THE TRIUMPHS OF NASSAV: OR, A DESCRIPTION AND REpresentation of all the Victories both by Land and Sea, granted by God to the noble, high, and mighty Lords, the Estates general of the united netherlands Provinces. UNDER THE CONDUCT and command of his Excellency, Prince MAVRICE of NASSAV.  
Translated out of French by W. SHUTE Gent.  
LONDON, Printed by Adam Islip, Anno Dom. 1613.   

TO THE TRULY NOBLE and justly honoured Lords, WILLIAM Earl of Pembroke, and PHILIP Earl of Montgomerie.  
RIght Hono.  
That which slender judgements call greatness, because themselves cannot compass it, is not so, but a bombast of titles and other shreds of fortune, wherewith the least minds are often stuffed out: But a mind well grown then best shows it own height when it stands down, and puts off the slippers of fortune. Heaven resist that this should ever befall your Lordships, because your virtues put them on, and they sit clean on you: Yet when I sought first of what size I might make my respect, my imagination stripped you of all honour till I found your worths so well set and limbed, that I could not make your estimation too great. I shall be much bound to your noble apprehension, if out of all this circumlocution it extract this meaning, That not your fortunes but virtues begat my love; so happily you will tollerat the troublesomeness of it for the parent's sake: Yet I hope it will not be altogether a fruitless trouble for you to admit these plain relations as a Parenthesis in your more serious considerations. I held them belonging in some sort to your Lordships, many of these actions being performed by your noble uncles, whose honours you are to inherit, though without need. And though much hereof be beyond your time, yet is it not beyond your knowledge, for he whose understanding is not elder than himself loseth the noblest inheritance of his ancestors, and sticks in the worst kind of minority. You have a most exact commentary of your own upon this work, the all sufficient and most understanding viscount List your noble uncle, who hath scarce been ever absent in any service where honour hath been present among them. Thus humbly dedicating myself and best labours to your gracious protection, I wish all honour and happiness ever to attend you.  
unchangeably remaining your Lordships humbly devoted, W. SHUTE.   

To the Reader.  
HIs errors and blots who transcribes the actions of an Age past-by out of sight, are almost indiscernible, at least incorrigible: Antiquity of whom, and posterity to whom he speaks, lie at his mercy, the same of the one, and faith of the other, often suffering miserably under him. But he that speaks to the face of a Time present, must either speak truly, or make room in his patience to receive the lie, and undergo a shameful detection. Of this second kind is mine Author, who tells thee little but what perhaps thou hast already heard from the mouth of the canon, or, if the cramp of fear benumbed not thy spirits, hadst an hand in: So that thou mayest securely hearken to him, since thy knowledge will not be so unkind as look on and see thy belief abused. Let not any man's ignorance persuade thee that it is superfluous to read over this Copy, having the original in thy memory: thou must lay it nearer to thee than thy memory, in thine understanding. Again, not to endure the rehearsal of thine own actions, is an argument of their deformity; else thou wouldst as much delight to look in this book, as a fair woman in her glass, or on her picture. This I can safely promise, That if thy judgement can reach them, among these leaves, thou mayest find much fruit worth the tasting. In the noble and prosperous family of Nassau thou mayest observe, That a virtuous son makes an immortal father in despite of treachery and death. In the whole course of the war, how that deluge of blood wherewith her enemies hoped to have drowned the Netherlands, did like the inundation of Nile but fatten and enrich them. By the basseling and coudgelling that proud Armada, that unless the Lord of Hosts be the Godfather, the name of invincible is improper and ridiculous to any human army. By the Hollanders marine expeditions, that virtue like the heavenly Spheres must never stand still, and that whiles she goes not forward, she becometh retrograde. In the English, who broke the ice of Navigation to them and had the wind of same of them in that art, idleness striking the sails of their industry, are fallen much to Leeward in reputation, perhaps in sufficiency. In the late treaty of peace, that they who beat the furnace for Innocents', are oftentimes so overreached by their own flames, that they are fain to quench them in their derided tears. In all, that art and discipline are more potent than multitude, but a just cause than both. Those escapes either of mine own or the printers which thou shalt meet with all, furnish thee with good occasion to requite my pains taken for thee, by favourably correcting them.  
Farewell. W. SHUTE.   

A RELATION OF ALL THE VICTORIES, BOTH BY SEA AND LAND, Achieved, for the States of the united Provinces, under the conduct and government of Prince MAVRICE of Nassau.  

¶ A true and brief description of the netherlands Provinces.  
THE Low-countries are so named because their situation is low, 
The original name of the Low Countries.  in comparison of high Germany: There are divers Rivers in them, as the Rhine, Meuse, Scheld, Waell, and many others, which springing forth of the high mountains, run through the Country, and empty themselves into the great Northern Ocean, where the said Countries are situated. 
Her situation.  The County of Embden and the River Amisa, the Countries of Benthem, Westphalia, Cleves and juliers, the Bishoprics of Cologne and Treues, and the countries of Lorraine and France, are their limits.  
The Low Country is commonly divided into seventeen Provinces: 
It is divided into 17. Provinces, and their names.  viz. into four Duchies, Brabant, Limbourg, Luxembourg, and gelders: eight Counties, Holland, Zealand, Flanders, Artois, Haynault, Namur, Zutphen, and the Marquisat of the sacred Empire: 
Why they a●e ●alled 17. Provinces.  And into five Seignories, viz. Malines, Vtrecht, frise, Ouer-Ysell, and Gronninghe. They are termed seventeen Provinces by reason of the seventeen several titles given to their Princes; we can give no other sound reason for it. At any general Assembly, all the Provinces are not called or summoned, nor have voyles, or do orderly contribute to general impositions: for the Marquisat of the sacred Empire of antwerp, is not reckoned among the Provinces: the Duchy of Limbourgh, with Valckenbourgh and Dalem, belong to Brabant: Tournay and Tournesis with Lille, Dovay and Orchies, are not usually numbered among the seventeen Provinces, yet both of them contribute, each of them as a Province: The like do Valenciennes and Drent. This Low Country about the year 1550 in the time of the Emperor Charles the fist, did grant his demand in a sum of 300000 Florins to be paid monthly, which was called Noventale or Novenaire. We find that Limbourgh, Luxembourgh, gelders and Gronninghe being Frontiers, paid nothing towards this contribution, for they were very poor and behind hand, so as none but these 13 Provinces and Towns contributed; namely Brabant, Flaunders, Artois, Haynault, Valenciennes, Lille, Dovay, Orchies, Holland, Zealand, Namur, Tournay, Tournesis, Malines, and Vtrecht, yet we must not think that the rest are excluded from convocations and general Assemblies.  

Her circuit.  The Low Country is in circuit 340 Flemish Leagues, or one thousand Italian or English miles. There are more than two hundred walled Cities in it, 
The number of towns and villages.  and one hundred and fifty Towns which have the privilege and jurisdiction of Cities, with above 600 Villages; but during these long wars they have been very much lessened and ruined. And to give satisfaction to the curious reader, I will here set down a general number whereby he may know how many towns and villages there are in every Province. Namely in the four. 
How many Tow●es and Villages there are in every Province.  duchies. Towns. Villages. Brabant. 26. 700. Luxembourg. 23. 1169. Limbourg. 5. 123. gelders. 24. 300. In the eight Counties. Towns. Villages. Holland. 33. 400. Zealand. 10. 101. Flanders. 35. 1178. Artois. 12. 754. Haynault. 24. 950. Namur. 4. 184. Zutphen.   The Marquisat.   In the five signiories. Towns. Villages. Vttrecht. 5. 70. Frise. 11. 345. Ouer-Ysell. 11. 101. Gronninghe. 1. 145. Malives. 1. 9  
In old time before the Nativity of Christ, 
Under what countries the Romans comprehended the 17. Provinces, & wherefore they were called Belgia.  the Romans and julius Caesar comprehended this country under Gaul Belgik, or Belgia; a name imposed upon it by her neighbours, because the Inhabitants were haughty and bold people, not enduring the loss of their liberty, or prejudice of their customs and privileges: So that as Caesar writes, they are the strongest and valiantest nation of the Gauls. They had in those days sundry names, as Germans, Batavians, Frisons, Aduatici, Menapians, Atrebates, Neruins and Morini etc. The Germans are at this day called Almans: the Batavians are the Hollanders, 
How highly the Romans esteemed this Nation: and their ancient names.  and partly those of gelders: the Frisons, those of Frise: the Aduatici, those of Antuerp: the Menapians, partly those of gelders and Cleve: the Atrebates, those of Arras, and places near adjoining: the Neruins, those of Tournay: the Morini, Flemings, etc.  
Concerning the situation of the said countries, it is for the most part champain, 
The form of the Country and fertility thereof  except the Provinces of Luxembourgh, Limbourg, Namur and Haynault, where the country is hilly: and part of Brabant, Flanders, gelders and Ouer-Ysell is sandy. All the Provinces are generally fruitful, and those which lie to the Southward bear some vines. The higher parts of the country afford pleasant groves of all sorts of trees, the Champaign abounds with all kind of cattle; the woods are stored with birds & fowl; the Sea and rivers are full of fish: there are brave and goodly horses bred in Flanders, Holland, Zealand & Friesland: though the air be gross and moist, yet in all places (the Sea side except) it is good and wholesome. It is a country which for traffic is commodiously seated for all the chief countries of Europe, in regard of her great Rivers; 
The original of some Rivers which run through the Country.  as the Rhine, which descendeth from the mountains of Switzerland, and dividing itself into three branches runneth through Germany & some part of the Netherlands, emptying itself into the Germane Ocean: next the Danubium, it is the greatest river of Europe: the Meuse runs from the mountains of Burgundy as far as Langres: the Scheld comes from Picardy and Vermandois. Besides, the Sea doth so favour them as in two days & two nights they may sail from home to Norway, and in five or six days to Denmark, and from thence to Swethland. Westward, they may in few hours go into England, and from hence along the coast of France into Spain, and to the East and West-Indies.  

Holland and Zealand surpass all other Provinces in shipping.  For this cause the Low Countries, especially Holland and Zealand, are very rich in shipping, wherein the greatest part of their power, all their traffic and wealth consists; so as it is almost incredible to believe that sometimes there are seven or eight hundred great Ships, ready to set sail into the East, besides those which go towards the West into England, France, Spain, Italy, the Islands, and along the coast of afric, and to the East & West Indies, all of them being well manned and provided. Besides merchant's ships, there are many hundred other, which in the country language are termed Buysen, Doog-booten, and Crabbens, with which they go a fishing for Herring, Cod, and Salmon. When they go to fish for Herrings, there will be sometime seven or eight hundred of these Buysen or Booten; which every year make three voyages to Sea: so as the wealth which the Inhabitants of this country get by Sea is not to be reckoned, nor the Mariners numbered which live thereby; for the towns and villages abound in women and children which do nothing but weave Nets, and in great multitudes of people whose occupation is to build ships.  
The Netherlanders are for the most part tall, strong, fair, and clean timbered. Every Province doth a little participate with her neighbour's dispositions; as those who dwell towards the East, do somewhat resemble the Easterlings, those of the South the Almans, they in the West the French. Their apparel is comely, but not so costly as the Germans, who therein follow the curiosity and new fashions of their neighbours: they are given to drink, but not so much as the Almans, nor so usually as three or fourscore years ago: they are of a settled judgement and constant in all their affairs, seldom wavering either in prosperity or adversity, they are witty and industrious, and apt to invent all manner of arts, to comprehend and teach them, and therein surpass all other Nations: they are never idle but ever in action, much addicted to trade of merchandise, the which, more than other nations they seek through the whole world: they are very serviceable to all men, and not so proud and ambitious as other people: But they are naturally sparing and lovers of gain, which makes them willingly see other countries, 
Commendation of the netherlands women.  so as in every place a man shall find Dutchmen. The women are likewise very serviceable, and give themselves to all sorts of work, which in other Countries, servants will refuse to do: they likewise trade in merchandise, and in all honest manner converse with men: they detest adultery notwithstanding that they often want their husband's companies: this may perhaps seem strange to divers Nations.  
They soon learn and speak all manner of Tongues: 
Commendation of the Dutch Tongue.  their ancient speech is high Dutch: upon the Frontiers of France they speak Wallon, a corrupted Language: their Speech is rough, but very rich and perfect, surpassing all other Languages in antiquity and perfection, for it hath more than 2170 words monosillables, as Simon Stevin of Bruges witnesseth in his book called, the Rudiments of the art of weighing, where he sets them down; thereunto adding a discourse concerning the worthiness of the Low Dutch Tongue, fit to be read of all those that love the said Language: which is in a manner the very same that was spoken 1700 years ago in julius Caesar's time, saving that every Province hath borrowed the sound and accent of her neighbours: a speech further extended and spoken in more places than any other, even from Calais in France, as far as Norway, Swethen, Livonia, and further. It is a Country where strangers are better used than in any other: they are a Christian people, 
The Netherlanders lovers of Liberty.  lovers of piety & Liberty, as all their Histories and modern wars testify: for since the overthrow of the Roman Empire, they have freed themselves from all bondage and invasion, and have invaded and mastered other Nations, as the realm of France with the Salicks and Franconians their neighbours, etc.  
The Country being divided into Provinces, they have acknowledged some Sovereign Lords; but on certain conditions, still keeping them from growing great, for fear of being subjugated by them, and therefore they especially loved them when they were young: 
The Princes of the Low Country's have done many valiant deeds.  these Provinces living thus peaceably under their Lords, and uniting themselves together in time of need, have oftentimes purchased renown by valiant actions, as well against the Romans as other nations, namely against the Turks and Sarafens, as appears by their exploits under the conduct of Godfrey of Bovillon and other Kings of jerusalem, as also under Baldwin Earl of Flaunders who won the Empire of Constantinople, with many other enterprises mentioned in their Chronicles and Histories. In a word they are a people of whom the famous Historian Cornelius Tacitus writes thus; the Gauls fought for their liberty, the Germans for booty; but the Battavians for glory and honour. In this regard the Roman Emperors chose them to guard their own persons, esteeming them the valiantest and loyallest people of the world: and some of them, as the Battavians and Frisons, have been declared friends and companions of the Romans.  
Notwithstanding that all these Low Countries have in time passed been sundry Provinces and Sovereignties under several Princes, yet at last they have been reduced under four Dukes of Burgundi-, afterwards under the Archdukes of Austria, and finally under one lord absolute, the Emperor Charles the fist, and his son Philip King of Spain. 
How the Low Countries have been reduced under one Lord  It shall not be amiss briefly to set down, how, when, & after what manner they became subject to these last Princes: and let this continue in eternal memory, that the Spaniards have attainted the government of these Low countries, not to rule them as their own subjects, according to their Laws, but as a free Nation, by their own Laws and privileges.  

Margaret daughter to Lewis de Male marrieth Philip the Hardy, on whom he begat john sans peur.  Lewis de Male, by his father, Earl of Flanders, Nevers, Retel, Salines, Antuerp, and Malines, and by his mother, Earl of Burgundy and Artois, had a daughter named Margaret, by Margaret his wife daughter to john the third Duke of Brabant: this lady in the year 1369 in Gant, married Philip of Valois surnamed the Hardy, Duke of Burgundy, 
He marrieth the E●rle of Holland's daughter and begets Philip le Bon.  the youngest son to john the French King: from these two descended john (sans poor) Earl of Flanders, Burgundy, Artois, etc. This john of Valois, did in the year 1415 marry the lady Margaret daughter to the Earl of Haynault, Holland, Zealand, and Friesland; and was treacherously slain at Montereau in France ann 1419 the nineteenth of September, being eight and forty years old, and in the fifteenth year of his reign: he died (as some say) by the Dolphin's command.  
His only son, 
How Philip le Bon obtained the possession of the whole Low-countries.  Philip (le Bon) succeeded him being three and twenty years old, and was Duke of Burgundy, Earl of Flanders, Artois, Burgundy, Palatin & marquess of the sacred Empire, & lord of Salines and Malines. He did moreover in the year 1429 by the death of Earl Dideric of Namur, succeed him in the same Earldom, which he first bought; and by the death of Philip Duke of Brabant, who died without heirs, he did in the year 1430 obtain the duchies of Lorraine, Brabant; and Limbourg; and by the death of jacoba countess of Holland etc. his niece, he got in the year 1436 the Earldoms of Haynault, Holland, Zealand and Friesland. In the year 1443, his Aunt gave him the Duchy of Luxembourgh, first as protector thereof, and afterwards as absolute lord. He was the first of the house of Burgundy that instituted the order of the Golden fleece at Bruges in Flaunders, 
He that first instituted the order of the golden fleece marrieth Isabella of Portugal, by whom he had a son called Charles the Warrior, who is acknowledged for lord of the Low-countries, and makes a purchase.  when he married Isabella of Portugal in the year 1450: He died at Bruges ann 1467 in the 72 year of his age, and 48 of his reign. He left his only son Charles of Valois surnamed the Warrior, heir to all these countries: who succeeded his father in the 34 year of his age: for an annual pension, and the sum of 92000 crowns of gold, he bought the duchy of Guelderland & county of Zutphen of Arnold Earl of Egmond; who dying, did by his last will and Testament confirm the said sale, making Duke Charles his heir, disinheriting his own son Adolfe because he had rebelled against him. 
He goes about to make the Low-countries a kingdom.  This Duke took possession of Guelderland in ann 1473: He sought to make the Low-countries a kingdom, and to that end promised to marry his only daughter to the Emperor Frederic the thirds son, and he would have called it the kingdom of Burgundy; because in former time Burgundy had been a kingdom: but in regard every Province was Sovereign, and had her privileges, laws and reveneves apart, differing in weights and measures, and had never granted their Princes any other but limited power, 
How and where he died.  this motion was rejected. This brave warrior was slain before Nancy anno 1477 the fist day of januarie, betrayed by an Italian Earl called Campobasso that served him (by the instigation of Lewis the eleventh French king, the Swisses & Lorrai●s) after that he had won three battles. Three days after his death he was found naked in a marish which was frozen, as Philip of Comines writes in his History: 
His daughter Marie of Valois marrieth Maxmilian of Austria, by whom she had two children.  he was four and forty years old, and left one only daughter and heir behind him, called Marie of Valois, of the age of eighteen years, who in anno 1477 on the eighteenth of August, married Maxmilian of Austria, who recovered from the French king whatsoever he had taken from his wife: he re-established the order of the golden fleece, which in those days was very contemptible; this he did in anno 1478. They had two children betwixt them, a son named Philip and a daughter called Margaret. Marry of Burgundy the third year after she was married fell from her horse, 
Maxmilian goes about to reduce some of the low-country Provinces under the Roman Empire.  and of that fall died. Maxmilian for a time governed those countries in the behalf of his son Philip, but not very faithfully, for he went about to allienat and divide the Provinces of Brabant, Holland, Zealand and Friesland from the Low-countries, to give them to his father the Emperor Frederic, and did many matters to the prejudice of those countries which to rehearse would be too long. 
Philip his son is acknowledged Prince, and marrieth D. joan of Spain  In the year 1492 his son Philip was acknowledged Prince of the whole Low-countries, and confirmed as hereditary lord thereof. In an. 1496 in the City of Liar in Brabant he married D. joan of Spain, so as the Low-countries being before united by sundry marriages, are lastly by this conjunction fallen to the house of Spain; and although they have attained to a kind of perfect prosperity, yet by this means they are fallen into a long and unnecessary war, and into the troubles of civil broils, to the great hurt and prejudice of the said countries: and hereby have the seventeen Provinces been under the Spanish government these seventy or eighty years.  

How the Provinces are at this day divided, and who possess them.  This present year 1610 since the said Provinces have been divided, the Archdukes Albert and Isabel Clara, enjoy one part thereof; namely Brabant, Limbourg, Luxembourg, Flanders, Artois, Haynault, Namur, Lille, Dovay, Orchies, Tourney and Tournesis, Malines, Valenciennes, Cambray, with part of Guelderland, and the Signiory of Linguen, excepting some places of Brabant and Flanders, which my Lords the estates do yet hold ' wanting nothing but peace. The estates of the united Provinces possess the rest, as the three parts of Guelderland, Holland, Zealand, Friesland, Vtrecht, Gronningen, and the territories adjoining, Ouer-Ysell and Drent, with certain parcels of Brabant and Flaunders, all which Countries contribute towards the war.  
We will now speak somewhat of the particular estate of these Provinces, 
Countries under the Archdukes.  as they stand in this present year 1610 during the truce: and first, of those under the government of the Archdukes, of Brabant, 
Brabant.  which they wholly enjoy, except the Towns of Berghen op Zoom, Breda, Steenbergh, Willem-stadt, Grave, and certain Forts, all which are under the government of the estates of the united Provinces. These Countries have for the space of forty years, during the wars, suffered much, as well by the enemy, as their own soldiers, mutining often through want of pay, and in such sort oppressing the Country, as it is a wonder how the poor people still breath; whereby we may conjecture of the Country's power. There are divers good Towns which are places of refuge for the distressed Boores. The City of Lovayn is yet in good estate. Brussels by means of the Court still prospers and flourisheth. The Town of Boisleduke or Sertoghen busch, although it hath endured many assaults and sieges, doth nevertheless enjoy her pristine good fortune. But the City of antwerp, renowned for her beauty and trade of merchandise, hath suffered much, having been sacked, ransomed, and partly burnt, and enforced to build a Citadel which hourly keeps it in awe, by means whereof she hath lost her trade, so as now it is only frequented by some few Lawyers, and receivers of the Prince's revenues, which doth somewhat help it. The people and inhabitants of Brabant during these wrrres● are wasted and consumed more than the one half.  
Malines a Sovereign City and Signiory hath been twice taken, 
Malines.  and more spoiled than any other.  
Limbourg, 
Limbourg, Valckenbourg and Namur.  Valckenbourg and Dalem, have likewise been much afflicted, together with the City of Namur; yet at this day they are in reasonable good estate.  
Luxembourgh of all other Provinces of the Low-countries, 
Luxembourg.  hath been least troubled, & sustained no other loss, than sometimes to give passage to the armies. 
Haynault Artois.  In Haynault, Artois, Valenciennes, Lille, Dovay, Orchies, Tournay, Tournesis and Cambray, the chief towns at the beginning of the wars, have been taken and sacked, and the country wasted and spoiled, which was no novelty to them, being accustomed thereunto in the French wars: they now prosper, & impositions have done them more harm than war.  

Flanders.  Flanders during these forty years war hath greatest cause to complain, having been mastered by the seditious vulgar, all her chief cities and towns have been besieged, won, and sacked, graveling and some other few forts excepted: divers towns and great villages have been made heaps of earth, so as in this province alone, more towns, villages, castles and cloisters have been ruined, than in any other, so that the country is half unpeopled, and the inhabitants retired into other lands. The Archdukes possess all Flanders, except the towns of Sluice, Axel, Ternheuse, the whole Isle of Katsant, Bieruliedt, Ardenbourgh with some other sorts and strong places. In stead of these towns and those of Brabant heretofore mentioned the Archdukes possess part of Guelderland, and therein the town of Ruremond, together with Gueldre, Venlo, Watchtendone, Strale and Grolle, than the towns of Lingen and Oldenzeel, in the farthest parts of the lowcountries: which by a firm and desired peace would soon recover their former wealth and beauty.  

Countries under the State's government.  My Lords the states of the united provinces possess these countries following, the three parts remaining of the duchy of Guelderland, under which is comprehended the county of Zutphen, and the Archdukes enjoy the town of Grolle. These countries have been much afflicted, for all the best towns therein have been besieged, taken, and sacked, in which regard their wealth is small in comparison of that of other provinces.  

Holland.  Holland at the beginning was more ruined than any other province, her cities have been besieged taken and burnt: but at last by war she hath obtained peace, increasing in great wealth and prosperity, even then when her neighbours confronted her: now it is so populous and so abounds in shipping, as at this day no country of the world can compare with it for navigation, or flourisheth more in trade of merchandise, as may appear by the towns of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Encheusen, and many others.  
Zealand after many miseries had all her towns besieged and taken by famine and other means, 
Zealand.  the dikes leveled, so as by boat men passed over the country; yet at last she hath freed herself from these calamities, and reflourisheth in traffic, people, and shipping, according to her Emblem, Luctor & emergo.  
Frizeland hath likewise been greatly ruined, 
Frizeland.  but it hath ever borne itself nobly in war, and according to the state and proportion thereof, the country still flourisheth.  
The duke of Alva hath done more hurt and wrong to Vtrecht than to any other Province, 
Vtrecht.  and since than it hath been greatly endangered by discord and dissension; but United with the other provinces it doth by little & little recover her former greatness and prosperity, and increaseth in traffic.  
The chief towns of Ouer-yssell and Drenct have been besieged and taken oftener than once, 
Ouer-yssell.  and the champaign country ruined by sundry invasions.  
Gronninguen and the country adjoining together with her neighbours have endured much, 
Gronninguen.  the town hath been besieged and taken sundry times, and the countries round about it spoilt; but they are now quiet, though somewhat burdened with impositions, the greatest part thereof being under contribution, which they pay to the Garrisons of Linguen and Oldenzeel, by which means the country is much impoverished.  
Yet the united provinces of the low countries are all of them in better estate than the rest, 
The united provinces flourish more than any other.  because the sea lies open to them, having many ships, the Northern Ocean at their command, and divers other rivers; multitudes of people, coming thither from other provinces under hope of traffic and gain, and for the liberty of conscience which they freely enjoy. These countries are by war grown rich, though it may seem contrary to nature and reason, & do wonderfully flourish as appears by their forts, number of great towns, and sumptuous buildings.  
So that the low countries may generally vaunt to be (according to the bignesle thereof) in number of great, 
Conclusion.  strong and well peopled Cities and Forts the excellenrest country in the world, in which for the space of forty years that the war continued, the bravest soldiers of Europe have been and yet are trained up and exercised in the school of Mars.  
If any desire to read a more ample description of these Low-countries; let him for Brabant read Adrianus Barlandus, for Flanders jacobus Marchantius, for Holland Adrianus junius the Hollander, borne in Horn; or the general description of the Low-countries, written by Lodovico Guicciardin, all which may give him better satisfaction: For it sufficeth me to have written thus much briefly, and as it were by the way.   

¶ A description of the Hague and Court of Holland: As also by whom and when the said Court was builded, and to what end.  
BEsides all the goodly, rich, pleasant, and walled towns of Holland, there are divers and sundry signiories or towns not walled, sumptuously built, and so enriched, as in beautiful & stately building do not only equal many Cities, but far excel them, being by their Princes and Lords adorned with sundry privileges. 
Description of the Hague.  Among which there is none more excellent, beautiful, better seated, or plesanter than the Hague of the Earls: which because it is such, was chosen by the Princes and Earls of the country for their delightful abode; there establishing their Privy Council, and Court of justice, where all suits, pleas, and controversies of Holland and Zealand are debated and decided.  

Her beauty & number of houses.  The Hague, in wealth, stately buildings, pleasant gardens, and great number of Nobility surpasseth divers cities of Holland and Zealand: there are in it more than 2000 great and goodly houses, and many new are daily built, yea whole streets.  

Description of the Court of Holland.  Among all the great and goodly houses of the Nobility, in the Hague, there is none more stately and magnificent, than that which is called the Court of Holland. Which rightly may be termed Royal, 
By whom and when it was built.  because it was built in anno 1249 by Earl William, second of that name, and the fifteenth Earl of Holland, Zealand, Frizeland, etc. who for his excellent virtue and valour was by the mutual consent of the electors chosen king of Romans, and afterwards confirmed on the day of all Saints in anno 1246, as appears by the old Chronicle of Holland in the eighteenth division and thirteenth Chapter. This Royal Court is after the manner of Castles environed with Dikes, and hath sundry gates, in which the Prince's guards do watch day and night. On the North side of the Court there is a large and goodly fishpond, encompassed with many high trees, under whose shade it is pleasant walking in summer to avoid the heat of the sun: and the place where these trees stand is called in the vulgar tongue Viverberg, which is as much to say, as the fishponds hill.  
Within this building is a large and spacious hall, built (as the ancient chronicle of Holland saith) of a certain wood brought from Ireland which will never rot, nor bear any spiders or other venomous worm. This hall is environed with divers and sundry shops, well furnished with all manner of books in all languages, and with goodly pictures.  
But the most excellent of them are, the silver coat armours, trumpets and ensigns which hang there in great number, won from the enemy at the defeat of Turnhout, and at the battle of Flanders, which are hung up in the roof of the hall for a perpetual remembrance.  
There is the prince or governor of Holland, 
The prince's court.  Zealand, & Westfrize-lands court: which is the illustrious and mighty lord, Maurice of Nassau, prince of Orange, etc. who hath governed three and twenty years with such fortunate success as we may rightly term him Pater patriae.  
It is also a place dedicated to law and administration of justice, 
A place dedicated to Law and justice.  where the Council (being more in number than were the Consentes dei in times past) debate all causes, examine and judge them: they are I say more in number; for the council of Consentes were but twelve; and these counsellors are fourteen beside their chief whom they call precedent. This assembly of counsellors, who were wont to remain at Gravesand, was transported hither by count William above mentioned, after that he had received the title of king of Romans.  
Beside this assembly of counsellors which is called the provincial council; 
By whom the 〈◊〉 council was transse● to the Hague.  an other was established in anno 1582 in stead of the great council of Malines, and it is a sovereign council of justice, called the great council, whether all causes which are brought to be decided, by appeal or reformation of the sentences of the above named provincial court and other judges, are sentenced by final decree, without any appeal from thence to any other, yet re-examination may be craved, and error propounded: in such cases the States of the Country appoint certain men beside the above named Council, to review the pleas which have been judged, and to deliver their opinions whether there be any error in the said sentence or not: and according to their conclusion, every man must rest satisfied without any contradiction.  

The Council of Brabant.  another Council is likewise established, called the Council of Brabant, which hath power over that part, Towns, Villages, and inhabitants of the said Country of Brabant under the government of my Lords the general States: In this Council all matters are handled, by commission, commandment and instruction of the general States, according to the ancient custom of the Chancery and Court fiscal of Brabant, to the end every man may be orderly governed by their Laws and Privileges. Lastly beside all these there do reside in this Court of Holland, my Lords the State's general, the States of Holland and Westfrizeland, the Council of State, the masters of accounts of the Chamber of Accounts of Holland, the Council of war etc. every of these having their Chamber apart.  

Description of the Park at the Hague.  Before we end this description of the Hague, it shall not be impertinent briefly to speak of the situation of the Park, which is in length 1500 paces, but nothing so much in breadth: there grow Oaks, Elmes, ash and other Trees, on whose boughs, great and small melodious Birds do with their Songs delight and recreate the senses of the hearers: there are Dear, Hares and Coneys. It is a place worthy the Muses, and where Princes, Earls, Lords, Councillors, Advocates, and all sorts of people do usually walk to recreate themselves after their toils. I might speak of many other matters; but because mine intent is only to touch them as it were by the way, I refer the curious Reader to Lodovico Guicciardine his description made many years since, which of late hath been newly printed, augmented, and enriched with maps.   

The Genealogy of William of Nassau, Prince of Orange etc. with the rehearsal of his death and funerals.  
BEfore we set down the great and valorous actions of the most illustrious Prince, Maurice of Nassau, we will briefly in manner of an introduction speak somewhat of the Genealogy, descent, birth, life and death of my Lord his father, William of Nassau of happy memory.  
William by the grace of God, 
The Prince of Orange his Titles.  Prince of Orange, Earl of Nassau, Catzenelbogen, Dietz, Vianda etc. Marquis of Veer and Flushing; Viscount of antwerp and Bezanson, Baron of Breda, Diest, Grimberg, Arley, Nozeroy etc. Lord of Castelbelin, Lieutenant general in the Low-countries, and Governor of Brabant, Holland, Zealand, Vtrecht and Friesland, Admiral of the Belgic Seas, was son to William of Nassau, brother to Count Henry of Nassau, both of them sons to john who was brother to Engelbert, to whom john of Nassau was Father, 
〈…〉  and Marie of Loon their mother. This William married julian Countess of Stolberg, a very wise and virtuous Lady, by whom he had five sons; namely William of Nassau Prince of Orange etc. john of Nassau, Lodowick, Adolph, and Henry, three of them were slain in the low-country wars; and seven daughters, all excellently well married to Earls, and have had many children, so that the said Lady, mother to my Lord of happy memory, being 75 years old, did in anno 1578 see of her own issue, 123 persons both Earls and Countesses her children, and children's children: how the number is since increased to me is unknown.  
The late Prince of Orange of happy memory was borne at Dillenbourg in anno 1533 the fourteenth of April old style. 
Where & when he was borne.  He was of more than middle stature, the colour of his beard brown, more leave than fat. What his inward parts were, his heroic actions testify. 
His first wife daughter to Count ●●ren.  Being come to man's state, he married first, the only daughter and heir of Maxmilian of Egmont, Earl of Buren Leerdam etc. on whom he begat Philip of Nassau Count of Buren, now Prince of Orange; and a daughter called Marie, married to Grave Hohenlo.  
His second wife was Anne, 
His second wife daughter to the Elector of Saxony.  sole daughter to the Elector Maurice Duke of Saxony, by whom he had a son called Maurice of Nassau borne of Dillenbourg, in the County of Nassau, the thirteenth of November anno 1567.: by whose discreet and valorous conduct it pleased God to bless these Low-countries, before extremely afflicted. He had moreover two daughters by her, the one named Anne, the other Emillia.  
His third choice was the Lady Charlotta of Bourbon, 
His third wife daughter to Duke Mompensier.  daughter to Duke Mompensier of France, by whom he had six daughters; namely Lovisa juliana, Elizabeth, Catherina Belgica, Flandrina, Charlotta Brabantina, and Emillia Secunda.  

His fourth wife daughter to Count Colligni.  His fourth and last wife was, Lovisa of Colligni, daughter to the Admiral of France, and widow to the Lord Telligni (both her father and husband were slain in the masacre at Paris) by whom he had a son, borne in the Town of Delft called Henry Frederick, a Prince worthy such a father. I will not write the life and actions of this valorous Prince: For it is not my meaning or intent to make a long discourse of all his victories and defeatures by sea and land, taking of towns, sieges, difficulties, & travels, miseries whereunto this life is subject, especially that of Princes and great men; nor likewise how often, and by sundry ways his enemies have sought to murder him. Only I will briefly set down how he was treacherously slain in the Town of Delft: And if any be desirous to see a more ample description thereof, let him read the Histories of things done in the Netherlands, written by Emanuel Demetrus, john Petit and others.  

The manner of the Prince's death.  In the year 1584. in the beginning of May, there came to the Prince's Court in the Town of Delft, a young man of the age of seven and twenty years, of a middle stature, simple countenance, and evil aspect, his name was Balthasar Gerard borne at Villesans in Burgundy, he had changed his name, and termed himself Francis Guyon of Besançon, son to Peter Guyon of Lions who had been put to death for his Religion, and for enterprising somewhat in behalf of those of the reformed Religion. This fellow delivered a letter to the said Prince, showing unto him the zeal he did bear to the reformed Religion, and how desirous he was to serve him; and withal, how that passing through Luxembourg, he had visited a Cousin of his called john du Prè, Secetarie to Count Mansfelt, with whom he had continued for a time, till at last he resolved for the quiet of his conscience to leave him: The which he was the sooner enforced to do, because the jesuits began to suspect him: He told him beside how that he had gotten from his cozen divers blanks signed by Count Mansfelt, whereof he thought good use might be made for enterprising upon certain towns of Luxembourg & elsewhere, with many other such like discourses & circumstances, tending to this end to insinuat himself into the Prince's favour, and to enter into his service. He grew likewise familiar under colour of Religion with certain of the Prince's household servants, and was present at Sermons and usual Prayers, carrying either a Psalm Book Bible or Testament still in his hand.  
The Prince acquainted with all this, answered that he thought those signed blanks would do small good in any enterprise, but only serve to safe-conduct messengers from Brussels to Cambray, and therefore willed him to leave some of them. And at what time the Lord of Schoonwall went into France, his Excellency thought good to send the said Balthasar with him to the Marshal Byron, who men thought should have been Governor of Cambray, that he might make use of these signed blanks: And with him he went into France.  
After that, he returned from France with Letters both to the Prince and States, mentioning the death of the Duke of Brabant & A njou, in which regard the Prince sent for him into his Chamber as he lay in his bed, that he might particularly inform him of the Duke's death.  
He hath confessed since, that if his dagger had been then about him, he would have killed him in his bed. Within a while after he was commanded to return into France, whereupon he craved some money, showing how his hose and shoes were broken: the Prince commanded his Secretary to give him some on the eight day of julie; with this money he bought two Pistols of one of the Guard, therewith to execute his devilish enterprise.  
The tenth of julie about dinner time, 
The Prince of Orange slain by Balthasar Gerard who nanamed himself Francis Guyon.  he came to the Prince, of whom with a fearful and trembling voice he craved a passport, which the Princess (there present) did well observe, who asked the Prince what he was, because she saw he had a bad countenance; his Excellency told her that he was a fellow that sued for a passport, and so gave order for his dispatch: Whilst they were at dinner, he was seen to walk near the stables behind the house towards the Town Rampires: After dinner as the Prince was coming forth, this murderer stood without the Hall door, & making show as if he craved his passport, he discharged one of his Pistols upon him, charged with three bullets: The Prince feeling himself hurt, 
The Prince of Orange his last words.  said only thus, My God, take pity on my soul, I am sore wounded, my God, take pity on my soul, and on this poor people. Having uttered these words he began to stagger, but was supported by jaques Maldrè, (who witnesseth that he heard those words) and was set down upon the stairs, where he grew speechless: And as the Countess of Swartsenbourg (his sister) asked him in the high Dutch Tongue if he did not recommended his soul to jesus Christ, he answered in the same language, yea, and never afterwards spoke. He was presently laid upon a bed in the same room where he dined; where within a while after he gave up the ghost. 
He died on the 10 of julie 1584.  Such was the end of this Prince, esteemed not only of his friends but enemies, the most wise, constant, magnanimous, patient, and excellent Prince, that lived or died in our time, according to his Emblem, Saevis tranquillus in undis, which is to say, quiet in the midst of troubles: A goodly end, seeing he died for his Country, a thing which all godly wise men desire, whom death never takes unprovided; as also, because he was soon freed from fear and grief; a death, whereby our great God hath since manifested, that the good success of war depended not on this Prince's person, but on his mighty arm, seeing that the victory which his enemies thought they had gained of him, sorted not according to their desire, but hath convicted them of inhuman cruelty: for his second son, Maurice of Nassau Prince of Orange, did from that time (though he were not above 17 or 18 years old) resolve to follow his Father's steps, and to serve his Country: And the better to incite him thereunto, 
〈…〉.  he invented an Emblem, of a Tree cut down to the root from which issued tender young plants, which in time became Trees, and underneath, this motto in Latin, Tandem sit surculus arbour, viz. In time the plant becomes a Tree: inferring thereby that they had not yet won all by his father's death, represented by the cut Tree, but that the plants which sprouted forth, might in time let them that cut the Tree, know, how worthy their rash and bloody attempt is, to be derided by the whole world.  
The Princess his wife (there present) was greatly grieved, crying out, and entreating God to give her the gift of patience, seeing it had pleased him to take her father, first husband, & now the prince, from the world.  
The murderer sought to have escaped by a back way, & in running let fall the other Pistol, having already passed the stables, and running through the Schol-street, towards the Rampires, thought to leap from the walls down into the Dike, which was full of water, having two bladders and a quill to blow wind into them, which he thought to make use of for his better swimming over: But he was overtaken and stayed by two of the Prince's servants. At first he was perplexed and daunted, but when he perceived they did not hurt him, he began to take courage, hoping perhaps to have his fact allowed, and by some means to escape; and said that he had done nothing but that which the King his master had commanded him. He was carried before the Magistrates of Delft to be examined; There he craved paper, pen and ink, promising (seeing he was prisoner) to unfold the truth of the matter, which he did not, but mingled many lies among some true points, as it afterwards appeared.  
He confessed, 
The murderer's 〈◊〉 confession 〈…〉 in writing.  that his name was Balthasar Gerard of Ville sans in Burgundy, and that for the space of six years he had a desire to kill the Prince, which he imparted to divers, who reprehended him for it. But, some three years past understanding that the Prince of Orange stood attainted and condemned by the King of spain, he used means to come hither to execute that sentence: yet hearing that a certain Biscan had already dispatched him, he put himself into the service of john du Prè, Secretary to Count Mansfeldt: but within a while after having notice that the Prince still lived, he resolved to kill him whatsoever should happen, hoping to find means of secret departure from Count Mansfeldts Camp, to the Prince, and by seeming to be of his Religion, to present him certain blanks of the said Earls signed and sealed with red wax, and so to watch a time to kill him with less danger. But at last being hindered by sundry occasions, in March he left his master and came to Treues, where he confessed himself to a jesuit, unto whom he bewrayed his design, entreating him after Easter to acquaint Count Mansfeldt therewith. This jesuit advised him to impart it likewise to the Prince of Parma, which he afterwards did by letter in the City of Tournay, but he durst not tarry for an answer fearing lest he would take the carrying of those blanks in bad part; with which he went to Delft to put his plot in execution: But finding no fit opportunity to do it, he went into France with the Lord Charon, from whence he was sent back with letters both to the Prince and States, containing the death of the Duke of Anjou: and afterwards he watched all occasions to perform his devilish enterprise, thinking it the fittest time to dispatch him, either at a Sermon, or when he should be at meat: and that thereupon he had bought two Pistols, and charged them, the one with three bullets wherewith he shot the Prince, and the other with two which he could make no use of, being hindered by the Guard, for which he was very sorry, affirming that if at that time he had been two thousand miles from thence, he would have returned back to kill him. All this did he voluntarily and without torture confess and set down in writing. Afterwards being in Prison, he confessed at sundry times that which followeth, and persevered in it to the very death.  
First, (without any torture) he declared that not long before he understood the King's proscription against the Prince, being in May last at Delft, he would have done the deed, if he could have found a fit time, and means to escape: Afterwards he sued to carry letters of the Duke's death, and that the day before, he thought to have slain him, but that he durst not then attempt it, because he saw no means of escape. But the same day he did it, he wholly resolved to contemn all danger and to kill the Prince, though he were environed with fifty thousand men.  
Concerning his declaration to the jesuit he persisted in his former confession: and how that being in France, this business did so torment him as he could not rest night nor day: Whereupon, he quarreled with some of his fellow servants, that he might the sooner be dispatched away with letters; And if in that journey he should have miss his purpose, his meaning was to have returned into France and to have become one of the reformed religion in some Congregation or other; and to have so dealt with the Consistory, as he would have obtained letters of recommendation to get him access to the Prince, and by that means to perform the deed. Being tortured, & likewise before, he confessed that he had acquainted Doctor Gery Warden of the Friars at Tournay with his purpose. After his torture he confessed that the said Friar had encouraged him, and given him his blessing, promising to pray to God for him. That the jesuit of Treues had likewise assured him, that if he died in the attempt, he should be reckoned in the number of martyrs. He had likewise imparted the same to 3 other jesuits.  

Parma by Assonuille encourageth him to this devilish enterprise.  Being again tortured, he said that he was a poor fellow, seeking some means to advance himself: That he had acquainted the Prince of Parma with his plot, who appointed the Counsellor Assonuille to confer with him: who upon the difficulty of the matter told him, that he should do great good service to the King of Spain, and that the Prince of Parma allowed thereof, so as if he performed it, he should receive the recompense proposed in the proscription; but if he should be taken, he advised him by no means to make any mention of the Prince of Parma. He told Assonuille that he would change his name, and call himself Francis Guyon son to Peter Guyon put to death for Religion and his goods confiscate, and so being a poor fellow and wanting means, but yet affectionate to Religion he would go to the Prince's Court, and the better to insinuat, he would present him his service and those sealed Blanks: all this did Assonuille consent to, and vehemently exhorted him to perform it; entreating him again not to make any mention of the Prince of Parma, for divers respects, and perceiving him resolute in the attempt, he said unto him, Go my son, if thou perform this, the King will keep his promise with thee, and thou shalt purchase immortal fame: He should beside have the Prince of Parma for his friend; that the said Prince had seen those blanks and was content they should be used, but Count Mansfeldt should change and alter his seal, and have it no more engraven in the form of a Lozenge; with divers other instructions which Assonuille gave him: Whereupon the said Balthasar answered, that he hoped so well to counterfeit himself to be of the reformed Religion, as to get into the service of some Secretary, thereby to find some opportunity, to present letters to the Prince to sign, and in the mean time to kill him with his poniard. After his torture, he still continued in one mind; that he was not sorry for the fact, but if it were again to be done he would attempt it though it should cost him a thousand lives.  
All these confessions, both those that he had voluntarily set down in writing, and those that he made upon the torture, seen & heard, my Lords of the great Council & those of the Provincial, appointed to examine and judge the prisoner, together with the magistrates of Delft, pronounced sentence against the said Balthasar, as followeth.  
Balthasar Gerard borne at Villesans in the franche county of Burgundy, 
Sentence pronounced against Balthasar Gerard the 14 of julie.  having confessed to have attempted to kill the illustrious and mighty Lord the Prince of Orange, and, to this end, obtained certain Blanks from Count Mansfeldt, and conferred with the Counsellor Assonuille in Tournay sent to him by the Prince of Parma, who had promised him, that if the Prisoner should execute the sentence of proscripion against the Prince of Orange, the King of Spain, should pay him the recompense proposed in the said proscription, together with the sum of five and twenty thousand Ducats: that the said prisoner should call himself Francis Guyon, and make show of being affectionate to the reformed Religion, to have the better access to the Princes Court. That the said Prisoner according to this resolution came thither under the name of Francis Guyon, and, on the ninth of julie, bought two Pistols, which on the tenth day he charged whilst my Lord the Prince was at dinner, and returning, hung them at his girdle, and hid them under his Cloak: And as the said Prince after dinner was going forth of the Hall to ascend the stairs leading to his Chamber, he discharged one of the Pistols, wherewith he slew the said Lord Prince. This being an execrable deed, and abominable treachery, perpetrated against the person of so illustrious a Prince of happy memory, the offendor ought not to escape unpunished, but is to be severely chastised, to serve for an example to all others.  
In this regard, my Lords above named, having well and maturely weighed the confession of the said prisoner, and considered every circumstance thereof, have by these presents condemned and do condemn the said Balthasar Gerard to be led to a scaffold erected before the Statehouse of the said City; there first to have his right hand, wherewith he committed this so execrable fact, burned betwixt two burning irons, and afterwards his flesh to be burnt and torn off with burning pincers in six several parts of his body, as legs, arms, and other fleshy places, and lastly to be quartered alive, his bowels and heart to be taken forth and thrown in his face, his head cut off, and his quarters to be set upon the four Bulwarks, and his head upon a pole to stand upon the Schoole-Tower behind the Prince's house, and all his goods to be confiscate. This sentence was pronounced in the Statehouse of the City of Delft the 14 of julie, anno 1584. Signed, A vander Moer.  

The execution and death of Balthasar Gerard.  On Saturday the fourteenth of julie, he was publicly brought to a scaffold set up in the Market place of Delft, where he was executed according to the sentence, with admirable patience, showing the same courage and resolution he had at first: he would not confer with any Minister; when his hand and flesh was burnt and torn off, he made no noise, nor seemed at all to be moved: and in this manner was quartered, and his head set upon a pole, which was afterward secretly stolen away.  
After this illustrious Prince was thus slain by the hand of this wretched Bourguignon; 
A description of the Prince of Orange his funeral's.  his body, by the commandment of my Lords the States of Holland, Zealand, Freeze land & Vtrecht, was magnificently buried in the new Church of Delft, where his tomb is now to be seen. His funerals were solemnized after this manner. First the Burguers of Delft armed, went before, next them the Trumpets, after them followed eight horse, trapped with black down to the ground, behind every horse went a Gentleman bearing a banner representing the Arms of the said Lord Princes Signiories, with Scutcheons on every Horse. The first Horse was led by two Gentlemen, the one called Gerard de Schoten, and the other Paul Wijts, representing the City of Breda: The banner with the Arms of Breda was borne by Philip of Grutere Lord of Direxland. The second was conducted by the Lord vander Delft and the Lord N. de Rolls: And the Lord john of Egmont carried the banner with the Arms of the Marquisat of Terueer and Flushing. The third by the Lord of Sprangen, and the Lord john of Oestrum, Captain of the Castle of Woerden: And the Lord of Rosuè carried the banner with the Arms of Chalon. The fourth was conducted by the Lord Floris Serclays, and the Lord Peter of Roon, bailie of put: and the Lord jasper of Poelgeest carried the banner with the Arms of Diest. The fist by the Lord jacob of Almond and the Lord N. of Raephorst: and the Lord Gerard v●nder Aa bore the banner with the Arms of Vianden. The sixth was led by the Lord of Wijngaerd, and the Lord of Linden: and the Lord Lancelot carried the banner with the arms of Catzenelbogen. The seventh was borne by Philip vander Aa, and the Lord Harman of Outenhorst: and the Lord Cornelius de Sweet carried the banner with the arms of Nassau. The eight was conducted by the Lord john Baex, Captain of the Castle of Heusden, & the Lord Dieric of Duuenuoord bailie of the Briell: and the Lord of Marquet, carried the banner with the arms of Orange. All these Lords were clad in black with long Cloaks down to the foot. Next followed the Lord of Mansardt bearing the Cornet, the Lord of Rihoven the Guidon, and the Lord of Naeltwijck the banner, in every of which was the Prince's Emblem. After them followed four Scutcheons of the Princes four Signiories, viz. Nassau, Stolbourg, Hessen, and Conningstein borne by the Barons of Peterschen and Deure, the Lord Wencelij of Botselaer, and john of Assendelst, Lord of Cralingen. The lord john of Egmond lord of Kenensbourg, followed bearing his arms with his crest and colours. After him followed the Lord Daniel of Botselaer Lord of Merwe bearing the Helm; the Lord Duits Captain of the Guard bearing the sword, and the Lord Wolfart of Brederode with the Coat-armor. Next, the Lord of Brecht and the Sr. of Malderè led the mourning Horse trapped with black Velvet down to the ground. The Earl of Ouerstein followed carrying a drawn sword, and the Baron of Creange a Coronet of Gold; these were attended by three Stewards or masters of household, to wit, the Lords vander Aa, Audenfort, and Viry with white staves in their hands: after them followed twelve men carrying the Beer wherein was the Prince's body hung with the Prince's arms. On each side of the body, went the Lord john of Burgundy Lord of Froymont: the Lord Walrave, Lord of Brederode, the Lord of Merode and the signor de Soeterwoude. After the body and Heralds of Arms, followed Prince Maurice of Nassau son to the Prince in a mourning rob, the train whereof was borne by the Lord of Sonsfelt, his Tutor. On his right hand went the Elector Truxses of Cologne, & on the left, Count Hohenlo. After them followed Count William of Nassau, Count Philip of Nassau, and the Earl of Solms, each of them going alone. They were followed by my Lords, the general States, the Council of State, the States of Holland, the Precedents and Councillors of the great Council, and of the provincial Council of Holland, with their Secretaries. Next them, the Praetor, Burgomasters, and all the Magistrates of Delft; after them followed ministers, the Prince's Captains and Officers confusedly attended by multitudes of people.  
These funerals were solemnized with incredible sorrow of the whole town of Delft. There was nothing seen & heard that day over the whole city but sighs, tears, and lamentations for the death of this good and virtuous Prince, the people beseeching God to preserve and defend these Countries from greater dangers and difficulties, which by this Prince's death seemed to threaten them.   

At what time Prince Maurice of Nassau received the government of these Countries.  
MY Lords the States of Holland, 
What moved my Lords the States to make Prince Maurice Governor.  Zealand, Friesland, and Vtrecht (well weighing the good & faithful service which my Lord the Prince of Orange had done to these Countries both by his counsel and actions, in no sort sparing his own person, but had always been present at sundry dangers and difficulties, the better to effect his designs; considering beside, that the said Prince had not only spent all his substance in those bloody wars, but all his brethren's wealth, and not alone lost his own life therein, but also three of his brethren, viz. Counts, Lodowick, Adolph, and Henry) gave the government of these countries, with the Admiralty of the sea, to his son Prince Maurice of Nassau in recompense and acknowledgement of all his merits; appointing Philip Earl of Hohenlo for his Lieutenant.  
So as in the year 1584. my Lord Prince Maurice of Nassau, of the age of seventeen years, succeeded my Lord his father in the government; a Prince whom God ha●h made an instrument to revenge his father's cruel death upon the bloody Spaniards and their adherents, and to let the world see, that it is he alone, who with the father lie eye of mercy beholding these wretched and oppressed Provinces, hath freed and set them at liberty; and that it is he which derideth all our enemies enterprises and determinations, who thought that when this illustrious and valiant Prince was dead, they should easily subdue these poor afflicted countries, being then (as they supposed) without a Head, and with their bloody hands ruin it. But their hope was vain; for from this goodly tree which was cut down God hath raised a plant, which, as a man may say, is sprouted up to heaven: so as the accessaries to this murder have by experience seen the contrary of their vain imaginations. For the whole world knows, and I hope to show it in this description, what victorious blessings God hath given and granted to these countries by means of this Gedeon.  
Before the Earl of Leicester's arrival, whom the Queen of England sent to be Governor, my Lords the general States gave an instruction to his Excellency Maurice of Nassau, concerning the government of Captaine-Generall and Admiral of Holland, Zealand, and Frizeland, but on condition to carry all respect to the Governor General whom the Queen of England should send; which having accepted, he honourably discharged. In anno 1586, under the command of the said Governor, he went accompanied by Sir Philip Sidney, 
His Excellency goes into Flanders.  Governor of Flessigue, with two or three thousand men, into Flanders, to Ter-Neusen, as well to divert the Prince of Parma from the siege of Nuys, as because la Motte did sore oppress the town of Ostend, having made a sort in S. Katherine's churchyard, using means by secret intelligence to make himself master thereof, which by corrupting and drawing divers by money to his party, he had almost effected. But his Excellency made another attempt upon the town of Axel, in this manner.   

The taking of the town of Axel in Flaunders.  
THe sixteenth of julie anno 1586, his Excellency and Sir Philip Sidney, with their soldiers and provisions did secretly in the night depart from the sort of Ter-Neuse towards the town of Axel in Flanders, a mile and half distant from Hulst, and four miles from Gaunt. It is a small town, and not altogether encompassed with walls, 
His Excellency takes the town of Axel.  which by passing secretly over a wall they took without any great slaughter: there were four companies of soldiers in it. Within a few days after they took all the forts round about it; and for the safer keeping of the said town, they broke down the causeys, so as the whole town was environed with water. The taking of Axel did somewhat trouble them of Flanders and Brabant, fearing some greater mischief would ensue; so as they forthwith wrote to the Prince of Parma lying before Nuys, entreating him to come from thence to aid them; sending him word, That it was more honourable and necessary to preserve their own country, than to besiege and win an Imperial city forth of the jurisdiction and limits of the Low Countries. The Prince notwithstanding would not quit the siege, but sent la Motte Governor of graveling, to besiege and recover the said town of Axel; but his labour was lost, the town being (as hath been said) all environed with water.   

The Earl of Leycester leaves the Low Countries, and goes into England. Maurice of Nassau is made Governor General.  
AFter that Robert Dudley, 
The Earl of Leycester goes forth of the Low Countries into England.  Earl of Leycester, in the later end of the year 1587., was gone into England, leaving the Netherlands in great troubles and dissension, and that Sir William Stanley had on the nine and twentieth of januarie delivered up the town of Deventer to Taxis, and Rowland York the fort of Zutphen, the general States were much perplexed, fearing that the English which lay in other towns and forts would do the like, following the example of the French in Brabant in the Duke of Anjous time, did in an assembly at the Hague, on the sixth of February, establish and declare by proviso, by virtue, and according to the Sovereignty belonging unto them, 
The general States make Prince Maurice Governor General.  Prince Maurice, besides his Admiralty in general, and place of Governor of Holland, Zealand, and Frizeland, Governor general in the said Earl of Leicester's absence, with charge and instruction of the pre-eminences, rights, and privileges, for the profit and conservation of the country's towns, and inhabitants, to maintain and defend the exercise of the reformed Religion, to administer justice by advice of the Counsellors and Precedents, with authority to change Magistrates, to choose Burgomasters and Sheriffs according to the ancient custom; in a word, to do whatsoever a Governor General might do: and all this by proviso, etc. joining with him, because of his youth, Count Hohenlo as his Lieutenant.  
Hitherto we have briefly set down how and when his Excellency attained the government of these Provinces; we will now come to the description of the victories which it hath pleased God to grant him.   

The town of Medenblicke is enforced to submit itself to his Excellency, and to my Lords the States.  
ALthough the Earl of Leycester had resigned, and deposed himself from the government of these united Provinces, according to an Act granted at London on the 17 of December 1587., to my Lords the general States: yet they likewise caused it to be published and proclaimed in form following.  

