But it was of importance that Heinsius should be fully informed both as to the whole plan of the next campaign and as to the state of the preparations.
Albemarle was in full possession of the King's views on these subjects.
He was therefore sent to the Hague.

Heinsius was at that time suffering from indisposition, which was indeed a trifle when compared with the maladies under which William was sinking.

But in the nature of William there was none of that selfishness which is the too common vice of invalids.

On the twentieth of February he sent to Heinsius a letter in which he did not even allude to his own sufferings and infirmities.

"I am," he said, "infinitely concerned to learn that your health is not yet quite reestablished.