The Te Deum was sung with unwonted pomp; and the solemn notes of the organ were mingled with the clash of the cymbal and the blast of the trumpet.

But there was little cause for rejoicing.

The great statesman who was at the head of the European coalition smiled inwardly at the misdirected energy of his foe.

Lewis had indeed, by his promptitude, gained some advantages on the side of Germany: but those advantages would avail little if England, inactive and inglorious under four successive Kings, should suddenly resume her old rank in Europe.

A few weeks would suffice for the enterprise on which the fate of the world depended; and for a few weeks the United Provinces were in security.
William now urged on his preparations with indefatigable activity and with less secrecy than he had hitherto thought necessary.