The Estates general of the united Provinces of the Low Countries, to all those to whom these presents shall come, greeting. As it hath pleased her Majesty of England to confer with the Commissioners and Ambassadors of the said Provinces, and in the end to make a certain Treaty, bearing date the tenth of August 1585.: Whereby on either side it was concluded, That during the war against the enemies of the said countries, as strangers, malcontents, and their adherents, her Majesty will at her own cost entertain (beside the garrisons of the towns and forts promised to her Majesty for assurance of repayment of such sums of money as she shall disburse to relieve and succour the said Provinces, and maintain them in the true christian religion, their franchises, privileges, & laws) the number of six thousand foot and one thousand horse, conducted by a Governor General, being a Lord of name and quality, and of the reformed Religion, together with other good Captains; on condition that the said Provinces generally, and every of them in particular, shall be bound and obliged to repay unto her Majesty the said sums by a certain limited time after the war: and for assurance of the said perfect and entire payment, the towns & forts of Briell, Flessingue, & the castle of Rammekens, should be consigned to her said Majesty: the which by her or her successors (the said payment once made) should, without any difficulty or claim to them, be restored to the above mentioned States and Provinces, without delivering them to the King of Spain, or other enemies of the said countries, or to any other Prince or Lord; but should in the mean time be kept for her majesties assurance, and profit of the States of the said countries. The which Governor, with two other men of note sent from her Majesty, and being her subjects, should have place in the Council of State of the united Provinces, together with it to manage the affairs concerning the common defence & union of the said countries. According to this Treaty the foresaid towns & forts being consigned to her Majesty, it hath pleased her to send hither with Commission of Governor General of her troops, the illustrious and mighty Lord, Robert Earl of Leycester, Baron of Denbigh, etc. And we have beside thought good, to require, accept, and make him Governor and Captain General over all the united Provinces, towns, and associated members thereof: which place his above named Excellency having accepted, with reservation of his homage and fealty due unto her Majesty, all Governors of Provinces, towns, and members thereof, likewise all Officers, justices, and Soldiers, were by oath bound unto his Excellency, as Governor and Captain General of the Low Countries, both in general and particular. But as it hath pleased her Majesty to call home his said Excellency, to employ him for other services in her own kingdom, so as upon this occasion he being no longer able to govern these countries, or accomplish the tenor of his Commission, according as the present necessity of these countries do require, hath discharged and unburdened himself of the said office of Governor and Captain General of these united Provinces, and from the Commission which we gave him, and delivered it up again to us, as appears by an Act signed and sealed with his own hand, made in the city of London, and dated the seventeenth of December 1587. That it hath likewise pleased her Majesty, by Commission dated the four and twentieth of the said month to appoint Peregrin Lord Willoughby, etc. Governor General of her troops in these countries. And considering that in the present state and necessity of these countries, they cannot but be greatly endangered, wanting a Governor General. Therefore it hath pleased us in regard of these aforesaid reasons, and after sound and mature deliberation, to make it known to all men by these presents, That his above named Excellency hath accordingly quitted the said Commission. And we, according to her Majesties and his Excellency's pleasure, holding him displaced, have taken unto ourselves the general government of the said countries in matters which concern the common defence and union thereof, that we may observe the Treaty made with her Majesty, in the administration of the Council of State of the said countries, to the end that all matters concerning the common defence and union thereof against their common enemies, may be managed and conducted by the above mentioned Lord Willoughby, Governor General of her majesties forces, The Governors of the respective united Provinces, and the two Counsellors chosen by her Majesty, being her own subjects, brought in, or yet to be brought in to that end, into the said Council, according to the above named Treaty, and likewise the Counsellors of the united Provinces, whom we have appointed, or may hereafter appoint: Therefore we certify all Governors and Captains of Provinces, towns and members thereof, all Admirals, Vice admiral's, all Colonels, Captains, and soldiers, both by sea and land, and moreover, all Precedents, Counsellors, Officers, Treasurers, Receivers, bailiffs, Scouts, Marshals, justices, Magistrates, Gentlemen, Vassals, Bourguers, and other subjects and inhabitants of these countries, of what estate or condition soever they be, that they are all together, and every of them in particular, acquitted, freed, and discharged from the oath made to the Earl of Leycester his Excellency, concerning his authority in these countries: straightly commanding them by these presents, to account themselves freed, acquitted and discharged; the oath nevertheless continuing still in full force and power as they have respectively made it, and thereby obliged to continue loyal to the above mentioned united Provinces, States, Towns, and members thereof, and to be obedient to those superiors whom we have appointed over them, or may hereafter appoint. The which oath we command them faithfully to keep and discharge, even as they will answer before God and these countries. And for want of doing hereof, we will proceed against the transgressor's according to the laws of marshal discipline. And as these countries have not otherwise treated, concluded, or determined with her Majesty of England, than in the manner abovesaid, and that we likewise are assured from her Majesty, by sundry declarations, that she pretends no further claim or title to these countries, towns, members thereof, nor craves nothing more of them but the observing of the above mentioned Treaty, which we likewise for our part have ever, and still do desire, faithfully to accomplish in every point, and to her majesties good content, who hath likewise at sundry times expressly declared, That it would be much against her good will & meaning, if any dissension, breach, or disunion, should under her name be caused or made. This notwithstanding, we find that sundry inhabitants of the said Provinces, being badly informed of the above mentioned Treaty, imagining matters that are not, and forgetting their duty, have done divers bad offices, to the prejudice of the quiet and union of the said Provinces both in general and particular, and that under this colour sundry other malicious persons, for the most part strangers, and come hither from other Provinces, having little or nothing to lose here, have gone about by their turbulent disposition, and desire tending to sedition, by secret practices and false pretence, to seduce the inhabitants of the said countries, to disunite others, and to stir them up to rebel, inciting the soldiers paid by the country to mutiny, and after that to commit treason, falsely therein using her majesties name and authority. That divers likewise, borne in other countries, have calumniated the state of these Provinces, towns, and members thereof, discoursing of it as if they were natural subjects, according to their own rashness and seditious affection, and as if it were lawful for them there to enterprise any novelty, not considering that they more than any other ought modestly to contain themselves, and to remain quiet, enjoying the protection and defence of these countries in as ample manner as the natural inhabitants; and all this under colour of her majesties name and authority, who is highly offended therewith, the same being clean contrary to her intent and meaning: all which is like to procure the general ruin of the said Provinces. For the conservation whereof all good and loyal inhabitants and subjects of the said countries, who being driven forth of other Provinces for religion, are retired hither, have endured much, living peaceably under their lawful Magistrates both in prosperity and adversity. So that now by these presents express prohibition is made to every one, of what nature or condition soever he be, henceforth neither by words, secret practices, writings or deeds, to enterprise any alteration, novelty, or sedition, in the state of these countries, among the Burguers, inhabitants, and soldiers, serving by land or water, be it under colour of her majesties name and authority, or that of the Earl of Leycester his Excellency, or to attempt, solicit, or perform it by any other, on pain that we the States of the respective Provinces, or Officers, justices, and Magistrates of the countries and towns, will proceed without respect of persons, or any fraud or dissimulation, against them, according to the laws and customs of the country, ordained and observed against disturbers of the public peace, that they may serve for example to others.  
And because no man herein shall pretend cause of ignorance, we expressly command, That this present Declaration be proclaimed and published in all accustomed places, that we will proceed, and cause to be proceeded against the transgressors hereof, and adjudge them to punishment, without any favour or respect of persons. The which we have found to be expedient for the preservation and utility of these countries.  
Given in our Assembly at the Hague, under our Seal, the 12 of April 1588. Egmond. And a little lower, By decree of my Lords the general States. And signed, C. Aerssens.   
All this having been thus done, divers and sundry persons in these countries, which did affect and depend upon him, wished for his return, or that his resignation might be delayed; and for the better hindering thereof did by these and other means raise great dissension in the country and towns, stirring up the soldiers to mutiny against my Lords the States, and especially at Geertrudenbergue, Medenblick, Narde, Worcum, Heusden, Braeckel, and in many other places: which the said Lords States, and his Excellency, did by all good means seek to prevent, both by fair promises and constraint. But they could not prevail with General Senoy, whom the late Prince of Orange had made Governor of North Holland, neither by fair means, or mediation of sundry great Lords, so as he could not be brought to give obedience to his Excellency as Governor General, nor yet to my Lords the States as chief Lords: Whereupon they were constrained to use force, because that to reduce him to obedience did greatly import the countries. And for that we will set down every thing according to truth, we will add in this place, in manner of an introduction, the reasons which moved my Lords the States and his Excellency so to do, even as it was printed by their own Printer in anno 1588.  
It is known to all men, that the most illustrious, high, and mighty Lord, the Prince of Orange of happy memory, was so affectionate to the wealth and commodity of the Netherlands, and especially of Holland, Zealand, and West Frizeland, under his own government, as he hath for the conservation of those Provinces offered and exposed not only his own substance, and that of his kinsmen, but even his own person, and those of my Lords his brethren, and others of his kindred; so that the said Lord Prince (being pursued by the King of Spain by all hostile means, for the cause abovesaid, and by the Duke of Alva during his tyranny in the Low Countries) perceiving the state of these countries to be wonderfully oppressed, he hath showed so many honourable, commendable, and heroic marks and testimonies of his affection to the good of these Provinces, as during his absence from thence the inhabitants thereof, and namely the countries of Holland, Zealand, and West Frizeland, did mutually determine to free themselves from the tyranny of the said Duke of Alva, to embrace the Christian and reformed Religion, and to live free under the lawful government of the abovesaid Lord Prince. And for the maintenance of the said resolution, he did at the beginning of the war appoint and send into sundry parts and towns of the afore mentioned countries under his government, such persons as himself thought fit for the service of the country, with such Commission as the affairs of the time then required: and among others sent the General Senoy into North Holland and West Frizeland, who upon his Excellency's commission was willingly & without any contradiction received there, the inhabitants of the said countries having no respect to the person of the man (who was a stranger, unknown, and borne forth of the country) but only for love which they bore to the said Lord Prince, and for that they were there desirous to show what honour and respect they did bear to his commandments. It is a matter likewise known, that ever since that time the said General hath been very honourably respected by his Excellence of happy memory, and by the country: as also that after the lamentable death of his said Excellency, the States of Holland and West Frizeland, and the high and mighty Lord Maurice Prince of Orange, Earl of Nassau, and marquess of Vere, Fiessingue, etc. son to the above named Prince, after that he had received the government of Captain General of the countries of Holland, Zealand, and West Frizeland, have continued and maintained the said General in the same office and authority in the said place, as he had before his Excellencies lamentable death. And although the said General ought to have acknowledged these benefits received from the country, at the least not to enterprise anything contrary to the laws thereof, or to his Excellency's Commission, as Governor general of Holland, Zealand, and West Frizeland; especially seeing that the said government was solemnly given to his Excellency upon sound consideration, & partly in sign of acknowledgement of the good and commendable services done by the late Lord Prince his father. Nevertheless, means hath been made by some men (for the most part borne forth of the countries, badly affected to them, and ungrateful to the house of Nassau) that the said General hath obtained a certain ample Commission from the Earl of Leycester (whom the general States had made Governor General of the Low Countries) unknown to the States of Holland and West Frizeland, or to his Excellency of Nassau, absolutely to command in all matters concerning the state and government of the countries and towns of North Holland, and West Frizeland, as Governor and Lieutenant to the said Earl of Leycester: And besides this, hath likewise obtained other Commissions directly contrary to the privileges and laws of the said countries, and authority of the Governor thereof: By virtue whereof he hath likewise begun to appoint new Receivors of the revenues of the country, using forcible means to commit them into the possession of their pretended Commissioners. Of which the States of Holland & West Frizeland being advertised, they have (according to the charge of their calling, for the defence and confirmation of the union and laws of the said countries, as also of the government and authority of his said Excellency) written to the said General, to acquaint them with the said Commissions, and not in virtue thereof, attempt any thing without the knowledge of his Excellency and States. But all this being to no purpose with him, the States of Holland, Zealand, and West Frizeland, complained to the Earl of Leicester concerning the grant of the said Commissions, as hurtful to the laws and customs of the said countries, and to his Excellency's authority, and by consequence repugnant to the oath made by the said Earl of Leycester; craving a revocation thereof. Whereupon the said Lord Earl at his first departure into England, on the four & twentieth of November 1586, did upon mature deliberation and knowledge of the matter, declare, That he was content, if the Commissions of the said General were preiudicious to the country, and to the authority of his Excellency of Nassau, that the States should take order therein: Which Declaration be subsigned with his own hand. Hereupon, within a while after, the States and his Excellency of Nassau wrote to the said General to come and bring those Commissions to the Hague, that order might be taken therein, for the conservation and union of the customs and privileges of the country, as also for his Excellency's government and authority. Upon this commandment the said General, in januarie 1587., came to the Hague to his Excellency and my Lords the States, and delivered his Commissions aswell concerning the said government, as Captainship of the Castle of Medenblick, into the hands of his Excellency. Which Commissions being well perused, were directly found to be contrary to the customs of the said countries and towns, tending to dissension and disunion, and likewise contrary to the authority of the Governor and Captain general of Holland and West Frizeland. His Excellency and certain chief Lords appointed to administer justice in the said countries, and very zealous in the true Christian and reformed Religion, together with many Noblemen of the country and towns of Holland, did acquaint him with the love and affection which his Excellency of Nassau and my Lords the States did bear unto him; and that they were desirous to continue him in the same authority and command which he had had over the troops now present, and which were hereafter to be appointed for defence of the towns and forts of North Holland, in the time of his late Excellency of happy memory, and to give him Commission to that end, with this reservation, That, seeing at all times the conservation and assurance of all the Towns, forts, and quarters of Holland and West Frizeland had been under command of the Governor and Captain General of the said countries, who for conservation and assurance of them, hath ever appointed such Commanders, Captains, and soldiers, as he thought fit to defend them against all men, the General Senoy was bound, for the conservation of the rights and union of the countries, as also of the government thereof, to respect and obey his Excellency in the same manner as he had done the late Prince of Orange, his father, to receive Commissions from him, and to be sworn to him. All this the said General accepted, and promised to observe. And though at his own request his former Commissions were restored unto him, yet before the restitution of them he made a solemn promise, never afterwards in any sort to make use of them. At the same time the sorrowful news were brought, of the sale of the town of Deventer, and forts before Zutphen, by the traitor's Sir William Stanley, and Rowland York, together with the forts under their command, by reason whereof time would not permit the said General to tarry so long at the Hague till his Excellency of Nassau had dispatched the said Commission, and taken his oath. But his Excellency relying on his word, and desiring nothing more than the preservation of those countries, did presently after these sad news command the General to depart into North Holland, to provide, as many shot as need should require, for the safety of the towns there, & namely to send more aid to the towns and forts of Guelderland and Ouer-Yssell (where certain troops of his Regiment already were.) Whereupon his Excellency promised to send him two Companies in their stead which should be sent forth of the towns of North Holland, and West Frizeland, to the towns and forts of Guelderland, over whom his Excellency was content he should command, as well as over those that were already in garrison in the said towns. Hereupon the General departed, promising, That having once received his Commission, he would remain in the country, and be obedient to his Excellency, unto whom for confirmation thereof he gave his hand. And because that, after the treachery used at Deventer and forts before Zutphen, the principal cause of that loss was found to be, for that the Commanders, Captains, and soldiers that were there, would not acknowledge any superiors in these countries, nor obey the State's General, Council of State, nor Governor of the countries wherein they lived, nor yet her Majesty of England's General that was in the Low countries; but said, That they were only under command of his Excellency the Earl of Leycester, who was forth of the country, and had crossed the seas, and could not have any command of the government of the country, nor provide for the preservation thereof: and also for that divers advertisements were given, That upon occasion they would propound the same to other Captains and soldiers. So as by that means divers other towns would be delivered up to the enemy. Whereupon the States of Holland, West Frizeland, and Zealand, being assembled, did with mature deliberation determine, that it was necessary for the defence of the said countries and towns, that all the regiments under the command and pay of the said countries, besides their oath made to the Earl of Leycester, as Governor General appointed and committed by the States in these countries, should likewise make oath to be loyal and obliged to the united Provinces, and namely to the countries of Holland, West Frizeland, and Zealand, and to the towns thereof: And that they being in any towns or places belonging to the government of his Excellency of Nassau, and Lieutenant General of the said countries, should be obedient to them in whatsoever they should be commanded for the service of the said countries. All which points were for the most part comprehended in the oath made, and wholly agreed with that which had been treated of with his Excellency the Earl of Leycester, at what time he received the government: For allTreaties, Commissions, and Instructions, imported loyalty to the countries and towns both in general and particular, which namely had been done by the Earl of Leycester; and the very words of the oath made, (by which they promised to obey the Commanders which were appointed) contained obedience to the Governor and Captain General, as likewise to the Lieutenant General of the said countries of Holland, Zealand, and Frizeland; seeing it is a thing most certain, that a Governor or Captain General of a Province, hath the command of all soldiers serving there. This resolution taken, and his Excellency having been entreated to execute it over all his government, beside the promised Commission, his Excellency sent a Commissary to the said General to take his oath of obedience: He likewise sent, according to his promise, a band of soldiers, whose Captain, Officers, and soldiers, were for the most part borne in Holland; and had given order that the said Company should remain in the town of Medenblick in their steads who after the yielding up of Deventer had been sent into the countries of Guelderland and Ouer-Yssel, for the better defence of the towns and forts there. And notwithstanding the generals former promise, he would not suffer the said Company, nor yet the Captain Arent of Duvenuord, to come into the town. The said General likewise, contrary to his former promise, refused to make oath: And although he had his Excellency of Nassau his Commission, yet would he not govern himself thereby. Whereat his Excellency being moved (as one that expected better dealing from the said General) thought it fit, by the State's consent, to go himself in person to Medenblick, as well to understand the generals intent, as to provide all things needful for the assurance, conservation, and quiet of the said town, and others in North Holland, and West Frizeland. But going thither accompanied by Count Hohenlo, and divers other Lords and Commissioners of the towns, with the ordinary train of his haushold, having no forces at all with him, the said General would not suffer his Excellency in person to come into the town, to the great grief and discontent of the Burgomasters and inhabitants of Medenblick: which is a thing never before heard of in Holland and West Frizeland. And notwithstanding that his said Excellency of Nassau had just cause in this regard to conceive sinisterly of him, yet did he in no sort alter his affection towards the said General: and therefore sent certain trusty persons to the General at Medenblick, to demand of him the reason of his proceedings. And understanding by them, that the said General had entertained some idle impression and imagination on no sure ground, his Excellency did again send some of the most eminent persons of the country, men very zealous to the reformed Christian Religion, & lovers of their country, to bring him to some reason, and to persuade him to do whatsoever was needful for the good of the country, and maintenance of the true reformed Religion, together with the rights, privileges, franchises, and laudable customs of the said Provinces: and to divert him from any sinister conceit of his Excellencies true meaning, who desired to perfect the work begun in these countries by my Lord his father of happy memory, and to proceed no otherwise with the General but in loving, just, and friendly manner, promising to forget all former unkindnesses. And though the said General, upon the remonstrance of these Commissioners, did not absolutely condescend to that which his Excellency required of him for the service of the country, because he said that he had advertised the Earl of Leycester thereof, whose answer he daily expected, yet in regard he had by proviso both by word of mouth and writing, declared that he was sorry for denying entrance to his Excellency of Nassau into Medenblick, unto whom and to the States of Holland and West Frizeland, he confessed himself to be much obliged; and that therefore he would not deliver the town of Medenblick to any, without commandment from his Excellency and my Lords the States. But concerning the acceptance of his Commission, and taking the oath which his Excellency commanded, he therein craved delay for a time. So that his Excellency and my Lords the States wrote unto him, That they did rely upon his above mentioned Declaration, and were willing for a time to defer that which they had required of him, so that upon mature deliberation he would make a more ample Declaration thereupon. He was moreover requested to continue his loyal service, and not to charge the towns and citizens of Medenblick with too great garrisons, which would breed confusion in the state of the country. Two months after this the General made no farther Declaration, and in the mean space the truth of that came to light, which his Excellency of Nassau and my Lords the States had long before doubted; namely, that the good of those countries, by the apparent loss of the true, Christian, and Reformed Religion, together with the rights and franchises, were in great hazard, by a determination held to treat with the enemy. Whereupon his Excellency and my Lords the States thought good, being well and amply informed of the said apparent danger, to advertise the said General thereof, by a man very trusty, and zealous of true religion, and very inward with him, and to entreat him, That he would weigh the said dangers, and at last resolve upon that which they hadso often craved of him for the good of the country, or else that he would come to the Hague to his Excellenie, to confer with him concerning these affairs, to the end the said dangers might be prevented.  
The General, upon his Excellency's word and promise, being come to the Hague, was by him so lovingly entertained and respected, as if none of all this had ever been. And being fully instructed concerning all matters, and of his Excellency's intention, he continued his former Declaration and promise, requiring for the rest, that they would delay it for a while longer, promising that he would make suit, so soon as the Earl of Leycester should return, to be discharged of the Commission which he had given him. And thereupon his Excellency of Nassau and my Lords the States, gave him free leave to return wishing him to have a care for the good of the country, and not to overburden the town and citizens of Medenblick; and that in so doing he should be well assured of his Excellency and my Lords the State's affection, as well to the common good of those countries, as particularly to himself. The Earl of Leycester returning afterwards into these countries, his Excellency and my Lords the States did for many months expect the true performance of the General's promise: but as nothing ensued thereupon, but on the contrary divers things so handled, as there was great likelihood that misprisions, breaches, and divisions, would ensue, and so by consequent the ruin of those countries, rather than the preservation of them. The States and his Excellency did at last request the Council of State and the Earl of Leycester (as he from whom be had received his Commission) openly to declare what they were to expect of that which for an whole year had been held doubtful and uncertain. Whereupon the said Council declared, That the Commission granted by the Earl of Leycester to the said General, was repugnant to the authority and Commission of his Excellency of Nassau, and contrary to the union and customs of the country. Whereof they likewise having written to the Earl of Leycester, they thought good to send for the said General, to confer with him thereupon, and to that end gave him all assurance. But the General making a slight excuse to the Council, would not come himself, but sent William Mostaert in his stead: unto whom the said Council declared, That they understood that the generals Commission was contrary to his Excellency of nassau's authority, and that he was already discharged thereof by his Excellency the Earl of Leicester's own Declaration, dated the four and twentieth of November: That the said General was likewise bound to receive his Commission from his Excellency of Nassau, and to respect and obey him. Whereupon the said Mostaert made a Declaration in the generals bebalse, how that he doubted not but that the General would be well pleased so to do, provided, that the Commission might be made to his own content. And as the Council commanded the said Mostaert to set down in writing, upon what points the General would have his Commission made, he delivered them as they are hereafter inserted: wherein, as likewise by that which hath been added to it, may be seen how unreasonable a matter it was. In the mean time the general States, the Council of State, his Excellency of Nassau, as Governor and Captain General of Holland, Zealand, and West Frizeland, together with the Governors and Commanders of other chief Provinces, for the assurance of the state of the countries, had given order for the munition of the frontier towns and forts: wherein, to prevent all outward confusion, it was among other matters thought fit, that the town of Medenblick should be ordinarily manned with an hundred and fifty soldiers, and no more: And because the General kept five or six hundred soldiers there, contrary, or at least without the commandment of his Excellency and Council of State; and that the Council of State had oftentimes commanded him from the Earl of Leycester his Excellency, to send the soldiers over & above the two hundred that were there, forth of the town, for the country's service, he thereupon made an impertinent answer, how that he could not dismise his soldiers, but that it behoved him to retain them for the defence of his own person. In this regard the said general States, the Council of State, his Excellency of Nassau in quality above said, together with the States of Holland and West Frizeland, did on the 28 and 29 of januarie last passed, determine to write to the said General, That according to the said order he should keep but an hundred and fifty soldiers in the town, and send the rest to guard the frontiers. An order was likewise taken the same day, that the hundred and fifty soldiers appointed to remain in Medenblick, and others going to their appointed garrisons, should presently receive a months pay: Concerning which, my Lords the State's general, the Council of State, his Excellency of Nassau, and the States of Holland, dispatched letters on the twenty ninth and thirtieth of the said month, among which the contents of the Council of States letters was, That the General should obey his Excellency of Nassau. So that it seems, that indirectly and in contempt, to hinder the effect of the said commandment, the General, according to his former actions and rash speech, boasted, That he had conquered and kept the towns of North Holland: Words not only tending to the diminution of the late Lord Prince of Orange his reputation, by whose means and good conduct those countries had been defended and preserved, but to the great dishonour of all good people of the towns and country of North Holland, and West Frizeland, who in regard of the General his Commission, and for the said late Lord Princes sake, had willingly received and entertained him then when he wanted and was unprovided of all things, and who according to his own speech had very valiantly defended themselves; saying not long before, That he had rather see the ruin of the country, than to desist from his determination and purpose: so as he raised sedition and mutiny among the soldiers in the town of Medenblicke (the which he was not ashamed to write of to the Council of State) which spread itself so far abroad, as the Commissary that was sent thither the same day of the stir, to crave the execution of the said commandments, received an answer from the General, That he could not rule the troops being so disordered. And the soldiers who since their last pay had received more months means than the other Ensigns, and whose monthly pay still ran on, said, That they would not go forth of the town till they had first received their full pay for seventy two months; of which seventy two months they had already received the two third parts, according to the general resolution made anno 1581., by the general States, in the town of Amsterdam, in presence, & by the consent of my Lord the Prince of Orange. The Burguers of Medenblick (who for the good of the country had ever borne themselves loyally, and were to be defended by the soldiers) were by them disarmed, and enforced without delay to carry their arms to the townhouse, where the General was: and not the soldiers alone, but the Captains and Officers were constrained to give weekly as much as their entertainment amounted to. This disobedience, riot, disorder, rebellion, and mutiny, in Medenblick, without any urgent necessity, caused the garrisons of other towns and places (which were worse paid) to do the like, so as the whole country was in a very dangerous estate. And after that his Excellency of Nassau and my Lords the States of Holland and West Frizeland, were advertised that matters did every day grow worse and worse at▪ Medenblick (the said General giving them no advertisement thereof) his Excellency and the States of Holland and West Frizeland, who were most interessed therein, thought good to send, beside his Excellency, certain noble men, to the towns of those countries, to provide for the redress of those disorders. His Excellency being come to the town of Alckmaer, did by letters request the said soldiers to send some among them to him, to treat of their affairs and end them. But at the same time, namely on the sixteenth of February, anno 1588., the General, with the Captain's Crystal and Wolfswinckel, being in the said town (the better to deceive the soldiers under a favourable pretence, for the maintenance of his particular design, and to keep them at his own devotion) made a manifest complot, That none of them either in whole or part should go forth of the town, till such time as not only they, but likewise all the said generals regiment, being partly in Guelderland, Frizeland, and Ouer-Yssell, had received their full and entire payment: whereof by letters they likewise advertised the Captains that lay in Harderwijc, Campen, and other towns, which were signed and sealed by the General, and the said captains Crystal and Wolfswinckell: and those whom they had sent forth of Medenblick with the said complot and treaty, were enjoined to induce other Captains and soldiers to do the like. For a second colour the General persuaded the Captains and soldiers, that they were sworn to the Queen of England; which, without direct usurpation on the State of the country, could not be true, seeing that her Majesty never would pretend any right to these countries; for she only promised to aid these countries during the war, with certain forces of horse and foot, under promise, that the money lawfully by her disbursed, and known to the Commissioners, should by the States be repaid unto her; and thereupon the town of Briell, and forts thereunto belonging, with the town of Flessingue, and castle of Rammekins, have been delivered over to her Majesty as cautions, only for her assurance; which she still keeps for the States of the country, her Majesty pretending no right to the said towns, other than for assurance, as plainly appears by the contents of the treaty made with her: wherein is expressly conditioned, That the Governors, Captains, Officers, and soldiers, Burguers, and inhabitants of the towns should not only swear unto her Majesty, for assuraance of the restitution of the money which she was to disburse, but likewise to the States, for conservation of their right in all other matters, which they had expressly reserved to themselves, forth of the said assurance. And as concerning her majesties promise for greater aid, beside the garrisons of the cautionary towns (seeing that the same was only promised by her Majesty for the service of the country) it was expressly conditioned in the last article of the said Treaty, That both the General, Colonels, Captains, Officers, and others, should take the oath of fidelity to the States alone, as they had done before any Treaty was made with her Majesty, reserving only the homage which was due unto her. And with this reservation the Colonels Morgan, Chester, General Norris, with other English Colonels & Captains, have successively since the beginning of the war embraced the service of these countries: So that it is a very strange thing to see any man so rash, as to dare to say contrary to the said Treaty, That himself or soldiers, being in the pay of the said countries, are tied by oath to her Majesty. And touching the oath made to the Earl of Leycester, he was in no sort sworn unto, as having authority and Commission from her Majesty, seeing that himself upon the same Commission was bound to swear unto the States of the country as well as others: but it was done upon the Commission and authority given (besides the Treaty made with her Majesty) by the States to the said Lord Earl, as Governor general. These two pretences concerning the complot & their entire payment, and persuading the soldiers that they were sworn to her Majesty of England, and so by consequent should receive their full pay from her, caused letters to be sent back in the soldiers names of Medenblick, answering those of his Excellency; by which they craved to have some Commissioners sent unto them, to understand the business together with the soldiers intentions. Thereupon his Excellency sent the Lord of Famars, General of the Artillery, the Lord of Swevezeel, Peter Kyes, Burgomaster of Harlem, & master Adrian Anthony, Burgomaster of Alckmaer; who being come thither acquainted the soldiers with his Ex. & my Lords the States good meaning, exhorting them to their duty according to their oath, honour, & bond, and requested them to submit themselves to reason, and to be ruled by the power of the country. The soldiers answered them, That they would be wholly paid, not only for themselves, but for the said Generals whole regiment: so that these Commissioners journey was in vain. They wrote afterwards to the soldiers, That his Excellency and the States Commissioners were resolved to make them some reasonable offer, and that for the well understanding thereof, they should under good assurance, which was promised them, send Commissioners to Hoorne: the which was denied, so as they did again demand new Commissioners. Whereupon the States wrote back, That they ought to rely on his excellency and the States Commissioners, and that therefore they were to send theirs at the country's charge. Whereunto the soldiers answered, That they would send none, and that they had already declared their intent; demanding moreover, that his Excellency would send other Commissioners to them, unto whom they offered safeconduct. Which his Excellency & the State's Commissioners understanding, thought good to set down some reasonable offers in writing, whereby they promised the soldiers to give them their present pay, & a months wages before hand: and promised them moreover, that concerning the rest that was behind, they should be paid as much, and at the same time, as others that served the country, and should be as well dealt with as the best. They did likewise declare unto them, That it was not in the country's power to do more, and that they ought to rest contented seeing they had been best paid, and that they being for the most part borne in the country, they ought more to love their honour and credit, than by demanding impossibilities, to seek the ruin of the Provinces; with protestation, That if they would not condescend to reason, his Excellency and my Lords the States would hold themselves excused before God and the world, of the inconveniences which might ensue thereof. And to make them this offer, to show them the equity of it, and to persuade the soldiers to reason, his Excellency and the Commissioners sent Master Nicholas Brunine, Counsellor to his Excellency, and Bartholdus Guillelmi Minister of the word of God in Hoorne, to Medenblick, who (notwithstanding all their labour) received no other answer of them, but that they would be wholly paid. And as it was well perceived by their answer, that the above mentioned mutiny was made for the reasons heretofore alleged, and that their desire was unjust and impossible; so as other soldiers which had done better service upon the enemy, and had been without comparison badlier paid and dealt with than they, would desire the like, which would not be effected with fifty times an hundred thousand Florins: That the said soldiers had likewise vaunted, That they knew how to raise their pay upon the country, and that they would have it by force. Whereupon the General had already proceeded, and in effect fortified himself against the country, tyrannising over the villages near to Medenblicke. His Excellency by the advice of the States found it necessary, both for the preservation of the country, and to bring the General and soldiers to some reasonable accord, and hinder their bad determination, to provide for the besieging of the same town, and therein to make use, beside the soldiers that were then ready, of certain Burguers and arquebusiers forth of some towns of North Holland, as from Alckmaer, Hoorne, Enckhuysen, Edam, Monickendam, and Purmereind, with certain boors of the country. Before the siege, the Lord Barbese, Counsellor of State to his Excellency, and one of the Commissioners, was entreated once more to go to Medenblick, to let the General and soldiers know the wrong they did to themselves, and to try if he could reduce them to their duty: who told the General both in public and privately, That the Council of State knew, that himself as General could not make use of his Excellency of Leicester's Commission, and that he did wrong to that of Nassau, in not obeying him according to his duty: Likewise, that those soldiers who were better dealt with than any other, whom they might have sent against the enemy (yet suffered to live in garrison where victuals were good cheap) did much forget themselves, by doing things tending to the country's ruin: entreating them to understand reason, and to desist from their bad and pernicious enterprise, with promise that all matters should be forgotten, and themselves very honourably dealt with. All this notwithstanding, he could get none other answer, either from the General or soldiers, than that which they had made to the former Commissioners. Within a while after the General behaved himself as an open enemy, burning and wasting the country at his pleasure: in regard whereof no man ought to think it a strange matter, if his Excellency and the States make use of those means which God hath given them, for furtherance of the good of these countries, against the disobedience, rebellion, and unjust proceedings of those which enterprise against these Provinces. Which they thought fit and necessary to be published to the world, that every man understanding the condition of the affairs, and causes of the said proceedings, may rightly judge thereof, and impute the inconveniences which may arise thereupon, to those who by their great ingratitude to the house of Nassau, have been authors thereof; especially seeing the said family hath suffered and done so much for the preservation of these countries, with so great expense of means and blood, by whom the said General, from low condition, was raised to such high estate, and exceeding great wealth, who by his ingratitude to the country and inhabitants thereof (which had lovingly received him, and enriched him with their means) had shown so great obstinacy & rebellion therein in continuing one whole year, uttering proud and swelling speeches, to the prejudice of the house of Nassau's Princely reputation, and against the state of these countries, which he threatened with ruin and destruction, making use of the soldiers appointed to serve the country, for defence of his own person, disarming the good citizens of Medenblick, whom he ought to have defended, afflicting them with servitude and intolerable burdens. The which General, spurred forward by his own avarice and ambition, from one sin to another, shall by God's assistance be brought to shame and confusion; so that all good soldiers which love God's word and their country, will detest the obstinacy, rebellion, rashness, and malicious proceedings of the said General, and for that cause will again take upon them the defence of their dear country, as in former time: and we verily hope, that the soldiers of Medenblick being well informed, That General Senoy by his proceedings hath none other intent, but only to show under these two false pretences (namely of an oath made to her Majesty, or to the Earl of Leycester in her name, and that he would be a means to procure them the full payment of all arrearages) his hatred and ill grounded quarrels against the country and house of Nassau (by which, from a poor estate, he was made rich) will not consent to any thing against their country and house of Nassau, and will not hazard, to their own shame, and dishonour of their friends, the loss of their honour and reputation, nay of their own lives: Especially seeing that by quitting General Senoyss private and unjust quarrel, they may be reconciled to their country and his Excellency of Nassau, and preserve their lives, goods, honour, reputation, and whatsoever be, which hath nothing but what he hath gotten by these countries, and the house of Nassau, doth deceitfully promise them.  
General Senoy likewise did on the one and twentieth of januarie 1588., present certain Articles to the Council of State, in form following; to every of which in particular my Lords the States added their answer.  

Articles presented in behalf of General Senoy to the Council of State, by his deputy William Mostaert.  
FOr as much as General Senoy hath done many good, 
Article.  trusty, and notable services, since the beginning of these wars, under the command of his late Excellency the Prince of Orange of happy memory, and likewise since his death, to the advancement of Christian Religion, and liberty of the Country, especially in the parts of North-Holland. And that the said General Senoy, for the above mentioned causes, doth rather merit increasement of his Commission and authority (if need should be) than diminution thereof.  

Answer.  General Senoy, for his service done, hath been as honourably, and to his own profit, dealt with, as any other that hath done service to these Countries, which is very well known to himself.  

Artic.  In which regard, it is just and reasonable that his Excellency, Count Maurice, should, by his Commission, suffer the said General Senoy to use the title and authority of his Excellency's Lieutenant, and Governor General, in the parts of North-Holland, as my Lord his father had done.  

Ans.  In as much as my Lords the State of Holland, Zealand, and Westfrizeland, did, in anno 1577, make a Decree for the preservation of the union and government of the said Countries, that there should be but one Governor in Holland, Zealand, and Westfrizeland, to wit, my Lord the Prince of Orange, of happy memory, and that all particular governments should cease; which hath been already practised for the space of ten years, according to the ancient custom and manner of the Countries: It is not reasonable that the said resolution (for any love to the General) contrary to the Laws and union of the Country, should be altered.  

Ans.  That the said Senoy, will keep good correspondence with his Excellency of Nassau concerning all difficulties which may arise, and to prevent them in time, as need shall be.  

Ans.  We understand, that the General ought to be bound to do more than keep correspondence with his Excellency, otherwise, he must needs be his equal.  

Artic.  That he will remain in those parts, and take care for the well ordering, preservation, defence, and assurance thereof, against the power, secret practices and enterprises of the enemy.  

Ans.  We never meant to call the General away from those parts.  

Artic.  To this end he will still keep the regiment of soldiers, which he now hath, and bestow them in the Towns and Forts, which till now have been committed unto him, according as he shall think fit, for the safe keeping of them, and service of the Country.  

Ans.  Our meaning hath been that the said Senoy should command all the soldiers, in the Towns and Forts under his command, in quality of General: And, concerning the changing of Garrisons, the General is to behave himself therein according to his Excellency's commandments.  

Artic.  Retaining authority to change the Garrisons, when, and after what manner he shall see to be expedient. And if the necessity of the Country require to have some companies drawn from thence for the Country's service, that his Excellency shall write to him thereof, as having authority so to do, that he may levy and send them, according as opportunity will permit him.  

Ans.  We mean herein to use our own discretion, and not to grant the General the prerogatives belonging to the Governor, and so by consequent to his Excellency.  

Artic.  He will likewise use all special care and diligence for the advancement of the reformed Religion, over all his government, prohibiting all Popish false doctrine, and will have a care that no Ministers, shall be brought in, or suffered, contrary to the order of the reformed Churches, or without permission, & admission of the Congregations from whence they come, and will also provide that the said Ministers shall be well and duly paid.  

Ans.  Because that, according the resolution of my Lords the States, the disposing of matters heretofore mentioned, belongeth to his Excellency as Governor, to the States Commissioners, to the Precedent and provincial Council, and other ordinary officers of the Country: His Excellency gives him to understand, that he will himself take order therein according to the necessity of the affairs, for the advancement of God's word, and good of the Countries.  

Artic.  He will likewise have a wary eye on all Schoolmasters, that none be admitted or received, but such as are of the reformed Religion, who shall teach no other doctrine, in their Schools, nor any Books contrary thereunto: He will in like manner (as much as in him lies) provide, that in all towns, Colleges, and places of his government, good officers, Magistrates and Regent's be established, who stand well affected to the reformed Religion, and to the good of the public affairs, and to this end, shall hereafter be appointed, committed, and continued by himself.  

Ans.  Forasmuch as officers and Magistrates are appointed in Towns and places, according to the prerogatives respectively given to the Lords, Towns, Villages, by the Princes of these Countries: In this regard we cannot violate them. But his Excellency for the better service of these Countries, will provide that the Magistrates and officers be honest and well qualified people. And for that which concerneth the establishment of Counsellors, Commissioners of Towns and Colleges; His Excellency's meaning is, to confer with the States about these matters, as he shall find it to be expedient for the service and commodity of the Country.  

Artic.  He will likewise give order that the Towns and Forts of Block-zijl and Cuyndert shall be fortified, maintained, guarded and provided of all necessaries.  
He will by all means prevent and hinder, that no sedition arise among the inhabitants.  

Ans.  This belongs to the Governor of the Provinces, and to the ordinary officers and Magistrates thereof.  

Artic.  And because the Commission for Captainship of the Castle of Medenblick was by his Excellency granted only by Proviso, he entreats his Excellency to give and confirm it absolutely unto him.  

Ans.  Forasmuch as the Captainship of the of Castle Medenblick, is an ordiofficenarie of the Country, which according to the privileges thereof, cannot be administered but by any such an one as is born in the Low countries, his Excellency cannot grant it, contrary to the said privileges, seeing that the General was not borne there.  
Done by advice at the Hague the 21 of januarie 1588., and subsigned, By me William Mostaert.   

Disorder in Medenblick.  All this thus done, those of Medenblick continued obstinate, the soldiers mutined, and would not depart till they had received the arrearages. They disarmed the Burghers, and carried their arms to Governor Senoyss house, and enforced them every week to give them pay. 
The States send Commissioners thither who do no good.  My Lords the States sent the Lords of Famas and Swevenseell, Peter Kyes Burgomaster of Harlem, and Master Adrian Antony Burgomaster of Alckmaer, to them, who presented the arrearages to the mutinous soldiers, and greater pay than to any other that served the States: but they would neither give audience to these Commissioners, nor to other which were sent after them, but went a boothaling up and down the Country, constraining the Boors in hostile manner to pay them their entertainment: which to speak truly was a matter of great consequence, and might easily have ruined all North-Holland, if my Lords the States had not in time prevented it, who resolved by force to master these mutines, giving ample power to his Excellency to put it in execution: who together with the Marshal Villers, who was newly set at liberty from his imprisonment, brought certain companies of soldiers, 
Medenblick is besieged.  Burghers of neighbour towns, and some ships of war before the Town, who did in such sort besiege and nearly press it, as those within it, began to remember themselves, and so to consider the present danger, as they began in some sort to change their minds. And perceiving that the Earl of Leycester had wholly given over the government, and had surrendered into the general States, whose authority by their resolution did daily increase, and that they could not but expect some great mischief in recompense of their obstinacy, the matter was at last so handled by means of Sir Henry Killigrew, 
It yields to his Excellency through the intercession of some English Lords.  the Lord Willoughby, and other English Lords, as those of Medenblick, having been besieged till the month of April, the General Senoy and his soldiers made an accord with his Excellency, and delivered the Town into his hands. The General and soldiers went forth of the Town with passport, which his Excellency and his troops entered, where he ordered all matters necessary for the better assurance of the Town. General Senoy went to Alckmaer, where with sundry reasons he would have excused himself. Those of Medenblick and others, did greatly endamage him in his goods: whereupon in anno 1590., he went into England to make his complaint to her Majesty, 
Senoy goes into England to come plain to the Queen.  who in the year 1592. propounded his case to my Lords the States by her Agent Thomas Bodley, on the fist day of julie, which propositions were by them amply & resolutely answered, to the Agents satisfaction.  
During these civil and intestine troubles as well in Holland, Zealand, and other Provinces, by certain innovators, and some English, who sought their own particular profit more than their Queen's honour, news was brought that on the twenty ninth of May 1588., the dreadful, renowned, mighty, and invincible Spanish Armada launched forth of the haven of Lisbon and sailed towards the Groin, to execute her King and Counsels Commission. And because it was so extraordinary and potent a fleet as (to speak indifferently thereof) it was sufficient to have destroyed and subverted whole Kingdoms and Countries, we will as well as we can make a description thereof, which we have taken forth of the most autentick Authors; to the glory of God, who looking upon these countries in the midst of their troubles (with the eyes of his mercy) did free and preserve his servants from so mighty a fleet, and from so many bloody hands: thereby showing how weak human strength is when it is not fortified and supported by his strong and mighty arm: who being Lord of all creatures, can only by his winds and tempests ruive and overwhelm the haughty and proud resolution, together with the King of Spain's whole power. So as very few ships of so potent a fleet returned safe home into their Countries.   

A true description of the most mighty Armada, set forth by Philip the second, King of Spain, which being assembled in the River before Lisbon, the chief city of Portugal sailed towards the Low-countries, the 29 and 30 of May 1588., under the conduct and command of the Duke de Medina Sidonia, appointed by the King of Spain as Captain General thereof.  
PHilip the second of that name, King of spain, having with small advantage made war in the Low-countries for the space of 21 years, did with his Council resolve once more to invade those Country's by sea, supposing that notwithstanding he had in former time attempted to make himself master thereof by sea, & had been ever enforced to retreat, because he had not attempted it with power sufficient, for this cause he was desirous at once to employ all his forces, the rather because England was his enemy: so as he resolved first to invade England, which Escouedo Secretary to D. john of Austria, & some other malicious Spaniards, together with some rebellious Englishmen supposed would be sooner won than Holland & Zealand, maintaining it to be more profitable for the king to invade England and the Low-countries by sea, than continually to entertain a mighty fleet for defence of the voyages to the East & West Indies against the English and Hollanders. For execution of which resolution, each of the Kingdoms in Spain for their part, have rigged and manned as many galleons, galleasses, galleys & other vessels, as the King and his Council commanded them to furnish.  
And for the better and more ample description thereof, it shall not be impertinent to set down the number both of the Ships, soldiers, mariners, and munitions, commanders, Nobilities and their followers, as likewise of other things necessary for the equipage of this fleet, as it was written and imprinted in the Spanish Tongue, in the City of Lisbon, the twentieth of May 1588., by the King of Spain's command, reviewed and signed by his own Secretary, and translated into Dutch by Michael Eitsinger the sixth of August, certain names omitted, and divers superfluous rehersals excepted.   

The number of the Galleons of Portugal.  
THe Gallion S. Martin, as Captain General and Principal of the fleet, was of the burden of one thousand tun, there were in her three hundred choice soldiers, one hundred & seventeen mariners, and she carried fifty pieces of ordinance.  
S. john's Gallion called the Admiral General, of the burden of one thousand and fifty tun, had in her two hundred thirty one soldiers, one 179 mariners, and fifty canon.  
S. Marks Gallion, of the burden of seven hundred ninety two tun, with 292 soldiers, and one hundred and seventeen mariners.  
The Gallion S. Philip, of eight hundred tun, four hundred & fifteen soldiers, 117 mariners, and forty canon.  
The Gallion S. Lewis, of eight hundred and thirty tun, with 376 soldiers, 116 mariners, and forty canon.  
S. Mathews Gallion, of seven hundred and fifty tun, with two hundred seventy seven soldiers, 200 mariners, & forty canon.  
S. james his Gallion, of five hundred and twenty tun, with three hundred soldiers, 100 mariners, and thirty canon.  
The Gallion of Florence, of 961 tun, with four hundred soldiers, one hundred mariners, and fifty two canon.  
S. Christopher's Gallion, of three hundred fifty two tun, with three hundred soldiers, 90 mariners, and thirty canon.  
S Bernard's Gallion, of three hundred fifty two tun, two hundred and eight soldiers, 100 mariners, and thirty canon.  
The ship called Zabra Augusta, of one hundred sixty six tun, with fifty five soldiers, 57 mariners, and thirteen canon.  
The other Zabra, called julia, of 166 tun, with 50 soldiers, 72 mariners, and 14 canon.  
The whole body of the Portugal fleet, consisted of 12 vessels, viz. ten Galeons', and two Zabras, the whole burden whereof made up the number of 7737 tun, and 3330 soldiers, 1233 mariners, and 350 canon, with all other necessaries, as bullets, powder, match, etc.   

The fleet of Biscay commanded by the General D. jean Martinez de recalled.  
THe Admiral, called S. Anne, of 768 tun, with 323 soldiers, 114 mariners, and 30 canon.  
The Admiral Grangrina, of 1160 tun, with 300 soldiers, 100 mariners, and 36 canon.  
S. jago. of 666 tun, with 250 soldiers, 102 mariners, and 30 canon.  
The conception Zebeleu, of 468 tun, 100 soldiers, 70 mariners, and 20 canon.  
The conception of jean, of 418 tun, 164 soldiers, 70 mariners, and 24 canon.  
The Magdalen of jean Francisco d'Ayala, of 530 tun, 200 soldiers, 70 mariners, and 22 canon.  
S. jean, of 350 tun, 130 soldiers, 100 mariners, and 24 canon.  
A Ship called the Marie, of 163 tun, 180 soldiers, 100 mariners, and 24 canon.  
Another called, the Manuel, of 520 tun, 130 soldiers, 43 mariners, and 16 canon.  
A ship called S. Maria de Monte Major, of 707 tun, 220 soldiers, 50 mariners, and 16 canon.   

Other vessels belonging to this fleet called Pinnaces.  
THe Pinnace called the Marie of Aguirra, of 70 tun, 30 soldiers, 23 mariners, and ten canon.  
A ship named Isabel, of 71 tun, 30 soldiers, 23 mariners, and 12 canon.  
The pinnace called the Miguell de Susa, of 96 tun, 30 souldidiers, 26 mariners, and 12 canon.  
The pinnace of S. Steffano, of 78 tun, 30 soldiers, 26 mariners, and 12 canon.  
This whole fleet consisted of 14 vessels, 10 great, and four lesser ones, called Pinnaces, their whole burden amounted to 6567 tun, 2037 soldiers, 863 mariners, which together make up 2802: Also, 200 canon, 1190 bullets, 467 quintals of powder, every quintal accounted for 125 weight, 140 of bullets, and 89 of match.   

The fleet of Castille, whereof Diego Flores de Valdes was General.  
THe Gallion General called the Christopher, of 700 tun, having in her 205 soldiers 120 mariners, and 40 canons.  
The Gallion S. john Baptist, of 750 tun, which 250 soldiers, 140 mariners, and 30 canon.  
The Gallion S. Peter, of 530 tun, with 130 soldiers, 140 mariners, and 40 canon.  
S. john's Gallion, of 530 tun, with 170 soldiers, 120 mariners, and 40 canon.  
The Gallion S. Iago el Major, of 530 tun, with 230 soldiers, 132 mariners, and 30 canon.  
The Gallion S. Philip and S. jago, of 530 tun, with 150 soldiers, 116 mariners, and 30 canon.  
The Gallion of S. Medela and Celedonia, of 530 tun, with 170 soldiers, 110 mariners, and 30 canon.  
S. Annes Gallion, of 250 tun, with 100 soldiers, 89 mariners, & 24 canon.  
Our Lady of Vigonia, of 750 tun, with 190 soldiers, 100 mariners, and 30 canon.  
The ship called the Trinity, of 780 tun, with 200 soldiers, 122 mariners, and 30 canon.  
The S. Catharina, of 862 tun, with 200 soldiers, 160 mariners and 30 canon.  
The S. john Baptist, of six hundred fifty two tun, with two hundred soldiers, and 130 mariners, and thirty canon.  
Our Lady of Rosaria, called the pinnace, with thirty soldiers, twenty six mariners, and twenty four canon.  
The pinnace called S. Anthony of Padua, with thirty soldiers, forty six mariners, and 16 canon.  
The number of this whole fleet of Castille consisted of fourteen Galleons, and two Pinnaces; their entire burden amounting to eight thousand seven hundred thirty four tun, having in it two thousand four hundred eighty five soldiers, one thousand seven hundred and nineteen mariners, together amounting to four thousand one hundred seventy seven men, and three hundred eighty four canon, with all other necessaries, as bullets, powder & match.   

The Equipage of the Ships of Andeluzia, commanded by the General D. Pedro Valdes.  
THe Admiral ship of one thousand one hundred and fifty tun, having in it fifty soldiers, one hundred and eighteen mariners, with fifty canon.  
The S. Francis, of nine hundred and fifteen tun, with two hundred and thirty souldires, sixty mariners, and thirty canon.  
The Gallion S john Baptist, of one hundred & ten tun, with two hundred and fifty soldiers, twenty mariners, and forty canon.  
The S. john Gargaren, of five hundred and nine tun, with one hundred and seventy soldiers, sixty mariners, & twenty canon.  
A ship called the Conception, of eighty tun, with two hundred soldiers, sixty five mariners, and twenty five canon.  
The Bear, or ship called the Duchess S. Anne, of nine hundred tun, with three hundred soldiers, eighty mariners, and thirty canon.  
The S. Catharine, of seven hundred and thirty tun, with two hundred and fifty soldiers, eighty mariners, and thirty canon.  
The Trinity, of filthy tun, with two hundred soldiers, twenty mariners, and thirty canon.  
The S. Maria de juncar, of 730 tun, with 240 soldiers, 80 mariners, and 24 canon.  
The S. Bartholomew, of 976 tun, with 250 soldiers, 80 mariners, and 30 canon.  
A Pinnace called the holy Ghost, with 40 soldiers, 33 mariners, 10 canon, & well stored with bullets, powder, & other necessaries.  
This fleet consisted of ten Galleons, one Pinnace, which in burden amounted altogether to 8702 tun, having in it 2400 soldiers, 800 mariners, 260 canon, and all other necessaries thereunto belonging.   

The fleet of Guypuscoa, commanded by D. Michael de Quendo.  
THe General's ship called S. Anne, of 1200 tun, having in it 30 soldiers, 90 mariners, and 50 canon.  
The Admiral, called our Lady of Roses, of 945 tun, with 230 soldiers, 64 mariners, and 30 canon.  
The S. Saviour, of 958 tun, with 330 soldiers, 80 mariners, & 30 canon.  
The S. Stephen, of 936 tun, with 200 soldiers, 70 mariners, & 30 canon.  
The S. Martha, of 548 tun, with 180 soldiers, 70 mariners, & 25 canon.  
The S. Barba, of 525 tun, with 160 soldiers, 50 mariners, and 15 canon.  
The Marie, of 291 tun, with 120 soldiers, 40 mariners, and 15 canon.  
The S. Cross, of 680 tun, with 150 soldiers, 40 mariners, and 20 canon.  
The Vrsa Doncella, of 500 tun, with 60 soldiers, 40 mariners, and 18 canon.  
The Pinnace called the Ascension, of 600 tun, with 30 soldiers, 20 mariners, and 12 canon.  
The Pinnace called S. Barnaby, and another, named our Lady of Guadalupa, with the pinnace called the Magdalen, these three in burden, soldiers, mariners, canon, and other necessaries, equalled the Pinnace of the Ascension.  
There were in this fleet of Guypuscoa 14 vessels which were in burden altogether 6991 tun, and had in it 2092 soldiers, 670 mariners, making up the number of 2708 men, 277 canon, with all other necssaries.   

The fleet of Eastern Ships, called Levantiscas, whose General was Martin de Vertendona.  
THe General's Ship, called Regazone, of 1294 tun, having in it 350 soldiers, 90 mariners, and 35 canon.  
The Admiral Ship called la Lava, of 728 tun, with 210 soldiers, 80 mariners, and 30 canon.  
La Rata S. Marry the crowned, of 820 tun, with 340 soldiers, 90 mariners, and 40 canon.  
The S. john of Cilicia, of eight hundred and eighty tun, with two hundred and seventy soldiers, seventy mariners, and thirty canon.  
The Trinity Valencera, of one thousand one hundred tun, with two hundred and forty soldiers, ninety mariners, and forty six canon.  
The Annunciade, of seven hundred and three tun, with two hundred soldiers, 90 mariners, and 30 canon.  
The S. Nicholas Predaneli, of eight hundred thirty four tun, with two hundred and eighty soldiers, eighty four mariners, & 30 canon.  
The juliana, of 800 tun, with 330 soldiers, 80 mariners, and 36 canon.  
The S. Marie of Pison, of six hundred sixty six tun, with two hundred and fifty soldiers, eighty mariners, and twenty two canon.  
The Trinity of Escala, of ninety tun, with three hundred and two soldiers, ninety mariners, and twenty five canon.  
This whole fleet consisted of ten Ships, whose burden was seven thousand seven hundred and five tun, and had in it 2880 soldiers, eight hundred and seven mariners, three hundred and eleven canon, with all other necessaries.   

The fleet of Ships called Vreas, whose General was Lopez de Medina.  
THe General's ship called the great Griffin, of six hundred and fifty tun, having in it 250 soldiers, 60 mariners, and forty canon.  
The Admiral called S. Saviour, of 650 tun, with 230 soldiers, 60 mariners, and 30 canon.  
A ship called the Pedro Martino, of 200 tun, with 80 soldiers, 30 mariners, and 30 canon.  
The white Falcon, of 500 tun, with 170 soldiers, 40 mariners, and 18 canon.  
The black Castle, of 750 tun, with 250 soldiers, 50 mariners, and 27 canon.  
A Bark of Hambourge, with 600 soldiers, 50 mariners, and 25 canon.  
La Cassa de Par-grand, together with S. Pedro el Major, the Samson, and S. Pedro el minor, of as great burden as the Bark of Hambourg.  
The Bark of Dansk, of 450 tun, with 210 soldiers, 50 mariners, and 25 canon.  
The white Falcon Mediana, of 300 tun, with 80 soldiers 30 mariners, and 18 canon.  
The S. Andrew, of 400 tun, with 150 soldiers, and 40 mariners.  
La Cassa de var Chica, of 350 tun, with 170 soldiers, 40 mariners, and 15 canon.  
La Cuerbo Bolante, of 400 tun, with 210 soldiers, 40 mariners, and 18 canon.  
The white Polonia, of 250 tun, with 60 soldiers, 30 mariners, and 12 canon.  
The Adventure, and S. Barba, which were as much in burden as the S. jago, of 600 tun, with 60 soldiers, 40 mariners and 19 canon.  
The ship called El gatto, of 400 tun, with 50 soldiers, 30 mariners, and 9 canon.  
The S. Gabriel, of 280 tun, with 50 soldiers, and twenty five mariners.  
The Esayas, of like burden.  
So that these 25 Vrcas are in burden 10271 tun, and carried 3221 soldiers, 708 mariners, and 410 canon, with all necessaries, as powder, lead, and match.   

Pinnaces and Zabras, commanded by D. Antonio de Mendoza.  
THe General's ship, called our Lady del pillar de Zaragossa, of three hundred tun, with 120 soldiers, 54 mariners, and 12 canon.  
La Caridad Inglese, of 180 tun, 80 soldiers, 30 mariners, and 12 canon.  
S. Andrew d'Estoches, of 130 tun, 51 soldiers, 30 mariners, & 12 canon.  
The Pinnace of the crucifix, of 150 tun, with 50 soldiers, 30 mariners, and 18 canon.  
A ship called our Lady del Puerto, containing as much as the Pinnace of the crucifix.  
The conception of Carassa, and of our Lady de Beguoa.  
The conception of Capitillo, with the S. jeronimo, are of 60 & 70 tun, with 50 soldiers, and thirty mariners and eight canon.  
Our Lady of Grace, the conception of Francis Lastero, our Lady of Guadalupa, the conception of the Holy Ghost, and our Lady of Fresneda; these ships contain just as much, as those above mentioned.  
Moreover, a ship, called Zabra la Trinidad, with an other Zabra S. Andrew the conception, together with the conception of Sommarriba, S. Catharine, S. john de Carassa, and the Assumption, contain as much as those that went next before.  
The whole number of 22 Pinnaces & Zabras, were in burden one thousand one hundred thirty one tun, and had in them 479 soldiers, five hundred seventy four mariners, & 193 canon, with all other necessaries.   

The four Galleasses of Naples commanded by D. Vgo de Moncado.  
THe General's galliass, called San Lorenzo, with two hundred and seventy soldiers, 130 mariners, 300 slaves, and 50 canon.  
The galliass Patrona, with one hundred and eighty soldiers, one hundred and twelve mariners, three hundred slaves, & fifty canon.  
The galliass Gyrona, with 170 soldiers, 120 marines', 300 slaves, and 50 canon.  
The Neapolitan galliass, with one hundred twenty four soldiers, 300 slaves, and fifty canon.  
These four Galleasses, carried altogether 870 soldiers, 468 mariners, 200 canon, and 1200 Gallislaves.   

The four Galleys of Portugal under the command of D. Diego de Medrana.  
THe General Galley with 110 soldiers, 106 mariners, 100 slaves, and 50 canon.  
The Princess galley, the Galley Diana, the Galley Vazana, containing as much as the General galley.   

The brief and General account of the whole Fleet.  
THe whole fleet together was composed, of twelve Galleons of Portugal, in burden seven thousand seven hundred thirty seven tun, carrying four thousand three hundred and thirty soldiers, 1233 mariners, 400 canon, with ammunition of bullets, powder and match.  
Of 14 ships of Biscay, commanded by john Martinez de Ricaldo: these ships altogether were of the burden of 6567 tun, and carried two thousand and fifty soldiers, nine hundred mariners, and 270 canon.  
Of 16 Galleons of Castille, in burden 8700 tun, carrying two thousand five hundred and sixty soldiers, and four hundred & twenty canon.  
Of eleven ships of Andaluzia, in burden 8762 tun, and in them two thousand five hundred twenty five soldiers, 900 mariners, & 260 canon.  
Of 14 ships of Guipuscoa, in burden 6991 tun, and in them two thousand one hundred and two soldiers, 718 mariners, & 280 canon.  
Of the Eastern fleet with ten ships, in burden seven thousand seven hundred and five tun, carrying 2900 soldiers, 867 mariners, and 310 canon.  
Of the fleet of Vrcas, 23 in number, in burden 10271 tun, and in them three thousand three hundred and twenty one soldiers, 708 mariners and 400 canon.  
Of 22 Pinnaces of Zabras, in burden 1221 tun, and in them three hundred seventy six soldiers, five hundred seventy four mariners, and 110 canon.  
Of four Galleasses of Naples, carrying 864 soldiers, 500 mariners, 200 canon.  
Of four Galleys, which carried four hundred soldiers, and 20 canon.  
In the four Galleasses there were likewise 1200 galleyslaves, and in the four Galleys 888, which together make up the number of 2088 persons: And beside the above mentioned powder, there was beside, if any danger or necessity should happen, 600 quintals of powder.  
So as in the whole fleet there was 130 ships, viz. 65 Galleons or great ships, 25 Vrcas of the burden of 500 and 700 tun, 19 Pinnaces, of the burden of 70 and 100 tun, 13 Zabras, with two of Portugal, 4 Galleasles, and as many Galleys, of the burden of 57868 tun, and in them 19295 soldiers, and 8450 mariners, with 2630 Galley slaves, and 2630 pieces of ordnance of all sorts, among which were great and middle culverins and some great canons.  
There was likewise 20 small vessels called caravels for the service the fleet, and ten Faluas' with six oars a piece.  
There were in this fleet, 124 voluntaries, attended by four hundred fifty and six servants bearing arms, and 238 entertained by the King, with 163 servants.  
There was 177 persons appointed to wait upon the ordnance, with two Ingeneers, one physician one Surgeon and thirty servants.  
Fourscore and five both physicians and Surgeons, with 180 Churchmen, all Dominicans, Franciscans, Flagellans or jesuits.   

The Colonel Regiments or Tertios, paid by the King in this fleet, with the number of men under every Regiment.  
Done Francisco de Bovadilla serving the King as camp-master general.  
The Regiment of Sicily, commanded by D. Diego Pimentell, under whom were 24 Captains.  
The Regiment or Tertio, commanded by D. Francisco de Toledo, under whom were 25 Captains.  
The Regiment of D. Alonzo Luzon, under whom were 26 Captains.  
The Regiment of Yssa, commanded by D. Augustino Mexia, under whom were 26 Captains.  
divers companies or free bands, some of which were drawn from the troops of Castille, by D. ivan de Guzman: the others from Portugal by Gaspar Sossa & Antonio Perira: And those which are called the Suelti or new bands, were conducted by the Duke of Sossa. So that there were in the above mentioned Regiments or Tertios, and in the Companies Suelti 171 Ensigns, amounting to the number of 18973 soldiers, with thirty more to make up the number of 19295, with divers Ministers and officers both of justice, and belonging to the Duke's Court, to the number of 185 persons. In a word, the whole fleet consisted of 18937 footmen, 8650 mariners, 224 voluntaries, with 455 servants that were allowed, and 238 other servants on one part, and 163 on an other. 167 persons appointed to attend the canon, 85 for the Hospital or sick persons, 180 Churchmen of all Orders, 22 Gentlemen of the Duke's Court, fifty servants, seventeen Superintendents General of the Army, one hundred servants belonging to them and to the officers of justice: so that in the whole Army there were 28687 persons, besides two thousand eight hundred and eight Gallie-slaves that tugged the oar in the Galleasses and Galleys.   

