The French dress was introduced into the court of Spain; and by a formal edict, the grandees of that kingdom and the peers of France were put on a level in each nation.

There was no vigour left in the councils of Spain; her finances were exhausted; and her former spirit seemed to be quite extinguished; the nobility were beggars, and the common people overwhelmed with indigence and distress.
The condition of France was not much more prosperous.

She had been harassed by a long war, and now saw herself on the eve of another, which in all probability would render her completely miserable.
TREATY OF ALLIANCE BETWEEN THE EMPEROR AND THE MARITIME POWERS.
These circumstances were well known to the emperor and the maritime powers, and served to animate their negotiations for another grand alliance.

Conferences were opened at the Hague; and on the seventh day of September a treaty was concluded between his Imperial majesty, England, and the states-general.

The objects proposed were to procure satisfaction to the emperor in the Spanish succession, and sufficient security for the dominions and commerce of the allies.