a policy of leniency, as did Granvelle, who was now at Naples.

Philip never had any scruples about throwing over his agents, and he announced his intention of proclaiming an amnesty on the occasion when Anne of Austria, his intended bride and fourth wife, set sail from Antwerp for Spain.

The proclamation was actually made at Antwerp by the governor-general in person, July 16, 1570.

It was a limited declaration of clemency, for six classes of offenders were excepted, and it only extended to those who within two months made their peace with the Catholic Church and abjured the Reformed doctrines.
During the years 1570-71 there were however few outward signs of the gradual undermining of Alva's authority.

There was sullen resentment and discontent throughout the land, but no attempt at overt resistance.