Provision of food and nourishment for the said Ships.  
THere was in it 11000 quintals of biscuit, allowing half a quintal monthly to every man, which proportion would last for six months, fourteen thousand one hundred and seventy pieces of wine for six months, 6500 quintals of bacon for six months, three thousand four hundred thirty three quintals of Cheese, eight thousand quintals of all sorts of dried fish, three quintals of Rice, beans and pease for six months, 11398 jars of Oil sufficient for six months, twenty three thousand eight hundred and seventy jars of vinegar for 6 months, with 11851 Pipes of water.  
The said fleet was likewise furnished with divers other things, as with many tons of water, spoons, dishes, wooden cups and other vessels, to give every man his allowance, candle sticks, lanterns, okum and other matter fit to stop the ships, if the sea or enemy's canon should endanger them.  
Great number of Leather sacks to keep powder in, links, torches, tallow candles to put in lanterns, sacks of Fustian and Canvas, wooden hoops for the vessels, eight thousand vessels to draw water and wine in, five thousand pair of shoes which the Spaniards call Zapatos, and eleven thousand pair of other shoes which they term Alpargates.  
There was likewise all necessary provision for the ordnance at Sea, with other necessaries, as wheels for carriages if the canon should happen to be laden, with other engines for the easier unshipping thereof: there was likewise store of Banderols and Ensigns, with the King's Arms in them, and the portraits of Christ and the Virgin Marie.  
There was seven thousand Harquebuses a crock, with all things belonging unto them 1000 muskets, 10000 lances, 1000 partisans and Halberds, & 6000 short lances or half pikes.  
Beside, provision of spades, shovels and pickaxes, with other tools for seven hundred pioneers.  
Printed at Lisbon the 20 of May, anno 1588.  
Having thus far made a large description of this mighty Spanish Armada, 
Parma makes preparations to aid the Spaniards.  we will for the better strengthening thereof add thereunto the Dukes of Parma's fleet or army which he had prepared in the Low countries, both in the havens of Dunkirk, Gravelin, Sluice, and other places, which he intended to have joined with the Spanish fleet, for the better execution of the King of Spain's resolution and design.  
The Duke of Parma, with many thousands of men, had caused great and deep channels to be digged in Flanders, as the channel called Iperlee, the better to convey certain boats from Autuerpe, by Gant to Bruges, where he had provided more than an hundred boats called Heudes, which he laded with victuals and munition, supposing to send them from Sluice to Sea, or else through the channel of Iperlee, into other Havens of Flanders.  
He had likewise prepared seventy flat bottomed vessels in the little River at Waten, each of them being able to carry thirty horse, with Bridges fit to ship them: he had likewise two hundred more of these Boats (though not so big) ready in the Haven of Newport.  
He had rigged two and thirty ships of war at Dunkirk, & wanting mariners, he drew divers from Hambourg, Breme, and Embden.  
He had two thousand empty vessels ready at Gravelin, which in a short space might be soon fastened together in manner of a bridge, with all provision to make bridges, to choke up havens, and to found them; and near to the Haven of Newport he had prepared great heaps of Faggots, and other substance to make Gabions: in many of his Boats, were two Ovens to bake bread: he had likewise great numbers of Saddles, Bridles and furniture for horse with all sorts of ordnance, and munition necessary thereunto.  
Beside, he had a Camp ready not far from Newport commanded by Camillo the camp-master, and thirty Ensigns of Italians, ten of Walons, eight of Scots, eight of Burgonians, in all fifty six Ensigns, every Ensign an hundred men complete. near to Dixmuyde he had sixty Spanish Ensigns, sixty of Almans, and seven of revolted English under the command of of Sir William Stanley. The Earl of Westmoreland and the Lord Paget, English fugitives, were there likewise ready to embark. In the suburbs of Courtray, he had four thousand horse, 900 horse at Watene with the marquess of Guastos Cornet who was General of the horse.  
Pope Sixtus the fist, the better to strengthen the said Army, and weaken the Queen of England's power, did for his part do all he could, employing his spiritual arms (as they term it) published his Croizades and Bulls for the advancement of this enterprise, and gave great pardons, which were printed and distributed abroad: He had likewise (as it is reported) given the Realm of England to the King of Spain with this Title, of Defender of the Christian faith, commanding him to surprise it, on condition, that if he should win it, he should enjoy it as a seodatarie to the See of Rome, and to this end, the Pope contributed a million of gold or ten ne hundred thousand ducats, the one half in hand, and the other when either England, or some famous Haven should be won.  
And for the better furtherance thereof the Pope sent an English Doctor (called Allen) into the Low-countries, who should have had the managing of all Ecclesiastical affairs: He, caused a declaration of the Popes to be Printed at antwerp, confirming his predecessors sentence of excommunication, deposing and degrading the Queen of England from all her titles and dignities as an usurper, which, for the advancement of the enterprise, he would have published in England.  
The Spaniard, the better to cover and conceal his practices, or else peradventure to make the world believe that his design was rather for the united Provinces than for England, made a solemn treaty of peace with the Queen at Bourbourg in Flanders. But the Provinces Towns and Forts near to the Sea, gave advertisements, protested and sought all means to hinder and break off this treaty of peace, advising the English rather to stand upon their Guard: Yet some in England stood fast for peace or truce, as most necessary & profitable for the State of their country, as well for their traffic & navigation, as to cut off the great expense of a long & tedious war; others by this means thought to divert the fleet from them & so to avoid the tempest. In a word, Parma hereby did lull full divers Englishmen a sleep, who were desirous of peace in the Low countries; himself thinking on nothing less than peace, studying how he might conquer England, which he had already promised to himself. Whereupon the English & the united provinces, were in some sort prepared for defence, against the force of this fleet, but not according to the greatness of the danger: for it was given out that this great Armada was only to convey the Spanish fleet to the Indies, and bring it safe home again; which was the rather believed, because the ships being so great, some thought that the Spaniards would not hazard them in the narrow seas, near to England.  
In May the French King sent a message to the Queen of England, 
The Queen of of England prepares a fleet.  by which he advised her to prepare for defence, for that he was truly informed that this tempest would light upon her. Whereupon, the Queen speedily prepared a fleet of her own ships, and that of her subjects, & sent part thereof to Plymouth, in the West parts, under the command of the Lord Admiral, Charles Lord Howard of Effingham, now Earl of Nottingham, together with Sir Francis Drake, Vice-admiral, to the number of 100 sail. another fleet lay betwixt Dover and Calais under the command of the Lord Henry Seymer, son to the Duke of Somerset, to the number of 40 or 50 sail.  
All England was in Arms under valiant and trusty Captains. And because it was reported that the Spaniards, conjoined with Parma, would come up into the River of Thames, a Camp was made near Gravesend, with forts on both sides the River by Frederic jenibelli an excellent Ingeneir. The Queen came in person to the Camp, like a second Tomyris or Pallas; other Camps were likewise placed in other parts.  
As for the united Provinces of Holland, Zealand etc. they by a mutual consent resolved to do the like. But because they understood that the Spanish ships were too big to come near their shallow shores, they were more afraid of Parma and his flat bottomed Boats, & notwithstanding their own incessive broils, they made ready a fleet of ninety vessels, which they sent to guard all the Havens of Flaunders, even from the Scheld and Lillo as far as Gravelin, and had placed strong Garrisons in all their Sea towns.  
And to make some opposition against the Spanish fleet, they sent Captain Cornelis Lonck of Rosendael with five and twenty or thirty vessels to join with the Lord Henry Seymer, and to lie betwixt Calais and antwerp. But the ships were by Tempest and Northerly winds enforced to quit the coast of Flanders, and to return into England, yet when the tempest ceased, they returned, with justinus of Nassau, who was there in person with George le More Vice-admiral of Zealand, being in number fifty five vessels great and small, of 80 and two hundred and fifty tun, excellently well manned with soldiers and mariners, beside one thousand two hundred old choice musketeers drawn from all the Regiments, who were resolute and skilful in Sea fight. This was door to keep Parma's fleet from coming forth of the Havens, which was a matter of most importance. 
The Spanish fleet set sail on the 29 of May.  In the mean time, on the nine and twentieth day of May 1588. the aforesaid mighty Navy sailed forth of the Haven of Lisbon, under conduct of the Duke of Medina, to the Groin in Galicia, which is the nearest Haven to England, where it took in more men and munition. By the way, a tempest arose which scattered them. The Duke and some eighty sale kept together, the rest followed by little and little, except 8 which had spent their masts. Of four Portugal Galleys one escaped, the rest were taken by an Englishman called David Guyn, wherein D. Diego de Medrena was slain.  
The fleet being refreshed at the Groin, & commanded daily by the King's Letters to depart, did set fail on the 21 of julie, and held on it course till it came within kenning of England: from thence by small boats they sent word to the Duke of Parma of their arrival, advising him to embark his forces for England.  
They were discovered by an English Pinnace, at the same time when the English fleet lay at Plymouth, who supposed that the former tempest would delay the enterprise of the Spanish Navy, whereupon the Lord Admiral of England received letters from the Cue, how she had intelligence, that the Spanish fleet would not come forward, or at least not in a long time, & that therefore the Admiral should do well to discharge some of the great ships, and send them away.  
But he, having received news of their approach on the 29 of julie, at four of the clock in the afternoon, gave speedy commandment that the whole fleet should put forth of the haven, & that the soldiers should be embarked, which was not done but with great difficulty. The Lord Admiral the same night came in to the road with six ships, and the next day by noon which was the 30 of julie, they descried the Spanish Navy, which with a South West wind bent it course (as it seemed) directly towards Plymouth, but when they perceived the English were forth of the haven, they passed on forward.  
Here (according to the opinion of some sufficient and understanding men) the Spanish fleet committed a great error: for D. Alonso de Leyvas advice was, to have gone and assaulted Plymouth, for therein was great likelihood of good success, seeing that the English were unprepared, & had bad intelligence of the Spanish Navy, whereby they might have surprised them on the sudden: That the haven was very fit and commodious for the advancement of their design & that there they might have made some trial of their valour, & had some prose of the strength of the English fleet, & the people's affection, and that by giving an alarm to those parts, the chief strength of the country would have been drawn thither, and Parma thereby have had better means to have come forth with his forces. But their instructions from their king and his Council forbade it, who expressly commanded them not to enterprise any thing by the way, but only to join with Parma, and together with his troops and vessels to make an attempt upon Margate, which they thought might be easily done; which would have so amazed the English & low-country fleet, as each of them would have withdrawn themselves to their own defence, to keep their countries & Havens from invasion.  
It is reported that some of the chief of the Spanish commanders which were skilful in Navigation among whom were the Vice Admiral D. ivan Martin de Ricaldo, & Diego Flores de Valdez & others, had protested that it would be an hard matter to follow those instructions, especially in a Commission with such restrictions, alleging that in such enterprises, many matters were to be considered, as the wind, time, and tide to come forth of the havens of Flaunders into England, with the places, roads, and deepness thereof, which are subject to wind, & other hazards, & therefore very dangerous. But they were strictly tied to their commission, which was to come to an anchor before Calais, where the prince of Parma should meet them with his flat bottomed boats and other munition, which, under the covert and protection of the great Navy, should pass on, and land their forces in some part of the downs. 
The Spanish Armies project.  But, as some of the Spanish prisoners reported, their principal project was upon the River of Thames, where they might on each shore land their men, and by passing up the River surprise the City of London the Metropolis of the kingdom, whether the lesser vessels might follow them, seeing that London not strong, but rich, mighty, and populous, and the inhabitants thereof unacquainted with war, might at the first encounter be easily terrified. They did likewise hope that the Queen should be badly obeyed, and that some discontented faction might arise of Roman Catholics. According to their instruction and commission they went forward, often advertising the Duke of Parma of their arrival and intention, and so upon the thirtieth of julie they passed Plymouth. The English forthwith followed and got the wind of them, by which means they might assail the Spanish fleet, & themselves not be assailed by it, so that the two fleets made towards one another. The next day being the one and thirtieth of julie, the English came within musket shot of the Spanish fleet: The English admiral thundered with his ordnance upon the Spanish Vice-Admiral, who perceiving themselves to be greatly annoyed by the English Canon, fell into a close form of an half moon, hoisting their sails but half mast high, because they would not fall soul one of an other. Anon, one of the Galleasses was sore oppressed by certain ships, 
The fleet abandons D. Pedro Valdez his ship which bade spent her most on the 31 of june.  and their battle so assailed, as the chief Gallion of Sicily, wherein was D. Pedro Valdez, which D. Basco de Sylva, and D. Alonzo de Sayas with divers other noble men, broke her mast against another ship, so as she could not follow, and the fleet would not stay to rescue her, but left her behind. The English Admiral looking on Valdez ship, and supposing that there were no men in her, went on with as many ships as he had near him, being loath by night to lose the fleet. For Sir Francis Drake who that night carried the lantern gave chase to five great ships divided from the fleet, and finding them to be Merchants of Norway let them go; so as the English Admiral, did all that night, follow the Spanish lantern, thinking himself among his own men, and in the morning finding that he was in the midst of his enemies, he withdrew himself from so great danger. The morrow after, which was the first of August, Sir Francis Drake met with Valde● ship wherein himself and four hundred and fifty men were, and sent to hale her. Valdez for his own honour would have propounded certain conditions, which he sent to Drake; who answered that he would not spend the time in treaties, but if he would yield he should find favour: and on the contrary, if he would fight, he should find him a soldier. Valdez and his people, perceiving that they were fallen into Drakes hands, and moved by report of his fame, yielded themselves and found favour. Valdez with his gentlemen and some forty or fifty followers, went aboard Drake, and the rest were carried to Plymouth where they remained a year and half, till they had paid their ransom or were exchanged for others.  
Valdez coming into Drakes presence kissed his hands, & told him that they had all resolved to die, if they had not been so happy to fall into his hands, whom he knew to be noble and courteous, and famous for dealing well with his vanquished enemy, so as he doubted whether his enemies had more cause to love him for his valour, or fear him for his fortunate exploits, which had already attained to the highest degree. Sir Francis Drake did courteously embrace him, and caused him to eat at his own Table and sleep in his own cabin, where Valdez reported unto him their strength, how that the four Galleys were dispersed, & that they had thought to have entered the haven of Plymouth, without fear of the English Navy, which they supposed durst not have made resistance, and so have become masters at sea: They likewise admired the valour of the English, who durst with so few & small vessels approach their invincible Navy, & get the wind of it, with other such like discourses. Valdez and his followers were afterward carried into England: he was a man much respected in his country, kinsman to the same Valdez who in an. 1573 had besieged Leyden in Holland. In his ship some of the king's treasure was, amounting to the sum of 55000 Ducats in silver, which was all pillaged.  
The same day, the Vice-admiral Oquendo his ship was fired, where was great store of powder and munition, all the upper deck was burnt, with all the men, of whom few were saved It was taken and carried into England with many men in her, half burnt, and yet all the powder which was in hold was saved, which was a matter to be admired. In the mean time the English Lord Admiral in his ship called the Ark had that night so far followed the Spaniards, as in the morning he found himself in a manner alone in the midst of his enemies, so as it was four a clock after noon ere all his fleet came up to him. Some say that D. Hugo de Moncada General of the four Galleasses did at the same time with great earnestness entreat the Duke of Medina to give him leave to board the Lord Admiral, which the Duke would in no sort permit being loath to pass the bounds of his Commission.  
Tuesday, the second of August, the fleet being before Portland, the wind turned to the North, so, as the Spaniards had a prosperous gale; but the English did again get the wind of them, their ships being lighter and of better sail. By this means the Spaniards than seemed more to incline to fight than before; & to speak truth, that days fight was most fierce and bloody. In the midst of the fight the English Admiral cried out aloud to Captain George Semmer, saying, o George what dost thou, wilt thou now forsake me, or wilt thou deceive my opinion of thy valour? which words did so inflame him, as he assailed the enemy so furiously, as that day he won greatest commendation. But the English having with all sorts of ordnance sought with them from morning, & yet ceased not, the Spaniards did again enclose themselves in order of battle, whereby their enemies perceived that they only sought means to defend themselves, and to go to their appointed place near to Dunkirk, there to join with the Duke of Parma, who under protection of those great vessels might execute his design with more safety. In this fight a great Venetian Argozey perished.  
The English fleet in the mean time did daily increase & grew strong by ships and men that came to it forth of all havens, seeking to win honour, and to do good service to their Country, among whom were divers noble men, and others of great note, as the Earls of Oxford, Cumberland, & Northumberland, of Knights, Sir Thomas Cecil, William Hatton, Walter Raleigh, Horacio Palavicino, Gentlemen, Henry Brooke, Robert Carie, Charles Blunt, Ambrose Willoughby, Henry Nowell, Thomas Gerard, Robert Dudley, Edward Darcy, Arthur Gorges, Thomas Wood, William Harvey, & many other noble gentlemen, so as they were in number some hundred sail, & being come near to Dover they were increased to an 120, which for the most part were too small to board the Spaniards, except some twenty two of the Queen's great ships. The mariners and soldiers amounted to the number of eleven thousand men.  
The third of August, 
The 3 of August  the Sea being calm and without wind, the fight was only betwixt the English & the Galleasses, which were rowed with oars & therein had the vantage, but it did them small good. The English were busied in making Chain shot wherewith to cut a sunder their oats, & tacking, they likewise sent a shore for more powder which they extremely wanted, having at the beginning spent much in vain, of which they afterwards complained.  
The same day a Council was held, wherein was resolved, That the English fleet should be divided into four squadrons, the one under my Lord Admiral's conduct, the other under Sir Francis Drakes, the third under Hawkins, & the fourth under Captain Frobiser. The Spanish ships in sailing kept a close order of 3 or 4 ships in rank, not far one from another, and the greater vessels enclosed them.  
The fourth of August, 
The 4 of August  the fleet being come before the Isle of Wight, the English Lord Admiral did fiercely assail the Spaniards, with his best ships, as the Lion wherein was the Lord Thomas Howard, now Earl of Suffolk, the Elizabeth jonas, wherein were the Lord Sheffield, and Sir Robert Southwell the Lord Admiral's son in law, the Bear; and Victory, commanded by john Hawkins, and the Gallion Leycester by Captain George Fenner: All these made up directly towards the Spanish Admiral who with the greatest part of his ships lay in the midst of the fleet, where a fierce fight was begun, for being within 3 or 400 paces near to one another, they gave each other their broad sides, and discharged all their ordnance: at last, the Spaniards got the wind and once again joined themselves together. In the mean time Martin Frobiser Captain of the Triumph, with some few others, had bravely performed a dangerous fight with the Spaniards; the Admiral came to rescue him, and found that he had valiantly behaved himself, and made a discreet retreat, without any great loss.  
So as the next day (being the fist of August) 
The 5 of August  the Admiral knighted him and divers others  
Saturday, 
The sixth of August they came to an anchor before Calais.  the 6 of August, towards night, the Spaniards came to an anchor before Calais: it seemed they resolved to stay there to join with the Duke of Parma's forces. The next day, being the seventh of August, the moon was at full, so that at twelve a clock it was full sea at Calais, and at eleven at Dunkirk.  
The English likewise ankored within Canon shot of them, whether the Lord Henry Seymer brought his fleet of twenty vessels.  
Whilst the fleet lay there, the Duke of Medina sent advertizement to Parma, & divers Gentlemen went on shore to refresh themselves, & among others, the Prince of Ascoli, a brave young Lord, who (as some say) was base son to King Philip, who went to land in a happy hour, because the ship wherein he came from Spain did within a while after perish in Ireland with all her men.  
The Duke of Parma having intelligence that the fleet lay upon the coast of England, made great haste to make one in person in that enterprise, resigning the government general of the Country to old Count Mansfelt: Himself went on Pilgrimage into Haynault to our Lady of halls, and from thence returned towards Bruges, where he arrived on the seventh of August. The next day, riding towards Dunkirk where his ship tarried for him, he heard the report of the Canon betwixt the two fleets, and the same night coming to Dixmuyde, he had intelligence of the success.  
On Tuesday the ninth of August about noon, he came to Dunkirk, even when the fleet was already past, none of his Ships daring to go forth to give them the least hope of aid, because they were afraid of the thirty five Hollanders that lay in guard under the conduct of the Admiral justine of Nassau, which were excellently provided of good mariners, and beside the ordinary soldiers, with 1200 brave musketeers, and lay only there to keep Parma's fleet from issuing out of the Haven, which was a matter of greatest importance. As for the great ships, they feared them not, because the Sea was too shallow in those parts: Beside, all Parma's forces were not ready nor embarked, only 700 revolted English under Sir William Stanleys' command were shipped, and thought to get the advantage by landing first in England: His other soldiers were male content and unwilling, especially the mariners who were few in number, the provision likewise of Beer, Bread and victuals was not yet ready nor embarked: The mariners were so afraid of the Hollanders as they ran away daily, fearing lest the soldiers would enforce them to do that which they knew could not be done. Then they wanted Galleys from Spain, which might have beaten the Hollanders from the coasts of Flaunders.  
The Spanish fleet lying thus at anchor before Calais, the better to consult with the Duke of Parma concerning their enterprise, they concluded to execute their design on Friday the twelfth of August, 
The stratagem of the English on the 7 of August, to drive the Spaniards from an anchor.  the night being dark. The Admiral of England with the chief of his Council determined to enforce them to weigh anchor, and to be gone or else to burn their fleet, whereupon, they appointed eight of their unserviceablest vessels to be filled with wild fire and other combustious matter, charging the ordnance in them up to the mouth with small shot, nails, and stone, which on Sunday, the seventh of August, in the afternoon, they sent with the wind and tide (after that the men that were in them had forsaken and fired them) directly upon the Spanish fleet, which fire did in the night so terrify them (supposing them to be some of those internal ships full of powder and wild fire with the Ingeveer Frederic jonibelli had made use of some three years before at antwerp, against the Prince of Parma's bridge over the Scheld) as crying out, The fire of antwerp, the fire of antwerp, they presently cut their cables, and in confusion did put to Sea.  
In this amazement, 
The galliass of D. Hago de Moncada, upon the sands before Calais.  the Captain of the great galliass fell soul of the cables of another ship and lost her tudder, and being not able to sail without it, was carried by the force of the Sea upon the sands just before Calais, whether it was pursued by certain English Pinnaces, which played upon her with their ordnance, but durst not board her; which the Lord Admiral perceiving sent his great Pionace with two hundred soldiers under the command of Captain Preston, who all of them together boarded the galliass, where the General D. Hugo de Moncada made brave defence for a while, hoping of some succour from land; but at last he was shot in the head and slain, and divers other Spaniards with him, part of whom leapt into the Sea thinking to escape by swimming, who were all drowned. The visitor General D. Antonio de Manriques with some others escaped, and carried the first news home into Spain. This great galliass wherein were three hundred slaves, and four hundred soldiers, was for three hours pillaged, wherein fifty thousand Ducats of the Kings were found. The English would at last have burnt her; but Gor●●n, the Governor of Calais, would not permit it, as a matter tending to the hurt and prejudice of his Town and Haven, and with his canon played upon the English.  

Fight, before graveling on ● the 8. of August  The same day, being the eight of August, as the Spanish fleet sell again into order, it was again fiercely assailed by the English, right over against graveling, where they voluntarily lost their advantage of the wind, choosing rather to let the wind drive them before Dunkirk, than to open themselves or change their order, resolving only on defence.  
Though the English had gallant tall ships, yet but 22 or 23 of them were comparable to the Spanish, which were ninety. But the English had the advantage by being lighter & better of sail: so, as they came oftentimes within a pikes length of them and discharged their whole tire of ordnance upon them, and then their small shot, continuing it the whole day, till their powder and shot began to fail; and then, they held it no discretion to board the Spaniards who still kept themselves together in close order, the English being satisfied with chase them from before Calais and Dunkirk, and keeping them from joining with the Duke of Parma.  
The Spaniards the same day, received much hurt, losing many men, and had divers of their ships shot through: They likewise with their ordnance played fiercely upon the English, but did them no great hurt, 
The English receive small loss  for they lost few men, and never a Ship or man of note; and in all that time, and in the whole journey, they lost but an hundred men, and yet Sir Francis Drakes ship had been shot above forty times, and his cabin twice shot through: And towards the end of the fight, a Gentleman's bed whereupon he rested himself, being weatie, was taken from under him by a great shot: And as the Earl of Northumberland, and Sir Charles' Blunt, afterwards Lord Mountioy, and Master Henry Nowell sat at meat, a demie Culverins shot flew through the cabin, and overthrew 2 men. The like accidents happened in other ships which would be tedious to recite, yet it appears that God did wonderfully assist the English: For as the Lord Admiral wrote to the Queen, there was no likelihood that the English (in man's judgement) and according to the appearance of the circumstances should have dared to approach the Spaniards, but that God had an admirable hand therein, unto whom they willingly ascribed all the honour of their magnanimity and valour, for that he had confounded their enemies in their own devices and counsel.  
The same day, so many Spanish ships were shot through, as that night and the next day three of them sank. Among others Captain Cross fought with and sank a great Biscan ship, forth of which some few escaped, who reported that the chief in the ship flew one another, because one among than spoke of yielding, who thereupon was slain, and his death presently revenged by his brother, and in the mean time the ship sunk under him.  
Two Galleons of Portugal of seven or eight hundred tun a piece, were the same night forsaken by the fleet, viz the S. Philip, and S. Matthew, which had very great leaks in them. In the S. Philip was D. Francisco de Toledo, brother to the Earl of Orgas, Camp master, or Colonel of 32 ensigns, with other Gentlemen, who sought to run a ground on the coasts of Flaunders, their masts being broken; but being not able to do it, the chief of them escaped in a boat to Newport, and the ship was taken by the Flushingers.  
In the S. Matthew was the camp-master D. Diego, Colonel General likewise of 32 ensigns, and brother to the marquess of Tannares, with many other Gentlemen and Captains. This ship was none of the greatest, but most strong, for only twenty shot of infinite numbers that played upon her, did pierce her. In the sight before graveling it was shot, and received a leak, whereupon the Captain sent word thereof to the Duke of Medina, who sent him a boat for himself & some of the chief to escape, which for his own honour he refused: the same night she took in such abundance of water, as fifty men did continually ply the pomp to keep her from sinking, and finding herself forsaken of her Admiral the Captain sought to run her a ground upon the coast of Flaunders, and for saving his own life, craved the help of poor Fishermen. But being descried by four or five men of war that lay upon the coast, they made towards him, haling him up, and willing him to yield, which he refusing, they discharged all their ordnance upon him, and slew above forty men, so as he was enforced to yield himself prisoner to Peter Ʋander Does, who carried the said vessel and the other likewise into Zealand, 
Peter Ʋander Does takes D. Diego Fimentell prisoner, & carries his ship into Zealand.  which afterward through carelessness and negligence sank. The said Peter Ʋander Does, a very notable man, did for a perpetual memory cause a banner of an exceeding length which he had taken forth of one of these ships to be hung up in the great Church of Leyden where he was Scowt, which teached from the very roof down to the ground, and yet the banner was half folded up.  
another lesser ship was likewise enforced to run a shore at the same time near to Blanken burrow in Flaunders; but Sir john Conway governor of Ostend with those of his Garrison, seeing this ship, sent three fisher boats thither well manned, who perceiving that the Spaniards were gone forth of her, & that they had landed two pieces of ordnance, enforced the Spaniards to quit them, and pillaged the vessel, and carried it to Ostend.  
In this manner it pleased God not only to show unto England, but likewise to Zealand, their enemies great vessels, to have them see and confess how weak they were against so great a power, had not he given them discretion and courage, and in sundry manner fought for them.  

The 8 of August the Spanish fle●● 〈◊〉 on fight.  The same Monday (the eight of August) the Spanish fleet, being thus assailed, it resolved, seeing they had sufficiently discharged their Commission, to return homewards, & to that end the whole fleet passed on with half sail before Dunkirk, to whom the English with a south-west wind gave chase. And the morrow after, being onward on their way, they clapped on more sails, making no show as if they were desirous to fight but only of flight; so as the Lord Henry Seymer sent back the lesser vessels, to assist the Hollanders, to keep in the Prince of Parma's forces, and himself with the greater ships gave them chase till the eleventh and twelfth of August, not fight with him because he wanted powder and shot, fearing lest they should go into Scotland.  
But the 12 of August, the wind waxing high, and the Spaniards making way with full sails taking their course Northward towards Norwey, leaving Scotland on the left hand, making show only of flight, exposing themselves to so dangerous a navigation being already come to six and twenty degrees and seventeen minutes; 
The English on the 12 of August give over pursuing, the Spanish fleet.  the English would not share with them in their danger, who wanting all manner of provision, especially powder and shot, returned towards England, leaving only some small vessels to follow them, & to give notice what course they held, & so arrived at Harwich, on the fourteenth of August, with great danger, a mighty tempest arising which lasted two or three days, which undoubtedly did great harm to the Spaniards.  
The English did presently make provision of victuals, powder, shot, and other necessaries, to be in readiness upon any occasion: But having intelligence of the Spaniards course, they resolved not to go seek them out in Northern Seas, but to leave them to the mercy of the winds.  
In those Seas, the Spaniards took a fisher boat of Zealand, with twelve men in her, belonging to Zirickzee, who were brought a board the Admiral the Duke of Medina to serve him, and suffered the boat to go at adventure: These fishermen went into Spain, and afterwards returned home, & reported that whilst the English fleet pursued the Spaniards, they saw them ready to hang forth a white flag, 
The Spanish fleet in dessaire.  to crave a parley or else to yield; fearing the passage of those Northern Seas. But certain Clergy men, near the Duke, (who should have been most timorous) crossed it, saying that it would dishonour them to yield so easily, without one fight more; but perceiving themselves to be no more pursued, they gave over that resolution.  
The said Fishermen did likewise report that in the Duke's ship there was a place so well fortified, as it was canon prose, wherein during the fight, the Duke with ten more retired themselves: That there were 1200 men in her, 300 of whom were dead and hurt, and that they had seen 18 chests full of money to be unshipt in Biscay, which (as they said) were stuffed with double pistolets.  
In this manner the Spanish Navy, perceiving that it had already lost four of five thousand men, had many that were sick and wounded, that it likewise wanted ten or twelve of their chief ships, went to counsel (after that the English had left them) what was best to be done; & perceiving that they wanted victuals, water, tackling, cables, masts, sails and such like things, and despairing of the Prince of Parma's aid, who (firmly believing that they would return) continued his preparations, they resolved (seeing the wind served them) to return homeward by the North, round about England, Scotland and Ireland.  
And understanding that order was likewise taken in Scotland that small aid should be given them there, and that Norway could yield them but bad assistance; they took certain fisher boats in Scotland, and carried away the men to serve them for pilots and fearing to want water, they threw all their horse and mules into the Sea, & so sailing with a fair wind they passed on betwixt the Orcadeses & the farthest part of Scotland, landing in no place, & bent their course Northward to the height of 62 degrees, still keeping 80 leagues from land.  
There the Duke of Medina (the General) gave commandment that every ship should direct her course towards Biscay, and himself with twenty or five and twenty of the best ships provided with all necessaries, sailed more to Sea ward and so arrived in Spain; but the others, to the number of forty sail or more, with the Vice-admiral bent their course towards Ireland, hoping there to take in water, and to refresh themselves. But the God of Armies, who abateth the pride of great ones, & raiseth up the humble, and hath all authority over his creatures, who commandeth the Seas, winds and tempests, caused the Sea to swell and a terrible tempest to arise on the first of September, from the south-west, which dispersed them for the most part into sundry places of Ireland, where many of them perished, and among others the Gallion of Michael of Oquendo, one of the great Galleasses, two great Venetian Argozies, the Ratta, and the Balanrara, with divers others to the number of 38 sail, and all their men. Some of them with a westerly wind came again into the English Seas; & some others into England, and other some were taken by the Rochellers.  
One great galliass, the tempest carried into France to Newhaven, where they found ships full of women who had followed the fleet: There remained two likewise in Norwey, but the men escaped. To conclude, of one hundred four and thirty sail that came from Spain, some three and fifty of all sorts returned home, to wit, of four Galleasses, and as many Galleys, there returned of each, one; of ninety one great Galleons, eight and fifty were lost, and thirty three returned; of Pinnaces, seventeen were lost, and eighteen returned: So that in all, fourscore and one Galleasses, Galleys, and other Ships great and small perished. Two of those Galleons that returned home, lying in the Haven, were by casualty set on fire and burnt, and others since then met with the like mischief.  
Of 30000 men, that were in the fleet, the greatest part of them were slain or drowned, and most of those that returned home died, by reason of the miseries they had endured.  
The Duke of Medina Sydonia being a brave Lord and well experienced, upon whom they had imposed that burden much against his will, laid the fault upon his Pilots, and on want of the Duke of Parma's forces which were not ready.  
He was suffered to go home to his own house, but not to come to Court, where it was thought he had much to do to purge himself from the calumnious accusation of his enemies. Many other noble men died soon after, as D. ivan Martin's de Ricaldo, D. Diego de Valdez, Michael Oquendo, D. Alonso de Lieva, D. Diego de Maldonado, D. Francisco Bovadillo, D. Georgio Manriques, all of the Council of war. divers were drowned, as among other, Thomas Perenot of Granuell of Cauteroy, nephew to Cardinal Granuell. D. Diego Pimentel camp-master, and Colonel of thirty two Ensigns remained prisoner in Zealand, with divers others, taken in the same ship. D. Pedro Valdez a man much respected in his Country was prisoner in England, with D. Vasco de Sylva, and D. Alonzo de Sayas. Many Gentlemen were drowned in Ireland, and many slain by the Irish. Sir Richard Bingham Governor of Conach, had received two hundred of them to mercy, but understanding that a troup of 800 of them were landed and in arms, he thought it fit for his own better safety to kill the 200, of whom some escaping, carried tidings to the 800 who were likewise going to crave mercy (as they said) but thereby despairing, they returned and made ready an old decayed, vessel in which they put to Sea, where they were all drowned, and many Gentlemen with them. Yet, D. Alonso de Luson, Colonel of thirty two ensigns of the Tertios of Naples, with D. Rodrigo de Lasso, and two noble men of the house of Corduba were from thence sent into England, who were delivered to Sir Horace Paluicin, by them to set the Lord Odet of Teligin at liberty, who had been taken near to Antuepe, and lay in prison in the Castle of Tournay. In a word, therere was no noble house in Spain, which in this fleet, lost not, either, a son, brother, or kinsman. There were above 1200 soldiers and mariners, prisoners in sundry places in England, with 30 Gentlemen and commanders, whom the Queen released for mean ransom.  
Those ships, which escaped from the English and Hollanders, and from the Irish rocks and tempests of the Ocean, being few in number, did after much labour, misery and danger, return into Spain, leaving behind them (as hath been already said) so many ships of sundry sorts, so many Lords of note, gentlemans, brave soldiers, good mariners, and others, such store of ordnance and warlike munition, money, plate, jewels and other wealth, which if it should be severally reckoned, would amount to an incredible sum of money. But by how much this fleet was great, strong and potent, by so much more likewise was the victory great, and greater occasions have these two countries to be thankful to that great and invincible God, to honour and serve him all the days of their life, for preserving and defending them from so great danger. In this regard, the Queen of England and my Lords the States of the united Provinces, did, whilst the fleet hovered upon their coasts appoint sundry days of prayer and fasting, beseeching God to turn away so great & imminent danger from them and their country, and not to look upon their sins which had deserved such a punishment, but to aid and assist them for the glory of his name, and for or jesus Christ's sake, seeing it was his own cause, which the Pope and King of Spain sought to exterminat. And because these prayers were made to God's glory, and in praise of his invincible power, he therefore heard them, and granted their requests.  
And a good while after the fleet was gone, namely upon the 19 of November, the Queen in England, and my Lords the States in the Low-countries, appointed a solemn day for thanksgiving, which was spent in preaching, praying, and hearing the word of God.  
The Queen of England, for so great a deliverance, made a Christian triumph in the city of London, and went with all the Lords and officers of her Kingdom in solemn manner upon a triumphant Chariot from her Palace to the Cathedral Church of Saint Paul, where the Spanish ensigns and banners were hung up. The citizens of London in their liveries stood on both sides the street as she passed along. Her majesty and Lords, gave thanks unto God, and were present at a public Sermon made in the Churchyard, tending only to thanksgiving and so with great acclamations of people that besought God to grant her a long and prosperous life to his honour and ruin of her enemies, she returned in the same manner as she came.  
In this manner did this magnificent, great, and mighty Armada, termed, the invincible, and such an one as in many hundred of years the like had not been seen upon the Ocean, vanish into air, to their great confusion which sent it forth in ann 1588. Whereupon, the Queen of England was congratulated by all Princes, her friends and neighbours, and many millions of verses composed in her honour.   

The Prince of Parma in 1588. besiegeth Berghen-op-Zoom: And raiseth his siege and departeth the same year.  
BErghen-op-Zoom, is a Town in the Duchy of Brabant, the first and chiefest of the 17 Provinces in the Low-countries.  
In time past it was but a signory, but in anno 1533 the Emperor Charles the fist honoured it with the title of Marquisat. It is the first Town which ye leave upon the left hand as ye go from Roomerswaell and Tholen (which are towns of Zealand) towards antwerp. It hath been a Merchant Town, not only in our predecessors days, but there are yet some living that have so known it in their time, whether, Spaniards, Frenchmen, Almans, English, and Scots, came to traffic. It is seated in the midst of the mighty Nertherland Provinces, viz. of Brabant, Flaunders, Holland and Zealand. It i● not the least part of the first, for it is within six hours journey of antwerp, the chief Merchant City of the Province. The three other are opposite to it, viz. Flaunders, towards the South, Holland towards the North, and Zealand towards the West. It hath also a very good Haven, which divides the South Country from that of the North (for so are both the countries named, situate on each side of the Haven) which lieth but 535 foot from the town, where it turneth towards the West, and dividing itself into two arms it openeth itself & runneth into the town. One of the Arms, towards the South, serveth certain water mills and salt pits, which now are within the town, & that towards the North makes the towns Haven, Berghen is in circuit 10175 foot beside the Bulwarks: There is a very high earthen rampire, & dikes round about it, it is likewise in some places fortified with palisadoes, & in other parts which hedges & walls on top of the rampires: there are also divers new bulwarks made for the towns defence. And though it be now miserably disfigured by the breaking down of many fair and goodly houses, yet it hath at this day above 1000 that are inhabited, divers others, ruined by war are daily new built to be made haibtable: there are fair and large streets in it, 3 fair market places, the great market, fish market, and corn market; there is likewise a goodly Church in it.  
The Marquis his court, is a great ornament to it. The rich Cloister of Nuns is converted to an Hospital: for the honspital without the town together with other buildings were ruined in time of war.  
After that all Brabant (Berghen-op-Zoom excepted) by the duke of Parma's conduct was reduced under the Spanish government, the troops of his Excellency and my Lords the States made divers incursions into the country, especially then when the Duke of Parma had assembled all his forces at Dunkirk, there waiting for the Spanish fleet. Those of Brabant, Flaunders, and other provinces under the king's obedience, seeing and understanding the defeat of the Spanish Armada, and feeling to the quick the spoil which the soldiers of Berghen daily made, protested against the Duke of Parma, and made complaint that all the towns of Brabant obeyed the King (Berghen-op-Zoom excepted) which was a very nest of theeties and receptacle of rascals, from whence forces were daily sent to surprise poor travelers and merchants that brought provision: that the same mischief did likewise often light upon their Burghers, who were undone by imprisonment and great ransoms: yet this might in some sort be tolerated, provided, they might live securely in their Towns; but Be●ingh in the Country of Liege, Viluord, and Geldernack in Brabant could witness the contrary, having been taken and sacked: That by reason of Berghen, all the Villages were under contribution, and those that refused to pay it were burnt, their houses ransacked, cattle carried away, and themselves made prisoners. Yet, if the Duke of Parma would bring his victorious Camp before Berghen, wherewith he had won so many Towns, the enemies joy conceived by the retreat of the Spanish fleet would be soon converted to sorrow: And, Berghen once taken a way, would then lie open to surprise the Islands of Zealand one after an other; at least Berghen and the Isle of Terthole might be taken both at once. These were the Barbanders complaints. It is not to be doubted but that the Duke of Parma was much grieved at the flight of the Spanish fleet, and for that he could not swallow England which he had already devoured in conceit, as appears by the preparation which he carried with him to Dunkirk, serving rather to be carried away in triumph into England, than by force to surprise so mighty a kingdom. He was likewise badly beloved in the court of Spain, for not assisting the fleet in necessity. Now that he might in some sort wipe off this stain which blotted his reputation: he enterprised to reduce the town of Berghen under his command. From that time, divers reports thereof were currant, not only in the Low-countries but also in England: whereof her Majesty advertised my Lords the States by letters dated at Greenwich the seven and twentieth of August 1588. At the beginning of September when there was no more hope of the fleets return, and that the Duke of Parma was come back from Flaunders into Brabant, all men held it for certain that some attempt would be made upon Berghen.  
Certain horsemen of Bacx his company, sent forth for discovery, brought back with them two prisoners, who confidently reported that there was nothing more certain, than that Berghen should be besieged. One of the prisoners was a Gentleman, and an officer belonging to the ordnance; and the other was master of the munition: when our men took them near to Eckeren castle, and asked them whether they were going, they answered that they went to the king's camp that lay before Berghen. Being brought to the town, they assured us that all things were in readiness to besiege us: that before they were taken the army was on the march, and that they verily thought to have found it before the town, and wondered to find the contrary: they likewise affirmed, that there were 36000 men horse and foot in Parma's camp.  
The 9 of the said month of August the lord Willoughby, General of the English, came to Berghen, and had made Sir William Drury knight, governor of the town. The next day they mustered, & had in all 12 ensigns of foot, 9 of which lay in the town & the other 3 in the forts; besides 4 cornets of horse. The Dutch captains were Paul & Marcelis Bacx brethren, the English were commanded by captain Parker & captain Pooly who was cornet to my lord Willoughby: From Holland they received a certain quantity of powder. The Forts whereof we now spoke, are upon the haven; which being too far off from the towns defence, sundry Forts were made to secure it: For the havens mouth lieth 532; foot from the town: from S. james his gate, it extends 535 foot towards the North, and from thence falleth into the Scheld. In this turning stands the first, which is called the little Fort, because it is lesser than any of the rest. The other Fort lieth 3320 foot from the head, and is called Valkenbourg, by the first captains name that kept it: from thence ye go to the North Fort, distant from the Houdt-port two thousand nine hundred and sixty foot.  
In Southland near to Valkenbourg stands the new Fort, divided only from Valkenbourg by the Dike, and this Fort lies open behind. By a conduit they can empty the water of the Dike into the haven, or keep it in at their pleasure. From the new Fort they have made a new dike as far as the town, which is commonly called the new haven. Right over against the lesser Fort, the sluices of the haven of Northland were opened to keep the enemy from access to the North for't. The Lord Willoughby went into Holland to my Lords the States to take order for all necessary provisions for the town: But before his departure, he conferred with the Magistrate, and appointed the town to be divided into eight quarters, and every quarter to be commanded by a sheriff, to oversee the Burghers and to look that they laboured in the fortifying of those parts of the town that were weakest.  
The Burgomasters for that year were Francis Manteau, and Peter Suidlants: the Sheriffs were, William Francis the old Burgomaster, Cornelius john, Cornelius Denis, Mark Martin, Adrian john, john Clarke, and Cornelius of Heusden. The receivers were, Marin Nicholas the old Burgomaster, & Nicholas de Ranst. When the sheriffs upon important business could not oversee the workmen, than some of the chief Burghers of every quarter supplied their places.  
Four days after the Lord Willoughbies departure, the Burghers began at S. james his gate, as ye go from the head to the new work, making first a trench upon the bank or causey which leads from the same gate to the new haven. All along the hedge, which is planted from the powder tower to the wooden gate, fortifications were likewise made in manner of trenches, they did also labour very diligently, in other places. On the high way from Wouwe, some of the enemy's horse were descried, whereupon, the sentinel on the watch tower, rang the alarm bell. Sir William Drury the governor made a sally, and caused the enemy to retire. All the horse troops in the town followed the governor, who with those forces that sailed with him pursued the enemy even to Wouwe: part of the horse and foot, made a stand at the entering of the heath of Wouwe, and the Downs of Berghen. In the mean time the governor returned having lost one of his horsemen and two horse; for he went as far as the Churchyard of Wouwe, where he skirmished with many of the enemies. divers condemned this his attempt, saying, that he had greatly endangered himself and the town, by his too greedy desire of fight: For the enemy was superior to him in strength, and he had too far engaged himself to return with safety to the town, if the enemy should have assailed him. Returning from this sally, he caused the bridge at the Bulwark of Helstede to be broken down: for they that had undertaken the works, had made a bridge over the dike, to fetch earth from the hill of Varij-Bogaert to make an end of their work.  
Cornelius john, the city's sheriff, sent messengers from the commonalty of the town, into Zealand, to advertise my Lords the States, that the enemy threatened to besiege the town of Berghen, and to that end lay with his camp at Wouwe, and that the town was badly provided of necessaries for maintenance of a siege, and that therefore, the magistrates of Berghen besought them of aid and assistance in their necessity, as their neighbours and confederates; that the cause was common, for if Berghen should be lost the Islands of Zealand would be mightily endangered. The next day (which was the 14) a boat came from Zealand laden with planks and other necessaries.  
And because the States of Holland, Zealand, & those of the town of Dort, did, during the siege, carefully send provision of all necessaries to the town: In that regard I will truly say, that it was well provided of corn, butter, cheese, salt, herring, salt fish, hay, straw, oats, powder, planks, nails, lead, bullets, match, pike, oziertwigs to make gabions etc. The Zelanders sent five Culverins of Portugal, each of them carrying a bullet of 26 pound weight; they were of those which Peter Ʋander Does Vice-admiral of Holland found in the Gallion of D. Diego Pimentell, which he took near to Blankenberg, and brought to Flushing. The enemy's horse showing themselves again on the high way of Wouwe were soon put to flight by our men, because their number was not great. About the same time divers fires were seen betwixt Rosendael, & Calmthout, made by such as went from Calmthout towards Steenberghen to assemble all their forces to go and invade the land of Tertholen, 
Montigni attempts to enter the land of Tertholen.  as it afterwards appeared: For, the night before the 17 of September, great numbers of the enemy under the conduct of the Lord of Montigni, went along the bank called Matreben to a place called Eendrecht, meaning to surprise the Island. All the causey of Tertholen, especially where the water is so low as the river may be crossed, is fortified with a trench, and forts well manned with soldiers, are made in many needful places. The Count of Solms was governor of the Island: There where the enemy thought to pass is a large extent of ground, where on Tertholens side are 3 forts, the one Southward towards Tholen, called the Botshoost, that in the midst is called Papen-mutse, or priests cap, because it is square, and the third stretching Northward, is styled the new Weer, or passage. The water being low, certain ensigns attempted to pass over to the Fort of Papen-mutse: But the water was not so shallow as they imagined, and the current was very strong, so that divers of them were drowned and slain by our men's shot: some of them notwithstanding passed over, and being protected by the bank, made signs to their fellows to come over. But all this being to no purpose, because the rest of them fled away, they were enforced to take the water where they were all drowned. And as those which were in the water strived to pass over, their fellows who stood upon the causey on Brabant side, shot furiously upon those of the Island, yet they slew but one of our men, which was a common soldier of Berchens company, but the enemy lost 200 men. When the enemy first offered to pass over, there were scarce forty of our men to oppose them, but within a while after, Captain Lagro of Tholen came thither with his company. And though those of the Island had fortunately repelled the enemy, yet they thought not themselves free from danger, knowing that he had not idly made that attempt, but that he intended to surprise the Isle of Tholen, thereby to molest those of Berghen, together with all Zealand, assuring themselves that it would not be long ere he returned again, and perhaps the next night following. And because they wanted men, to furnish all places, they requested those of Berghen to send Adrian Guillaume, and George Brissaulx with three hundred men under their command to them. This Adrian Guillaume had in the first wars of Zealand been Admiral of Ziericzee, and was then Lieutenant General to Count Solms, over all the forces of Zealand: Brissaulx was son to james Brissaulx, a very good & religious man, who in former time had been Burgomaster of Bruges. These two were sent from the States of Zealand to Berghen, so soon as they understood that the enemy meant to march towards the Town.  
The nineteenth of September the Drossart returned from Amsterdam where he had bought great store of planks and other necessaries fit for fortification: 
An officer, so named, for which we in English can give no proper name.  For besides his place of Drossart (which next to the Marquis is the highest degree in Berghen) the fortifying of the town and sorts was committed to him. His name was Elias Lion, son to Doctor Albert Lion, a very learned man, who for the space of four and twenty years, had been chief professor of the civil law at Lovayne, and was at that time Chancellor of Guelderland, and chief Counsellor to my Lords the general States of the united Provinces. The night following, being the 20 of September, the enemy came to Raberch, and about noon returned to Wouwe: Nothing at that time was done on either side, for it rained all that night, and likewise at noon after the enemy's departure. The Magistrates sent certain commissioners into Holland and Zealand to my Lords the States, to acquaint them with the state of the Town, and to crave aid. Cornelius john, the towns sheriff, went to Zealand, and Adrian Guillaume, the Secretary, into Holland. The two and twentieth of the said month, by day break, there was an alarm, the trumpets sounded, drum's were beaten, and the alarm bell was rung: For the governor had assembled a troup of soldiers to reinforce the morning guard, because the enemy was wont to make his attempts about that time when the guard is most drowsy; wherewith he had not acquainted the horsemen who had the guard upon the market place. Some of them going through the streets, met with these soldiers, and demanded who they were, and whether they went, but one among them giving a discourteous answer, they returned to their officers acquainting them therewith: they not knowing the matter, and thinking all was not well, did presently give the alarm. The governor took this in bad part, and complained to the Captains of the wrong done unto him therein, seeing his soldiers were assembled by his commandment. The Captains of the horse answered they were ignorant that it was done by his command, and that they ought to have been made acquainted therewith, in regard of the state of the Town: Thereupon proclamation was made, that none should dare to ring the alarm bell without express charge from the governor.  
The next day, the soldiers spoiled General Fremins baggage: He, had been governor of Wouwe Castle, and about a certain quarrel that arose betwixt him and a Merchant of the same Castle, came into Holland to complain to my Lords the States, to have him cassierd, and likewise to make provision of all necessaries for keeping of the said Fort. The States had given him great store of musket and faulconet bullets, match and barrels of powder. But before the said Fremins return, the Merchant had already driven all those forth of the Castle which took Fremins part, and had secretly made an accord with the enemy. Within a while after, about the seventeenth of januarie 1589, he sold the castle to the enemy for 20000 crowns, and himself retired into France. Until then, Fremin had carefully kept all these things: But as he was ready to depart and had shipped all, the soldiers who had an inkling thereof, thinking they had found a just cause of excuse (because it was against the law of Arms to carry away such things forth of towns besieged) seized on all the munition, together with his own goods and made booty of it, being nevertheless enforced to restore back the greatest and best part thereof. The next day after, the enemy was discovered upon the highway from Wouwe, marching directly towards the town. Our horse and foot made a sally upon him: but as they approached the Downs of Berghen, the enemy turned upon the right hand and went along the sandy way towards Riselberg and Nortgeest, where he encamped. And because the water of the channel, which some did improperly term the river of Zoom, was kept in by the sluices of the women's gate and that of Steenberghen, all the fields betwixt Wouwes' gate, and that of the women were drowned, so as none could go from Wouwes' gate to the North quarter. Our men returned again to the town, and sallied forth at Steenberghen gate with displayed ensigns, alluring the enemy to fight, who had enclosed himself in his camp.  
The morrow after, he encamped towards the South, extending his camp from S. Gertrudes hill as far as the vale, therein comprehending Burghuliet, Zudgeest, the Raberg, and part of Berghens wood, which lies Eastward from the town. The Raberg is so termed, because that Rat in the Dutch tongue signifieth a wheel whereon malefactors are broken and executed; and upon that hill execution was commonly done. The enemy within a day or two alter his arrival, burned the gallows upon the hill, Southward from the town, as ye go towards antwerp. S. Gertrude is worshipped by superstitious people, because (as they say) she preserves them from rats and mice. In former times she was patroness of the town, and it is said, that she was Lady of the whole country of Berghen: Her chapel, which in time passed stood upon the hill near to the drowned country of Southland, gave it that name. The vale is part of the arable grounds which lie betwixt the wood, town and champain country, extending itself, partly towards the West, and in part towards Wouwes' gate: The Southgeest is an high place, and Burghuliet was a village, where a castle stood which was burnt by the French (as hath been said.) Those of Tholen had placed thirty men in the castle of Halteten, which took it name from the village, not that they thought them strong enough to resist the enemy, but only to serve for Sentinels to those of the Island, and to give them notice of the enemy's approach. The soldiers, being threatened by the enemy, yielded up the castle on safety of their lives and goods. The same day, two horsemen were slain with the canon from Reigers-tower: one of them was a man of note, and was afterwards buried at antwerp with 800 torches.  
About the same time we received supplies from all parts. My Lords the States, notwithstanding that the Isle of Tholen was to be provided for, sent us great numbers of Hollanders and Scots Those of Flushing, Briell, and Ostend, sent us store of choice soldiers. There came likewise fourscore men from Gertrudenbergh, conducted by an English captain called Brock: these men had forsaken the States pay, and served among the English▪ Besides all this, six ensigns of foot came to us from England, about the first of November. So that the number of soldiers which at the beginning of the siege were in all, both horse and foot, but one thousand five hundred, as appeared by the muster rolls, did before the enemy's departure amount to five thousand. The Captains of the horsemen perceiving the enemy to be encamped, thought it necessary to make some sally forth upon him whilst they might do it, telling the governor, Sir William Drury, that it behoved them, now at first, to give the enemy some affront, and that it would greatly disgrace them, if they should not make some proof of their valour. But others, of a contrary opinion, said, that every victory was uncertain: and that if they should chance to be vanquished by the enemy, it would greatly endanger the Town: and that if themselves should overcome, the enemy might easily bear that loss: that they had to do with a mighty and victorious enemy: that it was true that sallies are commonly thought prejudicious to the besieged, but it was only in such places where the enemies were few in number, and where the besiege might in such sort be shut in by the enemy, as he could not easily receive new supplies: but our numbers were great enough, and we might daily receive fresh supplies from the united Provinces, by means of the commodiousness of our haven. Captain Paul Bacx made answer, We likewise, are not ignorant (quoth he) how it behoves▪ us to deal wisely therein: we know very well that the enemy hath a mighty and victorious camp, and many men; we likewise have often made trial what soldiers they are. But if it shall not please the governor to grant the demands of the Captains of the horse, for my part, let this mighty and victorious enemy make his approaches, and at last (for I will use his own words) come and draw us by the ears one by one forth of the town into his camp. This speech being not allowed of by many, he went his way without any further talk. But the governor called him back, together with the rest that were there present, and said, seeing your request tends to the good and preservation of the Town, I will no longer deny it. Then every man went and armed himself, no drum was beaten nor trumpet sounded, to call the troops together, but each man gave notice to his fellow, of the sally, and forthwith, at the hour appointed, they were all ready together. A Gentleman of Holland, whose name was Vchtenbreck, cornet to captain Paul Bacx, was sent forth to draw the enemy into the field betwixt the camp & town, he was seconded by 14 or 15 arquebusiers, who went altogether towards the camp. Near to the town dikes there is a low way which stretcheth from Steenberghen gate as far as Helst point, and it is overlooked by the hill of Varigobart, which ends near to this point, and there makes a valley. The lancers went this way towards the said valley, holding down their lances, keeping them from the enemy's sight who was encamped on the Rijsselberg, and Northgeest. 
Those of the town make a sally upon the enemy.  The Harquebuziers of Marcelis Bacx kept themselves close to the lancers. Captain Paul Bacx, and his brother, led the vanguard, being followed by the lord Willoughbies cornet, & captain Parker. The enemy having descried this small troup, coming with Vchtenbroeck, sent certain musketeers to encounter them. In the field where Vchtenbroeck and his soldiers lay, there were many hedges which divided one field from another; these did the said musketeers make good; and whilst they skirmished with Vchtenbroeck, our men which were behind Varibogart hill perceived it, &, being very glad of so fair an occasion, rod a full gallop upon the enemy, sound their trumpets, and with their swords and lances every man did his best. The musketeers were beaten from their shelter, and were enforced to quit their arms, and to crave that they might be taken prisoners: many of them were slain, and many taken, for they were so encompassed by our men, as they could not escape. 
Certain of the enemy's musketeers are defeated.  The enemy taking pity on his people, sent three cornets of horse to rescue them, who were soon put to rout by the two brethren Bacx that led the vanguard, and enforced to retire to Rijsselberg, from whence they saw their musketeers slain and taken prisoners. During the fight certain prisoners were sent into the town, among whom was a young gentleman, Nephew to that Groesbeke who in former time had been bishop of Liege, surnamed Amsterode, and was Lieutenant general to a Regiment of Almans, who had received a great wound in the face. Our men determined to return back to the town so soon as they should have executed some notable enterprise upon the enemy, not meaning to tarry till the whole force of the camp should fall upon them, being too weak to resist; and to speak truly, they had won honour enough and might freely have returned with their prisoners in triumph: which they had done▪ but for captain Parker's courageous resolution, who could not be satisfied with the flight of the enemy's horse, which at their ease beheld the usage of their own men; so as charging them in a place where they had great advantage, he repulsed them once or twice; but as himself was likewise constrained to retreat to the hill, where the enemy stood, to drive them thence, where the whole camp was by this time in arms, and the enemy's cavalry receiving both new aid, and courage, making a fierce charge upon him, he and his troup were in danger either to have been oppressed with multitude, or to have been taken prisoners: thrice did the enemy lay hold on Parker, and thrice did he free himself from them, and bravely defended himself with his sword. The brethren Bacx, and captain Poolie, perceiving the danger wherein captain Parker was, and being spurred forward by a desire of honour, galloped into the thickest throng of the enemies, making more account of the preservation of so brave a soldier, than of any gain, booty, or prisoners: so that seventy prisoners who had been taken at the beginning of the fight, and were not yet carried into the town, were in all hast slain, yet some escaped. The arrival of our men opened Parker a large way to escape from the enemy: whilst they were busied in fight, the Lord Willoughby and the General Wilford came from Holland, who without entering into any house sallied forth with great numbers of foot to rescue the horse, who after they had bravely executed their enterprise, returned towards the town in good order, being pursued by the enemies who were extremely grieved that Parker escaped from them. Parker had received certain musket shot on his armour, but was not hurt, because it was of proof. Where the heat of the fight had been, great heaps of dead men and horse lay. Of our horsemen some four or five were slain, but many were hurt, and the loss of horse was great. It is reported that two hundred of the enemy were slain. This was done on the five & twentieth of September after dinner. Whilst the horsemen fought with the enemy, the masons broke down a certain wall of the remainder of the Abbey, because the enemy should not make use of it against the town. Presently after this fight the enemy shortened and took in his camp, which he had at first much amplified and enlarged, & forsook the high Northgeest, strongly fortifying and entrenching himself both to the South and Northward of the town to defend himself from our sallies: for he expected no such dealing, and never thought that there had been so great courage and valour in those of the town.  
Towards evening the Drossart, Burgomasters & sheriffs assembled themselves, with whom joined the captains, Vere, Scot, Baskervile, & Salisbury to consult together what was necessary for the preservation of the town. And ever after, they observed this order, that the governor and chief of the Council of war, did once a day meet at the state house, to confer of matters concerning the present estate of the town, which was a matter very commendable, especially in a town besieged. For by this means all difficulties were at first easily removed that did arise at such a time betwixt the soldiers and Burghers, when any thing is done by mischance on one part or other to the prejudice of either.  
Ever since then, the Magistrate, to show his diligence, did daily meet twice, namely, at eight of the clock in the morning, and two of the clock after noon.  
The lord Willoughby requested the magistrate that the Burghers might arm, & keep Corpse du guard in the streets; and the matter was brought so far forward, as captains & officers were chosen: but by reason divers excused themselves through want of armour, which the mutinous French had taken from them in former time, nothing ensued thereof.  
On the 28 of this month, Sir Tho Morgan, who had been governor of the town, returned from England. The Queen and my lords the states had sent him to be governor in Sir William drury's place. The states had a while before, sent Lancelot Parisijs commistarie of the musters, enjoining him to tell the Council of war & magistrates, that it had pleased her Ma. to write unto them of late, as likewise to the lord Willoughby, 
The Queen of England makes Morgan governor of Berghen.  that it was her express will & pleasure that Morgan should be governor; and to this end they likewise sent her Ma. letters by the said Lancelot: And in this respect they would herein do nothing contrary to her Ma. command. The contents of whose letters was, that having intelligence how the Duke of Parma had attempted to besiege Berghen-op-Zoom; in that regard she thought it fit to give the government of the town to Sir Thom. Morgan, the better to assure it against the enemy's power, and that her pleasure was to have him forthwith installed in drury's stead, who had lately been recommended to her by the states, not that she in any sfsort doubted of drury's loyalty and valour, but Morgan's long experience in war, together with the people's love towards him, had caused that alteration. The cause why the Queen spoke thus of the people's love towards Morgan, and the recommending of him to my lords the states, was, because my lord Willoughby did not greatly affect Morgan. Sir Thom. perceiving this, & that he could not build upon Willoughbies favour for the government of Berghen, & that there were divers that sued for it, found means to get the favour of the magistrates and Burghers, by whose means he obtained letters of recommendation to her Ma. both from the states, and commonalty of Berghen. The Lord Willoughby in the mean time had by sundry practices established Drury in the government; but because it was done without the State's consent, they therefore wrote unto the Queen, that no opposition might be made against her highness command. After Morgan's arrival, sundry quarrels arose, not only, betwixt the two Governors, but among the Captains and soldiers.  
The English held more with Drury than Morgan, the low-country men and Scots took Morgan's part: Willoughby favoured Drury against Morgan; and therefore he gave the government of the town to Morgan, but made Drury captain of the Forts, saying he did so, because her Majesty spoke only of the town and not of the Forts. Morgan on the contrary maintained it to be a very absurd matter, because the town and forts depended one upon an other, and never had different governors.  
Count Solms and General Villers came opportunely from Zealand whilst the governors contested about the government, and exhorted them to peace and concord. Yet, for all that, Drury commanded the Forts of the Haven, and Morgan the Town. Those of drury's faction were likewise placed in the Forts. Drury came not often into the town, and spoke seldom to Morgan, but there was still some quarrel or other; he did also highly complain of the Magistrates and my Lords the States: who were much displeased with this discord, especially because their authority and command was directly contemned: every man feared that some inconvenience would ensue.  
The nine and twentieth of this month, the imposition upon wine & beer was let to farm, which was paid during the siege as in time before. The next day, Willoughby made an other sally upon the North side of the Camp, and though he used the same order and means as at the first sally, yet he did no great matter; for the enemy behaved himself more wisely, and would no more be surprised from behind the hill of Varibogart as at first: the footmen kept within the trenches of their Camp, or behind the bushes not far off, and did no more assail our men as before. Our footmen stood in battle within musket shot of the Town, yet the Cavalry encountered one an other, and the fight was sharp on both sides, our men gave a brave charge, and the enemy made gallant resistance; each did their best. Poolies' horse who was Cornet to the Lord Willoughby, was slain under him, and was presently remounted to revenge his loss. In the skirmish, Marcelis Bacx encountered a certain Albanois, whom after he had thrust through with his sword, he took by head and shoulders, & drew him and his horse by force forth of the enemy's throng, notwithstanding all his resistance, and carried him away prisoner. After he had done this noble deed, his horse fell down dead under him, for he was shot through on both sides: the ordnance, on the bulwark of the friars Minors and on Steenberghen gate, played furiously upon the enemy, carrying away both men and horse into the air. Yet this could not discourage the enemy, who was superior to us in number, and this fight seemed a combat for honour and not for life, so doubtful and uncertain was the event thereof, which continued till night and darkness separated them.  
The Captains, Lieutenants, Cornets, Quartermasters, Corporals, and common soldiers had received sundry shot upon their armour, yet very few of them were hurt, the greatest loss was in horse: how it went on the enemy's side I know not.  
Those which lay towards the South did, on the 1 day of October, begin to draw their trenches from the Ball as far as the Hospital. Two days after, a certain Spaniard came & yielded himself; he had slain 1 of his fellows, 
The strength of Parma's Campe.  & for that cause came to our side. Being questioned concerning the state of the camp, he said that there were 30000 men in it, that they had already brought 6 canon with them & did daily expect 50 more: that the enemy determined to make his battery towards the water mill, & so confirmed the common report how that 60 pieces of ordnance were coming to the camp. This Spaniard was sent to prince Maurice and the States. And because the rampire, next the water mill, was too weak to resist the Canon they fortified it and made it thicker. To this end the Magistrate sent the Burgomaster Suydland into Zealand, to the States to crave some help towards the fortifications, because in many places, the town was very weak, and unprovided of money, workmen, and other necessaries, the enemy daily more and more environing it, & doing his best to win it.  
The second day, after the Burgomaster's departure, the enemy made a Fort there where the Hospital had stood, which was within arqebus shot of the town. Then every man assured himself that the enemy would there likewise make a battery. upon the high way toward Calmthout great numbers of Carts and wagons were discerned, which the horse could hardly draw, so as they came but slowly on to the towneward. The Burghers and soldiers thought them to be the other canons which the Spaniard talked of; so as the Burghers began to fortify betwixt the gate of Wouwe and that of the Nuns, that the rampire might be free from the enemies small shot. They likewise broke down the walls of Wouwe gate which were too high, that they might do no hurt when the enemy should play upon them with his canon. A way was likewise made athwart the gardens at the foot of the rampires, that the cavalry might lie safe, if the enemy should batter the town. But it was far from the enemy's meaning to make any battery; for those carts and wagons had brought no ordnance, but only boats, having some other design, as the event declared. The morrow after, which was the seventh of October, fifty two ensigns of foot came on the North side of the camp, commanded by Count Egmont, these companies encamped on the lower part of the Northgeest.  
There is a causey on Northland near to Benmoer, called Eesterdike, because certain trees called Eesters had been planted there. This causey looseth it name near to Dryanneland. It beginneth at the neither end of the Northgeest, and extends itself towards Northlands causey as far as the Sea, and divides first the land from Benmoer, and next, the country of Dryanneland from Northland; in that manner making three ways, as far as the Sea-dike.  
My Lords the States had already of a long time pierced the said causey of Dryanneland, hoping that the water would enter into it, by the Geux Gullet or hole, and that entering into Northland near to Bariebas, and so together through the Gullet of Dryannelands' causey, the water would make a great breach, and thereby take all means from the enemy to come upon Northlands causey. The enemy was often seen upon that of Dryanneland, making good observations of all things. Our men presently suspected the truth of the matter; how that they intended to make a bridge over that Gullet, thereby to come upon Northland causey, which done, they might then keep our vessels forth of the haven. Much speech was made of this causey: some were of opinion to level and make it even; others said it was necessary to build a fort there where the causeys did meet, and for the effecting thereof, had conference with Count Solms. Now because the first would have been too great & costly a labour without any profit at all (for if the causey had been leveled and made plain it would have stood the enemy in better stead than before) and that the second was not without danger, because the enemy was so near that place, neither the one nor other was done. The next night after, the enemy himself seized on that causey, placing two great shallops in the Gullet, with which he passed over his soldiers, and within a while after, he made a bridge there. At the same time likewise, he seized on the causey of Matteberg, whereof we have heretofore spoken in mentioning the enemy's enterprise upon the Isle of Tholen. Upon that causey he planted his canon, and thereby took all means from those of Tholen of going into Holland.  
In the gullet of Tholen, the causey was likewise pierced through in 2 places, & there they had also built a fort, called the Gueux hole.  
Opposite to the gullet of Tholen, lay certain boats of war, which the enemy's canon enforced to retreat. Right over against Barlabas, lay the Admiral of Zealand with an other man of war. So soon as it was day, the vice-Admiral, George More, discharged two or three canons: after some shot made these two ships were enforced to retire to Romerswael, being shot through in divers places, not without loss of some soldiers and mariners. As our boats went forth of the Haven, some towards Holland, others to Zealand, they were likewise saluted by the enemy's canon. The first that went forth, notwithstanding it received certain shot, went forward on her journey, the two last returned back, one of which was shot through, in which a Burgher's wife with her child in her lap was slain, and two other women hurt. These, fearing the enemy, were flying into Holland and Zealand. For at the beginning of the siege somewere so terrified, as they thought their only preservation to consist in getting forth of the town. This fear was not lessened, when the people saw the very captains send away their wives, children, and goods. Some of those, who received no pay, nor were under any command, living only by booty, in all impious and voluptuous pleasures, did in troops forsake the town, and spared for no cost, so they might be gone.  
Toward the evening, a boat came from Holland, whereat the enemy made sundry shot, yet but one soldier was slain, who stood at the Helm.  
The horsemen made complaint that they wanted hay & provender for their horse, but that want was soon supplied from Holland.  
About the same time, the soldiers of Geertrudenberg took certain ships laden with Delfts beer, cheese, butter, herring, and oil, which they brought into our haven. These boats were licensed by my Lords the States to go to antwerp and Breda. The merchants were imprisoned at Geertrudenberg, and the soldiers hung up their passport upon the gallows. Our men would have imitated them, and took certain boats; but my Lords the States, commanded them to desist. The goods were restored to the Merchants, by the State's commandment, presently after the enemy's departure; and they sent supplies of horse and foot to those of Tholen, which were landen at Venusdam, opposite to Romerswael.  
The enemy doing his best to take the Haven from those of the Town, the townsmen in like manner did their uttermost to keep it, and made sundry new works, the first upon the North causey some six hundred foot from the North Fort, called the Priest's cap, extending itself towards the Town. On the havens bank, near to Helst, they made a trench. The fort called Stavast, was begun the fourteenth of October: upon the Northland causey is a place called Barlabas, one thousand one hundred & five foot from the North for't, where the causey was pierced through in two several places. These two holes hindered the enemy from bringing his canon to batter the North for't. Our men fearing that the enemy in the end would do that there, which he had done at the causey of Dryanneland, did themselves make good the place, & built a fort there, which the people called Stavast, because they were to stay there to free the Haven from the enemy: and for the sooner building of it, they took away the Burghers faggots, especially from bakers and potters.  
And because the sandy bank of Romerswael stretched as far as our Haven, and that it was very dangerous for such boats as would at that place enter into it, because they were to hold on their course too near the enemy's Canon; to prevent this, the shippers or sailors took an other way behind Romerswael, and so by the South entered the haven, where was less danger: For betwixt the sandy bank, & the causey where the enemy had planted his canon, the Scheld runs, so as the boats could not avoid the enemy's canon, which lay within 2000 foot of the fort of Stavast, by reason whereof, they could bring their canon no nearer the havens mouth; for notwithstanding he discharged his ordnance upon the boats which entered the Haven, yet could he never touch any of them; which was a manifest work of God.  
Near to the gullet of Tholen, lies a drowned land called Broeloose, the which confines upon the causey called Steendijke. There did the States of Zealand make a new haven, very near to the causey of Tholen opposite to Molsgat (a Fort so named) on the river of Eendrecht. By this means the Isle was fortified, and a commodious passage found to go to Tholen: for the Gullet of Tholen was very dangerous because of the enemy's canon, who since that time had small use for his ordnance.  
Eight horsemen of Bacx his company, 
Eight of Bacx his horsemen take three captains prisoners  embarked themselves on the 13 of October to go towards Lillo, landing in a certain place, where they took their way as though they had come from antwerp; by which devise they took 3 of the enemy's captains with their baggage, who came from antwerp towards the camp, and with their booty returned to their boat.  
The strife betwixt Morgan and Drury was not yet ended. Upon the 14 of October, at night, prince Maurice & General Villers came to Berghen. The Lord Willoughby had threatened to imprison Morgan, and great harm was likely to ensue about this contention. But his Excellency's arrival pacified the matter after this manner; That Willoughby so long as he remained in the Town, should command all men as her Majesty's Lieutenant, and in his absence, Morgan, and that Drury should get him gone, who nevertheless remained there till the end of the siege It was reported that the enemy had an intent to seize on the remainder of the causey of Southland by passing through the drowned lands at a low water, thereby to keep boats from entering the haven at that place. And near to Burghuliet, the footsteps of those who had been sent by night to view the place, were discerned.  
Gabions and three piece of ordnance were planted upon the head, the greatest of which carried a bullet of 44 pound, and the other two of sixteen pound. The canons in every Fort did likewise play upon the enemy, when any boat arrived. The causey whereon the enemy lay was by the continual rain and soldiers treading become so deep and slippery, as they could hardly stand upon it. They had neither planks nor straw, and the soldiers were enforced to stand in the rain in the trenches without any shelter up to the knees in water. There was daily great tempests of wind and rain, and it seemed though the enemy besieged Berghen that they themselves were besieged by rain, wind, and sundry other grievous discommodities. Those of the town began to level the causey of Southland, but perceiving their labour to be vain, they gave over that resolution. At the causeys end was a very broad dike; all men thought it fit there to build a Fort, because that near to the said dike there was a great piece of ground which was commonly dry, so as the same dike might serve to defend the Fort against the enemy; the Scheld likewise is not very broad in that place, by reason of the great dike opposite to Southland, where in former time the toll house of Zealand stood. There, divers men of war lay at anchor; but if the enemy with his Shalops had brought his ordnanceto the Southland causey, he might easily have driven them thence, as he had done before Barlabas, and the Gullet of Tholen.  
George More Vice-admiral of Zealand, having viewed the place, said as much: they only wanted workmen. Willoughby would have had the Burghers to make the Fort; but they tired with labour and travail, and afraid of the enemy, who lay not far from thence on the firm land, refused to do it, saying that he did them wrong to cause them to labour so far from the town, and in danger of the enemy: For this dike was distant three thousand one hundred and thirty foot from Valckenbourg, and Valckenbourg four thousand foot from the town, which together, amount to seven thousand one hundred and thirty foot.  
The Drossart, Burgomasters, and the two preachers, namely jacob Baselis the elder, and jacob Baselis the younger, did so far prevail with the Burghers, by remembering them of their duty due to their country, as they voluntarily offered their labour for ending of the work, every man promising to be ready at the sound of the drum. The afternoon, Sermon ended, for it was upon Sunday, the drum began to sound.  
The Burgomaster Sudland with certain of the Magistrates, & jacob Baselis the younger, with the elders of the Church, every man a shovel in his hand did, in the evening meet at the place where the fort was to be built, and were in a manner followed by all the Burghers. A cornet of horse was sent forth to defend them from the enemy, if he should have come down from Burghuliet. But because the plot of the work was not yet made, and those which should have made it different in opinion, nothing was done that night.  
The Italians that lay in camp near to S. Geertrudes, seeing so many men assembled upon the Southland causey right over against them, went forth to see what it meaned: they set Sentinels every where and were all of them up in arms. The next day being the ●7 of October, they diligently began the work.  
The eighteenth of October, our men made an other sally on Steenberghens side: but the enemy kept himself within his trenches and would not come forth, whereupon they returned to the town. 
The enemy attempteth to surprise the North Fort.  On the twentieth of October, at night, the enemy cunningly thought to have surprised the North Fort; the manner whereof I will set down at large. We have heretofore mentioned, how that our horsemen, some two or three days before the siege, had taken two Spaniards prisoners. These were committed to the keeping of an English victualler called Redhead, of whom Grimston ensign to Baskervile bought his provision: by this means, both of them fell acquainted with the prisoners, who did at last earnestly solicit them to do some notable service to the king of Spain. This did they discover to the Lord Willoughby, and craved his advice how they should proceed with the Spanish prisoners. Willoughby enjoined them to treat with them about yielding up the North Fort to the Duke of Parma. After sundry conferences and consultations with the prisoners, they did in the end agree to deliver up the Fort, which was an easy matter for the ensign to do, who was oftentimes captain of the watch of the Fort when Baskerviles' company had the guard of it: This thus concluded, the ensign and victualler feigned themselves fugitives, and carried the prisoners letters to the Duke of Parma, unto whom they had many times written about that business.  
On the 20 of October, when it was dark, they went to the duke (who to this end, did the same night lodge at the low Northgeest) telling him that all things were in readiness for the surrender of the Fort: It is reported, that he stood in some doubt of them, and that therefore he made sundry demands concerning the fort, as who commanded in it, how many soldiers it had, and by what means they would deliver it unto him; That he did beside, take their oath that they should deal faithfully with him therein, causing them to receive the Sacrament of the Altar (as the Papists term it.) Being assured of their loyalty, he gave to each of them a chain of gold, promising them a good sum of money the deed being once done. Then he made choice of a certain number of his best soldiers, to go and receive the Fort in his name, and caused Grimstons' and the victuallers hands to be bound behind them with match, and gave two poniards to two soldiers commanding them to kill them, if they perceived the least suspicion by the way.  
The Lord Willoughby in the mean time manned the Fort with valiant soldiers, and on each side of the causeys placed certain numbers of musketeers, & in the gate whereat the enemy was to enter, he caused an iron portcullis to be hung up by roopes, which cut, the portcullis would fall down and stop the passage.  

The enemy en●eth the Fort, but to his small advantage.  All these things being in readiness, Willoughby with great devotion attends the enemies coming. At last they came forward passing at a low water the drowned Northland and found the gate open according to promise. There stood one likewise at the gate who in the Spanish tongue welcomed them. When some fifty of the chief were entered, the Lord Willoughby with his own hand, did cut the cords, and so stopped up the passage that no more could enter.  

Grimston & the victualler escape.  Those within the Fort charged the enemies, most of whom were slain, and the rest taken prisoners. Grimston and the victualler perceiving hoset● at kept them to be amazed, escaped. Those abroad finding themselves thus deluded, did by force pluck up the pallizadoes and gave a fierce assault, but all in vain, for they could not reach the highest palizado, & those within the sort saluted them with arqebus shot.  

The enemy flieth.  The enemy being thus beguiled, threw away their arms & fled: those that were in ambush on the causey, did with great noise break forth, & charged the flying enemy, making great slaughter among them. In the mean time the tide came in, so as divers of the enemies, thinking to escape, fell into the dikes of Northland and were drowned. Three hundred of them were slain, and as many wounded, as was afterwards known by certain prisoners.  
The chief prisoners were D. ivan de Mendoza, a man of good years, who afterwards died in the Hospital of his wounds: and another D. ivan de Mendoza, a young man, Gregorio Vites, Christofero de Porres, Godefredo Gordone, Tristano Lignicable, and Alonzo Idiaques, all Dons (as the Spaniard terms them) and men of noble houses.  
The next day no ensigns were seen waving in both the camps, which was a sign that the enemy lamented the loss of his men: the two Spanish prisoners by sentence of the Council of war were hanged, for that being prisoners, they had solicited the ensign & victualler to commit treason.  
Much good ensued to us hereby: For by this means we were wholly freed from fear of treachery, because the enemy being thus deceived, would never give credit to any other, though they meant never so faithfully: and yet Grimston and the victualler were condemned by all men for renouncing their Religion and for perjury, so as their own Nation did greatly tax them. And it is credibly reported, that a certain great man of England did in this manner recommended them to her Majesty, unto whom they went to crave recompense for their service: Madam (quoth he) there are divers forcible reasons why these men should be honourably rewarded, for if those who only expose their bodies do deserve, what do they which have adventured both body and soul?  
Those of the town had true intelligence, that the remainder of the Spanish fleet perished on the Scottish and Irish coast, so as very few of them returned into Spain. 
Those of Berghen g●ue God thanks for the dissipation of the Spanish fleet.  For which, upon the one and twentieth of October, the people by tolling of a Bell were called to Church to give thanks unto God, & Sermons were made both morning and evening. At night all the ordnance in the town and forts were discharged, and the soldiers upon the rampires thundered forth many volleys of small shot, so that nothing could be heard in the town for the noise of trumpets, drums and bells. They which had no harquebuses fastened wisps of straw to the end of their pikes which they did set on fire holding them up into the air, so as the town and forts seemed to burn: for beside the fire which the soldiers made, others were kindled on the Rampires and in the town. The soldiers cried out to the Spaniards how that the Spanish fleet was coming to help them to win the North for't: & ever after the enemy began to lose his courage.  
A certain boat laden with corn, thinking to enter the Haven was by the wind driven upon the North head: the enemy shot at this boat, and touched it thrice, yet no man was hurt, and at last by the mariners diligence it was brought into the town. Every day there were skirmishes, and every hour some new matter or other was performed in the plain betwixt the town and enemy's camp: But the Burghers being tired with continual labour, complained saying that they could do no more; whereupon, governor Morgan advised the magistrates to impose some tax upon every Burgher, and with the money hire labourers to end the work. The Burgomaster Manteau assembled the great Council, and propounded to them the governors demand. This great Council is composed of the new Council, viz. of the Magistrates then in authority, and of the old, namely, of such as have been Burgomasters, Sheriffs, receivers, and counsellors chosen out of every company, who have a place in this great Council. The governors demand was allowed, and the Burghers were discharged from their labour, and the work which was imperfect, was within a while finished.  
There was great want of planks, so as they were enforced to tear up divers new floares to serve for the works, which, after the siege, the town paid for. But this want, together with that of other necessaries being not fully supplied, the Burghomaster Sudland was on the six and twentieth of October sent into Holland, not only to my Lords the States, but to the magistrates of the town of Dort, who during the siege, showed themselves very affectionate to the good of the town. Certain Scots lay in a Burgher's house called john Dyalle, who among other things fit to burn, plucked up a piece of timber called a summer which supported the whole frame, whereupon the whole house fell down upon them, and slew 3 of them: thereupon, proclamation was made on pain of life, that no soldier should break up any timber in any house.  
On the Rampires of the town and forts, pitch barrels full of chips and straw were placed, to give light if the enemy should in the night make any attempt upon the town. The seven and twentieth of October the great bell was rung to publish the Fair or free Mart, not in hope that many people would come to it, but because the town is bound so to do for fear of losing the privilege of the Mart. During this time, which continued six weeks, all fugitives may boldly come thither (traitors, thieves, and banished men excepted:) and no man is called in question for debt, but only for that which he shall fall into during the Mart. The day following, his Excellency came into the town, by his presence to encourage the soldiers and Burghers to view the fortifications, and to take order for all necessaries belonging to the siege. The same day, the imposition heretofore mentioned was much raised, which did in no sort please the Burghers: who understanding that my Lords the States were come into the Isle of Tholen, sent the Burgomaster Manteau, and William Francis the old Burgomaster to them; these at ten of clock at night went in the company of his Excellency's servants to Venusdam, and prevailed so far with my Lords the States as they promised to give them three thousand florins towards the fortification of Berghen, and they received one thousand eight hundred in hand. The morrow after the Burgomaster's departure, the enemy forsook the causey of Matteberg. Those of the Island perceiving it, did without any noise set fire on the enemy's camp. The time was not long ere the enemy would be enforced with great disgrace and loss to retire: For despairing to take the town he could expect no less, but to have his camp ruined by little and little, with continual sallies, canon shot from the town, rain, foul weather, and sickness which ensued: 
The enemy forsakes the North land causey and prepares to be gone.  whereupon, on the thirtieth of October, he forsook the Northland causey. Those of the Gueux Gullet were the first that perceived his departure, and came with their boats to their causey, where they found none but one Alman who was fast a sleep, who being awaked and perceiving his fellows to be gone, fell upon his knees and sued for his life: then did our men presently break the bridge over the Gullet of Dryanneland.  
Upon the thirtieth or one and thirtieth of October, at night, the enemy with fourteen great shalops went to Seaward to see if they could take any booty, yet they took nothing but a poor fisherman of Romerswael, & about noon returned from whence they came; our men of war though they were undersail could not overtake them, for they still kept in the shallowest waters. His Excellency, Count Solms, my Lords, Barne●velt, Egmont, Valck, Vosbergue, and divers others did the same day come to the Town: The soldiers, that they might show their valours to the said Lords, made a sally forth of the North side of the Town, but in vain, because the enemy would not come forth.  
The Burgher's Fort was not yet ended. The money before mentioned being granted by my Lords the States, the imposition was lessened and certain Boors hired to end the work. Our men planted two canons on a certain place called Boeten-verdriet, with which they scoured the valley betwixt the high and neither Northgeest, and shot into the enemy's Camp, so as sometimes with one shot, they overthrew tents, barrels of wine●, tons of Beer, and men all at once: The enemy to redress this inconvenience made many Gabions in the valley, but to small purpose. In the mean time, a rumour was spread that the enemy had made a Mine from Holweghen, as far as the town Dike, to blow up part thereof; and though most men thought it a vain and idle reeport, yet, because the water in the South Dike was on the sixth of November fallen one foot, this fable was received for truth. The Lord Willoughby with two or three other went directly to Holweghen: this way is so low, as a man from thence can scarce discern the top of a pike, notwithstanding that he that carries it should advance it as high as he could: and although the enemy was not far from them upon S. Gertrudes mount, yet the lord Willoughby would not return ere he had from above well viewed and considered the depth of that way, where he found no marks or signs of any Mine.  
The ninth of November the Earl of Northumberland and general Norris came from England with a gallant train of gentlemen: At their arrival all the ordnance great and small was discharged, and the great Bell was rung: The Earl came to see the Low-countries and Berghen-op-Zoom: General Norris was by her Majesty sent to my Lords the States to procure some aid for D. Antonio King of Portugal; for the Queen prepared a mighty fleet to re-establish D. Antonio in his kingdom, from whence he had been expulsed by the Spaniards. 
A skirmish with the enemy.  Vchtenbroeck with five or six horse galloped forth of the gates towards the Sautwech before the enemy's camp and there took two horsemen prisoners, and a victualler with a wagon laden with beer, who in despite of the enemy, and before his face they brought to the Town. And to give some delight to the Earl, the English did the next day determine to make a sally; the footmen sallied upon the enemy's camp by the Mine at the powder gate, for in hast they had made a Bridge over the Dike: These at Holweghen did skirmish with the Italians that lay upon Saint Gertrudes mount: the horse sallied at Wouwe gate. Parker stayed upon Wijngaert hill, and Poolie in the plain towards Bourghuliet: The brethren Bacx were not there, for they had no warning of the sally. The Almans which were encamped on the Rabergh came down into the plain at the foot of the hill, and made a stand not far from Wijngaerts' hill, many retired behind the hedges and bushes, others alured our men to come forward. Captain Veer, with some thirty soldiers, drives away the Almans from their place of advantage, Parker assails and pursues them as far as the Rabergh, and suffereth few of them to escape.  
A young Gentleman, Captain of a foot company, being on horseback, and charging together with Parker, was taken prisoner, being carried by the fury of his horse into the midst of the enemy's camp, and was afterwards exchanged for D. ivan de Mendoza, both of them being almost of one age: All prisoners that were taken did constantly affirm that the Duke of Parma determined to raise the siege.  
On the eleventh of November, a general sally was made on Steenberghens side by all the horse and foot, some few excepted, who here and there guarded the gates and the Rampires. General Balfort with six hundred choice soldiers, both Dutch & Scotch, came thither at the same time from Tholen. Captain Veer conducted the freebooters that were to begin the skirmish. Captain Marcelis Bacx with his arquebusiers marched directly towards the enemy's camp. Balfort embattled his troops on the highway of Steenberghen. Those of the town stood in the plain on the right hand of that highway towards the West. The lancers went somewhat on the one side towards the Sand-Wegh. The footmen which went before with captain Veer, shot furiously upon the enemies, who showed himself open above from their fortifications. Certain of the enemy's horse made a brave sally, and were as bravely saluted with small shot, and forthwith enforced to return to their camp, with loss of some of their horse. In this manner was the time spent, the enemy still continuing himself in his trenches which were too strong for us to break into. Our men returned into the Town, thinking they had won honour enough, in that for two hours space they had dared the enemy to fight, and in a manner half assailed their Campe. Of Captain Veers soldiers, four were slain, and 12 hurt with the enemy's shot. On the twelfth of November, 
The Duke of Parma raiseth his siege from before Berghen.  the enemy did set fire on the North part of the camp; he likewise burned the castle of Halteren, and the next day, about ten of the clock before noon, they depart from Riselberg and Northgeest, where they stood a long time in battle till their lodgings were burnt and their baggage carried away to the Southward. In their march nothing was seen but their ensigns tops by reason of the said hills. But coming near the Ball, on the high way called Habergue, which leads into Berghen wood, there they discovered themselves openly. There were they grievously tormented by the canon from the rampire of the wooden gate. It was delightful to behold how their battle was broken at every shot our canon made, so as at last they were enforced to break their order, and to divide themselves. All the night following nothing was heard but the noise of drums and trumpets to favour the retreat of the wagoners which brought away the baggage. Before day break, the camp towards the South was likewise seen all on fire, & the enemy retired towards Calmthoudt, placing sentinels on divers hills to give them intelligence if the townsmen sallied forth.  

Willoughby pursues the enemy.  So soon as it was day, the Lord Willoughby went forth at Wouwe gate with one and twenty ensign on foot, and all the cavalry, taking two falconets along with him. The enemy's sentinels seeing this, do presently retire: our men do speedily seize on the enemy's trenches and camp: the fanterie makes a stand on the Raberg, the cavalry galops after the enemy, and fell in upon the rearward, mocking & scoffing them to provoke them to fight. But all this being in vain, they returned: for it was enough for them to have reproached the base retreat of so great a King's camp, which was no better than a manifest flight: some strangers that were found in the camp were slain, two or three women excepted whose lives were saved.  
The Lord Willoughby assembled all the horse and foot companies, captain Marseilles Bacx excepted, who was absent pursuing the enemy with part of the cavalry, whom he sent to seek, intending to honour him among the rest for his valour. But being not found, and the intended ceremony not to be delayed, because he would perform it in the enemy's view, the Lord General turned towards Veer, Knollis, Parker and Poolie his countrymen, and likewise towards captain Paul Bacx, a Dutchman, speaking thus unto them: Seeing it is an ancient and laudable use, 
The Lord Willoughby honoureth the Captains with the order of knighthood.  that those who have behaved themselves valiantly in the wars, should receive some acknowledgement of their valour, and for that mine own eyes are witness of your prowess, whereof I take the enemy to witness, who hath often, to his great loss, made trial what soldiers you are, Our illustrious Lady the Queen's Majesty of England (whose Lieutenant General I am, and whose commandment I will now perform) doth honour each of you with the order of knighthood; and touching all of them gently with his sword upon their shoulders, he said, Receive from her Majesty this remembrance of her good will and affection, which all of you by your valour have deserved.  
The Burghers and soldiers, men and women, young and old, went forth of the gates, and strove who should run first into the enemy's camp, visiting whatsoever they found there, and with admiration beheld the greatness of the camps circuit, the workmanship thereof, and every man got his booty: for the enemy had left behind him, shovels, pickeaxes, wagons, tons, muskets, harquebuses, pikes, armour, and all sorts of other provisions. The soldiers and poor townesmeen found wood enough to burn all winter: for the props & boards of their lodging were only a little burnt on the out side.  
The whole town greatly rejoiced for this sudden and unlooked for departure of the enemy. 
The townsmen give thanks to God for their deliverance.  And because it is the duty of all good Christians to attribute the honour of all benefits to him from whom they receive them, the sixteenth of November, public thanks was given unto God for so great a deliverance, prayers were likewise made for the prosperity of the Church and Town. That done, the magistrates thought good to proclaim from the townhouse, that the thirteenth of November should yearly be kept holie-day, because the enemy on that day retired. At night bonfires were made. Nothing could be heard but the report of canons and small shot, sounds of drums, trumpets and bells, and joyful acclamations. In every street, and on the Rampires, pitch barrels were burnt, and no place was free from fire works cast up into the air.  
The town made a great feast, whereunto the Lord Willoughby, governor Morgan, Captains, old magistrates, and the chief Burghers were invited. In a word, nothing was forgotten which was usual in feasts and public triumphs. The town did afterwards bestow on the captains great square pieces of gold, which the towns arms stamped in them, and the names to whom they were given, with the causes why.  
This is the true description of the whole siege, together with the sallies and other occurrents which happened during that time, and lastly, the Duke of Parma's retreat from before Berghen-op-Zoom, as it was set down by jacob Baselis, the younger, and imprinted in the said town in Anno 1603.   

The Town of Tilemont in Brabant, taken and sacked.  
Having hitherunto made a perfect description of the siege of Berghen-op-Zoom, and how the enemy raised his camp from before it; we are now to set down the valorous actions of certain soldiers of the Garrison of Berghen, done in the year 1588.  
The State's Garrisons, and those of his Excellency Prince Maurice of Nassau, lying on the frontiers, did the same year make sundry incursions into the enemy's country, doing much harm by fetching in contribution, defeating convois, and other such like hostile actions. Among those exploits which deserve most commendation, the surprisal and taking of the town of Tilemont is to be reckoned. 
The situation of the town of Tilemont.  Tilemont is scituat in the Duchy of Brabant, near to a small river called Geert, some 3 leagues distant from Louvain and S. Tron. It is a great and spacious town, famous in former time for trade of merchandise, as yet appears by sundry ancient writings. 
By whom, how, and after what manner, Tilemont was surprised.  A certain Sergeant of a band with an hundred foot, together with nine horse of Bacx his company, which lay in Berghen, had made an attempt upon Borchloon, though with bad success: yet being unwilling to return without executing some notable exploit, they went forward through a great troup of enemies, & marched directly to the town of Tilemont wherein were five or six ensigns of Spaniards. Notwithstanding all these forces, and that the town was great and large, they found means to enter it, where they expulsed the Spaniards, took three ensigns from them, and carried away with them as much pillage as they could bear, and so left the town. The enemy having notice hereof, did with four hundred men attend their return. Our men bravely resolving not to lose their booty, did by force pass through the midst of them, and with their spoil returned safe to Berghen; a matter almost incredible, and yet very true, which brave and resolute soldiers should never forget, but still strive to imitate.  
The Garrisons of Heusden and Geertrudenberg did the like with eight hundred men both horse and foot, 
The garrisons of He●sden and Geertrudenberg beat ●● enemy were to Tilbourg.  every horseman taking up a footman behind him, and in that manner went to Tilbourg near to Boisleduc where part of the Duke of Parma's forces lay, whom they dislodged, and slew many of them, the rest fled to a Church, whom our men durst no longer pursue, fearing the Garrisons near adjoining, and so with their booty returned home.  
About the same time, 
Certain soldiers of Zealand defeat a country in Flaunders.  threescore and ten soldiers, that lay in Zealand, went over into Flaunders, & there defeated the convoy of Courtray strengthened with a troup of twenty horse, beside the foot, together with thirty merchants on horseback, and having gooten a rich booty, returned home to their garrisons.   

¶ A true description of the town and country of Breda in Brabant, together with the admirable taking thereof on the 4 of March, Anno 1590.  
BEfore we come to the taking of Breda, it shall not be impertinent briefly to set down the situation thereof. Breda next to the four chief cities of Brabant, is among others one of the principal, having the same franchises as the towns of Tilemont, Louvain, and Nivelle. It stands in the land of Kempen, eight miles from antwerp, six from Boisleduc or Sertoghenbusk, six from Berghen-op-Zoom, and two from Geertrudenberg, in a plain abounding with corn, the fields and meadows being environed with trees, and the country wood die: there are some woods, as Vlpeu, the New wood, and the wood of Lies, through which two small rivers run, which empty themselves into the Dikes of Haeghdijck, and run under a water Mill into the town. One of these two rivers will bear boats beyond Ginneken, and towards Hoochstrate it is called the Aa, within, & below Breda, the Mercke. We find in ancient Registers that the Danes possessed and dwelled in a certain Fort or Castle, which by permission of the Lord of the Country of Breda, they builded in the crows wood, where Herons do now breed. Henry, Lord of Breda, assisted by the Lord of Weesmaell and the Marshal of Brabant, upon some controversy took that castle and wholly razed it in Anno 1124.  
There are in it divers goodly houses belonging to Gentlemen, a very beautiful Church, on the North side whereof the Counts of Nassau have built a goodly Chapel, wherein is a stately monument of Renatus of Chalon: and in a vault underneath it the Tombs of the ancient Lords of Breda, of Count Engetbrecht, Count Henry, and of the above mentioned Renatus.  
The town of Breda is of a reasonable bigness, and beautiful structure, yet in former time it hath been much disfigured by fire, for in anno 1534 on the 23 of julie, a thousand houses were burnt down to the ground. And because it was the chief abode of those of the house of Nassau, they have beautified it with many goodly buildings, as especially, Count Henry of Nassau, who was a brave and valiant Lord; he caused the town to be fortified with large Rampires, and in anno 1534 both in the Castle and round about the town he caused five great bulwarks to be made, which defended one another, together with very deep dikes.  
During these wars, four ravelins more have been made, and before every gate, an half moon, so as this town, among those of the low or plain Country is held one of the strongest in all the Netherlands. In former time, after the racing of the above mentioned Castle, the Lords of Breda opposite thereunto, near to the Market place, at this day called the Herons nest, began to build a Palace and Castle where Count Henry of Nassau afterwards (suffering part of the old building to stand still) caused a new court and stately Palace to be built, moated round about, and without that, a very sumptuous edifice with a very lordly gallery, supported by pillars of blue stone, with a gilded frontispiece: within the Court are many goodly Chambers, a large and stately Hall builded on Pillars, with an artificial winding stairs of blue stone, which cunning workmen hold for a masterpiece: in the Hall there is likewise a Chapel. There is a very goodly armory stored with all sorts of Armour, and much ordnance, and among others, divers old cast pieces, which a king of Hungary had in time passed given to the house of Nassau in recompense of their good service done to him against the Turk. There were in it likewise 52 great canons and small field pieces, which the Emperor Ferdinand gave to the last prince and Lord of Breda, which since then, have been taken away by Duke d'Alua.  
Among the most remarkable matters of Breda, as well ancient as modern, these are much to be observed, How that the lord and country of Breda (in time past a Lord and country divided from the Duchy of Brabant) hath been joined to the said Duchy in the time of Henry of Lorraine etc. And the Lord Godfrey of Breda, who, in an 1212, having received of the said Duke the moiety of the custom of the shield in Fee, together with Shakeloo and Ossendrecht, did likewise promise to his Lord that himself and heirs with their castles country and people should faithfully serve the Duke and his heirs.  
In this manner, 
The Lord Gerard of Rassingem ●old the Lordship of Breda to the Duke of Brabant in anno 1326. The Lord of Polanen buys Breda in anno 13●1. on the first of April. A piece of coin so called.  the Monday after S. Valenties' day, the lord Gerard of Rassingem Liedekerk & Lens, having sold the Lordship & possessions of the whole country of Breda with the appurtenances to Duke john of Brabant, the said duke john by consent of his son Godevart, and his eldest daughter joan Countess of Haynault and Holland, did again, on the first day of April 1351, sell the said country of Breda with the appurtenances to the Lord john of Polanen, the younger, Lord of la Lecke, to enjoy it as his lawful inheritance for the sum of 3400 Hallinghen.  
Breda is the chiefest Town of the Country, 
The Privileges of the country of Breda.  and among other privileges and jurisdictions hath an Exchequer or Court fiscal which is common and undivided, whereunto, the town of Steenberghen, and the sixteen Villages of the Country of Breda, with those of Eyckeren, Mercxem, Schoten, Loehout and Oostmaell make their appeals. And beside the said Court, there is a seat of justice belonging to a Sheriff, before whom upon the first summons the Burghers and inhabitants are to appear, together with those of Tettering, Molongracht, Sandberg, Vijfhuyse, and the Haegh-strate. None may appeal from the sentence given in either of these Courts to any other Court of justice. They have held this privilege in our time. For in the days of the Emperor Charles the 5 the said emperor only in stead of this privilege, granted to those of Breda the same privilege as other chief towns had, viz that sentences given at Breda, might be reform, but not appealed from. How, and when, those of the house of Nassau obtained the lordship of Breda, doth hereafter follow.  

Engelbrecht Count of Nassau marrie● 〈◊〉 heir● b●●an●n, 〈…〉 Breda 〈◊〉 141●.  The above mentioned Lord, john of Polanen, died in the year 1377, & left a son named john, Lord of Lecke and Breda, who left a daughter named joan married to Engelbrecht Count of Nassau, in ann 1414 he died, & left a son called john, Count of Nassau, Dietz, and Vianden who was Lord of Breda, & died in the year 1475, leaving by his wife Marry Countess of Loon, heir to Heinsberg, & to a 3 part of the Duchy of juliers, 
〈◊〉 of the lands of 〈◊〉 house of Nassau  Engelbrecht & john, brethren, who divided the lands left them by their parents, so as the eldest son Count Engelbrecht had for his part all the lands which were in the Low-countries on this side the Rhine, viz. the county of Vianden, the Lordships of S. Vijts, of Dudeldorp, and Mijllen, with all the lands in Brabant, Holland, & in the country of Liege, wherein were comprehended the Country and Town of Breda: and Earl john had for his share all the countries and Lordships beyond the Rhine, the countries of Nassau and Dietz; and by his wife, Catsenelle boguen, which was adjudged his in anno 1548. This division was made in this condition, that the male children should be heirs to both of them, the better to uphold the house of Nassau from whence they were descended.  
In this manner the town and country of Breda was peaceably governed by their Lords the Counts of Nassau for the space of 184 years, flourishing in traffic until the 11 of April 1567., when the Prince of Orange was enforced, by the Duke of Alva's coming, in great sorrow and perplexity to abandon his subjects of Breda, & to retire into Germany, and after his departure, the revenues of Breda, being seized on by the duke d'Alua, the said country & town was brought under the wretched government of the Spaniards, and afflicted with sundry garrisons, till that in anno 1577 the town of Breda returned again under the government of his lawful Lord, and so continued for the space of 4 years, and being afterwards taken by the prince of Parma 1581., he kept it till the year 1590.  
We will now set down after what manner, by God's assistance, it was freed from the Spanish yoke. The prince of Parma & all the forces, being in the year 1590. busied in the French wars, whereby his united Provinces had some rest, my Lords the States laid hold on this occasion, and by valorous dexterity took the town and castle of Breda in manner following.  
Count Philip of Nassau governor at that time of Worcum, 
An attempt propounded upon Breda.  and Louvesteyn, had by Prince Maurice his advice, conferred with a certain Gentleman of Cambray, called Charles Herauguieres, Captain of a foot company, about an enterprise upon the castle & town of Breda, telling him that divers mariners vassals to the country of Breda and house of Nassau, for love & affection to their lord had offered their service herein, they being accustomed to carry turf & wood into the castle, & under that colour fit to make some attempt.  
This was propounded to Herauguieres, who having well considered all dangers, did, towards the later end of February, go to the Hague to Prince Maurice, where they resolved, with a certain fellow called Adrian of Berghen (that was wont to carry turfs into the castle) to undertake the matter. Hereupon, Herauguieres was sent to the Lord john Oldenbarneveldt, Advocate of Holland, who conferred with him not only concerning money and things necessary for the enterprise, but how to provide for and keep the town, being once taken. 
The enterprise is resolved.  Herauguieres gave order to the shipper to make ready his boat, which was deep & flat & lay in a Dorp called Leure, a mile from Breda, that he might convey 70 men into her. Round about and on the upper part of the boat, rows of Turf like brick were orderly placed of a good height.  
Being thus prepared, they resolved to execute the enterprise on the 25 of February, but the frost hindered them certain days, not without great danger of being discovered.  
For the execution of this enterprise, Herauguieres had chosen sixteen of Count Philip's soldiers under the command of Captain john Logier, of Mons. de Famas soldiers that lay at Heusden commanded by Captain john Fernet, sixteen, two and twenty soldiers of Mons. de Liars, which lay at Klundert commanded by his Lieutenant Matthew Helt, and 24 of his own company commanded by Gerard Preys, all young men bold and resolute, Herauguieres thought to have embarked himself and men the same night, but he could not meet with the shipper, whereupon in despair he would have burnt the boat for fear of being discovered. But at last withdrawing himself, he returned the next night having advertised Prince Maurice thereof, who with his soldiers in boats lay at Klundert. On Monday, the 26 of February, at night, they entered the Boat and remained in it till Thursday Morning, not being able to go backward or forward by reason of the frost and a contrary wind, enduring extreme cold, and wanting victuals, not being provided for any long time, so as they were enforced, in the night, to leave the boat and to retire to Nordam. Herauguieres was enforced to endure many murmuring speeches of his soldiers, but by fair words and his own example he appeased them, propounding danger and shame, profit and honour to them, and thereby caused them to resolve to undergo all danger with him.  
Having well refreshed themselves one whole day in the Fort of Nordam, on Thursday, the first of March, at night, they returned to the boat, staying within a quarter of a mile of Breda, and in this manner continued from Friday till Saturday Morning at ten of the clock, before the Herons wood near to the Castle, where the boat went on ground, so as they were enforced to tarry till an high water. During their abode there, the boat took in a leak, through which the water entered in such abundance as the soldiers stood up to the knees in it, which had like to have killed them all: being come into the enclosure of the Castle (the which so soon as the boat entered was shut after them) the leak miraculously stopped of itself.  
Whilst they lay there, a Corporal came to search the boat, where finding nothing he went his way, and by God's special providence, the soldiers coughed not, and yet many of them were so hoarse as they could hardly refrain from it. 
A generous act of Math Helt.  Among others, Lieutenant Matthew Helt was so tormented with the cough, as fearing thereby lest the enterprise would be discovered, he drew forth his poniard intending to have slain himself.  

The soldiers imitating the Trojans, drew in their own ruin.  The third of March, in the afternoon, at high water, the castles sluice was opened, so as the boat entered, and because the ice hindered and stopped it, the Italian soldiers did help to draw it, as the Trojans did the greeks wooden horse. Being thus entered, the Sergeant Major, about evening, commanded that turfs should be distributed to the Courts of guard, which was done, so as in a short space so great a quantity of them was carried away, as the deck began to lie bare; this did greatly afflict them in the boat. But the shipper, being a crafty fellow, perceiving that all the Corpse du guard were furnished, and pretending weariness, gave money to his mate to go and drink with the porters, not meaning to unlade any more till the next day; and in deed, the Sergeant Major had commanded him (having some suspicion that his Excellency was about some enterprise) to go lie in the town: whereupon, he went forth and advertised Prince Maurice thereof. Some cunning spies had made the governor Lansavecia believe that Prince Maurice determined to make an attempt upon Geertrudenberg, and thereupon, he went thither with corn and other provisions. Night being come, the watch set, and all things quiet, the other shipper to drown the noise which the soldiers made in the boat, did often ply the pump as though it had received a great leak by reason of the ice, thus beguiling them till towards midnight.  
Now the time being come, 
After what manner they assailed the Castle.  namely, about eleven of the clock at night, Herauguieres in God's name exhorted his soldiers to begin their enterprise, commanding the shipper still to ply the pump whilst he unshipt his men, whom he divided into two troops, the one under the conduct of Captains Lambert and Frenet, commanding them to march to the south-west part of the Haven, and himself with the rest went along by the storehouse towards the Guard that were at the gate which openeth into the Town. Marching in this manner before his people, he met with an Italian soldier, unto whose demands he gave none answer, but took him by the throat, willing him to hold his peace, demanding of him how strong the Garrison was, who told him that there were three hundred and fifty men in all, but he perceiving his deceit, told him that he knew very well that there were but fifty men in it, and though there should be many more, it now behoved them to fight, and so marched towards the Sentinel, who asked, Qui vala, but Herauguieres making no answer struck him through the body with an half pike, whereupon the alarm was given for those of the guard and round began to make resistance and to defend themselves in the Corpse du guard, only an ensign came forth and assailed Herauguieres whom he hurt in the arm, yet was by him beaten down to the ground: he commanded his soldiers to shoot at the gate and windows, so, as they that were within begged their lives, which in so important and dangerous a season was denied.  
The alarm by this time was come to Paulo Antonio Lansavecia Lieutenant to his father; 
The Castle is taken.  the enemy was beaten into the middle part of the Castle, which was strongly guarded, from whence they sallied, where six and thirty of Paulo Antonio his men were slain, so as they were enforced to re-enter: Fernet was likewise hurt.  
Th'alarm was likewise given in the town, and some began to set fire on the Castle gate, notwithstanding that Herauguieres played upon them with his shot. The place being made good, he went with his soldiers to another Corpse du guard, near to the Castles great platform, where sixteen soldiers more made some resistance, who were all slain.  

His Excellency entereth the Castle.  This done, and a signal given, Count Hohenlo, two hours after, came to the Castle with his Excellency's vanguard, but because the uttermost gate of the Castle could not be opened by reason of the ice, his suoldiers entered near to the Sluice by breaking down a palisado. Hohenlo being entered, young Lansavecia made an accord with him to go his way himself & soldiers with their lives. Within a while after, Prince Maurice and his soldiers both horse and foot arrived, and with him the Earls Philip of Nassau and Solms, Sir Fraucis Veer who commanded the English, the Admiral justinus of Nassau, the Lords of Famas, Verdoes, and other Captains.  

The town yields to his Excellency.  And as Count Hohenlo had exhorted the Burghers to return to the obedience of their ancient Lord, and Prince Maurice had given order to enter the town at two gates, they sent a drum, who craved leave that some of the Burgomasters might come and parley, who in less than an hours space made an accord that the Burghers should redeem themselves from spoil, by paying two months wages to the soldiers, the sum amounting to 97074 florins. In this manner, their arms being thrown down, Prince Maurice sent the Lord Vander-Noot, Captain of his guard, to seize upon the Statehouse and other places.  
The same night that the first alarm was given in the Castle, the Marquis of Guasto, his horse company, and five other ensigns of Italians being affrighted, did in disorder break down a gate, and basely fled forth of the town, notwithstanding that the Burghers, who feared the spoil of their goods, promised them all aid and assistance, if they would tarry and defend it; but in vain. This was a great disgrace to so noble a Nation; which the Prince of Parma revenged, by reproaching the Spaniards, some of whom he imprisoned, and beheaded certain captains, & among others Caesar Guitra, julio Gratiavo, Guastos Lieutenant, whose name was Turlantino, and the corporal, who had so slenderly searched the boat.  
The town and castle of Breda were miraculously taken, without any great loss of blood, one only man being lost, who by reason of the darkness, fell into the water and was drowned: of the garrison in the castle, forty were slain.  
For this victory, all the united provinces and towns, gave public thanks unto God in their Churches, made bonfires, and in memory thereof, coined pieces of gold, silver, and copper, with this superscription on the one side, how that the town of Breda had been on the fourth of March 1590., freed from the Spanish bondage by the conduct of Prince Maurice of Nassau; and on the other side was the Dike, with the turf boat, which carried the soldiers, with this circumscription, Ready to win, or die, and then, The reward of an invincible courage.  
Prince Maurice, by the consent of my Lords the States, gave the government of the Town, Castle, and Country of Breda to captain Herauguieres, with ample command: to Captain Lambert Charles, the office of Sergeant Major, and to other particular Captains and soldiers, some of the said pieces, or medals in pure gold, with sums of money, with promise of advancement according to every man's quality and merit; the shippers were likewise advanced and well rewarded.  
The town was forthwith provided for, according to the Lord of Oldenbbarvelts direction, with all kind of muni●ion and victuals from Holland for a year and a half, and before ten days were expired, four hundred horse, and twelve ensigns of foot were sent to lie in Garrison in the town, the Burghers were likewise divided into five companies to keep good watch. And in this manner by God's assistance, the town is till now preserved from the enemy.   

¶ Count Mansfelt batters and assaults the Fort of Nordam, and is bravely beaten thence on the 14 of May 1590.  
THe Duke of Parma perceiving that his Excellency of Nassau had by a cunning surprisal taken the Town of Breda from him, 
The Duke of Parma sends Count Mansfelt against Breda.  did, for avoiding a greater mischief, before March was expired, said Count Charles of Mansfelt with 40000 men towards Breda, to hinder their incursions, and secure the Country, who presently seized on all the places round about it, as Oosterhout, Tering, and other towns, wherein he placed soldiers, he likewise took Sevenberghen and other towns where he used great cruelty. 
Count Mansfelt makes a Fort at Terheyden.  At Terheyden which is a village betwixt Sevenberghen and Breda, seated on a little river called the Mercke, he caused a great Fort to be built with a bridge over the river, thereby to keep victuals from Breda, and lay there encamped till the work was ended, thinking thereby to oppress Breda.  
In May following he besieged the fort of Nordam, which my lords the States hold, near to Sevenberghen, seated near the water, commanded by Captain Matthew Helt who was in the Turf boat at the taking of Breda: 
Count Mansfelt doth in vav●● b●●●● and assault the Fort of Nordam.  And the thirteenth and fourteenth of May the said Count Mansfelt battered it with seven canon, made 1200 shot upon it, and gave a furious assault. They did likewise at full Sea bring a great bark before the Fort, manned with good musketeers to annoy the defendants, they had bridges likewise whereon to march to the assault. They twice assaulted it, and were still repulsed with the loss of two Italian Captains, the one, named Horacio Fontano of Modena, and the other, Giovan Francisco Pageno a Neapolitan, with divers others of name and mark. Six or seven hundred of the enemy died there, for by often shooting they fired the bark, and as many as were in her were burnt, whereupon they were enforced to retire, to the great commendation of Captain Matthew Helt, who thereby purchased much honour.  
The united Provinces in the mean time had sent a small Army into the field under the conduct of Prince Maurice and Count Hohenlo, with which in May they went to a place called Ouer-Betuwe, or High-Betuwe, encamping right over against Nimmeguen, where they built a strong Fort on the bank of the River Waell, the better to avoid the Town: they did it likewise to divert Count Mansfelt from Nordam, and to draw him forth of Brabant. But Mansfelt not thinking himself stung enough, came near to Nimmeguen, and having intelligence that Prince Maurice his forces began to make a Fort on the further side of the Waell near to the Statehouse, he marched towards them with his canon, beating them thence, and overthrew the work new begun; an afterwards, the better to provide his army of victuals, he went and encamped on the Maze in the Land of Cuyck: So as Prince Maurice tarried there all the Summer to finish his Fort, in view & danger of the canon of Nimmeguen, which with the help of Count Mansfelt played furiously upon the town.  
Notwithstanding all these difficulties, 
Why the Fo● termed Kno●senbourg.  the Fort was made defensive towards the later end of julie, and was called Knodsenbourg or Maces-bourg, in disdain of those of Nimmeguen, called, Knodsendrages, which is as much to say as Mace-bearers; because the Burghers when any sedition is among them, carried a Mace before them in the strees. The Fort was furnished with all sorts of munition, ordnance and victuals for six months, and manned with five hundred men, under the command of Captain Gerard the younger.  
By this means they fortified themselves afterward in the Betuwe, extending their bounds as far as Waell, intending to force Nimmeguen. Prince Maurice placed Garrisons upon the River Waell, from Bommell as far as the Tol-house or Schenksskonce, lodging them by quarters to hinder the enemy's passage, by the help of certain boats of war: For Mansfelt did daily fortify himself in the Land of Cuyck, and seemed desirous to cross the Waell, being thereunto earnestly solicited by those of Nimmeguen, who were much annoyed by the said Fort, being unwilling to subject themselves to a strong Garrison, which the Duke of Parma would have given them.  
The States did likewise cause a new strong causey to be made overthwart the lower Be●uwe, from the Rhine as far as Waell beneath Nimmeguen, and chiefly by the direction of the Amptman or Magistrate of Thyell, called Diderich Vijch, who was at the most charge, notwithstanding that my Lords the States of Holland contributed many thousand florins, thereby to preserve the lower Betuwe, as far as beyond Dort against the inundation of the Rhine when it swelleth above the banks. In recompense of these exploits, those of Guelderland (as much of it as belongs to the united Provinces) gave to his Excellency Prince Maurice the government of the said country and towns.   

¶ The taking of the Castle of Heel, Hemert, and the town of Steenberguen etc. in Anno 1590.  
AFter that Count Charles of Mansfelt, with great loss was enforced to abandon the Fort of Nordam: his Excellency, about the end of September, came into the field with a sufficient Army; and on the 27 of the said month took the house or castle of Hemert, the forts of Elshout & Crevecaeur near to a place called Engelen, after some small battery and resistance.  
That done, he went from thence into Bommeleerweert, and on the 3 of October took he house or castle of Heel, reducing it under the State's obedience: from thence he made haste to the new fort of Terheyden, which Count Mansfelt had made to bridle those of Breda; which, notwithstanding the strength thereof, was by the canon enforced to yield on the 11 of October. On the 26 of the said month, he went from thence towards Steenberghen, which being badly provided of all necessaries, endured but 2 shot & then yielded, 200 soldiers departing thence on composition: 300 men were sent to raise the siege, but Prince Maurice his cavalry stopped their passage, and enforced them to retire to Wouwe castle, which was thereby much strengthened, but his Excellency in the mean time took the fort of Rosendall.  
After these sudden exploits done, in a months space prince Maurice embarked 3000 foot, & an 100 horse, and went into Flanders, intending some enterprise upon Dunkirk, which he thought to have taken in the night, by Scalado. The enterprise had been well considered by colonel Nicholas Metkerke, son to Adolph, precedent of Flanders, but a contrary wind putting them back twice, the attempt was suspected, then afterwards discovered & hindered: yet, landing, Metkerke showed Count Solms & Sir Francis Veer, the place where they thought to have assaulted the town, which, whilst they heedfully viewed, all 3 of them were hurt: this happened on the 1 of November: whereupon, they returned with a great booty of cattle and other things.  
The garrison of Ostend, some week before, had surprised the town of Oldenbourg, manned with 400 soldiers, which they burned and sacked, but they could not get the Cloister Tower: many other petty exploits were done the same year, which for brevity I omit.   

The siege and taking of the Town and Fort of Zutphen, done in May 1590.  
BEfore we come to set down the siege and taking of the town of Zutphen, which is one of the chief towns of the Duchy of Guelderland, and yet a county a part, seated near the river Yssell, a mile and a half from Doesbourg, four miles from Arnham, and six from Nimmeguen: we will briefly speak of the taking of the Castles of Turnholt and Westerloo, which were won a little before, as a preparative to the said siege: As also the equipage of boats, and other warlike provisions necessary for a siege.  
The second of April, 
The Castle of Turnholt taken on the second of April.  the Garrison of Breda with others took the Castle of Turnholt, therein, making use of a victualler who was wont to bring beer thither: He, as his cart stood upon the bridge, did thrust the Sentinel into the water, and slew another, & in the mean time, the soldiers which were hidden in an old burnt house, stepped forth, killing the rest of the guard, and so took the Castle. In the beginning of May, 
Westerloo taken in May.  they likewise took the Castle of Westerloo notwithstanding it was under contribution. The young Lord of Merode made his abode there, who being one day gone on hunting, they laid hold on that occasion, and by that means did easily become masters thereof, finding it fit and commodious to reduce the rest of Brabant under contribution, and there to busy their enemies whilst themselves should be employed elsewhere. At the beginning of August, they did cut off a rich Convoy going from Brussels to Namur.  
The States of the united Provinces having now built their government on a strong and sure foundation, and so reckoned their contributions, impositions and revenues, as they could for certain months in the year increase the number of their soldiers, defray the charges, and send them to the field provided of all necessaries, and were thereby able to assail the enemies, and to make an offensive war: So as all the Summer they made their provisions of Canon, great numbers of Boats, Gabions, Bridges, Powder, Bullets, Tents and other such like necessaries.  
To attend upon the canon they made choice of skilful mariners, finding those men fit to ship & unship the ordnance, to plant and transport it, and upon necessity and want of horse to draw it with their hands through marshes and over causeis; and likewise to serve sometimes in stead of gunner's.  
The States did likewise send with their governor General prince Maurice as chief commander of the army, certain of the Council of State to assist him in all affairs, as the Venetians make use of those whom they call Prouidatori: He had likewise a skilful Council of war with all manner of officers requisite in an army. Their soldiers were voluntaries, well paid, skilful, and ready, and though they were but few, yet for that time they made use of their old forces, not raising new, thereby to give no cause of suspicion; but they were very careful to have their companies full & complete, and did earnestly entreat the Queen of England, That her aid (according to the tenor of their contract) might not be wanting, which was commanded by Sir Francis Veer, a gentleman of a noble house, a gallant soldier, and more favoured of the Low-countries than all other strangers whatsoever.  
Prince Maurice thus prepared, made show as if he intended to besiege Sertoghenbusk or Geertrudenberg, sending many soldiers to Breda, and divers boats upon the Maze: which caused the Duke of Parma to give the more credit to it, because (as hath been said) that the States had already taken the Castles of Turneholt and Westerloo, as places of retreat, with divers other signs; which made him likewise to fortify the garrison of Geertrudenberg, and commanded those of Sertoghenbusk to fortify their town, but they refusing to receive a garrison, he fortified some ways near adjoining.  
Prince Maurice in the mean time had secretly sent certain soldiers, under the conduct of Sir Francis Veer, towards Doesbourg, commanding him to begin the enterprise, and himself went speedily to Vtrecht, and from thence to Rhine and Arnham, and there crossing the Veluwe, towards Zutphen.  

The Fort of Zutphen taken on the 24. of May by counterfeit Boores.  On the three and twentieth of May, nine soldiers were sent on the further side of yssel towards the Fort of Zutphen, four of them clad like Boors, and the other five like country women with butter, cheese and eggs. These, at the opening of the Ports stood before the Fort near which a sufficient number of soldiers were hidden: So soon as the gate was opened, the greatest part of the soldiers who had watched that night came forth, and crossed the water to go to the town: These counterfeit Boors leaned upon their staves, and they which were disguised like women sat upon the ground, offering their commodities to the guard, who beheld them without any suspicion, till one of the women drew forth a Pistol and shot one of them, which done these counterfeits threw off their disguise, assailed the enemy, and seized on the gate: The soldiers that were hid having heard the report of the Pistol, ran speedily to the rescue of their fellows, forced the guard and gate, and so took the Fort, taking twelve soldiers prisoners that remained behind: this was done on the 24 of May in the Morning.  
The Fort thus surprised, his Excellency did not fail the next day to environ and besiege the town of Zutphen. On the six and twentieth of the said month Count William of Nassau came thither, and the seven and twentieth they were busied in shutting in the town, entrenching themselves and making a bridge over the yssel. The eight and twentieth of May, eighteen great canon were planted in three several places, with such speed and dexterity as is almost incredible, all these were discharged thrice, which amounted to four and fifty shot. Then they sent to summon the Town; the Burghers in their answer craved time to consult, which was denied, so as they sent two Captains to crave three days respite to have an answer from Verdugo the towns governor, this was likewise denied, and no time of consultation given them: whereupon, the same day being the 30 of May, they made an accord, viz. that the garrison should depart the same night with their ensigns, arms, and baggage, together with all Ecclesiastical persons, and such Burghers as were willing to be gone had free liberty so to do: Those which would tarry, whether they were Clergy men or others, should enjoy the same benefit as the other inhabitants of the united Provinces did. A Convoy was given them as far as Deventer, with certain horse & waggon, which their Lieutenant Colonel obliged himself to send back. 
Count Philip of Ouersteyn slain before Zutphen.  Young Count Philip of Ouersteyn was slain there at the beginning, as he approached too near the gate to take a prisoner. Those of the town were dragging away his body, but it was taken from them by force, and honourably buried in Arnham according to his degree. He was a brave and gallant young Lord. This strong town was taken on a sudden, unprovided of strong garrison, there being in all but six hundred men in it, the circuit whereof is very large: For they thought themselves not able to defend so great a breach as so many canons would have made; they did likewise want powder and victuals. Prince Maurice presently entered it, at the very same time as Count Solms brought the companies of Zealand to him.  
So short a time was spent in taking the Town and Fort, as the news thereof was sooner heard, than that of the siege.   

The siege and taking of the Town of Deventer, together with sundry Forts and Castles in the Land of Groeninguen, in Anno 1591.  
SO soon as his Excellency had taken the town of Zutphen, stored it with all necessaries, and given order for the government thereof, he made haste to pursue his victory, laying hold on so fair an occasion, so as the very same night, he sent to begird the town of Deventer, seated two miles from Zutphen, and four from Zwoll, on the right side of the river Yssell. The Canon according to the usual celerity was likewise shipped, and carried to Deventer; the whole army presently followed. His Excellency made two bridges over the yssel, and on both sides of the river planted eight and twenty canons; and having made some shot, he sent to summon the town; but they within would not hear tell of yielding: so as on the ninth of june the battery began, which in a short space, had beaten down a great quarter of the wall near to the Key. This wall was double, and on the inside thereof was a thick earthen Rampire. It being thus beaten down, certain flat bottomed boats were sent into the Haven, on which a Bridge was made to go to the assault, for which, the English, Scots, and Dutch, were in readiness, every Nation under his command, striving who should march first. All things being ready, the Bridge proved too short, so as they could not continue the assault: Some that went forward gave a furious assault to the breach, on which, Captain Lambert's ensign first leapt, and was there shot, Captain Metkerks ensign did the like, 
A variant act of Captain Metkerks ensign.  and perceiving that he was not followed, leapt back with his colours in his left hand and sword in the right, and escaped with his own ensign, and that of the other who was shot.  
In the town, were seven companies to defend the breach, on whom the canon often played, and did great hurt: The governor Count Harman of Bergue, lost an eye, and Captain Muller standing near him had his head shot off. Colonel Nicholas Metkerke, son to the precedent of Flanders, a brave and valiant gentleman, was shot upon the breach: he was much lamented, for the next day after the town was taken he died, together with another captain.  
There likewise happened a matter worthy of note, 
A single combat betwixt the Lord of Ryhove, and an Albanese before Deventer.  viz. a single combat betwixt two brave soldiers, one of them was Lewis of Cathulle, Lord of Ryhove, borne in Gant, and the other a Gallant Albanese horseman, who coming forth of the town, made a brave, and, like Goliath, dared any man to fight, ask if none durst break a lance with him. His Excellency commanded that no man should answer him; but the Lord of Ryhove being not able to endure his braves, entreated the General to give him no leave to abate his pride, who presently ran upon him, & doing great matter with their lances, they proceeded to other weapons. The Albanese unknown to Ryhove had a pistol, who with his sword charged the Albanese, and did almost cut his hand off that held the Pistol, which he let fall to the ground, & was by Ryhove taken prisoner. The Albanese, confessing himself vanquished, did put his chain of gold upon Ryhovens neck, and was afterwards set at liberty by his Excellency, and sent back to the Governor, having received a just guerdon for his pride and overweening.  
Nothing being done that day, the morrow after, the bridges were made longer, and preparation made for the assault. 
Those of Deventer crave parley  Those of the town, thereupon, craved a parley of the Lord of Famas, Master of the Ordnance, who, ask them if they meant truly, granted it: whereupon, they sent forth two Captains, the one a Spaniard, and the other a Walon, and on our side, the captains Vander-Noot and Lenimp, were appointed to capitulate. The tenth of june, they agreed to deliver up the town, after the same manner and on such conditions as those of Zutphen, and the soldiers, both horse and foot, departed with their arms and baggage. It is reported that Count Harman, notwithstanding his hurt, would not consent to yield, but having lost many men, and wanting munition, he suffered himself to be persuaded by the bishop, especially when he had intelligence that Count Hohenlo levied forces in Germany. Prince Maurice gave kind entertainment to his cousin, saluted him and caused him to be laid in his own couch and carried towards Groenninguen, for they were brother and sister's children.  
In this manner were the two strong towns, the chief of two Provinces, taken in a short space with a small army, wherein the wisdom of the commanders, & mighty provision of ordnance, with the soldiers willingness, 
The body of Rowland York is hung upon the gallows.  did greatly prevail. The body of Rowland York, who had betrayed Zutphen, was digged up, and hung in the coffin upon the gallows.  

His Excellency departs from Deventer.  His Excellency having taken Deventer, & made it sure, did on the sixteenth of june go with his army towards Friesland, with an hundred and fifty boats, together with the ordnance. They passed along before Enchuysen and Harlingue: And understanding that Verdugo with forces waited for him at Steenwijc, he went through the Land of Groenninguen, where first he encamped, but meeting with sundris edifficulties there, 
He takes Delfzyll Sconce the 12. of Julie.  he raised his camp and marched towards Delfzi●ll, which is a sconce seated at the mouth of a River which comes from Groenninguen, & runs through a place called Dam into the River Amiss, and there makes a good Haven. In this place the canon was planted, and after some small battery, the Sconce was summoned to yield, they within it when they saw the preparations, did on the twelfth of julie yield: five brazen canon were found there, and six pieces of Iron; two hundred and thirty men went their way, with four▪ hundred women and children.  
Those of Friesland fortified and enlarged this Sconce, & had an intent to have made it a town of great extent, and to have given it large privileges, thereby to draw the Burghers from Groenninguen: 
The Fort of Opslach won.  this, for divers considerations, was not effected. From Delfzijll Sconce, the army went to a Fort called Opslach, seated on a River called New zijll, the which was likewise besieged and summoned to yield: but notwithstanding that they within it were loath to hear tell of any composition, they were enforced to depart with white rods in their hand, being one hundred and fifty men strong.  

The Fort of Imitill won.  From thence the camp turned towards Imitill, a Fort standing betwixt Zudhorne & Mid-wold on the newdike, within a mile of Groenninguen: this fort was battered with 12 canon, and yielded. There were 250 soldiers in it, of whom, 30 came from Delfzijll. They left all their arms behind them, which were given to the English. After that, they likewise took the Fort of Littelbert, which yielded so soon as they within it saw the canon planted.   

¶ The Duke of Parma is defeated in the Betuwe before Knodsenbourg on the 24 of julie 1591.  
Whilst his Excellency obtained all these great victories, and that Almighty God, who helpeth the afflicted, assisted these countries and augmented their means: as many as knew the king of Spain's strength, did not a little marvel that the Duke of Parma did so easily lose these Forts and strong Towns without attempting their conservation: But we (as becometh us) do attribute all this unto God, and say with the kingly Prophet, Not unto us o Lord, but to thee, belongeth all honour and glory; for it hath pleased thee, by the weak forces of the Netherlands to abate the pride and arrogancy of the Spaniards. 
Parma makes preparations to encounter Prince Maurice.  Yet because Parma was in some sort desirous to show himself diligent in his government, and to let the world see that he meant to recover his lost sheep; on the 22 of june, he departed from Brussels towards Tyenen, Maestricht, & Ruremond to make an offensive war, and there had intelligence of the loss of Deventer. He had likewise taken great pains to appease the Spanish Mutineers in Diest and elsewhere that he might take them along with him, but they continued obstinate. He did beside levy what forces he could, sending the Prince of Ascoli into France to strengthen it more by words than deeds. He sought moreover to secure the towns of Venlo, Nimmeguen, Geldres and other places, and so crossed the Rhine, making a bridge at Rees, borrowing boats of those of Wesel to transport his soldiers from Nuys, Berck, and other places, the most of whom cried out for money. The forces which were levied in the country of Liege came to him, so as he had 5000 foot & 2500 horse, with store of ordnance & munition. With these forces, on the thirteenth of julie, he went to Nimmeguen, where he made a bridge over the Waell, & in the night went into the Betuwe, with 3000 foot, and 400 horse, with some ordnance, where he began to batter Knodsenbourg: 
Parma besiegeth Knodsenbourg on the 13 of Julie.  he caused the Lord of Barlaymont with his regiment to encamp towards the East, and Count Octavian of Mansfelt to the Westward, the cavalry was quartered in a village, called Lent. Lafoy Mot made his fortifications, and planted nine canon, with which, on the 22 of julie, he made 280 shot, he caused the horsemen to bring faggots with them, to fill the dikes the better to march to the assault. Those within the fort made brave resistance, & with their canon did beat back the enemy, with loss of certain hundreds of them, among whom were divers Spanish Captains. There Count Octavian, of Mansfelt, was likewise slain, with Frederico Caraffa, the Neapolitan, & Achilles Tressino of Vincenza. For the besieged were well provided of ordnance, and all manner of munition. La Mot afterward, made a Mine and battered, but the besieged made a counter-batterie, and broke three of the enemy's canon.  
Prince Maurice in the mean time being come near to Steenwijck, and having intelligence of the siege of Knodsenbourg, resolved to go thither, leaving Count William of Nassau in Friesland, & coming to Arnham, he presently made a bridge over the Rhine, and caused 4 cornets of lancers, 2 of Carabins, and two thousand musketeers and pikes, to pass into Betuwe; who entrenched themselves, and sent certain horse to view the enemy's countenance, who were put to rout; so as his Excellency on the four and twentieth of julie, laid an ambush of one thousand musketeers and pikes, together with 500 horse, and so soon as it was day, Prince Maurice, Count Solms, Sir Francis Veer, and certain horse went to Parma's trenches, where on a sudden 10 cornets of horse charged furiously upon them; Our men, according to their instructions, fled, and drew them into his Excellency's ambuscado, who on every side assailed them, and slew 60 on the place, taking 150 prisoners. These companies following were at this charge: That of the Duke of Parma, commanded by Pietro Francisco Nicelli, Captain of his guard, whose Cornet was taken: That of D. Alonzo D'Aualos bastard brother t● the marquess of Guasto, who with his Cornet was taken prisoner: The company of Hieronimo Caraffa, and his Lieutenant Count Decio Manfredi, together with his Cornet were taken prisoners. The company of Antonio Padilla the Spaniard, hurt and taken prisoner, and died at Arnham; All these were Spanish and Italian Launciers: The company of Biasio Capazuca, brother to Cosma, the prince of Parma's Secretary, with Antonio Smigalia, Spaniards, to the number of six cornets, of which divers noble men were slain, and one hundred and fifty horse taken, with three cornets which were carried to Arnham, and four cornets escaped.  
On the duke of Parma's cornet the image of Christ was embroidered, with this inscription, Hic fortium dividet spolia, and on the other side was the image of the Virgin Marie, with her young son in the cradle, with this inscription, Quem genui adoro. On Alonzo D'Aualos cornet, was the image of S. john, showing the Lamb of God.  
Parma's self saw this overthrow from his Court in Nimmeguen (called Valckenhof) having intelligence likewise that over all Holland mariners were ready to come and besiege him with great numbers of boats, and that prince Maurice did what he might to come upon the Waell to break his bridges: thereupon, he commanded his army and ordnance to be transported out of the Betuwe, and made a trench even to the river, guarding it with a fort; and so, under the defence thereof and of the city's ordnance, he easily crossed the river with his army, artillery and baggage: He excused his departure, by letters which he said to have received from the king of Spain, who commanded him to return into France to aid the League, and to raise the siege of that famous Merchant town of Rouen; and yet, he remained in the Low-countries 5 months after. To make Parma's departure more troublesome, those of Knodsenbourg made a sally, and together with the mariners did so assail him, as his escape was not without great loss.  
The boats of Holland arrived the next day, but too late to do any more hurt to Parma: For on the six and twentieth of julie he went forth of Nimmeguen, where those of Knodsenbourg in their Boats made a show as if they intended to assault the Town.  
Thus Parma left Nimmeguen & took his leave of the Burghers, making many fair promises, how that his camp should remain thereabout, and that he would preserve the city as the apple of his eye, telling them that they needed no strong garrison, & that the miserable ought not to be burdened with greater misery: Some of the Burghers said their power was too weak, others refused to take in more aid; yet he left them some small provision: And this notwithstanding the common people after his departure derided him.   

The Town of Hulst is besieged, and taken on the 19 of November in Anno 1591.  
AFter the Duke of Parma's departure, Prince Maurice left Garrisons in the places near adjoining, and being not yet satisfied with all his victories, but desirous of the country's good, and his own honour, he was loath to lose any fair occasion, but by the advise of his Council, made a new attempt upon the Town of Hulst in the Land of Waes in Flaunders. Great preparations were made in Zealand, where they shipped ordnance, powder, ladders, bridges, and all other necessaries for a siege.  
These did Prince Maurice send speedily by water, together with 4000 foot, and by Brabant seven Cornets of horse: himself with other forces went up the River of Scheld, and landed in Flanders, where without delay on the 19 of September he besieged Hulst, the chief town in the land of Waes, the Duke of Parma suspecting no such matter.  
The one and twentieth of the said month, the canon was planted, and all the Forts near adjoining were taken, the horse made incursions to the gates of Gaunt and Veer. By the way they encountered certain soldiers and Boors, who had barricadoed themselves in a Church, and would by no means yield, whereupon they fired the Church and burnt them all. And fearing lest those of antwerp would send forces to surprise them, they entrenched the way, and opened the sluice of Calloo, drowning the Country round about.  
The garrison of Hulst (from whence the governor a while before was gone with a Convoy) perceiving the Canon to be planted, the utter Ravelin to be battered, themselves too weak to resist so great a power, and despairing of any aid, fell to composition, and two hundred and sixty men, did, on the four and twentieth of September depart forth of the Town with their Arms and baggage. A Spanish captain, who supplied the governors place, whose name was jeronimo Stribanij, was by the Duke of Parma's command beheaded, either because he had so soon yielded up the town, or else, for that his company which should have been two hundred strong, was found to be but sixty. The Burghers capitulated to be dealt with in the same manner as other towns in Holland, conforming themselves accordingly. All Ecclesiastical persons departed likewise.  
Count Solms, Colonel of the Regiments of Zealand, was made governor both of the town and country with full and ample command, and was well provided of men and other necessaries. The ordinary impositious on merchandise both inward and outward in the same town, or which from thence was by land transported to other places, were, for five months space, let to farm for eleven thousand and eight hundred storms, and they hoped in time to draw great contribution from the Villages round about.  
But Mondragon, with Steeland, bailie of the Land of Waes, determined presently to fortify some great Villages near to Hulst, to stop our men's incursions, as the Dorp called S. janten-steen, the Dorp of Steken, and S. james Skonse. The Spaniard in the mean time showed himself before Hulst, yet he attempted nothing.  
Those of Bruges, and other towns in Flanders, craved that they might be under contribution to those of Zealand, because that the Zelanders garrisons made great incursions upon them; the like did those of Ostend, Axle, Hulst, the Fort of Ternheuse. They likewise made means to trade in the town by paying customs, as they did in antwerp and the State of Gaunt: But the Duke of Parma would not suffer it, notwithstanding that the Zelanders continued their incursions, who in june went towards Gaunt, where they did beat three hundred Spaniards and Walons, and took ninety prisoners. The same month they made an other road with greater forces, but near to Newport they found resistance; so as in stead of getting booty they were beateh and retired towards the Sea shore, under the defence of the Flushingers men of war, and lost some 30 or forty men.  
The news of Prince Maurice entrance into Flanders was brought to antwerp at the same time that Parma lay there, whom the town did feast and give presents to. Mondragon, Captain of the Castle, did presently assemble all his forces, and made use of the Prince of Parma as a means to move the Spaniards that lay at Diest and other places, to do some notable service to the king in so needful a time, the which he did both by words and promises. He did likewise there obtain a voluntary loan of money a great sum, of the Spanish, Portuguse, and Italian Merchants. Mondragon went into Flanders, where he stopped Prince Maurice his forces from making any further incursions into the land of Waes.   

¶ The siege and taking of the Town of Nimmeguen, on the 14 of October 1591.  
HIs Excellency of Nassau, being animated and encouraged by his former victories, and loath to omit any means to vanquish his enemies, whom, it seemed, God delivered into his hands; perceiving likewise that Mondragon went about to stop his further passage into Flaunders, and having notice that many things were in readiness for his attempt on Nimmeguen, he resolved to quit the land of Waes, notwithstanding that many profitable and hopeful enterprises offered themselves in sundry places & Forts of Flanders; whereupon those of Zealand did earnestly solicit him, for the better extension of their bounds. The canon being again speedily embarked, fourteen small boats by too much haste were sunk, which they were enforced to quit, so as the Spaniards at a low water burnt them.  
Prince Maurice with his men and ordnance leaving Flaunders, was kindly welcomed and entertained in Zealand, from whence he presently made haste to go to besiege Nimmeguen, having intelligence that Verdugo made incursion into the land of juliers and was too weak to raise the siege of Nimmeguen, part of his forces being gone into France, and the other half called away by Mondragon for the relief of Flaunders: He had likewise sound advertizement of the State of the Town, by Hugo the Secretary, who had a long time been prisoner there. These things hastened his Excellency to besiege that town before winter, where with all his forces he arrived on the fourteenth of October, making a bridge presently over the Waell, which was broken by the canon from S. Hubert's Towers, so as he was enforced to make it further off from the Town, where Captain Rolls and others were slain. By means of this bridge, he soon approached the town by his trenches, and planted four canon near to the gate called Hoenderport, and at the foot of the hill called Hoendenberg in a place termed Oye, sixteen, and in the Betuwe, opposite to the tower Lappentorne, twelve more, to make a breach betwixt the Court called Valckenhof and Hoenderport, where he supposed to have most advantage, and best means to hinder them from repairing.  
Those of Nimmeguen hereby terrified, sent to Verdugo for aid: there were three strong companies of foot in the town, but very few horse commanded by Henry Kieboom, alias Neuse, who had betrayed and sold Geertrudenberg to the Duke of Parma, who so soon as motion was made of parley, did on a sudden leave the town, and passed through the camp to the Zelanders quarter. The Townsmen perceiving the canon planted, did mure up the gate of Hoendenport and entrenched the void place betwixt the river and castle, dividing it from the town by a rampire which they made, in which men, women, and children laboured, to the end that if that place were taken, the town might yet hold out, omitting nothing which valiant men might perform. The canon planted, and the town summoned to yield, they answered, That Prince Maurice was a young lover, and that Nimmeguen was a Virgin to whom he made love, which he could not so easily win, and therefore it behoved him to take more pains. But, when they were hopeless of aid the town being much annoyed by the canon, especially from Knodsenbourg fort, whence many thousand shot had been made upon it, the Burghers ran to the Statehouse, complaining that the king had forsaken them, for whom they had a long time spent their goods, blood, and hazarded their lives; that they had too often sent to Parma, who still had other matters in hand; so as at last they resolved to capitulate, and on good terms to compound: and Prince Maurice sending once again to let them know that hope of succour was vain, and that his canon was ready to play upon them: they sent their commissioners to the camp on the twentieth of October, requiring to have the excercise of both religions: That the Magistrate might continue in the same state he then stood, that an easy garrison might be given them, with divers other requests, which they could not obtain: And therefore, the next day, they sent the Burgomaster Fleming with ample power to capitulate, by whose means they obtained many of their demands, as the disposing of the Church goods, power to give regal offices, and other matters; but, concerning religion, they were of force to conform themselves like to other Countries and towns of the united Provinces; They should likewise receive six ensigns of footmen, and two Cornets of horse, and the Magistrate should be altered at the discretion of his Excellency and my Lords the States. In this manner, the soldiers departed to the town of Grave. Five and twenty brazen cast pieces were found in the Town, and twelve of Iron.  
Thus was the town of Nimmeguen yielded on the two and twentieth of October, and was annexed to the united Provinces. Count Philip of Nassau, son to Count john, was made governor, and Gerard, the younger, governor of Knodsenbourg, was appointed his Lieutenant. This done, his Excellency sent his troops to garrison, having in a short space, and in less than five months, won the Fort and Town of Zutphen, the Town of Deventer in the Province of Ouer-Ysell, the Fort of Delfzijll, and many others in Friesland; He enforced the Duke of Parma to raise his siege from before Knodsenbourg, and defeated his cavalry; He did afterwards take the Town of Hulst, in the view of Mondragon and those of antwerp; And now in winter, Nimmeguen, the chief Town of Guelderland, making the Waell her frontier. He had another enterprise upon Geertrudenberg in December, and departing secretly from the Hague with one thousand six hundred men, they mounted the wall by Scalado, but they were repulsed with loss of two Captains. A certain place called Alpen was likewise surprised by the garrison of Nimmeguen the same year 1591.  
My Lords the States made gold, silver, and brass coin, in perpetual memory of these victories, and taking of Zutphen, Deventer, Hulst, Nimmeguen and other Forts, attributing the whole honour and glory unto God.   

The town of Steenwijck is besieged and taken in anno 1592.  
HIs Excellency of Nassau, having won the town and fort of Nimmeguen, reducing them under the State's obedience, after that he had rested all winter, did again march into the field, & departed from the Hague, on the 10 of May 1592., accompanied with the Earls Hohenlo and Solms: his Council of war, were, the Lord of Barchon, as Marshal of the camp; Count Philip of Nassau, General of the horse; the Lord of Famas, master of the ordnance; Captain Craiessonier, Serjeant Major; with other commanders and Colonels, as Sir Francis Veer, Floris of Brederode, Morney, Dorp, Groenevelt, and other Captains of great experience. The Lord of Gryse was Providator general. There were beside, certain counsellors of State, and commissiones of the provinces whether the army was to march, all serving for direction and ordering of all necessaries belonging to the ordnance, ammunition, treasure, and victuals, with their dependents.  
The army consisted of 6000 foot and 2000 horse, with which his Excellency departed towards Steenwijck with all his provisions, where he encamped on the 28 of May. Steenwijck is a town in the province of Ouer-Yssell, standing upon a small river called Blockziell, which near to meppel a mile from Steenwijck, emptieth itself into Zuidersea: it is a passage into Frizeland, serving for defence to a great extent of ground, being very strong in rampires; it was very well manned, for there were 16 ensigns of foot, & certain troops of horse in it. The governor was a brave and well experienced Captain, his name was Antonio de Quocquelle: there were divers other Lords and Earls in it, as Count Lodowick younger brother to Count Berguen, the Lord of Waterdijke, with omen of note. The town was well provided, and wanted nothing but powder, whereof a great quantity was sent forth of Germany, which passing through the Country of Munster, was seized on by the inhabitants, in recompense of a certain booty which the Duke of Parma's soldiers had taked from them.  
Before we come to the siege of Steenwijck, we will speak of a certain enterprise which was intended under colour of this siege: The Spaniards and those of Steenwijck thought to have surprised the town of Enchuysen, by means of a certain mariner that dwelled there, who was lately come from Spain, where he had spoken with the king, and had received a good sum of money, both of his Majesty, and Duke of Parma, as well for his own service which he was to do, as to win other Captains and soldiers to embrace the enterprise. But this Burgher bewrayed all to my Lords the States and to his Excellency, of whom he received such instructions, as he persuaded the Spaniards, that the best way was, to attempt the Haven, and to that end they should send a thousand men from Steenwijck, which was not far off, which should be shipped in a night, in the beginning of May, whom he without any suspicion would conduct, having already won the captains and chief of the town, who wrote v 'pon their credits all things were sure. And the better to colour it, and to blind those of Steenwijck, this Burgher offered to remain as hostage among them, and to undergo all manner of punishment, if he should deal otherwise than faithfully with them, or if matters succeeded not well according to his direction. And in the mean space, Prince Maurice should be at the same time in Enchuysen to surprise the surprisers, which might easily be done, because that the Haven is dry at low water; and having taken them all prisoners, he should presently send his army before Steenwijck, to besiege it, and threaten them, that unless they would presently deliver this Burgher, he would hang up all his prisoners: but somewhat croft this business, so as the enterprise went not forward: yet Prince Maurice went on with his army to besiege Steenwijck.  
From the thirteenth of May, till the ninth of june, his Excellency was busied in making of trenches, and finding out solid and fast ground whereon to plant his canon: he made a Cavalier of 19 foot high, on which he laid three pieces, wherewith to beat down their defences, and lay them open; forty five pieces being planted, on the thirteenth of june the town was battered; yet at that time they did no great matter: for they could hardly batter the curtains, notwithstanding they discarged many thousand shot. They shot wild fire into the town, which at first did terrify them, but it was soon quenched.  
His Excellency, perceiving that the canon was to small purpose, and that those in the town did not greatly regard it, resolved to shoot no more, but made two mines towards the Counter-scarp, which likewise did no great matter; they digged till they came under the Counter-scarp which he won from them, and in a certain place at the foot of the palisado, discovered how they within laboured in the dikes, so as to give an assault would be but lost labour, unesse those within were beaten from thence: and therefore they brought certain pieces into sundry places in the dike, to beat down the fortification at the foot of the palizado; & being protected by their canon they came into the dike, where they shadowed themselves so well, as the townsmen could not hurt them: so as by that means they possessed the foot of the rampire of the principal Bulwark on the East side, where they digged 23 foot under the ground ere they came to make any chambers: they spent to days in this work, du ring which time, the besieged made 2 sallies; in the first they took an ensign, & defeated certain Englishmen; in the 2 they slew captain Olthof, who in the former siege had been in the town & defended it, with certain others of note, & part of those which had the guard in that place. Our men could never take any of the besieged prisoners. On the 23 of june the besigers battered one of the towns ravelins; when those within perceived the battery, they forsook it.  
From the 24 till the 27 of june, our men were busied in making a wooden tower on wheels, which in Dutch is called Lijmstang, in English, discover Pot, it was invented by captain john Corput of Breda. This Tower was square and made of Masts fastened together by iron vices; there were nine floares in it one above another, each of them twelve foot high; they might at any time be taken down and had curtains of canvas towards the enemy. This new tower being brought near the Town Rampires, and musketeers placed in it, they did not only beat the besieged from the Rampires, but shot those that went up and down in the streets: The townsmen, with two canons, and help of the wind, did in two days beat down the two uttermost floares, so as no man would any more go up upon it.  
From the 27 till the 29 of june, they were busied in prepayring two Ours in the rampire underneath the Bulwark. The thirtieth of june, the Townsmen sent three Captains to parley, viz. Bernard de Moutberck, David du Wall, & an other called Vandensand, son to the Provost of Herderwijck, and in their stead Captain Peter Dorp, Asseurs and Buck, were sent as Hostages. They craved to depart with their armour, ensigns and baggage, which was granted on condition that they should presently cross the Rhine, and for six months space, serve no more in those quarters, which they refusing, the parley was broken off.  
The same night, Verdugo, governor for king Philip, sent three hundred soldiers to the town, each of them with a bag of powder of fifteen or sixteen pound weight, seventy of whom entered, the rest were defeated, and taken prisoners.  
The first of julie, his Excellency gave a false assault, having made four hundred shot to note the behaviour of countenance of the besieged, who on every side were ready for defence. The second of julie, by night, he brought all his men secretly into the trenches, intending in the morning to give fire to the Ours, and to make a general assault. Every Captain with his men stood in his place appointed. The third of julie, in the morning, after that the canon had played for four hours, the besieged perceiving all things ready for the assault, came to the rampires, and then the Ours were fired; one of them did in such sort overthrow the rampire, as a breach was made for ten men to enter in front; being in that place where Count William of Nassau stood with the companies of Friesland to give the first assault: and at the trumpets sound, the English were to give the second.  
The other Mine towards the south-west, broke forth without, and buried many Hollanders alive, who stood there ready for the assault: all this while, his Excellency had given no signal. But Count William perceiving the townsmen to be terrified, assaulted and took the Bulwark which had been overthrown on the eastside, and commanded and discovered the whole town.  
On the other side towards the South they likewise took a gate with great loss to the besieged, who perceiving themselves discovered on every side, did the same night send a drum to parley; but Prince Maurice for the time would not hear him: yet the next day, the above mentioned Captains had audience, but all their demands were denied; in the end, they were content to embrace whatsoever his Excellency would grant; for the canon by this time commanded all places in the Town, and all the houses and Churches were for the most part beaten down, so as the people kept in cellars. Prince Maurice granted to the governor Antonio Quocquelle, and to the Lord Waterdijke, captains and officers of the garrison of Stenwijck, & likewise to the Clergy & Burghers, these conditions following, dated before Stenwijck the 4 of julie 1592.  
That they should depart forth of the said town, the governor, captains, officers and soldiers, having first sworn and promised not to bear arms for the king of Spain on this side the Rhine, for the space of six months.  
That they should depart with their baggage, wives and arms, warlike munition and victuals.  
Such soldiers as had revolted, and to escape the hand of justice for enormous crimes committed, were retired to the said town & served there, should not enjoy the benefit of his accord.  
That all prisoners should be delivered and set at liberty, paying twelve pence a day for their expenses.  
That all Burghers and officers belonging to king Philip, might without molestation depart thence.  
That an hundred wagons should be granted them, according to their request to carry them to Coevord, on condition they would be obliged to send them back without any harm.  
That the Surgeons and hurt people might remain in the town till they were healed, and then depart whether they pleased.  
His Excellency granted them two commissioners to conduct them beyond the Rhine, upon caution of the Governor and Captains.  
After this accord, the soldiers went their way on the fifth of julie. Prince Maurice beside all this, in regard they were valiant soldiers, did of his princely courtesy grant the Governor his horse; the like did he to Captain Waell, and to all his men to every one a horse, and to the soldiers their swords. Those which went away were five hundred and threescore footmen, most Walons, all healthful and well disposed, and two hundred that were hurt, with some sixty or seventy horse. There were slain in the town some three hundred and fifty, & among others Count Lodowick of Berghen, a young Lord of some eighteen or nineteen years old, together with the Captains Blundel, Hessel, and others.  
On Prince Maurice side, five or six hundred were slain & many hurt, and among the rest, the Prince himself, presently after the Mine was fired, being desirous to see what effects it had wrought he was shot in the right cheek, without any great danger. At the same time Captain William Dorp, Colonel of the Regiment of Hollanders, was hurt whereof he died. Sir Francis Veer was likewise hurt. The soldiers being gone, four companies were put into the town, commanded by the Captains Berestein, Rijswick and others, and the Camp remained there till the rampires and Dikes were repaired. In this siege all things were more plentiful and better cheap than in any town, by reason that provision was easily brought thither, and because they paid no impost. Certain soldiers who had been actors in betraying the town of Gertrudenberg, not comprehended in the contract were taken and hanged. And thus the Town which was thought impregnable was enforced to yield, his Excellency having made more than nine and twenty thousand canon shot upon it, and was annexed to the united Provinces, being hitherunto preserved from all the enemy's power and attempts.   

¶ The Towns of Ootmaersen and Coevoerden are taken in anno 1592.  
AFter that his Excellency of Nassau, had taken Steenwijck, repaired the rampires, and taken order for the government thereof, he determined to march with his army to Coevoerden; and appointed certain numbers of horse to go and begird the little town of Ootmaersen, whereof Alonzo de Mendoza was governor for the king of Spain, having sixty horse and two ensigns of foot; where Charles of Levin, Lord of Famars, was shot, he was a valiant Lord, and one of the Commissioners to the Noble confederates, who in anno 1566 had presented the supplication. He had continually borne arms for the country, and was now master of the ordnance, he was very much lamented. The town of Ootmaersen was battered with the canon and enforced to yield on composition, on the thirtieth of julie, like the town of Steenwijck. That done, his Excellency did in August besiege Coevoerden; those within it burned the houses near adjoining; perceiving that Prince Maurice with his trenches made his approach, & hap taken away the sluices from them, and drawn the water forth of the dikes, taken the Counter-scarp of the Castle, & broken down the bridge.  
Count Frederick of Berghen, having provided all places round about, did with a strong garrison enter into it himself; it was a strong town and famous for the situation thereof, it was artificially fortified, on such foundations as the Lord of Senoy had formerly begun to lay.  
Prince Maurice his soldiers being upon the Counter-scarp, did for their defence make a gallery in the dikes, under covert whereof they might easily come to the rampire to dig and Mine without danger of the enemy's canon, which they soon effected by the help of a Cavalier they made; they did also beat down a Ravelin: with much to do sundry Ours were made in the rampires, which still sunk: the besieged made countermines, which by taking air were unprofitable: yet our men did not give over mining, & fired some of them: whereupon, an assault was given, so as they got upon the rampires, where by means of the Cavalier they fortified themselves, & took from the besieged all means of defence, as they had done at Steenwijck. They within the town began to be discouraged hoping still for succour, they likewise wanted water and other necessaries.  
The Council of State of the united Provinces, having intelligence that the Duke of Parma made preparations to enter Frizeland, levied a regiment of supplies under the command of Colonel Stolberg, who passed Muster, near to a place called Heerenberg in the presence of Count Hohenlo: For Count Philip of Nassau was sent into France with three thousand men; and the Queen of England had likewise called away her forces to send them into France, and were already departed from the army, and gone as far as Swoll: but upon intelligence of the Duke of Parma's coming they were countermanded. Count Philip in the mean time and his troops returned opportunely from France, who were sent to Garrison in Holland to be refreshed. And the old Garrisons were presently sent to the army, and other some to Gravenweert, the better to annoy and stop Parma's passage. The army was but weak, and by reason of the bad ways the camp could not be well provided of victual and munition.  
Verdugo, governor of Frizeland for the Spaniards, had earnestly solicited the duke of Parma for men and money, which in great abundance was at the same time sent from Italy: thereupon, Parma granted, that the regiments of Count Charles of Mansfelt, Mondragon, Gonzaga, the two regiments of Arenberg and Barlaymont, with certain horse and ordnance should march to his aid: with these he crossed the Rhine, making a Fort on the other side of the river, and so marched towards Groll, and from thence to Oldenzeel, where they arrived on the third of September.  
Verdugo, having assembled all the forces in the country near adjoining, and understanding the want and extremity of those of Coeverden, marched towards Herderberg where he thought to have encamped, but changing his mind on a sudden, he went to the Dorp of Vlsen, and from thence to Imlichen in the county of Benthem, not far from Coeverden, in a place commodious for victuals.  
Prince Maurice having intelligence thereof, sent three hundred horse to view and skirmish with them, but he could not draw them forth of their advantage; he took a certain boor whom he suspected to carry letters to the enemy, wherein he was not deceived: for the boor fea●ing to be hanged, delivered them unto him; wherein Verdugo acquainted those of Coevoerden, how he intended the next day to come and relieve them through Count Hohenlo and the horsemen's quarter: For he was informed of the scite and estate of his Excellency's camp, by a gentleman whose name was john Steenwijck, who had told him that it was an hard matter to approach the town: whereupon, he made choice of this morish place, as least guarded and suspected.  
Prince Maurice strengthened this place with men and ordnance, which was planted on the high way, through which the enemy was to pass: and standing thus secretly on his guard, Verdugo came on with all his forces, wearing white shirts upon their armour, and on the seventh of September, at night, they gave in upon the trenches in their several places, crying victory, victory.  
But, his Excellency, Count Hohenlo, and Count William of Nassaw with their troops did beat them back, and in their retreat the canon played upon them: many were slain upon the place, many men and horse stuck fast in the mud, 136 were the next day found dead in the place, and two and fifty horse; many were carried away hurt: Two and forty wagons full of dead and hurt men were conducted by four cornets of horse towards Oldenzeell: In a word, three hundred men were slain. On his Excellency's part only three were slain and six hurt, and Count William of Nassau was hurt in the belly, but not dangerously.  
Verdugo thus put to rout, did the next day make great provision of faggots, to make a way through the Marshes; and the country ways being many and very narrow, he made show as if he would have entrenched the passages, and by that means cut off victuals from his Excellency's camp: But at last, those of Coevoerden perceiving their succour to fail, began to parley; and in the mean time, Verdugo did again show himself in battle, and came to view his Excellency's trenches and fortifications, who came from receiving and welcoming the English to his Campe. These two Armies having thus viewed one another, Verdugo discharged two canon: Those of Coevoerden answered him with two more, which done, he marched towards Velt-huyse in the county of Benthem.  
Those of Coevoerden, being thus forsaken and continually battered, to the great loss of their soldiers (our men by means of their mine being lodged on their rampires and curtains) resolved to compound. His Excellency was likewise willing to grant them any reasonable conditions, in regard Verdugo lay not far off, and might have attempted somewhat to his prejudice, as also, because the country and ways were very bad, and unfit for bringing of victuals to the camp: and on the 12 of September, granted them this accord following. The commissioners were Evert de Ens, Christopher de Vasques, and Alonzo de Marteny, Captains of the cavalry.  
Prince Maurice, in favour of Count Frederick of Berghen, his loving cousin, doth by these Presents permit and suffer him, together with the Captains, officers and soldiers of the garrison of Coevoerden, to depart with their ensigns, arms, horse, baggage, & whatsoever belongeth unto them (the ammunition of war and victuals excepted) whether they shall think good.  
His Excellency granted the like to the Clergy, Ladies, women, children and domestic servants of those of Coevoerden above mentioned.  
And for the better furthering of their departure, wagons & a necessary convoy for their safety shall be granted them; for which the said Count shall give caution for their safe return to the camp. And his Excellency promiseth in the word of a Prince, that no harm either in body or goods shall be done to the said Earl, or to any other that comes forth of the said town. Given before Coevoerden on the 12 of September 1592.  
Thereupon, the Earl and his soldiers came forth, himself was royally feasted by his Excellency, his kinsman, and other Lords of the house of Nassau, who discoursed with one another, questioning how it came to pass, that they being children of brothers and sisters, should be so divided in love and affection, and serve several parties. Five hundred soldiers, that were in health and able to march, came forth of the town, and many that were sick of the bloody flix. It was a strong town, and 9 canon were found in it.  
My Lords the States, in perpetual memory of the taking of these 3 towns, Steenwijck, Oetmaersen and Coevoerden, made several coins of silver and brass, attributing the honour of these victories to God alone. The young lord of Nieunoort was made governor of Coevoerden.  
The camp remained there, till all the fortifications were repaired, and the town provided of all necessaries. Verdugo lay at Velt-huyse, and made show as if he would besiege Oetmaersen; but it was presently fortified.  
On the fifteenth of October, his Excellency with his army went toward Zwoll, and there resolved to march to Emmerijc, & to encamp near the Rhine, to be better able to pass on from thence upon any occasion should be offered by Parma's forces, under the command of Verdugo, being ready to besiege neither Groll or Goore, or to stop the enemy's passage over Rhyne: but before they could come thither, the ways were all drowned, and Verdugos tro●pes were gone, and the greatest part of them, as the two regiments of Arenberg and Barlaymont had repassed the Rhine with five or six Cornets of horse, that were much discontented. Verdugo, with the residue of the horse, Spaniards, Italians and Liegeois, continued near to Oldenzeel, and fortified the towns of Groll, Goore, Enschede and Lingen.  
His Excellency, on the 8 of November, came to Arnham and quartered his camp in the towns near adjoining, the ammunition ordnance, & bridges of boats were put in certain ships, to be ready at an hours warning, to make a running camp; for it was thought that his Excellency had an intent to cross the Rhine, and to march into the countries of Valckenbourg and Luxembourg, to find the duke of Parma at Spa, but the said Prince his departure from thence to Brussels broke off this enterprise.  
Those of Groeninguen were not yet moved by these exploits, nor by the loss of Steenwijck, and Coevoerden, to come to any agreement with their neighbours the Ommelands, and the Nobility of Friesland, notwithstanding that a thousand head of Cat-tail had been taken from them in a road, and had but one passage left open, namely Bourtaign, near to Wed: but Count Frederick of Berguen went thither in winter, with six ensigns of foot, and certain horse for the country's safety.   

¶ A description of the brave and gallant siege of Geertrudenberg in anno 1593.  
AFter the Duke of Parma's death, the king of Spain bestowed the government of the Low-countries on Count Peter Ernest of Mansfelt, by proviso (as they term it) until the coming of Archduke Ernestus, in which mean time, Count Fuentes and Stefano Divarra, both Spaniards, were joined with him as chief counsellors. And the chief of the Nobility, for more honour, received great promotions and offices: And the better to win the Country's love, the people were put in hope, that at the archdukes arrival, all matters should be well ordered: for all men supposed that in respect of his greatness he would not come thither, but with an intent, ample authority, commission and means to make pacification, or to manage war in better manner for the country's defence: in this hope the people did with more content undergo their misery.  
During this government, the Spanish counsellors would presently have set the late Spanish cruelty committed by the Duke d'Alua, on foot, and commanded the soldiers to keep no more Quarter (as they call it) videlicet, not to release prisoners in exchange for others of the same quality, or in paying a months entertainment for their ransom, but would have all prisoners to be rigorously chastised by the hand of the executioner. This did they, the better to move their own people for fear of the gallows to fight to the last man, and to be rather slain sighing, than yield themselves prisoners. But common soldiers, who follows the wars more for pay than for honour, and makes an occupation of the art military, wish for no such rigour, especially, seeing valour at this day is so slenderly rewarded, honoured and esteemed. Under this word Quarter, they likewise comprehend, not to pay any ransoms or contributions to the enemy. This did much trouble the Clergy, Gentlemen, and Boors, who have the most part of their wealth lying abroad, and not in towns, being rather willing to pay small contribution for their safety, than to have their goods burnt and spoiled.  
Mansfelt then by the advice of Fuentes, published a declaration, dated the 5 of januarie 1593., That no man should after that, pay any ransoms or contributions to the enemy, nor procure any passport from him on pain of death: but that every man should prepare to hinder the enemy's incursions, to arm and fortify against him, and by the alarm bell to assemble themselves to kill and take their enemy's prisoners and to hang them up: whereupon, divers soldiers on either side were hanged.  
The general States of the united Provinces, did likewise against this, publish a declaration dated on the seven and twentieth of February, wherein they showed how their enemies the Spaniards being strangers, sought nothing but the ruin and destruction of the Country, together with the people's blood and goods: entreating and exhorting all men to look well unto themselves, their Country, wives and children, to resist such Spanish cruelty, and to deliberat thereupon, giving them respite till April following, after which time, they would keep no more Quarter, but account them all for mortal enemies, intending to cause the Authors and counsellors of this rigorous Decree, to repent their rashness: and likewise all towns and villages, which following the tenure of Mansfelts letters, should arm, fortify, and make defence against them, together with all those which should refuse to pay such reasonable contribution as they were rated at. By this means afterwards, all these things were on either side permitted.  
Count Mansfelt, in the time of winter, in anno 1593., assembled his forces under the conduct of his son Charles, upon the frontiers of France near to Guise, sending them into France there to employ them. In the mean time, my Lords the States of the united Provinces, sent Count Philip of Nassau into Luxembourg, with four thousand horse and foot, hoping to take some towns there, as S. Vit, and others; which he effected not, but caused all the garrisons to be drawn forth of Brabant. For so soon as the news of his being there came to Brussels, all the horse and foot, both Spaniards and Italians, were taken forth of the towns of Liere, Malines and other places, and were sent in great haste to the Country of Luxembourg, conducted by Count Barlaymont. Count Philip having notice thereof, retired, and in the mean time burned many villages in the Country, and likewise levied great exactions in the country of Limbourg, bringing many places under contribution, sacking the town of Hanuijt in Brabant, and having got much money, horse, and a great booty, they returned to their Quarter.  
In the mean time, the States of the united Provinces resolved to besiege the town of Geertrudenberg, a dependent on Holland, though seated in Brabant near the Maze on a river called the Douge. This town, in ann 1589, was by certain traitors sold to the Duke of Parma for 15 months pay (notwithstanding all honest and reasonable offers made unto them) whereupon, they were all as traitors to the country condemned to be hanged, wheresoever they should be caught; most of whom were executed. The said States, had of a long time on sundry pretences kept victuals from thence, by way of licence, and in February, did cut off a Convoy of all necessary provisions that was going thither: and having intelligence that the governor was gone forth to meet the Convoy, and that two did strive about the government, they thought this occasion might greatly profit them, and thereupon gave commission to Prince Maurice, to environ and shut in the town with his cavalry, which he did, all the forces being returned from Luxembourg, and the captains having reinforced their companies; and on the nine and twentieth of March he begirt the town both by land and water, at such time when the Spaniards most doubted the siege of Sertoghenbusk or Grave.  
And because this siege is very memorable and famous, we will relate the most remarkable matters; for the town was strong, manned with more than a thousand old soldiers, and well provided of all necessaries.  
His Excellency lying before the town, did at first quarter himself on the Westside thereof, with the regiments of Count Henry his younger brother; of Count Solms, Groenevelt, and Balfour. Count Hohenlo encamped towards the East, in a Village called Raemsdone beyond the river Douge, towards Oosterhoude, with the regiments of the Lords of Brederode, Lokres, and others, every regiment presently fortifying his Quarter.  
The Spaniards had a Fort abroad, within musket shot of the town, upon the causey of Steelhof, which secured the passage to the town: Count Hohenlo did presently entrench before it, & brought the channel of the river into those trenches, and with great danger of his life, took the free access of the fort to the town from the enemy, and planted the canon in an Island opposite to the convoy and fort. Whereupon, the captain and garrison (perceiving themselves to be cut off from the town) yielded the fort on the sixth of April, and for their labours were imprisoned by the marquess of Varembon.  
The Fort being won, his Excellency made two bridges over the river, the one on boats, very strong and broad, and the other upon masts, that the two camps might help one another, which by reason of the marshes, lay a good mile from each other. On both sides the bridges before the town, he placed ships of war to keep continual watch. For the river was as a dike, defending a great part of the camps trenches, there being divers water mills and sluices to keep the dikes of their trenches continually full of water, but by reason of the high tides, they were often hindered in their works.  
On the water's side they enclosed the town with an half moon made with boats of war, lying at anchor, made fast by cables, and supported by small boats, wherein watch was kept. Without the said half moon ships of war went too and fro, keeping good guard. Within it, certain small boats stood sentinel beneath the town: these, took a Spaniard swimming, that carried letters from Count Mansfelt and others; his Excellency gave him his life, and sent him back to the enemies, to tell them how he was entrenched.  
Without the half moon, towards the West and East of the town, the boats that brought victuals lay, and were shrouded from the enemy's canon. The camp on the water, was a Germane mile in length, every camp having his boats of ammunition and victuals. The mariners had likewise their camp apart, and behaved themselves valiantly by carrying wooden canons and empty boats by night near to the shore and Key, to cause the besieged to bestow their powder in vain, whereof they had great need.  
His Excellency's camp on land, was environed with high rampires and deep ditches without, with four great and strong Bulwarks, on each of which lay two canon. Such was Count Hohenlos' camp, extending itself two miles in circuit, and fortified with trenches, bulwarks, strong ravelins and broad dikes. Without the camp, many stakes were pitched in the ground, and in each of them an Iron pike called Turkish ambassadors, so near to one another, as a man could hardly put his knee betwixt. The chief high ways were fortified with strong forts and ravelins stored with ordnance, so as an hundred canons were planted there, upon the ways caltraps were laid, and deep pits made stuffed full of powder.  
Being thus entrenched abroad against the enemy, they likewise began to fortify themselves against the townsmen, bringing their trenches under the Towne-walls: they planted their canon, and made galleries, under whose covert they might come to the towns rampires. The besieged, beside their rampires and cavalleries, had two strong ravelins on the Landside, opposite to which lay the Zelanders and soldiers of Utrecht's battery, which did so oppress the town, as every house almost was shaken, especially the Prince of Orange his Palace which was utterly ruined.  
For making of these great works and fortifications, the States had sent certain hundreds of boats provided of all necessaries: and though the boors wrought in every place for pay, yet most of these great works were done by soldiers, according to the manner of the ancient Romans, not by constraint but for daily hire; and those days they were not upon the guard, each of them was employed in what labour he best liked, getting ten or fifteen souls a day; by means whereof they wrought so hard, as they made themselves invincible against the king's power which came to relieve the town.  
So great good order & discipline was likewise observed among the soldiers & mariners, as not only the boors which were in the camp, were freed from all outrage and violence, but they alured their neighbours of the country, to bring their corn, cattle and goods to the camp as a place of safety and refuge; and by reason of this strict discipline, they were as free as in any well governed town, bringing their geese, hens, eggs, butter, cheese, milk, and flesh to the Market, without any fear or trouble, to the great wonder of all men: yea the very owners of the Lands near adjoining, did in divers places plough, and till their grounds, whereby all things were cheaper than in any town round about, whereas victuals in the enemy's camp were six times dearer. Many came from all parts to behold his royal camp, which was so well ordered as every one admired it. The Princess of Orange came thither, with the Lady Loysa, daughter to the Prince of Orange, who was going into Germany to her husband the Elector Palatine of the Rhine, with many other great Ladies. divers things were as remarkable in this siege, as in any other that hath been these hundred years.  
Those of the town made brave defence and valiantly behaved themselves, they were well provided of all necessaries, and made sundry sallies. But the canon at last played on every side, and counter batteries were made upon their canon, so as the ways and ravelins were entrenched and beaten down. Some hope and promise of relief was sent them by many cunning means. Among others, the Lord of Waterdijke, on the seventeenth of April, sent letters unto them from Sertoghenbusk by a pigeon which fell down in Prince Maurice his camp, containing, that forces were ready to raise the siege, which they would without all doubt perform, and therefore they should do well to heighten the platform of Ramsdouck, and from thence give signals by fire according to the instructions sent them. His Excellency by the same pigeon sent another letter to deceive them.  
Count Hohenlo upon a time caused the nearest ordnance to be secretly turned upon the towns tower, from whence they usually viewed the camp, and the besieged hourly expecting succours, he made a false alarm among his own soldiers as though aid had been come, whereupon the governor and other commanders ran presently up to the tower to see what the matter was, on which on a sudden Count Hohenlo at once discharged all his ordnance, wherewith the governor and others were slain, which did much weaken them.  
Mansfelt, Fuentes, and other of the king of Spain's commanders, weighing this disgrace if they did not relieve this town standing in Brabant, called home Charles of Mansfelt from France, mustered all their regiments and sent them towards Turnhout, under the conduct of the marquess of Varrabon, which were often assailed by Prince Maurice his cavalry, which for the most part lay forth of the camp in the neighbour towns of Breda, Heusden, and Berghen-op-Zoom. Among others, the lord of Risoyre, Marcelis Bacx, and captain Egmont, did, on the eighth of june, with one hundred and ninety horse, near to Turnhout, encounter 400 horse, coming from the camp, and were going towards antwerp to convoy Varrabon and Barlaymont, whom they charged and defeated, chasing them to the castle of Turnhout, whether the marquess and count Barlaymont escaped; they brought threescore horse, and three captains prisoners to Breda.  
About the 6 of May, Mansfelt and all his captains came into the field, with his troops of Lorrainers which came from the wars of Straesbourg, together with Swisses, Almans, Italians and Spaniards, who would not willingly march without the company of old Mondragon, that durst not leave his castle of antwerp. Mansfelt in this manner being 30000 strong, came with 18 canon, many boats & other provisions, and encamped near to his Excellency's quarter, in a village called Hout, where he began to build a Fort on the causey of Steelhoof: whereupon, divers skirmishes were made: but perceiving that place to be too strong, he raised his camp towards the later end of May, and went to a village called Oosterhoudt, where he entrenched his army, & having stayed there certain days, & used all means to annoy the prince's camp, he departed likewise from thence with his camp towards a village called Waesbeec near to count Hohenlos' quarter; where (as in other places) he entrenched himself, the better to get victuals which he wanted, so as count Hohenlo often skirmished with him, whereupon, Mansfelt durst no more make any attempt upon his Excellency's camp.  
Whilst he lay there, his Excellency upon some occasion sent a trumpet to him, of whom Mansfelt demanded, why his Lord had so fortified and entrenched himself, telling him, that Prince Maurice like a brave and valiant young Lord that was jealous of his own honour, aught to come forth of his fortifications and give battle: The Trumpet made this wise answer, saying, His Excellencìe of Nassau is a young Lord, that would willingly prove an old soldier, like unto your Excellency: this made those that were present to smile, and caused Mansfelt to hold his peace, having met with so witty an answer.  
During Count Mansfelts abode there, one thousand two hundred foot, and twelve cornets of horse came to increase h●s forces, which Count Fuentes sent him, together with four great canon, four and twenty firkins of money, and all sorts of ammunition for the camp.  
The day before the town was taken, Count Hohenlo and Sir Francis Veer, made a brave skirmish, wherein (beside those that were slain) they took forty soldiers prisoners, & 3 captains, even in view of the town, which daily made many signals by fire, and was wholly discouraged, so as the town was taken in this manner following, in the view of Count Mansfelt and his mighty army.  
On the 24 of june, in the morning, as the Captains Haen of Tournay, Beverie, and Calf, went up to the guard to relieve those in the trenches under the towns North ravelin, they resolved among themselves to mount upon the ravelin to see what was done there, and caused a wooden bridge to be made over the dike opposite to the bulwarks point. Haen and Beverie took two musketeers, two targuetiers, and two halberdiers with them, being in all eight persons, and so went up very secretly.  
Being mounted, and the Sentinel giving th'alarm, these Captains called for more soldiers to assist them; whilst they fought with those of the guard, one of their targuetiers was slain, and the most of their soldiers mounted: they fought hand to hand a long time, so as 16 of the besiegers were slain, & of the besieged 9, who were enforced to quit the ravelin & to retire into the town: & because the towns governor was slain at the same time whose name was captain Tigean, & had been the third governor, they were much daunted, & sent to crave a parley, which was hardly granted, because the soldiers more and more got upon the ravelin. At last they sent two captains and the Auditor of the garrison to Count Solms who had already entered it.  
Prince Maurice, count Hohenlo & those of the Council of war were busied in skirmish with Mansfelt, & so soon as they heard this news, they scarce believed it, thinking the captains had made a skirmish by chance, having no commission so to do. These commissioners craved but 2 hours respite to send to crave count Mansfelts consent; this could not be granted: but when they heard of the state of Mansfelts camp, and how that Prince Maurice offered to save their lives, i● was concluded, that they should depart forth of the town with their swords and baggage, as appeareth by this accord following.  

We Maurice, Prince of Orange, Count of Nassau, Catzenelboguen, Vyanden, Dyetz, etc. Governor and Captain general of Guelderland, Holland, Zealand, West-Frizeland, Zutphen, Vtrecht, and Ouer-Yssell, Admiral general, have granted, and by these Presents do grant to the Captains, officers and soldiers of the Garrison of Geertrudenberg free liberty to depart with their swords, horse and baggage, whether it shall seem good unto them, without any let or impediment, to which end fifty wagons shall be lent them: and if they shall need any boats for the king of Spain's officers, their servants, hurt men, and baggage, we will freely cause them to be conducted to antwerp, so as they will give sufficient caution to send back the said wagons and boats; and so, that the receivers Matthew Daulthat, john Fransen, and john Matthew, will remain in the said town, till they have delivered up their Registers, papers, and records belonging to their office, unto such as shall be by us appointed thereunto. And concerning the Clergy and Burghers (those excepted who have had an hand in betraying the town) we grant them free liberty to depart with their baggage: and promise them by the faith of a Prince, that whatsoever is above mentioned shall without any let or contraction be observed.  
Given in the Camp before Geertrudenberg on the five and twentieth foe june 1593. Signed underneath, Maurice of Nassau.   
Notwithstanding this accord thus passed, Prince Maurice at their earnest request granted them their arms. Thereupon the same day an hundred wagons went forth of the town, with the baggage, hurt people, women and children: next them followed three Captains attended by sixteen ensign-bearers with their colours, which with great reverence they delivered to Prince Maurice, who highly commended all their colours: next them followed the officers with their halberds, and some two hundred and forty pikes, and then 384 musketeers and arquebusiers, with others to the number of 600, and marched along by Oosterhoudt towards Mansfelts camp.  
Besides, his Excellency suffered three boats laden with silk and hurt men to depart to antwerp. Three soldiers who had in former time been consenting to the delivery of the town to the Duke of Parma, were by his Excellencies command presently hanged.  
After the departure of the enemy's soldiers, Prince Maurice with his forces entered the town, and found it so well provided of all necessaries, as had it not been taken in this manner he would have lost more men in the attempt, so as himself gave the glory unto God, and exhorted others to do the like: His officers found eight hundred pound weight of powder there, beside, flesh, fish, bread, bear, salt and corn, of all which they had plenty. In this siege three hundred men were slain, and four hundred hurt. He made his brother Count Henry Frederick governor there (unto whom the Prince his father, of happy memory, by his testament had bequeathed the town) and the Lord Arent of Duvenvoord his Lieutenant, and on a sudden all the trenches were leveled. Mansfelt perceived not that the town was yielded, till such time as he saw our men to displant the canon on every side, and that the armed men burnt straw upon their pikes ends.  
Count Mansfelt having intelligence of the towns loss, raised his camp on the 26 of june, and marched by the Langstraet towards Bommeler-weert, thinking by force to have surprised the Fort of Crevecoeur, which stands near the Maze at the mouth of the river Diese, opposite to Heel in Brabant: But those of Gorcum and Bommell, had in part prevented it, by stopping the water near to the said fort, whereby all the water which runneth by Sertoghenbusk forth of the rivers dommel and Aa, drowned the country round about.  
Before Count Mansfelt could come thither, Prince Maurice and his troops were there, hindering him from making any fortifications, and by fortifying against him, enforced him to depart with his ordnance towards Vliemen and Engelen and to encamp on the higher grounds, which notwithstanding were presently environed with water. Those of Crevecoeur Skonse, did presently bend all their ordnance thitherward, with which they greatly annoyed the enemy who lay open without any shelter, and imprisoned by water: So as many of them were miserably slain there.  
Prince Maurice fortified the frontiers and Bommeler-weert, he likewise sent forces into Frizeland to Count William, and commanded Count Solms to make a road into Flaunders, where the Boors (detained by the Spaniards) brought not in their contributions, who had fortified themselves near Hulst and Axle, and had likewise intended some enterprise on these two towns, and to that end had won certain soldiers, who (whilst they should attempt to carry away the towns cat-tail) had undertaken to kill the guard and to make themselves masters of the gates; but this was discovered.  
Count Solms, on the 24 of julie, went into the Land of Waes with eight hundred horse, and three thousand five hundred foot: he sent his cavalry before, to a place called S. john ten Steen, where the Spaniards forsook their fort, flying to Veer, opposite to antwerp, but thirty of their horse were taken, and the Dorp of Steken was burnt. Our cavalry, near to S. Nicholas encountered with eighty Lorraine horsemen, who were beaten, and most of them taken prisoners: our footmen planted the canon before S. james Skonse which yielded, the like did those of S. john ten Steen.  
All this being done in a short space, news was brought that Mondragon sent two thousand foot, and six cornets of horse from antwerp, and that ten more followed them: whereupon, Coun● Solms retired, racing the forts he had taken, and with no great booty embarked himself, having by this road (wherein at first he was too slack) gotten very small contribution.   

The Town of Coervoerden is freed from the siege in Anno 1594.  
THe town of Geertrudenberg thus taken, provided of all necessaries, and order given for the government thereof: prince Maurice had divers enterprises upon sundry towns, and among others on Bruges and Maestricht, which for want of good intelligence, and fearfulness of certain soldiers, had no good success: Count William of Nassau likewise lost no time in Frizeland, but did mightily annoy the enemy, taking divers forts, as those of Gramberg, Wed, etc. using all means to reduce the town of Groeninguen to extremity; but the said Earl perceiving the enemy to be too strong for him, and that he had taken the town of Ootmarsen, and fearing if he should go to encounter Verdugo, the enemy might invade Frizeland, he marched with his forces towards the Lecke, and knowing that the forces of Slochteren, Wintschoten and Wed, with other small Skonses in the vaert or passage, could not long hold out against the canon, he sent them word on pain of death not to yield the said places, till the canon were planted against them: this he did to win time, and to be the better able to finish his chief fort upon the Bourtagne, which he had begun; to master and oppress those of Grouninguen, and he had already brought it so forward, as by the situation thereof no canon could be brought to batter it: The rampires were of the height of a pike, the Dike was at least fourscore foot broad, full of water and very deep: It had five bulwarks, two of them faced the enemy, the storehouse was built, and the soldiers cabins made, and it was provided of all necessaries for two months, and beside, they might fetch whatsoever they needed from the country of Westphalia, in despite of the enemy. There lay five ensigns of foot in it, commanded by the Governor Gerard the younger, and if this fort could be kept, they made no doubt but in time to take the town of Groninguen. Therefore Count William, perceiving Verdugo to be master of the field, and that he expected greater forces under the conduct of Count Herman of Berghen, he durst in no sort stir abroad, but stood on his defence, looking for more aid under the command of Sir Francis Veer and others, and his Excellency had promised him if need were, to come himself thither with an army.  
The Grouninguers requested Verdugo to divide his forces into two troops, and to besiege Reyden, and Bellingwoderzile, thereby to cut off victuals from the fort of Bourtange, and to that end they were ready to send him six double canon: But he allowed not thereof, fearing least Count William coming to Slochteren Skonse would cut off his passage betwixt that and Grouninguen, and hinder the coming of his canon: and though he should besiege those towns, he was in doubt to be daily assailed by him. And because Verdugo in that place could not make use of his horsemen, he resolved to go and besiege the Fort of Bourtange, where in a short space he wanted victuals, and was enforced on a sudden to raise his siege, causing a report to be made that he meant to besiege Coevoerden, and so matched on Groeninguens' side, from thence craftily taking his way in October towards Count William's camp, to assail him on the sudden and unlooked for, which he might easily have done, had not a soldier stolen forth of a little Sconce by which Verdugo passed, and given th'alarm, by which means the camp arrived, which the same day began to fortify and entrench, and had almost made it defensible: the enemy could come no nearer it than within musket shot, and only made some skirmish which continued six or seven hours till night, in which time Verdugo sought to draw them forth into the field; but Count William would not come forth of his fortifications, so as Verdugo was enforced to retire towards Groeninguen with great loss, by reason of his long skirmishes. Count William lost one Captain and many brave soldiers, the Scottish colonel Balfour was hurt in the foot with divers others.  
Verdugo perceiving his attempts on Count William's camp to be vain, and that winter would drive him forth of the field, and finding but small store of victuals in the country, because that the boors of the Ommelands and country of Drent were retired into the forts and towns, he marched towards Coevoerden: and seeing that the country on one side of the town was high, he caused a way to be made within canon shot of it, with hurdles and faggots, covering them with gravel taken from under the mud in the marshes, and on this way he caused two or three forts to be built as far as the Drossarts house, and that of Steenwijck, and by that means did shut up the town passages from those of Coevoerden, in that manner besieging them. But these forts being wet and muddy, many soldiers died in them that winter to the number of two thousand. Verdugo, with the remainder of his forces, went towards Oldenzell, where most of his soldiers afflicted with poverty and sickness ran from him both horse and foot. Of 2000 Lorraines, only four hundred were left; seven ensigns of Walons were brought to so small a number, as they durst not for very shame unfold their colours. Verdugo went to Lingen to meet with a new regiment of foot, levied by the young Duke of Saxony, whose Lieutenant Colonel was by the garrison of Deuticum and others, taken prisoner, and an hundred of his men slain, the rest fled. In the mean time, Verdugo and Count Herman sent consolatory letters to the Groeninguers, which were intercepted, whereby they entreated them to take courage, for they were going into Brabant to crave more aid of Ernestus.  
Count William thus freed from his enemy, sent part of his forces to garrison, and placed another part at Visflit to keep the passage of Vrijse against the enemy, and himself with three thousand men embarked at Zoltcampe, and went towards Bellingwolderzill, to recover the Fort of Wed, which they took, and wholly finished the new Fort of Bourtange, making provisions to send to those of Coevoerden during the frost. The Grouninguers in the mean time made ready a convoy to send to Verdugos forces before Coevoerden; but Count Philip of Nassau lay in wait for it with 500 horse, and his enterprise being discovered, he took but fifty wagons.  
Coevoerden by reason of Verdugos forts having been oppressed by 300 foot, and four hundred horse; the united Provinces, did in Germany levy a regiment of Almans under the conduct of count Euerard of Solms, cousin german to prince Maurice, together with certain horse: the Queen of England likewise permitted them to raise a regiment of English in her realm, who were commanded by Sir Francis Veer. Verdugo and Count Herman were busied at Brussels, craving more aid of Ernestus. The Grouninguers sent a present of silver plate, and twenty goodly horse to count Ernest of Mansfelt, which were taken by the State's soldiers. That done, his Excellency with his whole cavalry, and two and fifty ensigns of foot went towards Arnham, there to receive his cousin count Euerard of Solms, the regiment of Almaus, and certain horse, but their arrival was delayed by reason of the high waters and bad ways, so as they were enforced to come by boat. Verdugo had likewise done his best to assail them near to Lip at a narrow passage: He went from Coevoerden with eleven cornets of horse, and certain foot companies, but he came too late, because they were already gone. These forces being come near to Ysseloort consisting of two thousand six hundred foot, and 260 horse, the States sent a command to the next garrisons to meet near to Zwoll, whether Prince Maurice likewise came, to go and raise the siege of Coevoerden. Ernestus suspecting it, sent forces thither from Brabant, but his Excellency made show to stop their passage over the Rhine, and so kept them back as much as as in him lay. In the mean time he made haste to join with count William of Naslau, who had already provided 1000 wagons, with all manner of provisions, and had now 10000 foot, and 2000 gallant horse, who met both together at Zwoll, and on the 5 of May, they went from thence in good order to Dae'ffem, & the 6 of May, in like order to Ommen: Verdugo thought it not good to attend them, but resolved, on the 6 of May, to raise his siege and to quit the forts by night, and the same day he departed without sound of drum, 'ogether with all his old regiments, as those of Chimay, Arenberg, the counts Herman and Frederick of Berghen, marching towards Lingen, divers of his men running from him by the way, so as Coevoerden was freed from the siege, and the forts taken and manned against the enemy's assaults.   

¶ The siege and taking of the town and country of Groeninguen, in Anno 1594.  
AFter that his Excellency by God's help had raised the siege of Coevoerden, & well provided it of all necessaries after Verdugos departure: he was unwilling to let slip or lose any occasion which might serve for the good and profit of the state of those countries: and therefore marched with his army into the land of Groninguen, whether part of Verdugos forces were retired, showing himself before the town. And, on the 20 of May, he environed it, and sent to summon it to yield: the townsmen made a courteous answer, That their town was too strong to yield so soon: whereupon, he caused all his warlike provisions (which were in a manner numberless) to be unshipt and landed. He had an hundred and forty ensigns of foot: he quartered his cavalry at Suytlaten upon the ways, to guard the passages, which being well kept, he could not easily be driven from his siege. 
The sort of Auwarder ●●j●l taken the last of May.  Count William, on the last of May, sent 8 ensigns of Prisons before the fort of Auwaerd-zijll, where 135 men lay, who were assaulted and battered, with 8 pieces of ordnance; & after 182 shot had made a breach, they gave an assault on the one side with bridges and ladders, whilst some on the other side (the besieged mistrusting no such matter, because the marshes lay on that side) passed on hurdles & bridges secretly under the rampires, & mounted the fort, firing the powder and cabins; where captain Prenger was slain.  
The besieged, being terrified with their surprisal, begged for mercy, which was not granted, because, not long before the taking of the fort, they had used some cruelty, and given vile and haughty speeches to the drum that summoned them to yield: whereupon, they were all slain (some 8 or 9 excepted.) It was a very strong place, 20 of our men were slain there, and threescore hurt.  
On the 28 of May, his Excellency summoned those of the fort of Slochteren, who refused to yield, yet they fled away by night, as did those of the fort of Hagenbrug, & other Skonses. Before the taking of these forts there was scarcity in the camp, these skonses enclosing all the passages, but afterwards all things were very cheap there, by reason of a channel they made, by which all provisions were brought to the great camp by boat.  
His Excellency had with him more than sixty pieces of ordnance of all sorts; and the better to plant his canon, was constrained to begin a far off, because the townsmen made a fierce counterbatterie upon him, for they had store of ordnance, with more than 400 great barrels of powder and other necessaries, so as few towns in the Netherlands were so well provided. The town is very populous, and the Burghers trained up in arms, of great antiquity, and have a long time lived in freedom: there was no garrison in it, but the meaner sort of the inhabitants served in stead of soldiers, and received pay from the king of Spain. Beside these, they had still Verdugos troops at their command, and now during the siege, five ensigns of old soldiers, under the conduct of colonel George de Lauckema, who lay without the town in a strong place called Schuytendiep, beneath the town walls, and were there ready upon any occasion.  
Prince Maurice with his ordnance did no great harm to the town, whose rampires, bulwarks & ravelins were exceeding strong, from whence they made above 4000 shot upon the camp.  
They likewise made sundry sallies, especially upon the English quarter, where, among others, the captains Brook and Wray were slain. Those of Schuytendiep, also, did on a time in the trenches, surprise Hittinga and Hardo, Captains of two companies of Frizons, whose matches the rain had put out; they slew fifteen men, and took seventeen prisoners, together with the two ensigns: whereupon, the trenches round about the camp were made stronger.  
Our men shot wildfire into the town, so as many that were busied in quenching it, perished by the canon: and the besiegers profited little by battering the rampires, because the besieged did speedily repair them: our men did beat down a gate, and a way or bridge leading to a Ravelin, and did likewise undermine certain Bulwarks, filling the Dikes, so that the Burghers by little and little began to be discouraged, as also for that their messengers sent to Ernestus and Verdugo gave them small hope: whereupon, by certain trumpets and other messengers they began to treat on means of capitulation. This treaty being suspected by divers (as the mariners and jesuits) who feared that the meaner sort would carry it away, did, unknown to all the rest, call the five companies that lay at Schuytendiep into the town, 
Content●● be●●●t t●ose of Groeni●g●●n.  against whom the Burghers presently rose, in which tumult divers were slain, and some of their houses who had mentioned the treaty ransacked, as among others that of john de Bour. At last they agreed in friendly manner, that the soldiers should return to the trenches. This notwithstanding, they thought it fit to continue their treaty with the besiegers, by means of the said john de Bour, so as they sent hostages to the camp, craving fifteen days respite, with cessation of arms, which was denied them.  
They likewise demanded by the said du Bour, Whether in former time there had not been a treaty motioned to the Duke of Brunswick by the mediation of Count Hobenlo, whereby the duke propounded certain conditions unto them, and if they might not now capitulat on the same conditions? and thereupon, they sent likewise to count Hobenlo, who made answer, That it was now too late, and that the times were changed.  
His Excellency, on the 12 of julie, as he looked over the trenches, received a shot upon his target, which struck him down to the ground.  
Whilst the said Prince undermined a great and strong ravelin before the East-gate, on which the townsmen had planted four canon, these Ours being ready to be fired, they gave a false alarm and assault to the ravelin, 
The great 〈…〉.  from which (being repulsed) they retired on a sudden, and upon a certain signal, gave fire to the bigger mine which was blown up, together with whatsoever was upon the ravelin, as also 140 men who were cast into the camp, of whom one was alive: whereupon, our men leapt upon the ravelin, and there slew as many as were left alive, driving the rest into the dikes, and presently entrenched themselves: they found a soldier under ground who was still alive, together with four canons, two of which the Burghers with cords drew into the town: two hundred were slain there.  
The ravelin thus lost, and fearing other mines in other places might cause a greater danger, the Burghers that served as soldiers, and were called May Birds, began likewise to be discouraged, and were not so opposite to agreement as before. So as the chief Burghers fearing that the town would be more undermined, did by mutual consent send their commissioners, both from the clergy and magistracy of the town, as likewise from colonel Laukema, together with hostages, treating from the sixteenth to the two and twentieth of julie, 
Those of Graninguen capitulate.  with his Excellency and count William of Nassau: who by advice of the Council of State, did on honourable conditions grant, that they should live in their rights and privileges, as other Provinces to whom they should be united; and concerning their contention with the Ommelands and country near adjoining, the true motive and beginning of the war, they should therein refer themselves to my Lords the general States: and for matters of religion, should conform themselves like to other countries, accepting Count William of Nassau governor of Frizeland, for their governor, together with five companies of soldiers. The articles thereof we have thought good to insert, for better satisfaction of the curious Reader, because it is a mighty town, and may well be termed a Province.  

FIrst, all wrongs, injuries and offences perpetrated since the beginning of these troubles & late alterations, as likewise whatsoever hath been done during the present siege of Groeninguen, in what place or manner soever, either general or particular, as well within as without, shallbe pardoned and forgotten, as things never done, so as no more mention nor inquiry shall be made thereof to call any man to question; on penalty that the infractors and transgressors hereof shall be held, accounted, and punished as desturbers of the public peace and quiet.  
2 Those of the Magistracy and inhabitants of Groeninguen shall promise & accept, as by these presents they do accept and promise, to reunite themselves to the united Provinces of the Netherlands, as dependents thereof, and to continue loyal to my Lords the general States of the said provinces; & so consequently those of Groeninguen, as a member joined to other provinces, shall unsaignedly like good confederates entertain firm and inviolable friendship together; and at all times, and upon all occasions shall aid and assist one another, and resist the Spaniards & their adherents, as those who contrary to all right and reason have gone about to oppress the subjects, and to deprive them of their goods, keeping them in perpetual misery and bondage.  
3 Those of Groeninguen shall likewise live in their rights, privileges, liberties, franchises and immunities.  
4 Again, those of the town, and the Ommelanders or country near adjoining, making appearance to give their general voice, shall rest satisfied and govern themselves according to the sentence pronounced & declared by my lords the general States, upon due consideration of the cause.  
5 That my Lord Count William of Nassau etc. Governor of Groeninguen and the Ommelanders, according to the tenure of my Lords the general State's commission, shall be acknowledged, received, and so held: and that the strife now present, or which may hereafter arise betwixt the town of Groeninguen and the Ommelanders, shall be referred according to the decision and dispose of my Lords the States general or their deputies.  
6 Moreover, none other Religion shall be used in the town and country of Groeninguen, but the reformed, in the same manner as it is publicly in use in the united Provinces, on condition that no man shall be enforced in his conscience. That all Cloisters and ecclesiastical goods shall continue in the same estate they now stand, till the state of the town of the Ommelands shall be duly reform by my Lords the general States, on condition, that then, the Provinces themselves shall give order for the bestowing of the goods and entertainment of the ecclesiastical persons: always provided, that whatsoever belongs to the commanderies of Witwert, Oosterbirum and others, shall be held and disposed of according to the commaunderies which are in other of the united Provinces.  
7 That for the general safety of the town, and likewise to prevent and hinder all tumults and division among the Burghers and inhabitants, those of Groeninguen shall receive five or six foot companies, who by advise of the Magistrate, and to the least prejudice of the Burghers and inhabitants shall be provided of lodging, or money to provide it, according to the agreement which shall be made betwixt the Lord governor and those of the town and country.  
8 As for certain forts which are to be razed, it shall be done according to the first convenient occasion, and as my Lords the general States shall think fit.  
9 That the town of Groeninguen, together with the Ommelanders, in that which concerns the general means and contributions serving for direction of the common cause, shall hereafter conform themselves like other contributory Provinces.  
10 Beside, concerning rates and contributions, which till now have been rated, contributed and received, as likewise domains which have been accountable, the accounts thereof shall be held for good. And those which have not been accounted, the accounts shall be made before the old lords, on condition they shall not meddle with the receipt of any remainders.  
11 Again, all those that were fled from the town of Groeninguen and the Ommelands, or their heirs, shall be again restored to their goods, it they be not yet alienated or sold, wherein singular courtesy and modesty shall be used.  
12 And concerning goods immovable sold or alienated, either for debts or mortgage, and likewise such as have been confiscate, the said heirs may recover the said goods, in redeeming them for themselves within the term of four years, and by repaying the value of the principal money, together with the rent thereof: whereupon, the revenues which the buyer hath received shall be abated: and if any contention shall arise thereupon, it shall be referred to the deciding of an ordinary and competent judge.  
13 Again, it shall be lawful for all Burghers of the town of Groeninguen, whether they be ecclesiastical persons or others, freely to remain in the town, or to withdraw themselves into other towns or places neutral as shall seem best unto them, and there to continue and enjoy their goods: provided, they go not to the enemy side.  
14 All strangers of what quality or nation soever, now presently remaining in the said town shall be comprehended in this treaty, and may reside there or in any neutral place so as they will swear to be loyal to the States of the united Provinces.  
15 All letters of rent, debt, and mortgage of all Abbots, Prelates, and ecclesiastical persons as well foreign as domestic, that during these troubles have retired themselves to the town of Groeninguen, made for their entertainment, shall be decided by the Estates and Magistrates of the Province or town, wherein their Monasteries or Colleges do stand, according to equity.  
16 The deputies of this town of Groeninguen, being in commission at Brussels, together with their servants and goods, shall be comprehended in this agreement: provided, they return within three months.  
17 Those Burghers that were taken prisoners during this siege, shall be set at liberty, paying their ransom.  
18 The town shall be governed by the Magistrate, saving that he and those of the commonalty that are sworn, shall for this once be established by his Excellency and Count William, with consent of the Council of State; and ever after, the election of the Magistrate shall be done according to the ancient custom: So as in stead of distribution of beans (a ceremony by them used) the said lord Earl as governor may choose five even among the 24 that are sworn, who shall proceed to election of the Magistrate according to the ancient custom: and this to continue so long as the wars shall last.  
19 Again, it shall not be lawful for any man by means of this union, to transport or resign the town of Groeninguen to any king, prince, lord, or commonwealth, without the mutual consent of the said town, nor yet to build any new castle there, to guard or countermand it.  
20 The Magistracy and Burghers of Groeninguen, shall take the same oath to continue loyal, as others have done.  
21 Moreover, all provisions, either of money, warlike munition, victuals, ordnance, and such like, sent into the town of Groeninguen, belonging to the king of Spain, or otherwise sent thither during the war, shallbe delivered to his General or his commissioners.  
22 The king of Spain's soldiers shall depart forth of the town of Groeninguen, and from Schuytendiep.  
Given in the camp before Groeninguen the eight and twentieth of julie. 1594.    

¶ Here followeth the agreement concluded with the Lieutenant general George Laukema, and soldiers of the garrison.  

FIrst, the said Lieutenant, together with the Captains, officers, and soldiers (those excepted which in former time have served under the States) their wives, followers, and baggage, shall freely and without any molestation depart with their arms and ensigns (which his Excellency at the intercession of the commissioners of the town of Groeninguen hath granted them, without sound of drum, and match lighted) forth of the said town and camp, without any impediment either in body or goods, and shall be safely conducted by the river Drent to governor Verdugos camp, and from thence over the Rhine, on promise not to serve on the hitherside of that river for three months.  
2 That his Excellency for the better carrying of their stuff and baggage, and for ease of women, children, sick and hurt persons, shall furnish them with eighty wagons for their use, with a commissary and safe convoy, such as his Excellency shall think good to appoint, who shall conduct them to Ootmarsen, or at farthest to Oldenzeell: And the said Laukema shall be bound to leave some of his Captains as caution for the safe return of those wagons.  
3 All Captains, officers and soldiers, who by reason of their wounds and sickness cannot endure to travel by waggon, shall remain in the town till they have recovered their healths, and then, passport shallbe given them to return to their companies, either by land or water.  
4 That Captain Wyngaerden, having paid for his expenses, shall go his way without ransom, as likewise all soldiers, victuallers, and carters of the camp that are prisoners in the town.  
5 That all goods belonging to Verdugo, remaining in the said town, shall freely be carried to a place appointed, or else may remain safely in the Town, till the said Lord governor have otherwise disposed of them.  
6 That all horse and baggage belonging to the king of Spain's officers (such as are now absent) shall have free passage and be conducted together with the other soldiers.  
7 That all those who do presently reside in the town of Groeninguen, of what Nation soever, officers, and others, all Churchmen, as the two fathers jesuits, and other temporal persons that were willing to depart with the soldiers, their wives, children, family, cattle and goods, may enjoy the benefit of the same above mentioned convoy and safety.  
8 And if any of the said inhabitants, either man or woman, by reason of their private affairs, cannot depart with the said soldiers and convoy, six months are granted them from the day of the date of this present accord, during which time they may remain here and finish their business, and afterwards depart with their goods and families either by land or water whither soever they shall please.  
9 That all Captains, commanders, and soldiers, that are indebted to the Burghers, shall be bound to make satisfaction before their departure: and if there be any stuff or baggage belonging to those that are absent who are indebted to any Burgher, the said goods shall be detained till such time as the creditors be fully satisfied.  
10 That the Lieutenant general, Captains, commanders and private soldiers shall depart (this accord once concluded) without any longer delay forth of the town of Groeninguen, Schuytendiep, and other usual places of their retreat.  
Given in the camp before Groeninguen, and underneath signed and sealed by his Excellency the 22 of julie 1594.   
Hereupon, Groeninguen yielded the next day, being the 23 of julie, which did not greatly please his Excellency's soldiers, who hoped to have taken it by force, and to have sacked it; but the other Provinces thought good to preserve and unite it to the rest, declaring that they managed war as well for their neighbour's profit as their own liberty. The companies of Count William of Nassau, of john de Niell, Charles de Vijngaerden, of Steenhuyse, Cobbe, and Appell, entered into it: the like did his Excellency and Count William, who visited the rampires, which they found to be very strong. Ten thousand canon shot were made upon the town, which in powder & bullets cost 100000 florins. Of our men 400 were slain, besides those that were hurt: of the besieged, 300 were slain, and many Burghers. Six and thirty brazen pieces, with many of iron, were found in the town.  
His Excellency did afterwards change the magistrates according to the articles. These two following verses were likewise made, containing the day and year of the towns taking. 
QVI nt ILI In Patr IUM foe DVs GrunInga reVersa est,  
Et noVa Nassa VIs parta trophoea VIrIs.   
General Laukema with his soldiers in number 295 men departed, together with 100 that were sick and wounded, and marched towards Oldenzeel where Verdugo lay; Count Frederic went to his government at Lingen, and placed garrisons in Grolle and other towns, sending certain regiments and 8 cornets of horse, beyond the Rhine, whom count Philip of Nassau in vain pursued. Prince Maurice returned to the Hague; all towns through which he passed, congratulated and honoured him with triumphs and presents. The soldiers were sent to garrison, 900 horse excepted, that made incursions into the countries of Luxembourg and Flanders.   

The general States of the united provinces, set forth certain ships towards Nova Zemla and the Eastern Indies, in an. 1594. & 1595.  
ALthough it may seem impertinent to set down (among the many gallant victories which the Author of all goodness hath by his Excellencies conduct granted to these countries) the admirable, strange, and tedious voyages to the Northward, Way-gate, and Nova Zemla, as also towards the East-Indies; yet for divers reasons following, I cannot forget or pass them over in silence. First, albeit the Northern voyage hath not much profited these countries, yet those to the Eastern Indies, have on the contrary been very commodious: So as my lords the general States have much annoyed the king of Spain in those parts, who thinks that these countries do alone belong unto him; and have thereby much diminished his power and revenues, and freed the Netherlands from more grievous and tedious war. Secondly, I thought good here to insert them, that when the Reader shall look upon the victories which these united provinces have obtained against the king of Spain, he may here likewise find the valorous actions of our countrymen, and all that they have done and endured abroad in foreign countries many thousand miles from home, to the ruin & diminution of the greatness of this Spanish Pharaoh: as also by this means the better to move and incite their children & successors to the like, or if it be possible to greater & more noble enterprises. 3. To the end that the inhabitants of these united Provinces may never forget but always remember, that the Almighty and only good God, hath not alone thus blessed, preserved and defended them from the power of the king of Spain and his bloody Council: but likewise how so small a country hath been able to make head against the mightiest potentate of Christendom, having not only kept their own, but invaded him in his own land, as we already have and will hereafter set down: Beside, that these countries for the space of forty years that the wars have lasted (contrary to the nature of war) are become so rich and potent, as in the midst of all these great sieges so dearly bought, they have yet been able to send forth ships (with exceeding expense) to annoy their enemies. We will first speak of the Northern voyages, and of Nova Zemla.  
The united Provinces living under a free government, having shaken off the Pope and king of Spain's yoke, excelling all nations in the world in navigation and number of ships, the country being full of good mariners and men skilful in marine matters, wherein they are more expert than others, as appears by their works and learned Cosmographies, thought it fit to lay hold on that occasion which in former times had been snatched from them by their sovereigns' the Emperor Charles the 5 and his son king Philip, in regard of the Spaniards and Portuguese, who were first discoverers of the new & Eastern Indies; so as by advise of divers Pilots and learned Cosmographers, they have caused a way and passage to be sought out to the north-east, to pass by Tartary to the countries of Cathay, China, and Eastern Indies, and so to the Islands of japan, Molucques, etc. which, by two voyages made by the English, the first by sir Francis Drake, and the other by Candish, who compassed the world, hath been more and more discovered. The Englishmen have often sought out this way to the Northward, as in ann 1553, by Hugh Willoughby & Rich. Chancellor: Willoughby went into Groenland, where he was frozen, and there found more than a year after, together with his men and provision. But Chancellor arrived in Muscovy, and discovered that way which the English & Flemings have ever since yearly used. After that, Setphen Burrows in anno 1556, and after him in the year 1580, Arthure Pet and Charles jackman Englishmen, found out a passage by Way-gate towards Tartary: And then Oliver Brunell of Holland discovered the river of Pechora. But all these (though they seemed not to be far off from the passage) could never find it. The English likewise sought out a passage to the northwest, along the coast of America, or new France, as sir Martin Forbisher thrice with divers ships.  
After him, john Davies discovered two hundred leagues further, thinking to find America to be an Island, and to pass behind the North to the Southward, and so to go to China, but hitherto nothing hath been done.  
In this regard, the States of the united Provinces, did, toward the end of the year 1594, sent four ships to those parts, one, a ship of Amsterdam, under the command of William Barrentsen; one of Zealand, of Campeveer, under Cornelius Cornelison; and one of Enchuysen, with john Hugh of Linschoten, who had remained in the Indies with Isebrand Tetcales. All these setting sail on the fifth of june, those of Amsterdam took an higher course seventy seven degrees to the Northward (where in August they met with store of ye and sea monsters) giving names to havens: but the mariners being unwilling, who feared that they should not be able to pass forward, they resolved to return. The two other ships met with Islands, unto which they gave names. At last, they likewise found a passage, even in a mist, as if God had brought them unto it, for which they thanked him. They found that straight to be very commedious and deep, wherein great and small ships might ride, and to be five or six leagues in length: and after that sailed into a greater, larger and warmer Sea, where they saw the ice to melt before their faces, and so went to the coast of Tartary near to the river Oby, 
The strait of Nassau found out to the Northeastward, in anno 1595.  where they found Islands, men, and a fertile soil. They gave names to those countries, and called the strait, the strait of Nassau, and as they supposed they might have passed on farther, if they had had commission so to do, and more provision; and so rejoicing, they returned to the strait, setting up marks every where, and on the sixteenth of September in anno 1595, they came back to Amsterdam.  
Upon the report, the States resolved to further the voyage, being desirous to plant the Christian faith in those countries, not after the Spanish manner by force of arms, but by Christian means, dealing gently with the inhabitants, thereby seeking to augment their navigation, fishing and traffic; this way being two thousand Germane leagues shorter than the Portugals voyage, by the cape of Good hope, much safer and free from Pirates, and less subject to diseases, because they need not pass the Equinoctial line as the Portugals do, four times, forward and backward.  
The States of the united Provinces, caused another voyage to be made, and the year following sent forth seven ships, two from Amsterdam, two from Enchusen, two from Zealand, and one from Rotterdam: six were laden with all kind of Merchandise and money, every ship having his committee for traffic: the seventh, being a small vessel, was commanded to return, so soon as the others were past the cape of Tabin (which they met with before they come to the last point of Tartary) to bring home news of the other ships. jacob de Heemskerck, was committee general of the fleet, and William Barrentson chief Pilot. Some of them were commanded to winter in those quarters, to know how long the winter and ice doth continue, having to that end provision with them to make Stoves. The most learned Cosmographers doubt not of the passage, but only of the promontory of Tabins' extension more to the Northward, which divers think to be impossible, because that certain Indians (as Pliny writes seventy & two years before the birth of Christ) were by tempest thrown upon the coast of Germany, 
People of the Eastern Indies, thrown in former time by tempest upon the coast of Germany.  and presented to Quintus Metellus Celer, governor for the Romans in France. Since then, some came into Swethland, and others (as Dominicus Niger writes) came in the Emperor Frederick Barbarossus time, in the year 1160, and after that (as Otho speaks in his History of the Goths) certain Indians of the Eastern Indies were cast upon our coast: so as there is hope, that by the same way that these people came (being alive and in health and not knowing any place) our men being well furnished of all necessaries may make discovery, or may fall upon the rivers of Oby and Quian, which go far up into Tartary; from whence they may more and more discover countries. If this passage could be found out, traffic would be changed over the whole world; for those countries do abound in silk, cotton, wool, lead, tin, copper, gold, silver, and precious stones. The chief adventurers in this voyage, for Zealand, are, jacob Valck treasurer of Zealand, Christopher Roelsins pensioner to the States of Zealand, with divers merchants, as Balthasar Moucheron; and at Amsterdam, Peter Plancius, john janson Charles, Dirrick de Osse, and many others.  
These seven ships, upon hope of good success, did altogether on the second of julie, depart from Texell to the Northward, and sailing towards the north-east, in ann 1595, they found too much ice at the strait of Nassau; for by reason of contrary winds they came thither too late: and after sundry dangers and difficulties, without attaining their wished Port, returned, on the 18 of November, the same year, into the Maze, not despairing for all that to find out the passage some other time. Whereupon, the same voyage was again attempted the third time by the Magistrates of the town of Amsterdam (because the States of the united Provinces were no longer willing to prosecute that discovery at the country's cost, but promised to give a good sum of money to him that should find out the same passage) who, at the beginning of the year 1596, manned forth two ships, and agreed with the mariners on two conditions, viz. what to have, if they performed not the voyage, and what recompense they should have if they found out the way to China: promising them great reward if they could discover the passage. They took as few married men as could be, because they would not have them to return home by their love to their wives and children, before they had prosecuted the journey.  
The Master, and Committee for trade in one of the ships, was jacob de Heemskerck, and the chief Pilot William Barentsoon; and in the other john Cornellison Rijp was Master and Committee.  
On the 16 of May 1596, they went from the Vlie, but by a north-east wind were with great danger enforced to put in again: And on the 18 of the said month they pursued their journey, and sailed so far to the Northward, as on the 19 of june they came to the height of eighty degrees and eleven minutes, where they descried a new country, whether they bent their course, and entered certain leagues up into a Bay: they supposed this country to be Groenland, which stands under the height of 80 degrees, where they found green grass, cattle feeding upon it, and far less cold and ice than when they were under the height of 76 degrees.  
From thence they returned to an Island, which they had before named the land of Bears, in regard of the great number of white bears they found there, near to this Island the two ships departed from one another: john Cornellis sailed back again towards eighty degrees, thinking there to find a passage on the eastside of the said country; but that ship did no great matter, but returned home into Holland.  
The other, wherein William Barentsoon and Heemskerke were, sailed towards Nova Zemla, where they rounded the coasts to the Northward, till they came to an Island called the Isle of Orange, in the height of 77 degrees: from whence they went Southward, where they found much ice, so as they could discover the land no farther: and on the last of August went with their ship to land, where it was soon frozen, so as they were enforced to remain there, where they resolved to build an house with timber which they found on the Sea shore, into which they carried their victuals and merchandise, and there continued all winter, where they were extremely tormented with cold and snow: the like whereof was never heard. The inner walls of this house where these thirteen or fourteen men lay, was frozen an handful thick only with their breaths, notwithstanding they kept a continual fire day and night.  
They were likewise much molested with white bears, which devoured some of their men: there were store of white foxes, which they took and did eat. 
Perpetual night in Nova Zemla all winter till the 27 of januarie.  All winter long they saw no day nor sun till the four and twentieth of januarie 1596, when it appeared a little, but on the seven and twentieth of the said month, they saw the sun in his full circumference.  
The 22 of june, these men departed thence with two great boats which they had provided, and left their ship sticking still in the ice. They left a written scroll in the house, put up into the bandelier of a musket, which they hung up in the chimney, wherein was written, how they came thither with an intent to go from Nova Zemla to China, & how necessity had enforced them to return home in two boats. In this manner, with much travel, misery and cold, they arrived on the second of October 1597, at Cola in Lapland, where they found their other ship with john Cornellis, who had already made one voyage into Holland, and togethether with him returned home on the 26 of October, but William Barrentsoon died by the way.  
Having briefly spoken of the voyages to Nova Zemla, we will now proceed to those of the Eastern Indies. The reasons moving my lords the States, and the inhabitants of these countries to begin and undertake these voyages, are these.  
They perceived that their trade with Spain grew every day more daungeros, for their ships were stayed, goods confiscate, their masters and merchants imprisoned under colour that they came from the Low-countries, and were questioned by those of the Inquisition concerning their religion, or else enforced for poor wages to serve the king against their country and conscience.  
These considerations moved some to establish a company, and to seek means to trade to the Eastern Indies: so as in the year 1594, nine merchants of Amsterdam entered into an association together, viz. Henrick Hudde, Reynier Pau, Peter Dirrickson Hasselaer, john janson Carrel, john Poppe, Henrick Buyck, Dirrick de Osse, Sivert Peter, and Aert of Grootenhuys: these were the first that traded to the Eastern Indies, and were termed The far company. They built four new ships, viz. two great ones of the burden of four hundred and sixty tun, the one was called Mauritius in honour of Prince Maurice, and carried six brazen pieces, and fourteen of iron, being well stored with small shot, and manned with eighty four men, having for Master john janson Molender, and Cornellis Houtman for committee. The other was called Hollandia, manned with eighty five men, and carried seven pieces of brass, twelve of iron, with store of small shot: her master was john Dignum, and the committee Gerard de Boninge. The third was termed Amsterdam, wherein were nine and fifty men, six brazen pieces, ten of iron, the master was john jacob Schillinger, & the committee Reynier de Hell; it was of the burden of two hundred tun. The fourth was a pinnace called the Dove, of fifty tun, manned with twenty men, and carried two pieces of brass, and six of iron, the master's name was Simon Lambrecht.  
These ships being rigged and set forth by the States of Holland were bound for the East Indies, to begin the navigation and trade of spice with the Indians, especially there where the Portugals had no command, thereby to avoid Spanish impositions.  
These four new ships being well stored with all necessaries for a long voyage, and manned with two hundred and fifty men, sailed from Texell the second of April 1595, and held on their course towards the Cape of Good hope, where by the way they met with a Portugal Carack, carrying the Archbishop of Goa to the Indies, which they might have taken, yet according to their commission they meddled not with it, but only went aboard her as loving friends.  
The second of August, they descried the said Cape, where their men grew very sick and some died, and having passed beyond the Cape, they cast anchor near to the Isle of Madagascar or S. Laurence, where they continued a long time: 
The Hollanders trade to the Indies and to jana, in anno 1●96.  from thence they pursued their journey, and on the eleventh of june, in anno 1596, they came near to the Isle of Su●atra, and so visited all those countries round about; from hence they sailed to the Island of La Major, to the merchant city of Bantam, where they found merchants of Turkey, China, & other countries; there they began to buy pepper & spice, but by the envy of the Portugals, they were maligned by the country's governor, who at their instigation became their enemy.  
The Indians after that, had like to have surprised them under colour of friendship; divers of the Hollanders committees, and the chief Pilot were slain, so as they could not prosecute their trade any longer there: whereupon, perceiving themselves to want men, they unloded one of their ships called Amsterdam, and burned it, the better to man the rest.  
The eleventh of januarie 1597, they resolved to return homewards, and came to the Islle of Balie, scituat to the Eastward of the great Island java, where they were kindly used and welcomed by the king, so that two Hollanders did voluntarily remain in that country.  
From thence, being well stored with rice, water, and such provisions as they could get, they set sail on the one and twentieth of March 1597, to return homeward, and on the seventh of May, doubled the cape of Good hope, and on the five and twentieth of the said month, came to S. Helen's Island, where they found many Portugal Carracks, so as they durst not touch there, but passed on, and arrived at Texell in Holland on the 11 of August, 
The Hollanders return home the 11 of August 1597.  having been two years and four months abroad: of 250 men they brought home 90, and left some 160 behind them. They brought two boys of Madagascar, and two of Sumatra with them, and one of China, who soon learned the Dutch Tongue, & gave more ample knowledge of their country's commodities.  
The above mentioned company of Amsterdam, notwithstanding the voyage had not been very profitable, resolved to send thither again, in the year 1●98, & because there was another company that were likewise willing to trade to the East Indies; because they would not hinder one another, they joined altogether. The new adventurers were Vincent de Bronchoorst, Simeon janssen Fortune, Gouert Dircsen, Cornellis de Campen, jacob Thomassen, Eldert Simonssen the younger, and john harman's.  
Their ships were named, the one Mauritius, which had been there already, whose Master was Gouert janssen, the other, Amsterdam, of the burden of six hundred tun, the third, Hollandia, and had likewise been there before, Simeon Mavor being Master thereof; the fourth, Guelderland, of four hundred tun, and john de Bruyn was her Master; the fifth, Zealand, of two hundred and sixty tun, and Nicholas jansz Melkman was her Master; the sixth was called Vtrecht, of 260 tun: with two pinnaces, the one named Frizeland, and the other Ouer-Yssel. The Admeral of these eight ships, were jacob de Neck, the Vice-Admerall Wybrant Warwijck: & beside these, there were seven committees for the Council, among whom was Heemskerck that had been in the last voyage to the Northward, all very skilful men, the ships were well furnished with men and all other necessary provision, and on the first of May, they set sail from Texell towards java. This company did afterwards build four great ships to send them the year following into those parts, the better thereby to continue the Navigation.  
In Zealand, a famous Merchant, named Balthasar de Moucheron, sent two ships likewise to the East Indies, the one called the Lion, and the other the lioness, whose pilot was a very skilful English man, called john David's; the chief committee was Cornellis Houtman, who went with the last fl●et from Amsterdam.  
After these, at sundry times other greater fleets were sent to the Indies; for the Merchants by this time felt the commodity thereof, notwithstanding they had much to do both with the Indians and Portugals; of which, if any one desire to have further knowledge, I refer him to the descriptions thereof, which have been written and published.   

¶ The taking of the town of Hue in the country of Liege on the eighth of February 1595.  
Charles' of Herauguier, governor of Breda, the better to advance the enterprises on the countries of Luxembourg and Namur, went forth of Breda on the last of januarie, with twelve ensigns of foot, and four cornets of horse, and marched towards the town of Hue, which stands upon the river Mase in the country of Liege: it is a fine town, and hath a bridge over the Maze, and a Castle, and is the ordinary abode of the prince and bishop of Liege. In the Castle was a weak garrison, 24 or thirty of our men were hid in a little house under the castle which stands high upon a rock, over this little house was one of the Castles windows: these thirty men with a ladder made of ropes got up to the window, which they broke and entered: some among them knew every corner of the castle, so as in the Morning when the chief of the castle went forth of their houses thinking to go to Mass, they were on a sudden taken by the throat, bound, and laid in a dungeon; which done, they took the castle and gate, and some moved the town to yield. The Burghers ran to arms, thinking to defend themselves, but perceiving Herauguier to come forwards with his troops, they compounded, and suffered him to enter with three ensigns of foot, and two cornets of horse, on the 8 of February.  
Herauguiere fortified the town and castle, reducing the enemy's countries near adjoining, under contribution. The Town was very well seated for our men to make an offensive war, it being a passage into the countries of Namur and Brabant, near to the confines of Luxembourg, where they supposed to obtain great victories, under the conduct of the duke of Bovillon, & count Philip of Nassau.  
Herauguieres troops of horse did at the same time near to Montmedy, meet with seven wagons laden with rich Italian Merchandise, as velvets, and silk stockings, which were going towards antwerp, and were worth three hundred thousand florins, which they took and divided amongst themselves. But part of this cavalry, belonging to the garrisons of Breda and Berghen in Brabant being desirous to return home, met with certain of the enemies ordinary bands, conducted by general Schets, Lord of Grobbendonck, who not far off had ten foot companies; whereof our men having intelligence, divided themselves into 3 troops, one of which was assailed by the enemy, and being overladen with booty, were beaten, and 70 of them slain and taken prisoners, among whom were two Lieutenants.  
The taking of Hue (belonging to the Bishop of Liege, who lived as a Neuter) was thus excused, namely, our men borrowed that town but for a place of retreat without any hurt to the inhabitants, which so soon as the war should be ended, they would willingly surrender: that the Bishop permitted the like to the towns of Berck and Bonne, which were his, and yet were detained by the Spaniards.  
But the Bishop complained to the States of the wrongs done unto him, and of the breach of the neutrallitie, craving to have his town redelivered, and therein employed all his friends: but because small regard was had of his complaints, he implored the aid and assistance of the Archduke Ernestus, who presently sent forces thither, to free the countries of Namur and Brabant from incursion, with commandment to aid the Bishop; these troops notwithstanding Ernestus death, besieged the town of Hue, because they perceived it could not easily be relieved. Herauguieres, with Captain Balfort, le Vos, and others, did shut themselves into the town, and yet the waters were risen over the whole country by reason of the great snow which was melted by a continual rain, 
The Rhine and other rivers overflow the banks in February and March.  so that they had small hope of aid, for all the rivers, and especially the Rhine had so overflowed their banks, as in the memory of man the like had not been seen, for all the country round about was drowned, many thousands both men and cattle perished. In Guelderland and Holland the Isle of Bommell and others were drowned, as the Betuwe, and the country near to Vtrecht, and Ammersfoort, even to the gates and suburbs of Vyane: three thousand persons were drowned, so as it was a great and just punishment of God: divers skonses and Bulwark were borne away, so as the soldiers had much to do to secure the country, and with great cost to repair the forts.  
Fuentes, la Motte, Barlaymont, and other captains, considering that the States forces were cooped up by water, and that small relief could come to them, did on the one side of the Maze besiege the town of Hue, and the bishop's forces on the other side, and at last on the thirteenth of March took the town by force, slew many of the garrison, and took divers of them prisoners; the rest fled to the castle, which was battered with two canon, and undermined by all the miners in the country, so as in the end, the castle was by composition delivered to the Lord la Motte, and upon the twentieth of March, our men departed with their arms and baggage. At their departure the Spaniards would have murdered them, but lafoy Motte and Grobbendonck sent them safely away. Herauguieres by this means lost much credit, being taxed for yielding the castle so soon, seeing that near to Coloigne, forces were ready to relieve him, as also, because the breach was not sufficient for the enemy to come to an assault: but others judged the contrary, and said that he had done discreetly; & so this enterprise did smally profit the united Provinces.   

¶ The taking of the Island and town of Cales-Males in Andelusia in Spain, in the year 1596.  
IN the year 1596, 
The Queen of England sets forth a fleet under the conduct of the Lord Admiral and Earl of Essex.  the Queen of England did set forth a mighty fleet of sixteen or seventeen of her great ships royal, in twelve or fourteen of which were three or four hundred mariners in every ship, beside forty other English ships of war, with fifty others which carried soldiers and provisions. The Lord Charles Howard Baron of Effingham and now Earl of Nottingham, was admiral general of this fleet. The Lord Thomas Howard, now Earl of Suffolk was Vice-Admeral, and sir Walter Raleigh knight, and captain of the Queen's guard, was rere-Admerall.  
My Lords the States of the united Provinces, 
The united provinces send 24. ships of war to serve the Queen of England under the conduct of the Lord of Warmont.  did at her Majesty's request, set forth eighteen great ships of war, each of them being manned with one hundred and thirty men, beside six others laden with victuals and ammunition, and in each of them forty men: the Lord john of Duvenvord, Lord of Warmont, admiral of Holland, was by the States made admiral of this fleet, john Gerbrantsoon of Enchuysne was Vice-Admerall, & the rear-admiral was Cornellis Lensen of Flushing: but they were tied by agreement to be under command of the English. Many voluntaries were likewise in this fleet, as count Lodowick of Nassau son to count john, & others. An army of land soldiers was likewise in this fleet, of whom the Earl of Sussex was general. In this army were sundry regiments, commanded by the Earl of Sussex, sir Edward Conway, Sir Conihurst Clifford, Sir Christopher Blunt, Sir Thomas Gerard, Sir john Winckfield, and others, The number of the soldiers amounted to 6000 able men, among whom were two thousand two hundred old English soldiers brought forth of the low-countries by sir Francis Veer, chosen forth of every company. There were likewise certain Dutch companies under captain Metkerke, and above one thousand voluntary gentlemen, among whom was D. Christopher of Portugal, son to the king D. Antonio: Count Lodowick of Nassau commanded these voluntaries: Sir Francis Veer was Lord Martial of the field, Sir George Carow Master of the ordnance, and sir Conihurst Clifford Sergeant Major.  
This fleet departed from Plymouth in England on the thirteenth of june, there were in it one hundred and forty sail great and small. Being come near to the Spanish coast, they had intelligence by a small bark that came from Ireland, that in the Bay of Cales in Andeluzia (whether they were going) fifty seven great ships and twenty galleys lay, four great galleons, each of them carrying forty or fifty pieces of ordnance, and in every of them six or seven hundred men, two great galleasses of Andeluzia, four great ships of Biscay, four Easterlings, certain great Argozies laden for the most part with ordnance and munition, being bound for Lisbon in Portugal: where another fleet of thirty ships was prepared for Bretayne and Calais, and money ready for that purpose. Beside these, there were three great Frigates of two hundred tun a piece, which came from Porto Ricco with the money. Besides these ships of war and galleys, there was another fleet of five and thirty ships very richly laden, which were bound for the West Indies, ready to set sail; in which vessels were above six thousand pipes of Spanish wines, two thousand pipes of oil, five thousand weight of wax, and all manner of precious merchandise, as cloth, silk, cloth of gold, lace, quicksilver, etc. And it was reported by the king of Spain's officers, this fleet was thought to be worth eleven or twelve millions of ducats.  

The English fleet comes before Ca●es on 30 of june.  The English fleet having notice hereof, made towards the Bay of Cales, where it arrived on the thirtieth of june in the Morning, and came to an anchor near to S. Sebastian's point, from whence they might easily see the Spanish ships and galleys that lay before Cales under the two castles.  
The Vice-Admerrall the Lord Thomas Howard, and sir Walter Raleigh, being sent for by the Council of war, Raleigh was commanded to go before with certain ships to set upon some great vessels, which (as they heard) were ready to set sail forth of the Bay of S. Lucars; coming thither they found them to lie so near the shore, as they could not approach them, and were hindered from doing it by a certain mist that arose, in which the said vessels escaped, and were by Raleigh so nearly chased to the land, as his own ships were in great danger to have run on ground.  
From thence Raleigh made towards the great fleet, which in the mean time had ankored on the thirtieth of june, in the Morning, without the Bay of Cales, into which all men (especially the low-country fleet) thought they would have directly entered, seeing the ships and galleys to lie before the town under the two castles: but the English admiral would not suffer it to be so, because he thought the entrance would have been very dangerous, as also the assailing of the king's fleet, before the town were woon●which if they had done, they must have fought both with the galleons and galleys, and been opposed to the shot from the Town and castles.  
Thereupon, 
The English fleet letteth slip of fair occasion to have taken the ships, laden for the Indies.  sir Walter Raleigh came to the fleet, and went aboard the General, the Earl of Essex, who was busied in landing his men on the West side of Cales, where the Sea was so rough by reason of a West wind, as the boats began to sink near the ships: Raleigh told him it was very dangerous to land his men, because that betwixt them and shore, four galleys l●y to keep them from landing, saying, That he was very sorry that he had not first entered the haven where the Spanish ships & galleys lay, which by their delay were now encouraged: of this, the general likewise complained, at whose entreaty, Raleigh undertook to go and persuade the admiral to enter, which by many forcible reasons he did, and cried out, Let us enter, Let us enter: whereupon, all the ships weighed anchor & sailed towards the haven. But night prevented them, the sun being already set, so as it was then too late to assail the Spanish fleet that lay above a mile and half within the river, as also, for that it was a dangerous matter to fight by night in a strait: On this consideration, they came to an anchor, where the canon presently saluted them from the town and castle.  
The English went to Council, to consult after what manner it were best to assail the Spaniards the next Morning: every commander strived to have the vanguard, yet they resolved not to hazard the Queen's great ships but upon urgent necessity, so as it was thought fit, that sir Walter Raleigh, with eight of the Queen's leslesser ships, six Hollanders, and twelve English Merchants ships, should have the vanguard; this resolution was oppugned by the Lord Thomas Howard, who said, that honour belonged unto him: whereupon it was concluded, that both of them should go together.  
So soon as it was day, Raleigh would not lose time in weighing anchor, but did let them slip, and thereby had the advantage to let sail first; the Spanish galleys discharged all their ordnance upon him, but he made not one shot, leaving it to those that followed him, and so went directly towards the galleons, which lay in the deepest part of the river, viz. the S. Philip, S. Matthew, S. Andrew, and S. Thomas, with two other very great ships, which together took up all the breadth of the river.  
Behind these galleons lay 6 others, and behind them, the galleys, nearer the shore where the water was shall lowest, and upon the land stood the castle Puntall which flanked the river: the lesser English ships assailed the galleys, who thundered one upon another. In the mean time, the Vice-Admeral the L. Thomas Howard, came up to sir Walter Raleigh with 6 of the Queen's ships, as near to the galleons as they could possible, discharging all their ordnance, and fight from six of the clock in the Morning till none, with as many ships as the channel could bear. During the fight, an unfortunate event happened in a ship of Rotterdam, called the Dolphin, where Guillaum Henrick was captain; the powder was by mischance set on fire, whereby the Captain and his two sons were burnt and blown up.  
Expecting the tide, the two Admerals sent for six great vessels, each of them manned with four hundred musketeers, to board the Spanish galleons, being not willing to hazard the Queen's ships: Six ships of Lubeck and Dansk were sent from the fleet, but they fell foul of the others, and peradventure willingly, so as the earl of Essex about noon did set sail, the like did the Lord admiral; but the Earl's ship drawing too much water, he went aboard sir Robert Dudleis, who was base son to the earl of Leycester: All the commanders being aboard the general, they resolved to assail the galleons, commanding the Lord Howard and sir Walter Raleigh to begin, and they would follow. So soon as these began to hoist sail, 
The Spanish fleet runneth on ground.  the Spaniards fled towards the shore and sands on Puerto Reals side, where their ships ran on ground, and themselves leapt into small boats the better to get on shore, and those which could not get into the boats, adventured to swim, and being many in number, most of them perished.  
The S. Matthew and S. Andrew were saved from running on ground, and were carried away, each of them were of one thousand tun. The two Easterlings ran on shore and were burnt. As Raleigh thought to have boarded the great gallion S. Philip, a Negro gave fire to the powder, and escaped by swimming: It gave so great a crack, as the mast was blown up into the air as if it had been an arrow: a Pinnace that lay near it was likewise burnt, but the men escaped in boats. The other Gallion called S. Thomas, was likewise blown up, but did no harm to the English. The Galleys fled towards the bridge of the Isle del Suazzo. The Indian fleet lay about two leagues higher up in the River near to Medina.  
This fleet thus broken, 
The earl of Essex landeth his men, and the Hollanders take the castle of Puntall.  burnt and scattered, the General began to land his men, and to assault the town of Cales. The Hollanders and Zelanders took the Fort of Puntall by force, and in it presently displayed and erected the Lord of Warmonts' ensign: this discouraged those of Cales, and encouraged the rest which landed near the Fort, who began to put themselves in order. The earl of Essex led the vanguard, the Lord admiral commanded the battle, and sir john Winckfield led the rearward.  
Upon news of the Englishmen approach, the gallants and nobility near to Cales, who are called Los Cauallieros de Xeres, had armed themselves, and were for the most part better furnished with brave horse than valour.  
These, with 600 foot drawn from Cales, did presently offer skirmish. Count Lodowick of Nassau (whom the earl of Essex had honoured with the conduct of the voluntary gentlemen) went forward to encounter them, and near to him Melchior Leben, one of Prince Maurice his Gentlemen, and with them the General, and sir Francis Veer with some four hundred armed pikes, and a brave company of musketeers, which stood behind a sand hill: these men did put the Cavallieroes to rout, killing many of them, some of whom for sook their horse, and fled towards the town, which was shut against them, others fled to a bulwark without the town; but perceiving that Count Lodowick began to assail and mount it, they presently fled through the Dikes into the Town, at a place which was scarce made up, leading their enemies the way, who presently pursued them, and slid down by their pikes into the town, 
The Earl of Essex winneth Cales on the second of julie.  running to open the gates for the General. The earl of Sussex his company was the first that entered, who very valiantly behaved himself, the like did captain Savage, Bagnall, Euants and others. Captain Nicholas Metkerck was hurt there, and died within a while after, yet before he died the General knighted him; he was a brave and well experienced gentleman.  
The English being thus within the town, two companies of soldiers that lay there in garrison, with many of the townsmen, fled to the castle; others with stones, defended themselves in their houses. But the Market place and town-house once taken, every man yielded without any great effusion of blood.  
Sir john Winckfield (who in former time had been Governor of Geertrudenberg, when it was sold and betrayed to the Duke of Parma) being wounded, road up and down the Market place with his sword in hand being disarmed, who not regarding the Marshal Veers good counsel, that wished him either to arm himself or else to return, was shot into the head.  
The Generals being busied in taking of the town, forgot to pursue the Indian fleet. Sir Edward Conway, sir Christopher Blunt, and sir Thomas Gerard, offered, with their soldiers in small boats to assail and take it: but Raleigh would not have that honour taken from the Seamen, notwithstanding that the Earl of Essex and the Lord admiral would have had it so; and whilst they contested about it, time passed away, and they thought themselves sure enough of the fleet, yet therein they were deceived.  
The town taken, and night being come, the two Generals entreated sir Walter Raleigh to return to the fleet to his ship (fearing lest the Galleys should the same night at a low water set fire on the ships) promising to keep his share of the booty, and to give him a good quarter in the town. He craved leave to go and take the Indian fleet, desiring no more than his owneship and twelve merchant men of London, but the Generals entreated him to give them time to consider of it till the next morning: at which time sir Walter sent his brother in law Throgmorton, Henry Leonard, and john Gilbert knights, to know their resolution; but the Generals sent him word to come a shore to the town.  
In the mean time, the committee of the contractation house, with the purveyor Pedro Herrera, 
Two millions of Gold offered for the ransom of the fleet, but too late.  the Corregidor, & other the king's officers in the town offered 2 millions of ducats or 600000 pound sterling for ransom of the fleet: this did Raleigh oppugn, saying that they ought first to be masters of the fleet, and then ransom it afterwards, for if already they offered two millions, they would givefoure when it was taken: whilst the English spent time in consultation, 
The Spaniards burn their rich fleet.  the Spaniards day and night unloded all the richest wares, because that the Duke of Medina governor of S Lucars and those parts for the king, had commanded to burn the ships, which was done upon the third day before the ransom could be agreed upon: the men saved themselves and escaped, so as the contractors that were onward on their way to negotiate for the ransom, perceived the ships to be all on fire: this was a sharp and rigorous resolution, for which the Duke was greatly contemned by those that had a share in this loss; but he knew the king his Master's mind.  
Three and thirty great ships laden for the Indies were burnt, beside five ships which came from S. Lucars, three of which ran on ground: it was the greatest and wealthiest fleet that ever went to the Indies. The most loss fell to the Merchants, the king had some wealth in it, as quick silver, warlike munition, his Imposts and Alcavalles, which, together with all his ordnance he lost. The English and Dutch mariners saved certain goods, and canons, which they took forth of the ships bottoms.  
The earl of Essex had appointed the colonels sir Coniers Clifford, Sir Christopher Blunt, and sir Thomas Gerard, with their regiments, to march towards the East side of the Island, where was a bridge (called Ponte del Suazzo) over which men passed forth of the Isle into the firm Land, to guard that passage, and to keep out those of the terra firma from entering that way, not far from whence the people were assembled in great troops: but when they perceived the English to be there, and knew the town was already lost, they fled.  
These English regiments perceiving none to be on the other side, and knowing that Cales was taken, returned to the town without any order or commandment so to do, leaving no guard at the bridge, leaving the castle near to the bridge untaken (which the Hollanders call Herod's house:) For want of a guard at the said bridge, the galleys, in that place passed on to Seaward. The Dutch mariners before their departure went and assailed that fort, from whence the Spaniards flying, they took and sacked it, and brought thence divers pieces of ordnance.  
The two companies of Spanish soldiers that with some Citizens were retired to the castle, hoping for aid from Andeluzia and the firm land, being advertised that the English had taken and made good that bridge and passage (which was untrue) did by night send the Corregidor and other Magistrates to sir Edward Conway, 
The Citizens of Cales ranjome themselves for one hundred & twenty thousand ducats.  who summoned them to yield, and agreed to pay one hundred and twenty thousand ducats for their ransom, besides loss of all their goods, and to this end gave forty of the principal among them for hostages, who were afterwards carried into England: those that retired from the town into the castle, with those that were in it before, were in number eight or nine thousand persons both men and women. The best and noblest sort of women were courteously used, and suffered to depart thence with their children and baggage; the like was done to the Clergy and Nuns.  

The town of Cales is sacked.  The wealthy town was wholly sacked, and the booty great, which was carried to the ships. It is thought that the king lost at the same time 1200 pieces of ordnance, besides armour sufficient for five or six hundred men which was taken forth of his Arsenal there.  
The Spaniards perceiving what the English intended by spoiling the town, which was, not to keep the town long, began to take courage, & to shake off the fear which had seized the provinces near adjoining, especially the great city of Civil, which was in an uproar, so as if an army well conducted had marched thither, and to other towns and places likewise, as S. Lucars, S. Marie port, Puerto Real, etc. it would have found small resistance. But they saw that the booty and spoil of Cales was to the English as a great and savoury morsel to glut their hunger; who continuing ten or twelve days in the town, and having carried the booty to their ships, did hourly expect when the Generals would command them to hoist sails and depart homewards.  
A Council was held whether it were convenient still to keep the town and Island: the earl of Essex, the Marshal Veer, and most of the gentlemen were of opinion to tarry there with three thousand men, and thought that the Island might be easily kept, which would prove a sharp thorn, not only in the foot of so great a Monarch, but even in his side, and thereby divert all the wars of Europe thither, where the English might daily receive provisions from the Levant, Italy, and Barbary, and if the worst should happen, they might easily procure a good and honourable composition, and with that town, make an easy exchange for Calais in France. But thereupon, various opinions were uttered, for the Sea Captains and the lord admiral's Council oppugned it, showing their want of victuals, and if they should remain there, they must be enforced to fetch provision from England and the Low-countries, which is too far off, or else from Barbary, where the king dwelled an hundred leagues up in the country: Hereunto, the admiral added, that he would not adventure and engage his Prince's honour and reputation so slightly: Sir Francis Veer said, That by tarrying there they should do a pleasing and acceptable service to the Queen, and that victuals would soon be brought from Holland: that the town and Island were strong, and might easily be made stronger: that the town stood well to receive supplies from Barbary, and to that end, they would make use of and employ D. Christopher of Portugal, etc. but all this was to no purpose. Thereupon, a general search was made through the whole fleet to see what store of victuals was left, wherewith to furnish the garrison, till more could be brought; but they found a small quantity, for every ship had embezzled & hid as much as it could, fearing want; and in the town, through bad husbanding of victuals, they were very scarce; for the soldiers spoilt all, and knocked out the heads of wine vessels, which they found in cellars and warehouses, making like waist of other provision. In this respect, every man cried out to go home: whereupon, the lord of Warmont, admiral of Holland, 
The Admeral of Holland offereth the English at Cales, victuals for a month, and with his fleet to stay with them.  reviewed his victuals, and offered to bring as much from his fleet as would suffice the garrison and two thousand men for a month, and that himself would likewise remain there: But the earl of Essex found never a ship of the Queen's willing to stay there, nor yet victuals for two months; so as he was enforced, much against his will to abandon Cales, whereof at his coming into England he excused himself.  
Before his departure he made above fifty Knights, among whom were, the Lord of Warmont admiral of the Hollanders, Count Lodowick of Nassau, Peter Regemortes, Melchior Leben, and likewise Captain Metkerke before his death; the rest were English.  

Cales is abandoned and burnt on the 15 of julie.  Having thus continued some thirteen days in Cales (in old time called Gades) they departed on the fifteenth of julie. Essex (according to his commission) commanded the town to be burnt, and especially whatsoever might any way serve for the furnishing forth of a fleet, as masts, poles, cordage, and cables, whereof there was great store: and in this manner they did set sail, carrying with them two of the kings great galleons, with certain prisoners, & forty hostages for the townsmen's ransom, which amounted to the sum of 120000 ducats.  
It is heretofore mentioned how that the galleys fled to the bridge called Ponte del Suazzo, where the English thought they could not have passed; yet by breaking the bridge they found a way into the Sea, where they did set upon the tail of the fleet, and took a Fliboat of Holland laden with horse and baggage, which lagged behind.  
And because the Englishmen commission imported that they should visit all Sea Ports, and destroy all ships and warlike provisions, they did in their return homewards sail to the haven of Faroo, where they landed part of their men, and most of the Hollanders, from whom the country people fled: whereupon, they took and brought away with them whatsoever they could. Being come near to S. Vincents cape, and having committed two notable errors (first, because they did not in time assail the Spanish fleet before it was burnt: The second, for that they had thus abandoned Cales) the earl of Essex requested the Lord admiral, not to fall into a third, but to sail towards the Azores, to meet with the East & West Indian fleet which at that time was ready to arrive; but by reason of a contrary wind, this likewise was rejected. Yet afterwards when the earl came near to Lisbon, he propoundeth this matter again, 
The English do again lose the opportunity of meeting with the Indian fleet, notwithstandding that the Hollanders offered their service.  offering to send home those ships that had taken leaks, and wanted victuals, with the hurt and sick men. But the Lord Admeral and sir Walter Raleigh contradicted it, both by writing & word of mouth: and when they came to view what ships were willing & fit, there were none that would undertake the matter, but that of the Earl of Essex, and the Lord Thomas Howard, together with sir Francis Veer, and the low-country fleet, which offered itself, and had been by the earl of Essex accepted, if the Lord Admeral would have given leave to those two ships and some eight or ten English vessels more; but his Lordship thought it not fit so slightly to adventure the Queen's ships. These various opinions set down in writing, the Noble earl propounded them in England for his own excuse; and in this manner was the third gallant occasion lost: for if they had gone to the said Islands, and made some small stay, they had met with a most rich Indian fleet, which arrived there 12 or 14 days after.  
Passing along the coast of Portugal they would not meddle with the city of Lisbon, having no such commission, but only to visit the havens and Sea Ports: whereupon, they went to Cornua and Ferol, where they found few ships and small provision. After that, they held their last Council, namely, Whether they should likewise visit the havens of S. Andrew and S. Sebastian, with others near adjoining, where certain Spanish men of war were reported to lie: but the admiral and Sea Captains flatly gainsaid it, complaining of want of victuals, saying, That the Queen's ships might be in danger to run on ground in those places: so as the earl of Essex could not herein prevail, who would willingly have assaulted the town of Cornua, but every man cried out to return home, taking upon them to excuse the said earl: and so sailed towards England, leaving the earl and the two galleons behind, which were scattered by tempest, together with the low-country fleet which stayed with him to the end. Being thus arrived in England, about mid-August, they gave up an account of their voyage: and being taxed for letting slip those fair occasions, they excused themselves by the forementioned reasons: and it was found by experience, That two Generals having equal power and command do commonly hinder many gallant and noble enterprises.  
The admiral of the Low-countries returned home with his fleet, and brought back the English soldiers that had been chosen forth of every company; together with some booty, and threescore pieces of ordnance, having lost the Fliboat of Rotterdam called the Dolphin, with all her ordnance. The preparations of this fleet stood the united Provinces in more than five hundred thousand florins.  
The Queen of England in sign of acknowledgement, did, on the 14 of August, in anno 1598., send a letter to the admiral of Holland, in form following.  
MY Lord of Duvenuord,  

The Queen of England's letter to the Lord of Duvenuord, than king him for his good service.  the report of the Generals of our army (who are safely returned from the coasts of Spain) concerning their service who have obtained so notable a victory, doth attribute a great part thereof to the valour, industry, and good will, which your self and our other friends of the Low-countries under your conduct, have shown in the whole course of this action. This having filled our heart with exceeding joy & content, hath likewise begotten a desire in us to communicate unto you by writing, that which we conceive thereof; and having none other means at this present to express our good will, we have thought good to make use thereof, till some fitter occasion be offered. And for our better discharge herein, we know not where to begin, for that the greatness of each party surmounteth the others merit. The love and diligence which my Lords the States have used in this action, doth witness unto us, That the sincere affection we have ever borne to the united Provinces, and benefits bestowed upon them, have not been ill employed. Your valour, skill, and good conduct manifested in this service, are so many evident signs that yourself and whole Nation, deserve all favour and defence of Christian Princes, against those that would tyrannize over you. But the honour and faithful friendship which you my Lord admiral have showed to our loving cozen the Earl of Essex in his home return, at such time as he was by night scattered from the fleet and destitute of all aid and assistance, yourself tarrying with him, conducting him to our Haven of Plymouth, doth declare your wisdom and loyalty, preventing by your own patience and labour, all mischief, that by falling on one of the Generals of our fleet, might have spoiled and disgraced the whole victory. Moreover, your zeal and affection to us ward, doth increase our debt towards you, the knowledgement whereof is so deeply imprinted in our heart, as we thought good by these Letters to make some part of satisfaction, the which we entreat you to impart to the whole company of our friends under your command, letting them understand beside, that they may be well assured, that as heretofore we have given sufficient testimony of our sincere affection towards their country, we are now by their valour and merit more incited, to augment and increase our love in every part, as it becometh a Princess who acknowledgeth the virtue and desert of so worthy a Nation as yours: and so we will continue your very loving friend.  
Signed Elizabetha Regina.   

¶ A description and rehearsal of the victory which his Excellency obtained of the enemy, on a plain called Tielsche-Heyde near to Turnholt, in an. 1597.  
AFter the departure of the illustrious, high, and mighty lord, Prince Maurice of Nassau, etc. from the Hague on the one and twentieth of januarie 1597, he arrived on the two and twentieth of the same at Geertrudenberg, & there finding his army ready, consisting of 6000 both horse and foot, with all things necessary for his enterprise, he went speedily and without rumour the next day, to a village called Ravels, some league distant from the jurisdiction of Turnholt; where his Excellency caused his soldiers to rest a while. Count Varax and the lord of Bolanson, with 4 regiments of foot, and 5 companies of horse, had entrenched themselves in Turnholt: he having intelligence that his Excellency was so near, did, by the advice of his Council, cause the baggage to be laden by night, and sent it away before, intending by break of day to follow with his whole army, and to retire safely to Herentals His Excellency in like manner, on the 24 of the said month, early in the Morning did set forward, marching still in his order when the ways would permit him.  
The cavalry bearing long Pistols, made the vanguard, and was divided into six troops. The two first in each of which were four cornets, were somewhat separated, and yet still flanked one another: that on the right hand was conducted by the Earls Hohenlo and Solms. After them, followed two other troops, each of them consisting of three Cornets, marching likewise somewhat divided from the rest, to be the better able upon any occasion to receive the former into their ranks, or else they to be by them received in like manner. His Excellency followed the cavalry, with two other troops, marching as the rest did somewhat divided.  
The footmen were divided into eight troops, viz. presently after the horsemen followed two squadrons very near to one another, after them, three, and then two, all of them marching in like manner as the former. After them followed two demie canon, with other field pieces, placed betwixt the munition wagons, and drawn by those that ordinarily had charge thereof, together with certain mariners. Next them followed the rest of the foot troops enclosing the battle, still marching in this order when the ground would permit them; otherwise, they trooped closely together, fitting themselves to the ways, waters & bridges that lay betwixt Ravels & Turnholt.  
His Excellency being come before Turnhoult, which was abandoned, thought good by the advice of the said earls & other captains, to set forward speedily towards the enemy only with the horse, and to let the foot troops follow, & to leave the canon near to the mill of Turnhoult guarded by part of the footmen. This did his Excellency presently put in execution, but meeting with a little narrow way full of water, beneath Turnhoult, where the enemy had left forces to defend the passage, he forthwith sent certain musketeers thither under the conduct of sir Francis Veer, and the lord Ʋander Aa, Lieutenant of his guard. These, enforced the enemy to quit the passage: whereupon, his Excellency went forward, and presently came to a plain champain, where he descried & followed the enemy that fled in this manner.  

The manner of the enemies march.  Their baggage went before towards Herentals, guarded by certain soldiers, next followed the battle. The cavalry for the most part was gone before, viz. Nicholo Basta, D. ivan de Cordova, Alonzo Dragon, Guzman, and Grobbendonck. After them followed four regiments, divided one from another: the first was the regiment of Almans under Count Sultz: the second, La Mott his old regiment, commanded at that time by the lord of Achicourt: the third was the regiment of La Barlotte: the fourth of Neapolitans under the marquess of Trevick. On the right hand, sometime two cornets of horse marched, and sometime on the left: on the left hand were trees, near which was a small river running from Turnhoult. It was not long ere they were overtaken, but by reason of the bad ways and a valley full of water which lay between the enemy and the States forces, our men had no fit opportunity as yet to assail them.  
Sir Francis Veer with a few horse & certain musketeers entertained the enemy's rearward with skirmish, thereby hindering him from his intended flight, till they came to the farther end of that valley of water: then the earls Hohenlo and Solms as first at the battle, perceiving a certain place of advantage betwixt them and Count Varax, fearing likewise lest the enemy would entangle a narrow passage wherein his baggage was already entered, told his Excellency, That it was more than time to assail the enemy: whereupon, a signal being given, they charged him. The earls Hohenlo and Solms, with 4 cornets of Breda, gave in on the enemies right side, those of Berghen-op-Zoom, upon the enemy's hindmost regiment, so, as the Neapolitans being last, were the first that were assailed by Marcelis Bacx and his brother, accompanied by Du Bois, & Done, two captains. Count Hohenlo and Solms, with the 4 cornets of Breda (charging directly the enemies first regiment, to which their cavalry was already turned back, meaning to charge those of Berghen in flank) did very opportunely prevent them, and putting them to rout, went on and fell upon Count Sults regiment, with such fury, as the enemies were only content to make slight trial of their valour; and betaking themselves to flight, left Alonzo Dragon his cornet behind them.  
His Excellency perceiving that the charge was already given, sent sir Robert Sidney, and sir Francis Veer (who till then had entertained the enemy with continual skirmish) with certain horse to cut off the enemy's rearward. The rest of the cavalry stayed near to his Excellency to succour and relieve the first, if need should be, till at last, perceiving a manifest advantage, all of them in a manner fell into the battle. 
Count Varax slain.  Count Varax General of the enemy's army was slain upon the place, and all his men (being on every side fiercely assailed) fell to open flight; which was to no purpose, as being on the one side encompassed by our cavalry on a plain ground, and on the other with a river and trees: so as few of them could escape to the narrow way, and above two thousand of them lay dead upon the plain, and four hundred were taken prisoners; all this was done in so short a space, as the State's footmen, notwithstanding all their haste, could not come in in time, but before their arrival, the horsemen had gotten the victory.  
The enemy's cavalry perceiving they could not well escape, some of the bravest and most resolute among them to the number of 40, caused a trumpet to sound a charge, and fell upon those whom in disorder they saw busied in pillage, making show as if they intended to give a fresh charge upon our men: whereupon, some of our timorous cowards, fled towards the footmen who were coming forward. Prince Maurice looked after his troops of horse which he had reserved for succours, but in vain: whereupon, he commanded the prisoners to alight from their horses, who earnestly begged for mercy, saying, That there was already sufficient blood spilled to finish the victory: yet divers of them were slain, and then we perceived the want of our troops of succours; but every man making haste towards his Excellency (especially Marcelis Bacx and Edmunds) the enemy was so amazed as he again betook himself to flight.  
Eight and thirty ensigns were taken there, together with D. Alonzo de mondragon's cornet. Most of the baggage was pillaged; and the dead bodies stripped. More than two thousand were slain upon the place; for the country people reported that they buried above 2250.  
The Lieutenant general La Bourlotte, with most of his captains and officers were slain there; and not above eight of the victors, among whom was captain Donck, who died of his hurt, together with captain Cabilleau of Flanders.  
This gallant victory was gotten by eight hundred horse, but not without great danger, if the enemy had been discreet and well advised. There was one thing worthy of note. 
A Roman, called Septimius Fabius was found wounded and half dead among the dead bodies, and yet by careful looking to, recovered his life.  A certain Roman gentleman (whose name was Septimius Fabius, who derived himself from the noble and ancient family of the Fabiuses in Rome) having some command among the Italians, was deadly wounded, and lay among the dead; those that stripped him perceiving some life in him, and that he seemed some man of note, notwithstanding that he was much disfigured with his own blood and that of others, did in compassion take him thence, and half dead as he was, laid him on a horse, and carried him to Turnhout, where visited by skilful and careful Chirurgeons, he recovered his health, and was afterward for ransom set at liberty.  
There were four or five hundred prisoners taken, among whom was a young Count Mansfelt, Hieronimo Deutico one of Count Varacx his Council, the marquess of Trevico his Lieutenant colonel and Sergeant Major. Above one hundred prisoners died of their wounds. And thus his Excellency returned towards Turnholt, and the runaways held on their course toward Herentals, where some three hundred of them arrived. The General's dead body, was by his Excellency given to his servants, who carried it to Malines where his wife and children remained, and with them sent a letter to Cardinal Albertus, where he offered to deliver the prisoners, if he would keep good quarter. But the Cardinal being too long in sending back an answer, Prince Maurice threatened to hang or drown the prisoners, if he did not ransom them within twenty days: whereupon, he constrained the villages of Brabant to contribute towards it.  
The boors of this country called Tielsche-Heyde, did after the defeat gather up all the armour and weapons which they found, and laid them up in a Church: those of the town of Diest, commanded them to bring them thither, and as six carts were laden with them, some of the garrison of Breda having notice thereof, took them away by force, and brought them into the town on the three and twentieth of February, for a greater testimony or trophy of their victory.  
The earls Hohenlo and Solms, sir Robert Sidney, and sir Francis Veer (whose horse was slain that day under him) were highly honoured for their wisdom and valour, as also other captains and commanders that had valiantly behaved themselves, especially Bacx and edmond's with all their officers and soldiers.  
That night the camp rested at Turnholt where the canon was left: the next day, the castle was battered, and after some eight or ten shot, those of the garrison, commanded by captain Ʋander Delft, yielded it on condition to have their lives and goods saved. The castle being strongly manned, every one returned to his garrison. His Excellency passed through Geertrudenberg, and the 8 day after his departure from the Hague, he returned thither again, whether he brought 38 of the enemy's ensigns, and one of their cornets, which were hung up in the great hall; and in all places caused thanks to be given to God, for this victory.   

¶ The first siege and taking of the town of Rhinberck in Anno 1597.  
MY Lords the States of the united Provinces, 
The States resolve to set forth an army.  having made great preparation for war, did, together with his Excellency and Council of State, resolve and conclude (though it was something late) to send an army that Summer into the field; and to that end, commanded the horsemen to arm themselves after another manner, without lances, appointing the light horse or carabins to carry a Petronel of three foot long, others, Pistols of two foot in length, and to be beside armed down to the knees, inflicting penalty upon such as should want any part of their arms; their horse were to be full fifteen handful high, and the men to wear cassaks. The Council of State allowed 300000 florins monthly for the army. There were two hundred foot companies and one and twenty cornets of horse in the States pay. But the fanterie lying abroad in garrison, his Excellency sent but for sixty and eight ensigns and the cavalry, commanding them to meet on the 5 of August, upon the Rhine at a place called S Gravenweeert: for the Council of State had determined and concluded to besiege the town of Berck, to have a more free passage upon the Rhine.  
According to this Decree, his Excellency with his train, and most of the nobility, went from the Hague on the first of August towards Vtrecht, there to prepare and assemble wagons for his journey, and on the fourth of Aug●st arrived at Arnham, whether count William of Nassau and his troops came unto him. The counts Hohenlo and Solms came thither likewise, with the earls Ernest and Lodowick of Nassau, together with young Count Henry Frederick brother to his Excellency, who was desirous then to try his first fortune in the wars. From Arnham they went to S. Gravenweert, where they found thirteen ensigns of English footmen, twelve of Scots, fifteen of Frisons, nine ensigns under the command of Count Solms, eight under the Lord Floris of Brederode, and 6 commanded by the Lord of Duvenvoord, with some twenty or one and twenty cornets bravely mounted. Thither likewise came great numbers of boats, laden with ordnance and other necessaries for a perfect camp.  
His Excellency on the 6 of August, caused part of the foot and horse in boats to cross the river of Rhyne and Wael, & commanded them to tarry that night at Cleverham not far from Carcar, making a bridge of boats the next day over the Waell, to pass over his wagons with the residue of the army, so as his Ex. arrived the same day at the Cloister of Marienbourg, leaving three companies of the regiment of West-Frizeland (commonly called the regiment of North-Holland) with the boats, which in great numbers did the same day set sail and went up the river.  
On the eight of August, 
His Excellency takes Alpen on the 8 of August  Prince Maurice with his army and certain field pieces marched before the town and castle of Alpen, commanded by captain Bentinghs brother, which he summoned. This place seated upon the way, would have stood the enemy in great stead, and on the other side have much annoyed his own camp. It forthwith yielded. He committed the keeping of the castle to captain Schaef with fifty soldiers, and the said Bentingh with six and thirty soldiers departed thence with their arms and baggage: so as part of the army arrived that Evening before Berck.  
The town of Rhynberck both by nature and art is exceeding strong, and not easily to be taken, and was at that time beside the ordinary garrison, manned with five hundred men, which came from Alpen, Grave, and other towns near adjoining. His Excellency having exactly viewed the town, thought it necessary to make two principal camps, one above the town, before the gates called Rhynport, and Casselport on the one side of the Rhine, where on the tenth of August he lodged fifteen ensigns of the Frizons regiment under the command of Count William of Nassau, with thirteen English ensigns under sir Horacio Veer, brother to the General sir Francis, and the regiment of West-Frizeland conducted by the Lord Aert of Duyvenvoord, Lieutenant Colonel to prince Henry Frederick of Nassau, together with his Excellency's guard, & five cornets of horse, quartered a little farther off towards Botberg. Count Hohenlo General of the other quarter, together with Count Solms were quartered on S. Anne's hill before the Sautenport, with eight ensigns of Count Solms regiment, twelve companies of Scots under colonel Murray, Count Hohenlos' guard, and twelve cornets of horse: hard by them lay the Lord of Cloeting with eight ensigns of his own regiment: a little beneath the hill betwixt the two quarters, Prince Maurice was lodged.  
At their first arrival before the town, Count Lodowick of Nassau was shot in the leg. The eleventh of August was spent in fortifying and entrenching the two camps, which were conjoined; together with forts of retreat, of which, three were built to stop the enemy's passage, so as thereby the town was environed from the one bank of the Rhine to the other.  
The same night they began to draw trenches from his Excellency's camp to the town, and the next day the quarters of counts Hohenlo and Solms were entrenched. His Excellency likewise caused a bridge to be made whereon to pass over from his own camp into a little Island, and so from thence unto the other side of the Rhine, the better to get forage and provision.  
Three canon being afterward planted, a great tower (from whence the townsmen continually shot into the camp and trenches) was fiercely battered, as also another called the Toll-tower, and the Rhine Port, that our men might work safely in the trenches. Two other pieces were likewise planted against the Bulwark before Castle Port, which played so fiercely on the fifteenth and sixteenth of August, as those of the town were enforced the same day to abandon the great Tower, from whence they had done much mischief, and shot through his Excellencies Tent.  
The sixteenth of August at night, twenty four canon were planted in sundry places to batter the town on all sides; yet because the trenches were not so near the town as it was expected; his Excellency would not as then suffer the battery to be made, but caused a gallery from the East side of the bulwark before the castle-port to be made for the sum of one thousand two hundred florins, which was promised to be finished in four days. The nineteenth of August, as the trenches began to approach the one side of the half moon, which lay without the Bulwark of the Toll-tower before the Rhine Port, they did let forth the water of a small river called the Niep, which was kept in before the half moon by a sluice. And because the gallery stood far in upon the dike, which was not very broad nor deep, his Excellency and the chiefest commanders of the army determined to begin the battery, 
The town of Berck is battered with 35. pieces of ordnance on the 19 of August.  which was likewise resolved, hoping thereby to come into the bulwark. It was begun about ten of the clock, with five and thirty pieces of ordnance, viz. nine and twenty great canon, and six field pieces, of which, ten were planted before the Rhine Port, 11 before the bulwark of castle-port, five upon the Island of Rhine against the Tol-tower, and four somewhat lower before the town walls, and others in other places. After the 3 volley, his Excellency (according to the usual manner) summaned the town to yield; the Burghers having parolyed with our men, stood upon 3 days respite, which they earnestly craved.  
Some hour after the parley, the battery was renewed; it was very furious and lasted till five of the clock in the evening, having in all, made above two thousand shot, in which mean space, Count William's men by favour of the canon gained the half Moon, and his Excellency the better to win time (notwithstanding that some thought it fit to tarry the townsmen's leisure) did again summon the town, which now began to be somewhat terrified, for the soldiers on every side approached it, and stood in order of battle. Whereupon, they within it, sent 4 commissioners viz. captain Benting, old captain Dulken, the admiral Pasman, and the Quartermaster of Count Hermen of Berguens' regiment, and in counterchange of them, the captains Schaef, Ingelhaven, & Waddell were sent into the town.  
After long contestation and earnest entreaties, 
Berck yieldeth upon the 21 of August.  his Excellency was content to let them depart with their ensigns, arms and baggage, leaving out the article of not serving on this side the Maze for the space of three months, promising that the Burghers should enjoy their privileges, and upon the 21 of August they departed under the conduct of the Governor captain Snatere, with 5 ensigns, being in all, some nine hundred men, unto whom his Excellency lent seventy or eighty wagons, for which, Captain Bentings son remained hostage. The same day, they went to the town of gelders, where they could not be suffered to enter, and there tarried with their convoy.  
But on the two and twentieth of August, because those within it would not furnish them with victuals, or else, for selling them at too height rate, they thereupon quarreled with them that had the guard of the gates, 
A mutiny in the town of G●lder on the 22 of August.  and forced their entrance into the town, where they began a mutiny, crying out for money, money, notwithstanding that Count Henry of Berguen lay there. The garrison of the town took their part, and expulsed Count Henry and all the captains. The Lords of Gileyn, Vtenham, & Grammay offered them 2 months pay, which satisfied them not, but they kept Vtenham & Grammay as prisoners. After that, Count Herman came to appease them, but in vain: whereupon, he departed with his forces to Arsen, where he assembled some 3000 men.  
In this manner did the town of Rhynberck yield to Prince Maurice, being besieged ten days, and having received 2870 shot. Great store of ordnance was found in it, viz. 44 cast pieces, among which were seven for battery, together with a great quantity of course cloth brought thither to clothe the garrison, which was thought to be worth 170000 florins: there were five ships of war sunk, and two great Ferrieboats which were made at Coloigne, with which they hoped to have done some notable exploit, besides other provisions.  
His Excellency did forthwith repair the ruined places, and caused the trenches to be leveled; and because Captain Schaef had valiantly behaved himself in that siege, he made him governor of the town, and gave him six ensigns of foot, well furnished with munition and victuals.  

T●●se of Coloign demand the town of Rhynberck.  The town being taken, the commissioners of Coloigne, by virtue of their letters of credence, would have had our men to have left it to them, saying it was theirs: this could they never obtain of the Spaniards, though it had been promised with oaths. But in regard it was won with so great cost to the united Provinces, and that neither his Excellency nor commissioners of the Council had any authority to grant their demands, it was flatly denied, and they were referred to the General States.  
The next day after the town was yielded, which was, the one and twentieth of August, Count Herman came to Gelder with 2000 foot, and eight cornets of horse; the fanterie was conducted by D. Alonzo de Luna governor of Liere, & the cavalry by D. Francisco de Padiglia; their intent was to have put succours into Berck; but upon intelligence that it was yielded, he returned to Arsen near the Maze, which he crossed, still thinking on the defeat at Turnholt: he sent four hundred men to the town of Meurs, beside the 200 whom he had already sent thither from Maestrecht two days before. And the better to secure the said Garrison, he commanded Captain Arnult Boecop, 
Camillos' Fort is abandoned.  Lieutenant to the governor, to abandon Camillos' fort, and to retire with his men into Meurs, which the said Boecop did with such haste on the 15 of August at night, as he left three pieces of ordnance behind in the fort, viz. one canon, a demie canon, and one field piece.   

¶ The taking of the Town and Castle of Meurs, in Anno 1597.  
PRince Maurice having intelligence that Count Herman and his forces had crossed the Maze, did, on the six and twentieth of August, go to view the town of Meurs, with 12 cornets of horse, and some ten thousand foot, and returning by Camillos' fort, he resolved to assault the town of Meurs, and to that end (the cavalry being returned which convoyed Count Hohenlo and his wife the Countess of Buren towards Germany) he commanded the boats to go up the river towards Camillos' fort, and himself with all his forces, on the 28 of August, marched towards Meurs, having 60 foot companies, and 21 cornets of horse, and the same day, quartered two camps before the town, one and the greatest before the gates, 
〈…〉.  of which, one was called the Kerck-port, the other H●enport, where himself lay with 49 ensigns of foot, and all the horse; the other before the gate of the new town, where the lord of Clotting lay with 6 ensigns of his own regiment, & 5 ensigns of the regiment of Frizeland, under the command of General Duyvenvoord. At their arrival were some skirmishes before the church without the gate, which the enemy kept till night, when as 2 companies of Scots came to relieve the Frizons.  
The next day, they entrenched themselves, and at night they began the trenches with 15 foot ensigns, viz. 5 of the Frizeland regiment, 4 English ensigns, four Scotish, & two of count Solms regiment, the Frizons lay before the gate called Steen-port, the Scots with count Solms his ensigns before Kerck-port, and the English betwixt the two gates. The same night, Captain Waddell the Scot was slain in the trenches. His Excellency had brought twelve canon with him, which, on the last of the said month he caused to be planted, and the next day began the battery. The night following the trenches were brought from the Frizons quarter to the very brink of the dike, which was narrow and nothing deep: And for that in regard of the rain and foul weather, they were not come so forward in other places, therefore the canon played not on the 2 of September: his Excellency thinking to have quartered himself upon the very dike, and by favour of the canon, and help of bridges to pass over the dike to the towns Rampires. But before this could be effected, the Governor of Meurs, a Spaniard whose name was Andrea de Miranda, beyond all expectation (wanting powder) sent a drum in the afternoon to Prince Maurice, craving to have hostages sent in exchange of those whom he would send to surrender the town and castle to him. His Excellency sent the Lord of Gistelles thither, who was Lieutenant General to Count Solms, together with Captain Ingelhaven, who conferred with the towns commissioners, which were, Captain Muchet and Captain Boecop Lieutenant to the Governor, and after long disputation about granting three days respite which the besieged craved to expect some succours, they at last concluded to deliver up the town and castle.  
The next day, which was the third of September (after that the governors wife was come, for whom Prince Maurice had sent a trumpet to a place called Lint in the country of Couloign with certain wagons) they went their way according to the accord, being eight hundred and thirty men (among whom were certain Spaniards, and likewise an ensign-baerer of the castle of antwerp) with their ensigns, arms and baggage, and a small piece of ordnance belonging to Count Meurs, his Excellency having granted them forty wagons, for which Captain Boecop was caution. Six pieces of ordnance were found in the castle, 4 of battery, one canon of an extraordinary weight, one demie canon, and two field pieces. Four great cables made at Couloign were likewise found in the Storehouse, of eight thousand weight, which were for service of the ferry boats.  
In this manner did his Excellency in a months space win three towns and three Castles from the enemy, videlicet, Alpen, Berck, Meurs, and Camillos' Fort, with all the boats upon the Rhine, and in the said places found above fifty and four canon, among which were eleven for battery, and the rest of different bigness (as hath been said.)   

The siege and taking of the towns of Groll and Goor on the 28 of September 1597.  
AFter that Prince Maurice had spent some time in repairing the dikes and rampires of the town of Meurs, and in leveling the trenches, he went thence with his whole army on the eighth of September: he had six thousand foot, and one thousand five hundred horse, beside mariners and others that attended the ordnance, and a great train following the army. Having in haste made a bridge over the Rhine of one hundred yards in length, the army crossed the river the same day, and lodged that night betwixt the Lip and Rhine.  
The next day crossing over the Lip, he marched by weasel and went to Bruynen in the country of Munster. From thence, on the tenth of September, he passed along by Boecholt, & lodged that night at Alten near to Brevoot, which he sent to view. But upon intelligence that Count john of Limbourg and Stierum lay in Groll, with twelve ensigns of foot, and three cornets of horse, his Excellency went thither the next day: And on the eleventh of September, he quartered his camp in a square form towards the West end of the said town, which was fortified with five Bulwarks, so as it seemed his Excellency would have enough to do; yet he made such haste in a short space, as he environed the town with trenches and other works that none could enter in or issue forth: and perceiving that the town would not be taken but by force, he caused seven galleries to be made (which are covered ways by which men pass over the dikes to the rampires) the better to enter two bulwarks, and to that end made two principal batteries, and two lesser ones, to play in such sort upon the rampires, as none should dare to stand upon them, the better thereby to further the work.  
His Exccellencie at his arrival before Groll (having intelligence that the enemy had not manned the Town of Goor) he caused it to be taken, placing a foot company in garrison there. About the same time, eight ensigns of footmen arrived at the camp.  
In the mean time, certain light skirmishes were made, but to small purpose: they laboured hard near to the gate called Beltemorport, to drain the water forth of the ditches, which at last was done by night on the five and twentieth of September. His Excellency's Master of the fireworks, did his best to shoot wildfire into the town, the which at last he did at three several times, videlicet, on the four and twentieth of the said month in the night, which if the Burghers had not laboured to quench, a great part of the town would have been consumed to ashes; for the soldiers ran to the rampires, and suffered the houses to burn, so as more than forty houses were burnt down to the ground, and on the five and twentieth of September (after dinner) as many more. Though the townsmen had made an half Moon in the bulwark called Lebelder, and begun another in that of the Hospital, perceiving their ditches to be dry, their town much annoyed by fire, and that 7 galleries were brought even to the very rampires, after that Groll had been twice summoned, 
Groll is yielded upon the 2●. of September.  they sent their commissioners to his Excellency on the eight and twentieth of September, who conferring a long time with him, would not be drawn to grant them their horse and ensigns, yet at last he granted it, and was content they should depart with their goods and arms, on condition that they should not bear arms on this side the Maze against the united Provinces for the space of three months, and should deliver up all the books, writings and records of the country to those of Gelder's and the county of Zutphen: thereupon, he gave them wagons and a convoy as far as the Rhine, and was content to suffer the Clergy and others to remain freely there, or else to depart thence at their own pleasures.  
The eight and twentieth of September, in the Morning, after that his Excellency's guard, with those of count William of Nassau, and Count Hohenlo, together with some ninety wagons for the baggage, had entered the town, those within it departed thence in the afternoon (the sick & wounded excepted, who were carried thence in wagons.)  
Captain Bodbergue with his cornet and some eighty horse, led the vanguard; after them followed one hundred and twenty wagons, with an incredible number of women, boys, and baggage: next them, followed Sanchio de Leva and his troops, together with fifty three horse: after him, twelve ensigns of footmen, of the companies of the Earls of Stierum, 
The great and famous grandson of Groll, de paris thea●e on the 28. of September.  Count Henri of Berghen, evert de Ens, Cortenbag, Malagamba, Francisco de Robles, de Rykin, de Sande, de Fournean, de Decken, de Worms, de Sickinga, all of them amounting to twelve. They marched thus, first, ninety four musketeers went before, after them, two hundred and thirteen armed pikes, next, the twelve ensigns and eighty officers, and then two hundred pikes, and eighty musketeers, making up together the number of seven hundred and fif●ie foot, and two hundred thirty and five horse. In the rearward was the Cornet of captain Paul Emilio Martinenga consisting of fifty lances and forty four Carabins.  
All these were convoyed forth of the camp by four cornets of horse, & marched towards the Rhine beyond Emmerick; an hundred men were slain in this siege. There was but one demie canon, three culverins, with certain bullets and small store of powder found in the town.  
His Excellency having thus by great speed and God's assistance won this strong Town in eighteen days, manned it with six foot companies, and gave the government thereof by Proviso, to the Lord of Dort, causing the dikes and rampires to be repaired, the sorts and galleries to be broken down, and trenches to be filled, and then gave some ease and refreshing to his weary soldiers.   

¶ The siege and taking of the town and castle of Brevoort on the 12 of October 1597.  
HIs Excellency like a victorious Prince pursuing his victories, did, on the 1 of October, set forward with his army, & came before the town & strong castle of Brevoort, where having intelligence the next day, by one that came forth of the town, that the lord of Aenholts company conducted by lieutenant Broekhuysen, seemed to take the Burgher's party against captain Gardots company, he sent a trumpet on the second of October to summon the town to yield: but the Sergeant Major made answer, That they kept the town for God and the king of Spain, and in his quarrel would live and die. Whereupon, his Excellency gave order to assail it, and to that end caused trenches and three platforms to be made before the two gates, and on the Westside to plant the canon on; It was effected with incredible speed, 
Brevoort seated in a moorish place is assaulted on the 8. of October.  considering the place was seated in a moorish soil: for, notwithstanding the continual rain and bad ways round about the town, which made their approaches to be almost impossible, his Ex. so prevailed by faggots, on which he made ways to bring on the ordnance, as he planted it, and had all things ready on the 8 of October to assault the town: On the ninth day, he discharged three volleys, and afterward offered composition to the townsmen; who in derision craving twenty four hours respite, twenty canon played with such fury upon a bulwark before the said gates, from nine of the clock in the Morning till three at afternoon, as those within being terrified, did first beat their drums, and placed their hats upon their pikes heads, and at last, with their wives came to the rampires and craved parley. But the besiegers being in the trenches, took two half Moons that were before the two gates, and the Scots had almost forced a way through the gate called Mester-port: whereupon, they within the town ran confusedly to the castle, and forsook the breach made in the bulwark, which was first taken by the pioneers and those that were near the bridges, not any one of them that stood ready for the assault, having broken their ranks, one soldier excepted, who mounting it and seeing no body there, made signs to his fellows, who presently followed him, so as those within were enforced to yield themselves to his Excellency's mercy, who presently imprisoned them, and though they had deserved death, yet he saved their lives and ransomed them at 3900 florins (the officers excepted) and on the twelft of October suffered two hundred men to depart thence, 
Those of Brevoort are put to ransom.  on promise no to bear arms on this side the Maze for the space of three months. Two thousand and three hundred florins was demanded for one hundred twenty three of Broeckbuyse soldiers (himself excepted) who paid one thousand five hundred florins for his daughter's ransom, beside that which he gave for his ensign Boetselaer. For the ransom of Captain Gardots officers and soldiers, which were seventy seven, one thousand six hundred florins were demanded. The Burgher's ransom was forgiven them at the entreaty of the Lord of Tempell in regard of their loss sustained by fire, and they in recompense gave his Excellency three tun of Rhenish wine; and yet the town (I know not by what means) was all burnt, five or six houses, and certain Cabins excepted.   

The siege and taking of the Towns of Enschede, Oldenzeel, and Ootmaersen, on the eighteenth, one and twentieth, and three and twentieth of October 1597.  
HIs Excellency having in this manner, by continual labour and Gods help, won this impregnable town in nine days (for it was supposed to be stronger than Berck, Meurs, or Groll) and given order for repairing the rampires at the Country's cost, he did again give some little rest and refreshing to his soldiers, in regard of a great and laborious journey he purposed to make towards Enschede, 
Enschede yieldeth on the 18. of October.  Oldenzeel, and Ootmaersen, which would hardly be effected in four days: but by his great speed the army arrived before Enschede on the 18 of October, which was fortified with an earthen rampire, and two dikes, the one without, the other within: where the captains Vasques and Grootvelt sent two men to his Excellency to view his ordnance after that the town had been summoned, and afterwards treated with him: whereupon, he licensed them to depart beyond the Maze, on condition, not to serve the king of Spain for three months next ensuing, and granted them a Convoy to the said river. According to which agreement, they departed thence on the 19 of October in the Morning, and were in number one hundred and ten men, for a while before, some 50 men that had gone forth a boothaling, had been beaten and taken prisoners by his Excellency's soldiers on the 9 of October.  
The next day, 
Oldenzeel besieged.  his Excellency brought his army before Oldenzeel (and presently sent two regiments, viz. that of Count Solms, and that of Count Henry his brother, with certain horse, and four piece of ordnance, to Ootmaersen) which they summoned: but Captain Otho de Sande, 
O●denzeel is battered, and yieldeth on the 21 of October.  with some 30 of the town of Oldenzeel that were there, refused to yield it; on the 21 of October, the canon was planted before Oldenzeel, and after three volleys had been discharged, they surrendered the town upon the same agreement as those of Enschede, and 130 men presently departed thence. Two falconets, 2 iron pieces, 800 weight of powder, 200 of match with 112 bullets, & some other provisions were found in the town.  
From thence he went to Ootmaersen, which he presently summoned; but the town being manned with six companies, viz. General Billyes, the Drossart Egmont's, the governor Boymers, Herman de Ens, Borchgrave, and Eylkema, they answered, That if they should on a sudden yield the town, they knew not how to answer it. Thereupon, his Excellency presently caused trenches and batteries to be made, and discharged certain volleyss, whilst the platforms were preparing for the battery, which being ready, and the Burghers fearing some greater mischief, certain men came forth of the town on the 22 of October at night, viz. Captain Borchgrave, Egmont's ensign, and the two Burghomasters of the Town, who after some parley, compounded with Prince Maurice the same night at eleven of the clock, according to the agreement of those of Euschede; it was likewise concluded that all ecclesiastical persons might at their own choice either stay or depart. The next day, in the Morning, the garrison left the town, which consisted of four hundred men, and laid the fault on the Burgher's fear and evil will, & on their own want of soldiers.  
His Excellency having vanquished these old captains and soldiers, did on the 23 of October make his entry into the town together with the Princess of Orange (who for certain important affairs was come to the camp) and count William of Nassau, where he found three brass pieces, many of iron, and about seven thousand weight of powder, and placed the companies of the Drossart Sallant & jaques de Meurs in garrison there, making the said Meurs governor, and sent Captain Potter's company to Euschede; so as his Excellency in five days, manned three towns with garrison, and won the whole Country of Twente.  
The four and twentieth of October, he sent to view the river called Dinckele, and made a passage over it, sending the Drossart Sallant with ten Cornets of horse and six foot companies of Frizons, to prepare the way toward Lingen, and to environ the said town.  
The same day, the three young Earls of Benthem, together with Count Weda, came to his Excellency at Oldenzeel, the like did the Commissioners of the government of Munster. His Excellency likewise sent Captain Ewoot de Bout with Letters to the officers near adjoining, craving their help in making a bridge over the river Amisa. He resolved likewise by the advice of the general States deputies, Council of State, and those of the country of Ouer-Yssel, to raise the Rampires of the Towns of Euschede and Otmaersen; which within a while after was done.   

¶ The taking of the town and castle of Lingen in Anno 1597.  
PRince Maurice on the six and twentieth of October, led his army from Odenzeel, and coming with the vanguard to Northoorn, he went to Benthen Castle with the Princess of Orange accompanied with Brabantina of Orange, who with other Nobility was come to take her leave, where they were very honourably & kindly entertained by the earl of Benthem & the Countess Palatine the dowager, who remained there, from whence the Princess departed the next day, and his Excellency went near to Emsbuere where his army lay, which, on the 28 of October, crossed the river Amisa, and went before the town and castle of Lingen.  
Lingen is a frontier town seated in the farthest part of the low-countries, it is a signory, wherein is a town, castle, and 4 villages, which the Emperor Charles the fifth usurped by confiscation, in the year 1546, together with the County of Teckelenbourg and the Signiory of Reyden, which he took from count Conrade of Teckelenbourg, who had an hand in the league of Smalcald, making war upon him, and was therefore condemned as a rebel. Whereupon, the emperor gave the said county and signory to Maximilian of Egmond, Count of Buren, in recompense of his good service. Afterward, the earl was reconciled to the Emperor, on this condition, that Lingen should remain to Count Buren. But within a while after, as Count Nicholas of Teckelenbourg, uncle to Conrade that was deceased, called the matter in question, as a fee belonging to the Duchy of gelders, the Emperor again took it into his own hand, and disposed of it afterward according to his own pleasure.  
This town was well fortified with Bulwarks, Dikes and a strong garrison; for beside four strong bulwarks in the Castle, the town had double rampires and dikes, 
A description of the town of Lingen.  with four bulwarks and three ravelins, and six hundred soldiers in garrison, comprehended in three foot companies, and one Cornet of horse, under the conduct of Count Frederick of Berguen, the Drossart Indevelt, Laukema, Verdugos Lieutenant, with all other necessaries belonging to a siege.  
Count Frederick had caused certain houses that stood near the town, to be burnt, because the enemy should not seize on them. The next day the besieged made a sally, burned a mill which stood without the town, and skirmished with the Scots, who did beat them in again. In the night, as our men began to make their approaches, those in the town and castle did nothing all that night and most part of the next day, but discharge their ordnance, so as the whole town seemed to be on fire.  
The thirtieth of October, six ensigns of Frizons came to the camp, and the besieged about eight of the clock the same evening, did, with one thousand five hundred men, assail the guard of Frizons, where captain Peter Leenwaerd, his Sergeant, and two or three soldiers were slain, after which, the townsmen with some loss retired.  
The one and thirtieth of October, and first of November, certain canons were planted, and our men began to batter the fortifications, the better thereby to make their approach. The night following, we made a battery with six canon, and the soldiers marched the same day even to the dike of the ravelin before the gate called Molen-port.  
The second of November, nineteen boats came to Embden, laden with ordnance and munition, and passed along by a place called Oort, notwithstanding the opposition of the castle which belonged to the Earl.  
The third and fourth of November, the approaches on every side were advanced, so as the soldiers before Molen-port came so far into the ravelin, as they found a Mine which the townsmen had made, and some of them took their hats and filled them with gun powder, which being perceived by the besieged, they flung forth wildfire upon our soldiers, which burned divers of them, together with certain Miners: this happened on the 5 of November.  
The same day, the Ambassadors of Denmark arrived, viz. the chancellor Witfelt, and the Lord Barnekou, with a great train and strong Convoy, they came from the Hague and passed by Swoll, to come and see the camp, visiting the trenches, but not without admiration wondering at and commending our skill in martial matters. The next day, they departed thence, and were strongly convoyed towards Dulmenhorst.  
The same day, the works were well advanced, and the 6 of November, three galleries were made, which were bargained to be done, the one for one thousand six hundred, the other for one thousand five hundred, and the third for one thousand four hundred florins; this money was more bountifully bestowed, because the States of Holland had sent 10000 florins to the camp for payment of the works: so as before Molen-port and Leuckport our men were gotten into the ravelins, to level the causeys which kept the water in the dikes.  
The seventh and eighth of November, the besiegers began to seize upon the ravelins before the gates, and to let forth the water. The ninth of November, artillery and munition came to the camp: whereupon, three days after, his Excellency made another battery, with four and twenty pieces of ordnance upon the castle; and after that, upon the twelfth day, he had battered the fortifications for eight hours space, and under favour of the canon, began to undermine two bulwarks, he summoned the town: thereupon, the townsmen craved an hours respite for consultation, and a cessation of the ordnance and Mine, but his Excellency would give them no time; so as they demanded two hostages for two of their men whom they would send unto him, 
Count Frederick of Berguen yieldeth up Lingen on the 12 of Nomember.  the one was Verdugos Lieutenant, and the other evert de Ens, and late in the Evening, a composition was made, That they should depart the next day, with their horse, arms, Cornet, ensigns and baggage, and should cross the Rhine and Mase according to the agreement of those of Oldenzeel, delivering up all their papers and writings concerning the domains of the Country to his Excellency, craving fifty wagons for their first days journey: and that all the officers and Burghers might remain six weeks in the town to end their business, and afterwards with passport, to go whither they should please.  
This capitulation was made in the presence of the Earls of Lunenbourg, Lip, Swartzenbourg, and Benthem, who were come to the camp to salute Prince Maurice. The same night count Solms, Count Lodowick, and Count Ernestus went to sup in the castle with Count Frederick of Berguen and his brother Adolph, and returned at night to the Camp, where guards were every where placed.  
The thirteenth of November, Count Frederick requested that he might remain there that day, which was granted on condition that his men should leave the Castle, and Captain Martin Cobbe with his company was sent into the Castle, and Captain Telinghen with his companies into the Town, where they found one canon, two demie canons, one culverin, three demie culverins, one Falconet, and two 
* A piece of ordnance so called.  mortars, with 12000 weight of gunpowder.  
The fourteenth of November, the garrison went away, it consisted of 500 foot, and one Cornet of 50 horse, and the first, night they lodged at Salsbergue in the land of Munster. The same day his Excellency's troops began likewise to march, the horsemen, through Munster towards Berck, and the infantry to Swoll, there to be embarked for Holland.  
The fifteenth of November, his Excellency, Count William, and the rest of the army departed from Lingen, and went that night to Vlsen, where the next day they separated themselves, each one going to his garrison.  
Prince Maurice in all his exploits is highly to be commended, for his great and continual speed, wisdom, and skill in martial matters, having in three months space obtained such great and notable victories; for in these actions (beside the Danish Ambassadors, and the commissioner of the towns and Countries of Cologne, Munster, and Osnabrugge) there were two Dukes, nine Earls, with many other Lords and Noble men, which came in person to his camp to salute and congratulate him, and to be eye-witnesses of his victories and valour. In these actions he did in a short space vanquish two thousand men on the farther side of the Rhine, in the towns of Berck, Alpen, and Meurs, and on the hither side thereof, six and twenty foot companies, and four Cornets of horse, all old soldiers under the conduct of two Earls, sundry old Colonels, Captains and other officers, which lay in strong walled Towns and Castles.  
So as in these exploits, he did not only win nine Towns, and five castles manned with strong garrisons, but three Counties, and three Seignories, crossing seven rivers, four with bridges, & three without, and thereby secured the passages on the Rhine, Countries of Zutphen, Ouer-Yssel, Twent, Drent, Frizeland, and the Ommelands, which is in a manner the fourth part of the seventeen Provinces of the Netherlands as they are reckoned; at that time when Cardinal Albertus had threescore thousand men in pay, and himself in person in the field, coming from Amiens in Picardy in November, before Ostend, with which he durst not then meddle.   

¶ A recital and description of the siege of Bommell, and how it was raised in Anno 1599  
AFter the conquest of so many sundry Towns, we are next to speak of the siege of Bommell, and of the enemy's entrance into the Island called Bommels-weert under the conduct of the admiral of Arragon: and for better recital thereof, we will make some brief description of the town.  
Bommell is a frontier Town upon the confines of Guelderland towards the South, and stands upon the river Waell on the North side of the Isle of Bommell: it is of a reasonable bigness, and exceeding strong by nature: it was first walled by Duke Otho, under whose government the Country of Guelderland and the number of towns in it were much augmented.  
The river Waell doth not only make Bommell commodious for traffic, but impregnable on the North side and free from all invasion. The Country about it is very low, and not alone unfit for Ours, but for continuance of any long siege, for in winter, by reason of great waters and overflowing of rivers, it enforceth the enemy to leave the field. Beside her natural strength, it hath been ever well fortified with bulwarks and Towers, and is environed with a double rampire and dike, as the Reader may perceive by the Map.  
From the beginning of the low-country wars till this day, each party hath laboured to become Master of this town in regard of her situation; especially the united Provinces, because it serves as a rampire against the incursions and invasion of their enemies, and is a strong and sure key to their confines, which they likewise fortunately obtained by means of those of Gorcum, who took it in anno 1572, and have kept it till this present, notwithstanding the enemies many attempts, and daily diligence of the Spanish commanders, who have often gone about to become Masters thereof, and to take it from them: As in Anno 1599, when they brought their whole strength into the Isle of Bommell, under the conduct of D. Francisco de Mendoza high Admeral of Arragon, and besieged the town with the bulwarks and forts round about it. And because this siege of Bommell, together with the raising thereof, is one of the notablest exploits of war done in the Low-countries, we will briefly set down, the most remarkable matters which were there acted, entreating the Reader to take it in good part.  
The admiral of Arragon, having assembled all his forces lying on the Empire's territories and neutral countries, did, on the sixteenth of April, take a general muster of them, and on the six and twentieth of the said month, brought them before the impregnable fort of the Island called S'Graven-weert; whose garrison was so strong and well provided of all necessaries, as it was to be presumed, that the Spaniards would not have dared to hope for the winning of it, especially in view of the State's army, which hindered them from enclosing it. Their weak attempts likewise, and the event thereof showed that they aimed at some other place, and that this was but a counterfeit siege, only to draw the State's army thither, that they might be able on a sudden to surprise the Town of Bommell, and forts adjacent.  
My Lords the States of the united Provinces, having intelligence certain months before, that the enemy would invade the Isle of Bommell, to be able from thence to make his entrance into Holland, had given order to fortify and circled the said town with new bulwarks and flankers, and to enlarge the forts of Voorn and Creveccoeur, which by reason of their smallness were not able to hold out long: these works were already begun in the town of Bommell and fort of Voorn, but not ended, by reason the ground was too soft, and the waters too high; so that the westside of the town lay all open, the old walls being beaten down and the new not yet erected, as likewise in Voorn for't, where the new work was scarce defensible, and would not have been able to withstand the enemy's fury.  
These things drew the Spaniards into the Isle of Bommell, that they might become Masters thereof ere these places were fortified. And to this end they came before the fort of S'Grauen-weert, to draw (as it fell out) the State's camp thither.  
By which occasion, the Town of Bommel, and forts near adjoining, were not so well provided of men as was requisite. The admiral of Arragon lying before S'Grauen-weert, and amusing the State's camp, had sent certain troops, under the conduct of Zapena, towards Gennip upon the Maze, under colour of a convoy; unto whom he sent a great part of his army on May day, conducted by La Bourlotte.  
The enemy, for execution of his enterprise, had provided certain boats upon the Maze, in which, they meant to fall down towards the Isle of Voorn, and on the 3 day of May, in the Morning, they all embarked themselves and came to the said Island. But Prince Maurice, according to his usual care and diligence, had advertised the Garrison of their intent, commanding them to arm and stand upon their guard, who by this means prevented the enemy's purpose, and kept him from making any attempt: Whereupon he was enforced to go back with his boats to a place called Litt, where he remained that day and the next.  
The fourth of may, at night, they did with canon shot enforce the man of war (which the States kept upon the Maze, to guard the river, and to stop the enemy's passage) to retire thence, and to fall down the stream, and caused certain boats to be brought by land towards Keffell, whether they sent their own fanterie, which was embarked by night, and passed on betwixt Rossen and Herwaerde.  
And the fifth of May, before day break, they entered the Isle of Bommell, where they fortified themselves on both sides the water. This sudden arrival of theirs, did so affright those of Bommell, as divers Burghers fled confusedly forth of the Town, carrying away with them what they could conveniently: And to speak truly, had the enemy, presently after his arrival in the Island, showed himself before the Town, he would have mightily endangered it, the walls lying open and the Burghers being terrified. But by his negligence, and staying for the admiral, who was hourly expected with his whole army, he lost that gallant opportunity.  
His Excellency, in the mean time, having intelligence of the enemy's arrival in the Isle of Bommell, made haste thitherward with his cavalry and certain foot companies, where he arrived on the sixth of May, and gave order for all things necessary in the town, commanding the Burghers still to abide there, who by his coming were so encouraged, as they alone thought themselves strong enough to withstand the enemy.  
The seventh of May, the Spaniards forsook the town of Emmerick, and joined with the admiral, who was then marching towards the Isle of Bommell. It was supposed that the admiral had an intent to have seized on Heusden, a very strong Town, and seated within an hours journey of Bommell.  
But his Excellency, like a provident prince, went thither on the 11 of May, with ten foot companies, and caused the Isle of Hemert to be fortified and entrenched round about.  
The admiral perceiving that Heusden was too well provided, did, with all his force, assault the Fort of Crevecoeur, which by reason of the smallness was not able to hold out against him: Whereupon, the garrison yielded it up, and departed thence with their ensigns and arms.  
His Excellency having intelligence tha● Crevecoeur was yielded, returned speedily to Bommell, and caused it to be environed with many trenches, half Moons, and such like works.  
By these fortifications, the Town of Bommel (in man's judgement) was made impregnable, and as many as saw the height and breadth of those works, were amazed, for it is almost incredible to see what they wrought in view of the king of Spain's mighty army.  
Beside these fortifications a far off, the bulwarks of the Town which had been begun, were finished, and the walls closed up, the Town being well furnished with ordnance and other provision in places of most necessity. The Admeral, in the mean time, lay with his camp at Crevecoeur, where he was busied in making a bridge over the Maze, and a half Moon on Heels side, thereby to secure the river.  
The 13 of May, the enemy made show as if he would have returned to Heusden: whereupon, his Excellency sent 31 ensigns more thither. But he marched towards Rossem, hoping to enter into the Isle of Tiell, called Tielche-weert, to enclose the Isle of Bommell on all sides: but Prince Maurice sent ordnance thither, and caused batteries to be made, thereby hindering the enemy's passage.  
The 14 of May, Count Frederick brought the most part of the army before Bommell, having first run up and down the Country, and done nothing, but warned those of Bommell and Voorn to fortify themselves, and given them time to do it. He came and sat down on the Westside, where the Town had been most open, there beginning his skirmishes, hoping to enter it, but those within it, did bravely repulse him. During this skirmish the enemy thought to have entered the Isle of Rossem, but all things being there well ordered, his attempt had no good success. Then he began to besiege the town, seating his camp at a place called Oensell, above the Town, and made his trenches at the causey called Oensen-Dijke, that he might lie safe from the Town shot. Prince Maurice perceiving that the enemy meant to set upon him with his whole power, did likewise break up his camp which lay in the Betuwe, and brought it to Bommell, making all preparations for defence, sending for all sorts of munition, and making sundry batteries.  
His whole camp being assembled, he divided it very skilfully, and fortified all necessary places. He manned Bommel with eight ensigns belonging to the Lord Peter de Dorp, eight ensigns of the Lord Vander-Noot, four ensigns of Suesse, and the Lord de la Noiie, with seven French companies; and himself with his youngest brother, Count William, and Count Lodowick, retired thence. He quartered the English at Haesten, the Guards at Tuyll, the residue of the French at Wardenbourg, at Opinen the rest of the Frizons, at Hessell Count Ernestus with the Almans, the Scots with edmond's regiment at Voorn, and all the horse in the Isle of Tyell, and so from thence as far as Gorcum, to keep continual watch along the River. The admiral Dwenvoord likewise went up the River Waell, with fifteen men of war, which lay from Opinen as far as beneath Haeften.  
On the sixteenth of May, all things being thus ordered by the State's army, the Admeral of Arragon came at last to his camp, so as all the power on both sides was assembled near to Bommel. The Spaniards were in number 26000 foot, and 4000 horse; the States forces consisted of 16000 foot, and three thousand horse, most of them old soldiers, and had a long time been trained up in war, and purchased great experience.  
The same night that the Admeral came to his camp, he made a furious assault upon the towns furthest fortifications, towards the gate called Oensche port, which were scarce finished; but he was bravely beaten back, with great loss of his men, and among others, La Motte was taken prisoner, who died at Bommell of his hurt, together with Alfonso D'Aualos, who was grievously wounded, yet within a while after, recovered his health.  
Prince Maurice caused the causey called Oenschen-Dijke to be undermined, that he might blow up the enemy, if he returned to assail the fortifications. This was his last assault upon Bommell; for afterward he kept himself very quiet, standing rather on defence than offence.  
His Excellency on the contrary, was not satisfied in defending the town of Bommell, but did likewise with all his might assail the enemy, shooting on every side into his camp, and visiting him often in his trenches. The works and fortifications did daily increase round about Bommell, and a bridge of boats was likewise made over the Waell before the Town, five pace in breadth, and four hundred and fifty in length. There were ten great boats, and eight and twenty lesser ones, & a very great Ferrie-boat serving for an opening to the bridge when need was.  
By his Excellency's command, all mariners that were in the State's fleet, came into the town of Bommell to aid the soldiers to make a furious assault upon the enemy, who was advertised thereof by two Frenchmen that fled from our side: whereupon, the mariners were sent back to their ships.  
The 18 of May, Count Lodowick, with 8 cornets of horse, was sent on Brabant's side, to surprise the enemy's guards, but returned without any effect.  
On the one and twentieth, at night, our soldiers being for the most part English and French, did fiercely assail the enemy in his trenches, and slew above six hundred men, and would peradventure have troubled the whole army, had not a quarrel arose betwixt the two Nations: whereupon, they returned to the Town, bringing Captain Aldeno prisoner with them, with some other soldiers. And on their side lost two Captains, and some others, who for the most pa●t were slain by themselves.  
The enemy at that time was very busy in his fortifications, making platforms and sundry batteries, from which he shot into the Town and over the bridge, but did no great hurt, spoiling the houses more than men; daily approaching towards the water's side, that he might be able to reach our bridge with his ordnance; and our men to defend it, did much elevat the wings of their trenches. Our trenches, bulwarks, & batteries were daily increased, being stored with divers canon, culverins, & other iron pieces, which continually played upon the enemy, doing great hurt among his men, so as they drew back their cabins and Tents to be free from the canon. divers of the enemies dead & wounded men were daily carried to Sertoghenbuske and other places near adjoining, which filled the Hospitals, among whom were many Captains and commanders, beside those that were daily buried in the fields.  
The four and twentieth of May, the enemy departed from the Isle of Bommell, with five thousand foot, and one thousand horse, to fetch in victuals, munition, and other necessaries: and on the six and twentieth, he sent four thousand foot men, and certain horse towards antwerp, to convoy the pay for the army to the Camp, and the better to cover his intent, he discharged many volleys of shot, seeking thereby to carry away certain ordnance.  
Thereupon, his Excellency, with all the guards, went down lower, being followed by six cornets of horse, and out of every English company, he took fifty men, which in all amounted to one thousand three hundred foot, and with them embarked himself from Worcum, and marched far into Brabant: but the enemy having descried our men, retired with all the treasure into herentals, being unwilling to leave his advantage: whereupon, Prince Maurice returned to his Camp, leaving certain stragglers behind him.  
On the seven and twentieth of May, the enemy received his pay in the Isle of Bommell, which was thought in value to be worth six tun of gold: 
I hardly in this believe my Author.  all the garrisons dispersed here and there over Brabant, were commanded to come to the camp to receive their pay. The same day, our men of war upon the river, dragged up certain engines that went under water, which were carried away by the currant, wherewith the enemy thought to have blown up either our ships or bridge; they were five foot long, and one foot broad: there were in them six Chambers charged with powder, very artificially made with firelocks, and did bear out a point before, which coming to strike against any thing, the spring unbended itself, and gave fire to the powder, which broke all things near it in pieces: the enemy had made many of these, yet they did in no sort hurt either our bridge or ships. The thirtieth of May, the body of the enemy's Camp was much enlarged by great numbers of Tents and Cabins: for he had newly received twelve great canons called the twelve Apostles, each of them carrying a bullet of threescore pound weight; with which came four thousand Spaniards and Italians, and certain cornets of horse.  
The same day, the enemy attempted to cross the Waell near to Dreule, two leagues beyond Tyell, but his Excellency forthwith sent sixteen foot companies and five cornets of horse to stop their passage. The same day, our double canon, and other ordnance played fiercely upon the enemy, who did the like upon the Town, and especially towards the bridge; but the bullets, for the most part, fell in a place called Haeftensche-weert, doing no great hurt either to the bridge or men.  
Daily skirmishes were made betwixt the sentinels & soldiers which deserve no long discourse, only, our men were commonly victorious. Beside those of Bommell, the inhabitants of Voorn, Heusden, Gorcum, and other neighbour towns, made incursions upon the enemy, and took daily store of prisoners, and many gallant horse, and in Bommell alone during the siege, more than four hundred were sold.  
News came from Sertoghenbusk, that on the eight and twentieth and nine and twentieth of May, above fourscore wagons of dead and hurt men were brought thither, beside those that were carried to Heel and other Towns. His Excellency caused the place where the old Cloister stood to be fortified, from whence the enemy might have greatly annoyed the Town, if he had come on that side. He did likewise fortify a place called Litsenhan, began an half Moon there, that he might from thence make incursions upon the enemy.  
The third of june, his Excellency caused all the ordnance of the Town, Bulwarks, and batteries, to be discharged upon the enemy's camp for an hour together, which enforced them to retire from before the town, and by night to burn their cabins, and by to dislodge.  
In this manner did the canon raise the siege of Bommell, which the enemy had begirt for the space of twenty days.  
The Spaniards from the beginning had no great hope of this siege, but had rather to have gone before Breda or some other Town in the champain country, accusing La Bourlotte to be a traitor to the king, whose negligence had held back their first intended enterprises.  
Those of Bommel, perceiving the enemy's retreat, did in troops run to their forsaken camp, where they found much baggage, armour, and other engines, many dead men unburied, many hurt men and young children left behind, whom his Excellency sent after them, causing the dead bodies to be buried, and the wounded to be brought into the town to be healed.  
The fifth of june, the enemy's trenches, batteries, and other works, were made plain and level by the Burghers and soldiers, with their own tools which they had left behind. The enemy was so afraid to tarry in Bommelers-weert, as divers Captains which were not hurt, withdrew themselves to Sertoghenbusk, wearing their arms in Scarves, the better to absent themselves; the number of them was so great, as proclamations were made by sound of drum and Trumpet, That all commanders and officers, being in the kings pay, should return to their quarter and ensigns; and a general search was made, to enforce such to the camp as were unwilling.  
The enemy having abandoned Bommell, retired toward Rossem, where the Country lay somewhat high, and there encamped, causing his bridge to be taken away from Crevecoeur, and to be carried higher betwixt Alem, and Marem.  
His Excellency, to keep the enemy forth of the Isle of Tiell, fortified all the passages, and sent 7 French ensigns to Nerines, 8 companies belonging to the Lord Vander-Noot, and four of Suesses to Varick. He began to plant sundry batteries, and to fortify the Island called Rossensche-middel-weert, and other places, he likewise strongly entrenched the Isle of Voorn.  
Both the camps were quiet all june, because the enemy was afraid to pass on his way, and Prince Maurice attended him in vain; each side being busied in making batteries and other fortifications, and annoying one another with the ordnance.  
The enemy began a very great and strong Fort at Rossem, upon a Dike called Lorre-graft, in a straight and narrow place of the Isle of Bommel, with Curtains, the better to shadow himself and to cause the said dike to run into the Waell.  
It is reported that fifteen thousand of the enemies divided themselves into three troops, and cast lots which of the three should first cross the water, having many boats for that purpose, so as their whole number might easily have passed over at thrice: this should have been put in practice upon the four and twentieth of june in the Morning before day break, being Midsummer day; but it was not effected. Those of Midel-weert, Varick, Heesselt, and Opinen, stood all night in good order, expecting the enemy who stirred not. His Excellency did often send certain horse, musketeers, and armed pikes to provoke him, but he would not come forth of his hold.  
The admiral of Arragon, sent D. Ambrosio Landriano with most of the horse, and the regiment of D. Lewis de Villar, to prevent the frequent incursions of those of Litsenhall.  
The first of julie, the enemy made above five hundred great shot, but did not hurt a man of ours. The second of julie, the Englishmen that lay at Haeften, the French, that were at Weerdenbourg and Nerines, and six ensigns of the garrison of the Isle of Hemert, called Hemertschen-weert, marched up higher.  
His Excellency having in vain long expected the enemies coming, did, on the fourth of julie, by day break, send three thousand men towards Herwaerden, there to make an half moon in the enemy's view.  
Herwaerden is seated on a plain or level ground, higher than all the trenches in the Isle of Voorn: there did our men presently fortify themselves, making an half Moon, which they fenced with pallizadoes. This work being in some sort defensible, his Exc. sent more men before & at last, followed them himself.  
Our men laboured very hard from four of the clock in the morning till six at night, without any let of the enemy, but when the half moon was almost finished, he then showed himself with certain troops of horse and foot, thinking thereby to draw our soldiers into an ambuscado; who upon intelligence that a great troop of horse lay behind a bank, would not go forth.  
The enemy within a while after, returned with 2500 Spaniards and Italians, who under the conduct of Zapena gave a furious assault to our half moon, and with them a great number of monks and Clergy men, who came with crosses and banners to encourage them: but our men did valiantly defend the half moon and repulsed the enemy, notwithstanding his fierce assault, in which many of them had gotten over the palizadoes, fight hand to hand with our men, and killing one another with push of pike.  
Those of Voorn, Varijck, and Heesselschen-weert, did continually with their canon and small shot, play upon the enemies, so as in the end they were to their great disgrace enforced to retire, leaving more than 700 dead men behind them, (among whom were divers Captains and Commanders) beside those that were hurt, of whom 150 died in Sertoghenbusk. This assault continued two hours long, and yet there were but 8 of our men slain, and some 20 hurt. The enemy had brought two field pieces to batter the half moon, but did not hurt one man of ours, and in his retreat lost 96 men, among whom one of the above mentioned monks was found, being armed with many holy relics which did him no good, he died with his arms full of palizadoes which he had valiantly plucked up.  
The same day, the enemies with 2 demi canon which were sent them, sank one of our boats near to Herwaerden, but the men were saved, some six or seven excepted, that were slain and hurt.  
The 5 of july, la Bourlotte with a troop of horse & 400 musketeers, lay in ambush, thinking to draw our Cavalry thither, which were upon the guard before the town of Bommell: But our men mistrusting the matter, because the enemy came on with so few, gave back, till they were safe from the ambuscado, and then fell upon them, putting them to rout, and took the Baron of Rosne prisoner, and an Italian Captain that presently died of his hurts, whose body was afterwards redeemed. His Excellency likewise began to fortify the Island or Widdel-weert, called Nat-gat on Herwaerden side, and all the Villages round about it, with trenches.  
The seventh of julie, a second half Moon was begun upon the Litsenham, and was conjoined to the first by wings, the better to secure the bridge, which was afterward placed betwixt Voorn and Herwaerden. They likewise made a new wing at Herw●erden, towards the enemy's bridge, extending it abroad round about the village, from whence we might easily discern it; so as our men did daily approach nearer it, watching for a fit opportunity to cut it off from him.  
The 8 of julie, his Excellency and his whole Court removed from Bommel and went to Voorn, quartering himself at the head of the Island, whither his own guard, and those of Count William and Count Hohenlo, presently followed him.  
The army of the States were busied in making two sundry bridges of boats: The first, on the third of julie, upon the Waell from the Isle of Tiell to the Isle of Voorn: The second, on the 8 of julie, from Voorn to Herwaerden, on which, ten ensigns of Scots, and the Lord of Gistels, with twelve other ensigns of his regiment, passed over the same day towards Herwaerden. The enemy being fearful and jealous of his bridge, transported it on the ninth of julie to the old place betwixt Heel, and Crevecoeur. His Excellency, on the 12 of julie, sent three thousand five hundred foot, and 1000 horse towards Litsenham to assail the enemy, who not appearing, our men returned, bringing hack with them 40 horse and four prisoners.  
The Spanish horsemen, so soon as ours were gone from Litsenham, showed themselves on the bank, but were soon beaten thence by our canon.  
The same day, a French lord, son to a great man of France, was shot into the head before Herwaerden, and died of his hurt; he was much lamented both of his Excellency and his whole Court.  
The fif●eenth day, the Bridge was removed from Herwaerden, and placed higher betwixt the Isle of Voorn and Litsenham upon the Maze, over which, 6000 foot, and 1800 horse passed towards Litsenham, to raise the enemy, who lay dispersed up and down, at Lit, Kessell, and Maren.  
The enemy was in those Villages on Litsenham and Herwaerdens' side, strongly entrenched, but on the other side very slenderly, so as our men were to fetch a compass about, to assail the enemy behind. But the French that were in the Vanguard being impatient of delay, and desiring a speedy victory, assailed the enemy in front, where he was strongly fortified. At the first arrival of our men, the enemy stood before his trenches, offering skirmish, but was soon beaten in again, and one of his captains taken prisoner and carried away into the Isle of Voorn.  
These thus defeated, our men did valiantly assail the enemy's trenches, but by reason of the height of their fortifications, and great numbers of their men, we did no great matter, but were fain to retire, bringing away some 60 dead & hurt men, most of whom were Frenchmen, and to speak truly of them, had with incredible valour, marched even into the enemy's trenches.  
The enemy planted a battery at Kessell, from whence he played upon Herwaerde and Voorn, but did no great harm. The 26 of julie, he took one of our men of war that lay in guard on the higher side of Amelroye, and slew most of the mariners. These were the notablest exploits done in the Isle of Bommell and places near adjoining, from May till the 26 of julie.  
All August and September, both Camps lay very still, being strongly entrenched, keeping good guard, ever seeking some advantage one of another.  
There were continual mutinies in the enemy's camp, in regard of bad pay & other quarrels. The regiments which lay at Driell and other villages, did most of them retire to Rossem for fear of being beaten. There were continual skirmishes betwixt our cavalry and the enemies, who went about to surprise one another, and to drive away the sentinels.  
Our men still made incursions upon the enemy, and, on the 10 of August, took more than 200 horse, and much baggage from him, who was busied in fortifying his new Fort of Rossem, with high and broad rampires, thinking thereby to stop the passage of the river Waell, to conquer the Isle of Bommel, and to open himself a way into Holland, Vtrecht, and the heart of Guelderland. Many wondered why the enemy was so long idle in the Isle of Bommell: some thought that he would not retire till the fort of Rossem was fully finished.  
But because the Archduke Albert had promised the States of the subjecteth provinces, That he would not burden the towns and country with Garrisons, it is likely that he busied his Army in the Isle of Bommell, the better to keep his promise: As also because it was necessary to keep the Army near the enemy, for his soldiers being seditious and wanting pay, it was to be feared, if they departed forth of the Isle of Bommell, and should be far from their enemies, that the country of Brabant would be in danger of spoil and ruin, as it hath often happened during these low-country wars.  
These are the most likely reasons that moved the enemy to keep his army so long a time in the Isle of Bommel, without any other exploits; to these, an other may be added, which is, that they thought good to tarry there, in regard of the fitness of the place, from whence they might make attempts on the neighbour towns of the united Provinces, as they had already done upon Worcum, Breda, and Nimmeguen; but by God's assistance and the carefulness of our commanders it took none effect.  
My Lords the States of the united Provinces, showed themselves very careful for the defence of this town, yea some of the General States, and most of the Council of State, came in person to Bommell, not without great danger of their lives: for Canon bullets did not only fly over the late Martin de Rossem Lord of Pouderoys' house, where they were assembled, but pierced through it.  

The expense of his Excellency's camp at Bommell.  The Provinces did greatly further this business, for they furnished the Camp with all necessaries, and all that Summer kept two hundred and eighty boats in pay, three hundred seventy nine wagons, three hundred fifty six horse of draft; there were two hundred and three Bridgemasters, and other officers fit for such service. To conclude, the extraordinary expense in boats, wagons, drawing horse, munition, and provision for the ordnance and officers thereof, did stand the Provinces that Summer (beside the soldiers pay) in twelve hundred thousand florins.  
This is in brief the true description of the occurrents which happened at this siege.   

¶ A true description and recital of the enterprises and voyages of the mighty fleet of the united netherlands Provinces against the realms of Spain and Islands of Canaries, under conduct of the admiral Peter Vander-Does, set forth in anno 1599  
THe States of the united netherlands Provinces, did, in the beginning of the year 1599, lay a general imposition on their wealthiest subjects, craving the two hundredth penny of their goods, which they voluntarily granted. Whereupon, they concluded, beside their other enterprises, to set forth a mighty fleet, to invade the King of Spain's dominions, as the Englishmen had often done with good success.  
And to this end, divers ships were rigged forth the same year in the havens and Merchant Towns of Holland and Zealand, and many mariners were taken into pay over all the united Provinces. Some of these ships were double manned and victualled for a long voyage, the rest, only to continue in ordinary places.  
Those which were double manned were chiefly bound for the West-Indies; others only for the Canaries to convoy them, and to assist them by the way. All these vessels were strong, tall, well built, and swift of sail. The greatest of them was a ship of Amsterdam, strongly built, and well furnished for war.  
The chief command of these ships was given to the admiral Peter Ʋander Does, a discreet and valiant gentleman, well experienced in martial matters, both by sea and land, as it appeared in anno 1588., in the defeat of the Spanish fleet, and more especially in this present action. All the Captains, officers, soldiers and mariners were valiant and skilful men. Their ships being ready, did set sail on the four and twentieth and five & twentieth of May, forth of sundry Havens, and on the five and twentieth, at night, came before Flushing, which was the Rendezvous, the whole Fleet consisting of 72 sail, all of them well provided of ordnance, munition, and other necessaries.  
The Admeral was called Orange, the great ship of Amsterdam was Vize-Admerall, but being as then scarce finished, it remained for a time at Texell, and the 30 of May it followed the fleet and overtook it on the coast of Spain before the Sea Town called Groin.  
The 26 and 27 of May, the fleet stayed before Flushing to receive directions from the admiral, and on the 28 weighing anchor, they set sail from Flushing with a Northerly wind, directing their course East-South-East. The whole fleet was divided into three squadrons, the first under the admiral Vander-Does, who carried an Orange colour flag; the second, under john Gerbrantsen with a white flag; and the third, under Cornellis Geleyn of Flushing, bearing a blue flag, as rere-Admerall.  
In this order the fleet departed, and on the nine and twentieth came in view of Calais, where the foremost ships stayed for those that were behind. In this place, the admiral did twice send for all the Captains to come aboard his ship, first, to hold a martial Council, after which, two Brigantines were sent from the fleet; and the second time to acquaint them with his intent, and other necessary affairs, giving to each of them a sealed letter, which was to direct them how to order themselves in any difficulties that should happen.  
This sending for the Captains was signified from the admiral by shooting off a piece of ordnance, and by displaying in the stern two of the Prince's ensigns. The same night, the fleet did again set sail, & doubled the point of Zartenes, there coming to an anchor, expecting the Vice-Admeral of Amsterdam.  
But all that night they could not descry her; so as in the Morning, on the thirtieth of May, they went forward with a Northwest wind, shaping their course eastnortheast, and about Noon they came near to Beversier, with a fair wind which did blow from West-North-West, but towards night they were becalmed. In the evening, the foremost ships took off some of their sails tarrying for those that were hindmost.  
The last of May, by day break, they came in ken of the Isle of Wight, directing their course Eastward with a westerly wind. About Noon the air was cloudy, so as the Fleet durst not approach the shore, but lessened their sails, putting to Sea.  
The first of june, in the Morning, they descried Gausteert, directing their course towards Plymouth, and there stayed, tarrying for the two Brigantines they had sent abroad, who within a while after came to the admiral: whereupon, another martial Council was held; after which the fleet with full sail shaped their course South-South-East, but towards Evening the air began again to be cloudy, and the night was very calm.  
The ninth, by day break, the whole fleet came upon the coast of Galicia, near to Vivero, and holding their course north-east to the Northward, and North-North-East, towards Evening they came right over against the Cape Ortegall, which lieth some 11 Germane leagues from the Groin. In the night the wind ●urnd north-east and by North; and being come to the height of 44 degrees & 24 minutes, the said Cape stood off from them 5 leagues Southeast to the Southward.  
The tenth of june, they set sail with a south-west wind towards East-South-East, along the shore towards the Groin, 
A description of the Groin.  which they descried about Noon, making all things ready to assail it. It is a Sea town in Galicia, standing in the height of 43 degrees and twelve minutes on the northside of the line, opposite to England and Ireland, one hundred and fifteen Germane leagues from Plymouth, being seated on a triangular Cape in a deep and spacious Bay, where not only the said Town hath a goodly Haven, but Ferol, Ponta de Mas, Pitança, and Fontuna, have the goodliest and most commodious Ports of Christendom: In which regard the king of Spain had lately fortified it with many Castles, and there and at Ferol, he rigged his fleet for England, Ireland and the Netherlands, together with that of this present year.  
In some sort to hinder the preparation of that Spanish Fleet, and there to destroy the King of Spain's ships and means, the admiral Vander-Does was commanded to assail the Groin with his fleet.  
To this end, on the eleventh of june, the wind being northwest to the Westward, the six above mentioned ships went before towards the Groin to see how things were there ordered, directing their course South-South-East towards the Cape de Prior, where they stayed to the Southward of the Town. Those of Ferol descrying these ships, sent forth two shalops to know what they were, because the day before, they had seen the fleet at Sea. These ships went before the wind to attend these shalops, which suspecting somewhat, kept aloof off and would not come near, but our men cried out aloud saying that they came from Hambourg, and that they were loaden with merchants goods, and only wanted a pilot to carry them into the Groin.  
By this means our men got one of the shalops to come aboard, and took a Spaniard, but those that were in it made all the hast they could to escape. The Spaniard whom they had taken prisoner, was one of the King's servants, and was come the same day from the Groin: He being brought to the admiral, told him that some 4000 foot, & certain horse, with 36 carts of silver ready coined, & 300 pipes of wine, were come to the Groin to furnish the future Spanish fleet.  
After dinner, the whole fleet came before the Groin, where they met with the Vice-Admerall of Amsterdam. The Groin and the above mentioned Castles, were well provided of strong garrisons, ordinance, munition, and other necessaries, having a long time before had intelligence of the coming of this fleet by Hispaniolized French and Dutch.  
The admiral Vander-Does at his first arrival did presently with all his ships fall beneath the town, casting anchor at 13, 12, and 21 fathom.  
Those in the town and Castles played furiously with their ordnance upon our men, so as in a short space they made more than 200 shot. Beneath the town 12 great Galleons lay with certain other French ships, which likewise discharged their ordnance upon us: yet their shot did no hurt to our fleet, only one vessel was spoiled.  
The admiral perceiving such resistance, sent for all the Captains and Officers to come aboard his ship to consult together how they might best assail the enemy: yet in regard the City was so well provided, they thought it not fit to hazard the whole fleet, or for one town to lose their good fortune, in atchivement of other enterprises.  
And therefore the fleet went thence, not meddling with the town, and because it was very calm weather, they caused their boats to tow their ships, lying still open to the shot, both from the town and castle, which did them no harm.  
Toward evening the wind rose, so as the whole fleet was under sail, holding their course South-South-east towards Cape Saint Vincent, that they might on a sudden surprise Saint Lucas.  
Saint Lucas is a town in Andaluzia on the Southern coasts of Spain at the mouth of the River of Seville, in the height of 39 degrees & 40 minutes: but the admiral Vander-Does being already gone beyond S. Lucas, left off that enterprise, because the time was to far spent, & the wind stood fair for the Canaries, making preparation to invade those Islands, which are in number 7, viz. the grand Canary, Palma, Tenerifa, Forteventura, Fero, Gomera, and Lancerotta. They are not far one from another, and are seated betwixt 27 and 30 degrees from the line, they are all called Canaries after the name of the fertilest of them, heretofore called Canary, and now the Grand Canary.  
These Islands by ancient writers were in former times termed the fortunate Islands, 
Description of the Canaries.  in regard of the abundance of all necessaries and fruitfulness of the soil, producing all things fit for the sustenance of man's life, but especially the grand Canary, Palma, and Tenerifa, which do not only produce all necessaries in abundance, but likewise sugars, wine, and oil, and such like commodities, wherewith they store Europe and other Countries.  
These Islands have been a long time subject to the Spaniards, who now remain there, and are not inhabited by their ancient inhabitants, who now are all rooted out. But by whom and how they were subdued and by what means they fell to the Crown of Spain is not certainly known; this only cannot be denied that Forteventura, Fero, Lancerotta, and Gomera, were the first that were taken, and the Grand Canary, Palma & Tenerifa were long after that Pagans.  
The valour and cruelty of these Islanders, their discommodious havens, and dangerous sea coasts, caused them so long to hold out against the Christians, whom they have often repulsed with great loss. The Fleet directed it course towards the Canaries forcibly to invade the Grand Canary and Gomera, according to the appointment of my Lords the States. The admiral sent for all the Captains & Commanders & Pilots to consult with them about the commodities of the said Islands. He likewise distributed the Mariners under new Captains, 130 men under every Ensign, & gave order for all things, instructing the captains how to behave themselves on shore.  
And because the fleet did daily approach the line, coming to the hottest part of the world, where too much eating and drinking is very dangerous causing sundry diseases, and commonly death, the admiral did very descreetly moderate his soldiers diet commanding every man strictly to observe it: He likewise sent for all the land and sea Captains to advise him in what manner to assail the enemy and town.  
The 24 of june the wind was still North-North-West, & they went South-South-East, so as toward evening they descried Lancerotta, and bending their course thitherward they went East to the southward. The 25 of june in the morning they came near to Lancerotta, and Forteventura, which they might descry, and after noon, they doubled it, going towards the Southeast along the Western coasts, and about Evening descried the grand Canary; whereupon, they struck sail, and tarried till the second watch, & then did again set forward, directing their course Eastward toward the grand Canaries, which stands in the height of 28 degrees on the hither side of the line, and 155 Germane leagues to the South East towards the South of Saint Vincents Cape in Portugal, being in compass 260000 paces, amounting in all to 26 Germane leagues. On the East side of this Island stands a small town called Allagona, wherein are above four hundred houses: It is the chief Town of all the Canaries, and there the judges Courts both Ecclesiastical and Civil, with the Inquisitor of Spain, and the governor of the Islands for the King, do reside.  
Through the Town runs a small shallow riwlet which descends from the neighbour mountains, and emptieth itself into the sea, & is in no sort capable of shipping. The haven of the grand Canary lies four hundred paces towards the North-North-East of Allagona, and is of an indifferent breadth and depth: For defence of this Haven, the King of Spain had caused a strong Castle to be built, called Gratiosa: All the forts of the grand Canary were provided of strong Garrisons, munition, and other necessaries.  
The 26 of june, the fleet with a north-east wind entered the Haven of the grand Canary, and all of them together came to an anchor beneath the Castle Gratiosa.  
Thereupon, the Spanish Governor came with seven Spanish Companies to the Sea side, placing guards upon the haven, planting three small pieces of ordnance behind certain banks to hinder his enemies landing. upon the fleets arrival the Gastle Gratiosa played furiously upon it, but the admiral, vice-Admerall and those ships which carried the biggest ordnance drew near the Castle and requited it with the like.  
Two Spanish ships rode near the Castle, one of which was sunk, and the other together with a small bark, was brought to the fleet. By this means the Castle was much weakened, and those within it began to be discouraged, leaving off their furious shooting, notwithstanding that they had already torn some ships and slain certain mariners.  
Thereupon, the admiral did presently man his boats and landed his men, & those ships that could not reach the Castle, bend their ordnance upon the shore driving the enemy thence. These boats rowed altogether to land-ward, where for a while they fought with the enemy. The admiral perceiving that the enemies would not remove, and that the water was shallow, leapt up to the middle in the Sea, and with his men marched bravely against them.  
By this means the Spanish troops after some slight fight were beaten from the shore, flying towards Allagona together with the King's Governor, who lost his leg: many were hurt, and some 36 of them slain. Of our men, the admiral at his first landing was hurt in the leg with a pike, and was in great danger, but he was rescued by one of his soldiers who bravely slew the Spaniard that had hurt him. The admiral's Lieutenant General was shot into the throat, and another Captain in the head, and beside these some 20 soldiers were slain and wounded. The admiral having won the shore, sent all the boats back again to the ships to fetch more men, to the number of 24 Ensigns, which were divided into seven troops, and marched in order of battle 21 in front. Those in the Castle kept themselves quiet, discharging no one shot after our men were landed, making signs as if they intended to yield, which the admiral understanding, went thither with certain Captains and soldiers, and at his arrival, without any capitulation at all they yielded on discretion. There were 138 men in the Castle, many had been slain and some fled thence; there were likewise 9 cast pieces in it and 6 of iron, with all sorts of munition. These 138 men were brought prisoners into the ship which was taken, 3 captains except, whom the admeral kept near him to be by them instructed concerning the affairs of the Country. In this manner, Graciosa, the strongest Castle not only of Grand Canary, but of all the other Islands, was easily taken, which was presently manned with 80 soldiers, who threw down the King of Spain's ensigns, and displayed that of Prince Maurice.  
Two Moors were at the same time brought to the admiral which were taken in the mountains, who because they were found sleeping could give no certain advertisement.  
In the night, 24 ensigns went towards Allagona, where they divided themselves into four troops, the first placed themselves beneath the town, the second under the neighbour mountains, the third upon the shore, and the fourth made the rearward: These four troops stood all night imbattailed, and the 27 of june by day break, they came all together before Allagona: But the townsmen defended themselves, and shot fiercely from the Castle which stands on the North side, not without some loss on our part. Thereupon, our men retired behind the neighbour hills, where they began to entrench themselves, and by that means secured themselves from the Canon.  
Those of Allagona, perceiving our men to be entrenched, brought six small Falconets upon the hills, which they charged with wooden bullets, and did us much harm, because they had so well planted their pieces: Ten or twelve of our men went up the hill, but returned without any exploit, one excepted which fell into the Spaniards hands, who did cruelly cut him into four quarters. This inhuman cruelty incensed our men and caused them the same night, to do the like to a Spaniard.  
The admiral perceiving the enemies great resistance, caused five pieces of ordnance to be brought from the Castle, which he had won, therewith to make a battery and by Canon shot to enforce the Town to yield.  
Those of Allagona made a counter battery, attempting by their shot to drive their enemy thence and to enforce, him to give over his work.  
But our men did valiantly persever, and in a short space planted the battery notwithstanding that divers of them were slain by the townsmen, and that night planted three Canon, and shot five or six volleys into the Town.  
The 28 of june at night, the 24 ensigns were embattled, 15 in front, and by day break every man went to his appointed place, making preparation to assault the town the same day: The two other pieces were likewise planted on the battery, four to batter the North Castle, and the fifth to play upon the Falconets, and presently began a furious battery on all sides. Four did continually batter the Castle, so as those of Allagona were much annoyed and were enforced to place wool sacks and barrels full of stones upon the Castle, by that means to shadow themselves: But this, in steed of profiting, did most annoy them, for when the bullets touched the barrels of stones, they scattered them abroad and slew as many as stood near them: So as by this means the Castle before noon was wholly ruined, and the enemy's pride abated, whereupon, the admiral presently sent four companies up to the hills to drive the enemy from those Falconets, and to set fire on the City gates: 
Those of Allagona forsake the town which is taken by the admiral Ʋander Does.  But they within it perceiving the extreme danger, and their enemies furious assault, abandoned the Town and Castle, and with their wives, children, money, jewels, and whatsoever they could carry with them, fled into the mountains.  
The admiral perceiving that the enemy fled from thence, caused two ladders to be forthwith brought from a Church that stood without the town, the first was too short; yet on the other, himself was the first man that mounted the walls, and was courageously followed by his soldiers: some ran presently to the Castle, where they found five brass pieces, and took down the King of Spain's ensign, displaying that of his Excellency.  
The enemy had made a mine in the town gate, which as our men came before the walls, was blown up of itself, and did hurt to no man: they had likewise scattered great store of gunpowder here and there, but our men did sire it. And in this manner Allagona, the chief of all the Canaries, was by God's favour forcibly taken on the 28 of june about noon, by four and twenty Dutch ensigns, after it had been besieged two days, battered with Spanish ordnance, and scaled with her own ladders. The admiral having most of his men in the town, did again embattle them in a void place, fifteen in front, whither the four Companies which he had sent along by the hill side to enter the town, came unto him, bringing with them a man of Flushing, whom they had freed from prison. The admiral, together with him, and other Captains, went to the prison of Allagona, where they found thirty six prisoners, whom they presently released.  
The Spaniards, had carried one English man and a Dutchman away with them into the mountains, who had already been committed to the holy house (as they term it) and were condemned to be burnt. Toward evening, all the soldiers and mariners of the fleet came to the town and sacked it, certain houses and goods excepted, which the admiral had seized on for his own use.  
That night all the Captains with their companies were lodged in houses apart, and kept good guard every where, for the enemy did often show himself upon the hills.  
The 29 of june in the morning certain mariners did rashly ascend the hills, whom the enemy (which was skilful in the ways and passages) surprised and for the most part slew.  
Toward Evening 300 men marched toward the Castle on the South side of Allagona, but so soon as the Spanish Garrison saw our men, they presently fled to the mountains.  
In this Castle, our men found three canon, with other munition, and it was manned with some few of our men. In the night the Spaniards came secretly down the hill, surprised our sentinel and slew him.  
The last of june by day break our men begun to ship the wines and other goods. About noon five Spanish Captains came to our sentinels with a little flag in sign of peace, and were brought to the admiral, and after they had conferred with him, were again sent back to the mountains. The enemy often times sent in this manner, only to spy what we did, whereupon the admiral would no more speak with any that came, but on the second of july proclaimed by sound of Drum that every sentinel should send back all such as came from the mountains with flags of truce.  
The first of july a Sermon of thanksgiving was made in the great Church of Allagona by a minister of the Reformed Religion, by whom thanks was given to God for their victory obtained, earnestly beseeching him daily to increase it for the glory of his holy name and benefit of his Church. The same day, the admiral sent four ships to Sea, as well for other respects, as to try their good fortune, and to lie in wait for certain Spanish chants. The second of july the admiral commanded that no man without leave should attempt to go up into the mountains, because that the soldiers rash and unadvised incursions had caused divers of them to fall into the enemy's hands. After dinner, one of our Brigantines took a small Spanish Fisher boat near to the Island Forteventura, wherein were 7 men which were presently brought to the admiral, who imprisoned them. The same night, the rest of the goods were shipped, and the third of july by day break our men carried away the Bells, ordnance, and munition which the enemy had left in the town, aboard their ships, making all things in a readiness for their speedy departure from the grand Canary, that they might put their other enterprises in execution.  
The admiral, notwithstanding the great danger in the mountains whether the enemy was fled, had determined to assail them and to take away those goods which they had carried thither: To this end, on the fourth of july in the morning 2000 men marched up towards the enemy, and gave him a furious charge, but after some slight encounter, the enemy retired farther up into the hills, into Caves and obscure places, by rough and unknown ways, and our men returned without any exploit, and with loss of some 70 men. The same day, the admiral did fire the Town of Allagona, with all the Cloisters, Churches, and houses round about it, rasing all the Castles, and so in good order, himself and men left the Town and returned to their ships. We were no sooner gone, but the enemies entered it, and laboured to quench the fire, and often times showed themselves in small troops, whilst our men embarkeed themselves, but durst never come near our boats.  
The fifth, sixth, and seventh of july the fleet remained in the haven and Road of the grand Canary, as well in regard of contrary winds and other impediments, as also to tarry for the four ships, which had been sent to Sea.  
The admiral in the mean time did carefully visit the fleet, and in the places of those commanders that were dead, he appointed others. He likewise called all the Captains aboard his ship and conferred with them concerning the commodities of the other Islands of the Canaries.  
Our men burned one of their own ships which at the fleets first arrival, had been battered from the Castle Graciosa, the Captain having transported his men and goods into the bark which they took in the Road. In this mean time certain Spaniards came at sundry times to the water side with flags of truce, who in a boat were brought to the admiral, and afterwards sent back again, after they had redeemed some prisoners.  
The eight of july in the morning, the fleet sailed along the Coast of the Grand Canary, and at the North point met with the four ships which had been at Sea: So soon as they descried the fleet, they weighed anchor, and did put to Sea with the rest. Toward Evening the wind blew hard, so as the fleets course was stopped, which returned to the Southeast point of the Grand Canary, where they all came to an anchor in the view of Tenerif. The ninth of july all the boats went on shore to fetch in fresh water, unseen of the Spaniards. The tenth, the fleet did again set sail with a northwest wind and were presently becalmed.  
The 11 of july in the morning, the wind again was fair, but coming near to Tenerif, the weather grew calm and very changeable, so as the fleet was dispersed, being not able to hold on their course, but were enforced to come to an anchor twelve times in one day.  
The twelfth of july, the wind was more constant, so as the fleet directed it course towards Gomera. Gomera is the least Island of all the Canaries, and hath a small town on the south-west part thereof, with a strong Castle upon the shore.  
Towards evening the greatest part of the fleet came up together, & among others, the Rere-Admerall, jan Geerbrantson with his white flag, who in the night with two other ships road near the town: But those of Gomera began presently to shoot at them, so as the said admiral did speedily fall off, and with as many ships as were near him, came to an anchor, waiting for the rest of the fleet, which was far off betwixt Tenerifa and Gomera.  
The thirteenth of july before noon the whole Fleet came together and sailed towards Gomera, and doubling a point to the Northwest of the Town, they came to an anchor.  
The admiral presently sent for all the Captains and held a Martial council, acquainting them with what they were to do.  
Thereupon four Ensigns of soldiers were presently landed in the valley, to assault the backside of the town, and to hinder the enemy's flight into the mountains.  
After that, the fleet went forward before the town, on which it forthwith bestowed some shot and found no resistance at all. Then the admiral landed 6 Ensigns more, who without any resistance entered the town and Castle: For so soon as the enemies descried the fleet, they fled away like those of Allagona with their wives, children, and goods into the mountains, having buried their bells, ordnance, wines, and other commodities here and there in the fields.  
The four above mentioned Ensigns perceiving the enemy's flight, sent a troop of soldiers before to intercept them, & to take those goods which they carried with them: But the Spaniards having notice thereof, hid themselves in Caves and dark places, & in a valley encompassed our men.  
Our men thus enclosed on every side, made brave resistance and slew many of the enemy, and in the end after a cruel fight, made way through them, and retired to the town, having lost some 70 or 80 men, among whom were two Lieutenants, which had behaved themselves very valiantly, one of whom had received fifty wounds in his body.  
After dinner, the Admeral placed strong guards every where, & commanded the soldiers to search the fields, where the same night they found divers pipes of wine. In the night our men took a Spaniard who by the admiral's command was committed to the Provost Marshal, to cause him the next day to discover such goods as were hid: but about midnight, by negligence of his keepers, he escaped, & so fled into the mountains. The 14 of july in the morning our men shipped all the enemy's goods, and after dinner, found three bells more which were buried in the fields.  
The 15 of july in the morning, 10 or 12 of our men running rashly up the hills, were environed & slain by the enemy. The same day, the admiral made a General muster, and those ships which were not double manned and victualled, began to deliver up the remainder of their munition & soldiers to the other ships, & in exchange, the sick and hurt men were stowed in them, and preparation made to send them home into the Low-Countries, to carry news of their victories and purchase, gotten from the enemy even in his own Country. After dinner, our men found two great pieces of ordnance, the one sixteen foot and a half long, and the other 14 foot.  
The 16 of july after dinner, the enemy showed himself sundry times, scoffing at the defeat of our men in the valley, and in derision, bade them to come fetch their muskets which they had left behind them. Thereupon, the admiral would have landed certain soldiers & mariners, to assail the enemy the next day in the cool of the morning: but in the night a great tempest arose so as the fleet in regard the ships lay near together, had like to have suffered shipwreck, had not some of them fallen off farther to seaward and there anchored, so as by this means the former determination was hindered, and peradventure the mischief prevented which might have befallen our men, if they had gone up into the mountains to the enemy.  
The 17 of july 300 men were sent to the said valley to visit the enemy, who keeping himself hid, our men returned, bringing with them two small brass pieces, and two barrels of powder which they found buried in the ground.  
The 18 of july they shipped all the enemy's goods, & those ships which were appointed for execution of such enterprises as were to be made in the King of Spain's remotest dominions, were stored with such proportion of Canary wines as befitted the length of their voyage.  
The 19 the admiral fired the towns, cloisters, and houses near adjoining, abandoned the Island, and shipped his men, whereupon, the Spaniards presently came forth of their starting holes to the town and quenched the fire, as those of the Grand Canary had done.  
The 20 the fleet remained in the Road of Gomera, receiving instructions from the admiral what course they should hold; he sent for all the Captains, highly thanked them for their good and faithful service, and earnestly entreated them to proceed from good to better.  
The 21 of july, he sent again for the Captains and Commanders, and courteously took leave of those which were to return home, making jean Gerbrantzon their admiral, commanding them to follow him, and to obey his commandments. Then the fleet was separated, and failed with a Northerly wind. The admiral Vander-Does with 36 ships, held on his course South-South-East towards the kingdoms of the Western Indies, & jean Gerbrantzon with 35 ships, and an Easterly wind sailed homeward.  
jean Gerbrantzon till the 24 of july kept his whole fleet together; but they were afterward dispersed by continual tempests, and contrary winds, taking sundry courses under sundry Admerals, every man striving who should first get home.  
Sixteen of these ships under their admiral Frederick Arentz did on the eight and twentieth of August, in the height of thirty six degrees and twelve minutes to the Northward of the line, meet with two small Spanish ships, going from Capo Blanco, towards Wolvis: In those ships were seven and forty men, and among those a Spanish merchant, forty seven Muskets, four pieces of ordnance, and were laden with sundry commodities amounting to the value of 60000 ducats, and had in them beside four tun of train Oil, and Arabian Gums, and two thousand one hundred and forty Rials of silver plate.  
These thirty five ships came altogether about the eight, ninth, and tenth of September into sundry Havens of the Low-Countries and were with great joy welcomed home.  
But General Vander-Does with his thirty six ships went towards the Coasts of Africa and Guiney, along by the Islands of Cape Vert, and so to S. Thomas, which is an Island under the equinoctial line, where they forcibly landed, but the inhabitants with their goods fled into the mountains: our men by entrenching and approaches which they had learned in the Low-Countries took the Castles. The inhabitants did afterward come down from the mountains being seven thousand in number, and assailed our men, but the General repulsed and slew many of them. In the end, the Island and Town of Pavoasan with the Castles were sacked, and the booty carried to the ships. They found an hundred brazen pieces there, nine thousand chests of brown Saint Thomas sugar, one thousand four hundred Elephants teeth, much Cloth, Cotton, and other merchandise, with a very great sum of money.  
But having been long at Sea, and the air very unwholesome and pestilential for our men, who could not temper and moderate their diet in that hot Country, nor abstain from fruits, a disease or burning fever, in those parts termed lafoy Madorca, which commonly falls on those that come from Europe, seized on them, some of them had their grease melted in their bodies as if it had been molten butter, as appeared by divers that were opened; many died both on shore and at Sea of this disease, 
General Vander-Does dieth in the fleet.  and among others, the General Vander-Does, which was a great loss to the fleet and united Provinces, for he was a valiant Gentleman, and skilful in the art military both by land and sea. His men buried him in an house in the Island deep in the ground, and then burned that house with others, to the end his body might not be found. There died likewise his Nephew, George Vander-Does, son to that learned Gentleman jean Vander-Does Lord of Nortwijck, with divers other land and sea Captains to the number of fifteen and some 1200 Soldiers and Mariners. After their death Captain Cornelius Leynsen took upon him the Command of the fleet, and having embarked all the goods together with the Governor D. Francisco de Meneces he failed homeward, sending seven of his best ships with one Brigantine under the conduct of the Captains Hartman, Broer, and others to the coast of bresil, with instructions what to do.  
Himself being likewise sick did in February 1600 bring home his ships, with the booty and many prisoners: His men were so sick and weak, as certain of his ships through want of men stayed in France others in England, and one in Ireland. Among the rest, one ship that was weakly manned & wanted a Pilot, the air being misty came to Sluice, where it was taken, there was in it some money, and some four or five hundred chests of sugar.  
The above mentioned seven ships under the conduct of Captain Hartman went to Bresiill, where they likewise met with good booty doing great hurt to the enemy, and returned home n anno 1601. There was hope that this fleet would have done great mattsrs, but they could not meet with the Spanish fleet which went from Cales to the West Indies: and then, things fell not out according to their expectation for they were overtaken with sickness by being enforced by contrary winds to stay long in those hot Countries. Their own profit was not so much to them as the loss was to their enemies: They have put the King of Spain to great expense, they have purchased honour, and made Spain jealous of other such like invasions, and putting it in fear of losing his Indian fleet.  
These are the principal matters done by this fleet: wherein if we consider, the experience of the pilots, discreet conduct of the Captains, and valour of the soldiers, we cannot but admire: especially if we look upon the great victories obtained by them whose fame hath qualified the Spaniards cruelty against our seamen, and themselves braved the enemy in his own land, and before Groin declared the admirable strength of the united Provinces, and have sought out the King of Spain's future fleet, wherewith he thought not only to have caused the Low-countries, but all Europe to tremble, having challenged and dared it to fight, even in so many towns and castles of Spain: and hath beside so easily won the Grand Canary, the mightiest of all the Islands, the taking whereof cost the last King of Spain many tun of gold & many brave & experienced soldiers; which Sir Francis Drake could not effect, notwithstanding that he in a manner took all the sea towns and castles of the Western Indies, and terrified the whole Spanish world. Who would ever have thought that Allagona the chiefest City of all the Canaries would have been so easily taken, that Gomera would have been won without any resistance, and his Garrison slain? Is it not a great matter that the whole Island of the Grand Canary and Gomera have been ruined, the towns, castles, and houses burnt, the ordnance an munition and other commodities brought thence, that such great number of poor & wretched captives have been freed from the hands the bloody Spaniards? Let the King of Spain stay our Merchants, let him kill and burn our Mariners, and suppose that he hath weakenedour countries: yet he shall find that we have braved him in his own Realms, and made his Cnaries so waste and desert, as of a long time he will reap no profit by them: and we on the contrary increased our country's means, by wealth, gotten from him and revenged our intolerable wrongs, wherein by God's assistance we will still valiantly persist.   

¶ The taking of the town of Deuticum in Annno 1599  
BEcause the admiral of Arragon's Army remained for the most part in Brabant, his Excellency like a wise and valiant Captain, laying hold on occasion, sent his cousin Count William of Nassau Governor of Frizeland with ten companies of horse & 24 foot Ensigns, with Commission to take forth of sundry Garrisons, 26 Ensigns more, amounting in all to the number of 50 with ordnance and other necessaries for a siege, and to do his best to take the town of Deuticum from the enemy: and thereupon on the 24 of August he came before the town, and on the 25 began to fortify and entrench himself, on the 26 he planted two pieces of ordnance, and after that, one, and began to make his battery, whereat they within it being terrified, so soon as they were summoned to yield, craved a parley, which was forthwith granted, and by their capitulation, they were to depart thence on the 27 of August with four Ensigns, commanded by Don Inigo de Otaela, who was Governor likewise of the Castle of Schuylenbourg, which he yielded up to his Excellency, fearing if he should delay the matter till the Almains were arrived, who were hourly looked for, that then he could not make his peace at so cheap a rate, nor procure so sure a Convoy. These two places thus won, the united Provinces were masters of all the Country as far as Rhine, and his Excellency manned Deuticum with a Garrison. There was 52 barrels of powder, and other warlike munition found in the town: This being done, Count William and his soldiers did on the 29 of August return to his Excellency's camp near to the Isle of Voorn.   

¶ The taking of the Town and Castle of Wachtendonck in An. 1600.  
Whilst the Archdukes were received over all Brabant and Flanders as Princes and Lords of those countries, his Excellency made an attempt upon the town of Wachtendonck: Which is a strong place, seated beyond Guelderland upon the River Niers, which some twelve years since had been taken from the united Provinces by Count Charles of Mansfelt, after two months siege. His Excellency one the 22 of januarie lying in the Monastery of Bebber near to Cleve, assembled 8 cornets of horse, and 800 foot, under conduct of Count Lodowick and Colonel Edmunds, who with certain wagons, did before noon begin to march, and went the same night to Niekercke near to Watchtendonck; after some repose they went towards the town, where some over the ye, and others by the dikes got up upon the towns Rampires: there were not above 80 soldiers both in the town and Castle, for the horse Garrison was gone a boothaling toward Cologn, where they sacked the Castle of Wander-stuyt, where they were beaten by certain soldiers of the Garrisons of Bonne & Bruiler. His Excellency's soldiers being gotten into the town, the alarm was presently given, but they found no great resistance, but with ease became masters thereof. That done, they placed certain musketeers upon the rampires, causing them to shoot continually upon the Castle, and on such as made defence, whereby the Governor the Lord of Geleyn was hurt in the throat, and some other slain. The Governor had but 30 soldiers with him, and presently sent to the Earl of Bergue that lay at Ruremond, for aid, who forthwith sent thither all the Garrisons near adjoining; but they came too late, for Count Lodowick of Nassau was by this time arrived with his troops of horse. In the mean time certain of them alighted from their horse, and together with the Lieutenant of his Excellency's company had passed the dikes and gotten upon the Castles Rampires, where at last they became masters of it, promising to some their lives within it. A maid that served the Governor, and was of a manly courage, did with an iron fork overturn a ladder whereon five men were ascending. In this manner the town and Castle were taken on the 23 of januarie. This town being seated in the very midst of the Country where the Spaniard hath great Command, and in a moorish soil was very commodious and fit for overthrowing the admiral of Arragon's practices there. Not far from thence, lay certain foot Companies of Spaniards which were in great danger to have been discovered and beaten, for they could not be received into Gelder nor other towns in regard of their mutinus disorders. This enterprise being fortuna●ly achieved by Count Lodowick and the Scottish Colonel edmond's, did greatly enrich them, for all the boors of the Country had brought their chiefest wealth thither. After that they had given order for the safety of the town and Castle, they departed thence on the 24 of januarie with the Cavalry, leaving the Lord of Ryhoven Governor of the Town, with all the infantry, and because the town was unprovided of munition, Colonel edmond's went back thither on the 5 of February with a convoy of all necessary provisions. The 14 of February his Excellency sent thither again, under conduct of Count Lodowick, assembling seventeen cornets of horse, and two thousand foot, either to send a greater Convoy to Wachtendonck, or else under that colour, to make an attempt upon some other town. But in their march, intelligence was given that Colonel la Bourlotte was upon a march in Brabant with his own regiment and that of Achicourt, about a certain exploit. The Lord of Sidenisky being at Bommel, countermanded Count Lodowick and his forces back to the Isle of Tiell, there to stop & prevent Bourlottes attempts. Bourlotte thought to have made use of some of the mutineers of Hamont, but they having some bad suspicion of him would not march notwithstanding all his fair promises; he thought likewise to have taken away with him part of the Garrison of Saint Andrews fort, and thereupon on the fifteenth of February, he took muster of them: But those of that Garrison having received no pay of a long time began to mutin the very same day, and though, at first, they were pacified by fair words, yet the same night, they fell into a greater mutiny, discharging the ordnance, and took their captains prisoners, ransacking the governors lodging and other houses. The sixteenth they sent their officers whom they had imprisoned together with divers women and children to Sertoghenbusk. Those of Crevecoeur having notice hereof, and perceiving that there was no pay for them neither, did on the seventeenth day follow their example, & began to mutin. La Bourlotte by this means perceiving his enterprise to be frustrate, returned towards the Maze. In the mean time a rumour was spread abroad in Holland of Bourlottes enterprise, so as his Excellency went in person to Gorcum, and sent for forces thither, fearing some invasion, because the River there was so frozen, as from Dort four field pieces mounted on their carriages were drawn over the River to Papendrecht: and understanding that Bourlotte was gone back, he went no farther, but thereupon, commanded Count Lodwicks Convoy to pass on towards Wachtendonck, which was done on the twentieth of February, with seventeen cornets of horse, and eight foot Companies (which lay in Garrison at Wachtendonck) with one hundred wagons laden with all manner of munition and other necessaries: and arriving the same night at Bebber, they marched 〈◊〉 the 25 of February to Niekerck, and the 26 of the same, they 〈◊〉 all the wagons into the town, and after dinner, thems●●●● 〈◊〉 turned back and came to Marienboom; and so every man ●●●●ned to his Garrison having well and sufficiently victualled 〈◊〉 town, which was a very fit place, from whence to make incursions into the Country round about Coloign, and Aix, betwixt the Rhin and Mase, and into other parts.   

¶ The fort of Saint Andrew is yielded up to the States in Anno 1600.  
AFter that his Excellency and my Lords the States had received intelligence, that the Archdukes soldiers in sundry places mutinied through want of pay, and among others also, those of Saint Andrews fort, unto each of whom at a muster on the 15 of February the Archduke, somewhat to satisfy them, gave a Doller, cloth worth a months pay, and two pound of bread a day, which did in no sort content them, who demanded their whole pay for 30 months, and proceeded so far in their mutiny, as they threw one of their Captains from the bridge into the water, shot one of their Sergeants and enforced the other Captains to keep their houses as prisoners: yet afterwards they sent them to Sertoghenbusk, to see if they could procure them any content from thence. Those of the Garrison were Walons, and Almans, who fell at variance among themselves which of the two nations should choose an Electo or Protector to govern and defend them in all difficulties which might arise, and ended their strife by casting lots, which fell on the Walons, who elected on of their countrymen. Those of Crevecoeur on the 17 of February did the like.  
Hereupon, the States of the united provinces & his Excellency resolved not to lose this occasion, but commanded 80 foot companies to be in a readiness before Dort on the 19 & 20 of March, with whom he went up the Maze towards Crevecoeur fort. The report was that his Excellency would go into Flanders, but he went that night to Hemert, and on the 21 of March to Crevecoeur. And though it were a very cold season, yet he besieged the said fort, making trenches, and preparation to plant his ordnance.  
Those of Saint Andrews fort suspecting some attempt would be made on Crevecoeur, did the very same day send two Companies thither, consisting of one hundred and thirty men. But those of Crevecoeur thought it neither profitable nor possible to keep the place, and fearing to be contemned and casseered in regard of their mutiny, and despairing ever to receive their pay, they yielded on composition upon the 24 of March, viz that those which came from Saint Andrews Fort, might again return thither and an hundred men of the other two Ensigns that were in Crevecoeur, entered into the States pay: They were soldiers under the Regiment of Count Christopher of Emden.  

Supplies sent to Crevecoeur are defeated.  The same day, being the 24 of March, 500 Burguignons of Varrabons' Regiment went forth of Helmont and Eindhoven towards Sertoghenbusk meaning to enter into Crevecoeur: but understanding that the fort was yielded up, and that his Excellency's cavalry lay in the Country round about, they craved entrance into Sertoghenbusk; but the Burghers jealous of their own liberty would not permit it, whereupon, they were beaten by the horsemen of Berghen, their Sergeant major and two other Captains taken prisoners, with other officers & many soldiers, & 290 of them were slain: the rest of the prisoners were ransomed and set at liberty upon their captains words, who promised to answer for them. And within five days after, two Cornets of horse, one of which was Grobbendoncks' Cornet, were defeated as they carried a Convoy towards Antwerp, by the Garrison of Berghen.  
The Admeral of Arragon had enlarged the fort of Crevecoeur with three great Bulwarks, and his Excellency remained there on the 25 of March to hasten the fortifications, and to provide against the enemy's assaults and incursions.  
The six and twentieth of March his Excellency went to Dalem to the same place where the admiral & his Camp had lodged, there to fortify himself, and thereby to entrench Saint Andrews great fort, where the Garrison through want of pay were still in a mutiny. Before his arrival there, he caused the sluices at a place called great Lit to be opened, thereby to drown the Champain Country of Brabant, towards Osse, Geffen, Merland, and as far as Sertoghenbusk: So soon as he had brought his Camp to Alem, he sent Colonel Gystells with twelve foot Companies to Littoyen, and opened the sluice there, the better to overflow the Country: He planted 12 piece of ordnance at Maren upon the frontiers of Brabant opposite to Saint Andrew's fort, with which he daily battered it.  
He repaired the fort at Keffell made by the Spaniards which was wholly ruinated. He likewise fortified the Church of Maren round about, the higher Country of Alem, a place called Saint Annes-berg, and the Church of Empel, to the end that the enemy (the Country being wholly drowned) should have no means to relieve Saint Andrew's fort, unless along the causey, or from Sertoghenbusk by the way of Empell, or from Grave, by Littoyen, Lit, Keffell, and Maren, where on all sides he should be constrained to enforce the trenches and fortifications. By this means Saint Andrew's fort was altogether shut up and environed with water, which with great labour and travail they were enforced to keep out with their counterscarpes; it was so high at the beginning of April, as none could go in nor out of the fort but by boat.  
The besiegers lay in their forts upon the causey & in boats. The waters being high, they could not at first entrench themselves, but at last they began to fall. The fort was battered on every side especially from Maren, and that so fiercely, as they were enforced to uncover their houses, and many were beaten down: our men likewise went about to take the mill from them, thereby to reduce them to all want and extremity.  
The besieged did bravely defend themselves, shot much, yet did no great harm to us, who were too far off & well fortified; the bullets which they shot weighed forty, and 45 pound weight.  
His Excellency summoned them many times, but they would not hearken to it, notwithstanding they saw the whole Country from whence they might hope for any relief, to be overflowed like a sea: and yet they wanted many necessaries, as money, the sinews of war, clothes and other things, but especially wood to brew and bake with: they likewise wanted medicines and drugs for sick and hurt men: they had corn enough but wanted beer, having no means to brew. They were more than 2000 mutinous soldiers, and had no Commanders and Captains, but their Electo and necessary officers.  
Those of Sertoghenbusk were very careful for them, and did their best to relieve them, 
Those of Sertoghenbusk seek to relieve Saint Andrew's fort.  making signs by fire and ordnance shot, sending them messengers who promised them much, yet the effect proved nothing.  
On the twelfth of April at night they attempted to send certain flat bottomed boats over the drowned Country, which came behind Maren, where they were discovered, and driven thence: in the boats were certain commanders, with some provisions and money.  
The Archdukes forces begun likewise to be assembled near to Diest, from whence they came to a place called Os, under the conduct of Don Lewis de Valasco, hoping to relieve the fort: but finding the above named Villages upon the Causey to be strongly fortified, the whole Country drowned, and no means to pass, they returned back again.  
His Excellency, the better to put the besieged in despair, caused the Castle of Batenbourg seated betwixt Lit and the town of Grave, in the Country of Ma●e-en-Waell, to be taken, because from thence, relief might be brought to the fort: there were in it five and twenty men, who by his Canon he enforced to yield.  
Towards the end of April, as the waters of the Maze and Waell began to fall, his Excellency brought his ordnance on every side, ●eere to the fort, and in a short space made his approaches even to the dikes of the counterscarp, by reason that the water was wholly fallen. There was likewise a bridge made from Alem to the causey of Rossem 360 paces in length, in a word his Excellency at last came so near their counterscarpes, as it was impossible they should be relevied, whereupon the besieged were enforced to cry out to the pioneers, telling them that they desired to capitulate: divers Walloons were persuaded by their Priests to hold out to the last man, assuring them to win Heaven thereby: but many Almans being among them who on that promise were unwilling to hazard their lives, they sent two men from the fort to the Camp; and his Excellency likewise for his part sent two, viz. the Lord Ʋander Aa, Captain of his guard, and the Lord john of Huchtenbroeck Colonel of the regiment of Vtrecht: These men made a conclusion, that the besieged, in am of the arrearages of their whole pay due unto them for many months, should receive the sum of 125000 florins.  
The states of the united Provinces thought it more profitable for themselves to give the said sum than to continue their army any longer before the fort, 
Saint Andrews fort capitulateth and agrees with Prince Maurice on the sixth of May.  or to hazard their m●n in the assaults.  
After long consultation, notwithstanding that the besieged pretended more arrearages than the sum of 125000 florins amounted to; yet they were content to deliver up the fort, on condition that the said sum might be distributed among them.  
Hereupon, they condescended to keep the fort for my Lords the States, until the said sum were paid, and swore to his Excellency's Commissioners in form following.  
We swear, that so long as we shall remain in Saint Andrew's fort, we will keep it for the use of my Lords the States of the united Provinces, and for his Excellency till we have received the money which he hath promised us, and will obey our Captains and Officers which shall be appointed over us, renouncing the oath which we have made to the King of Spain or Archduke.  
And these ensuing articles were granted to them.  
First, that all sick and hurt men, shall be carried to the next villages to be healed, and shall have their share of the said sum.  
2 Some gratuity and recompense shall be given out of the said sum to their widows that are dead, according to the discretion of the officers.  
3 All soldiers who in former time have served the States & quitted their party, shall be pardoned and paid their part out of the said sum.  
4 All such as having received their part, are desirous to return home into their Countries, shall have their passports: But those that will again serve the Archduke, shall receive no one penny of the said sum.  
5 All such as will serve the Lords States of the united Provinces shall be as kindly dealt with as any others.  
6 As many as came from Crevecoeur, shall likewise receive their share out of the said sum.  
7 Whatsoever they have done or committed in former time shall not be imputed to them.  
The Confirmation of this article was presently seen before their departure: for the 19 of May a French soldier being denied entrance into the fort, began to revile the Garrison, calling them traitors and sellers of the fort, who was forth with apprehended, condemned to die, and sent by his Excellency into the fort to be shot to death; but the Garrison pardoned him.  
8 The soldiers by his Excellency's consent shall choose eight Wallon Captains out of the regiments of Achicourt, and the Marquis, together with three Almans.  
9 All Commissaries both for war and victuals, all Provosts, Brewers, Bakers, Millers, and others that are desirous to depart shall have safe conduct, passport, and convoy.  
10 The Priest with the ornaments of the Church and other baggage, shall likewise depart with passport and convoy.  
11 All Sergeants and Corporals that will serve his Excellency shall have like usage as the former.  
12 Such soldiers as will come forth of the fort and serve the States, shall take the oath of Allegiance like unto other soldiers that serve them, and, having passed a muster, shall receive a months pay before hand.  
All these conditions were concluded on the sixth of May, and performed on the eighth, and ninth of the same, four great Canon, as many demi, three Culverins, and other pieces of ordnance to the number of eighteen, eight barrels of powder, forty thousand iron bullets, sixty or seventy load of wheat, with other arms and provision were found in the fort.  
These mutineers made up a strong Regiment of eleven Ensigns, and were every where named the new Gueux: they were all in a manner old soldiers and chose their own Captains, 
The greatest part of the garrison of saint Andrew's fort serve Prince Maurice.  they were all ragged and poorly clad, but so soon as they were distributed into good towns, they all new clothed themselves, and the most of them in suits of buff. Count Henry Frederick of Nassau his Excellency's youngest brother was made their Colonel, & the Lord of Marquett, his Lieutenant; with express commandment not to revile or tax them, 
The excuse of the Garrison of Saint Andrews fort.  for they excused their revolt, saying that the Archduke had not used them like soldiers, but left them in a new fort in face of the enemy, wanting all necessaries, as money, garments etc. so that necessities had enforced them to revolt: beside, they had done their duty in holding out six weeks expecting aid and other necessaries, and yielded not so long as there was any hope of relief; and in recompense of their good & loyal service, were to look for nothing but loss of their pay and arrearages, wanting money and means to cloth themselves: and because the loss of the place should not be imputed to their mutiny, 
An unfit comparrison betwixt those of S. Andrew's fort & the garrison of Gertrudenberg.  nor themselves reproached for it; they therefore resolved to serve the States of the united Provinces.  
Neither had they done (as they said) like to those of Geertrudenberg, who sold the town to their enemy for ten months pretended arrearages, and five months present pay, being in no want of money nor apparel, for they caused boats upon the River and the Champain Country to pay contribution, being neither besieged nor pressed by the enemy; nay their Lords unto whom they were sworn, would have maintained and defended their honour and loyalty, given them pardon and passport, yea whatsoever in equity they would have demanded: yet all this was to no purpose with them, but provoked by their enemies, they did in hatred, envy, and covetousness sell the town to them, whereupon they were in derision termed merchants, and banished both by name and surname, rewards being proposed to such as could take them, and were every where punished by the gallows, to serve for an example to others.  
In this manner, Saint Andrew's great fort which had cost so much money, and before with so great an army had lain a long time encamped, fell into the hands of his Excellency, and under command of the States of the united Provinces: a fort which had put the enemy in great hope to have been able from thence in winter time & upon the ice, to conquer Holland. The cause why it was so easily taken, proceeded from the Spaniards too much profuse & large expense of money, who undertook more than their treasure could perform, and in making a bad account, did in that Province build a mighty fort to command and bridle their own country: so as the Archdukes retained nothing of all their two years conquest, but only Berck, and the united Provinces on the contrary had taken Emmerick, which was more profitable to them, than Berck to the Archduke; yet these two towns belonged to neither of them: his Excellency and my Lords the States did within a while after restore Emmerick to the Duke of Cleves.   

¶ A Description of whatsoever was done from day to day in Flanders in the army of the most Illustrivos Prince Maurice of Nassau, Accompanied by the noble, high, and mighty Lords, my Lords the States of the united netherlands Provinces in An. 1600. the 17 of july.  

The cause why the army went into Flanders.  THe enemy of the united netherlands Provinces with sundry forts having blocked up the Town of Ostend, being master of all the sea coasts of Flanders, and thereby for the space of certain years done incredible hurt to the loyal inhabitants of the said Provinnes, and other neighbour Realms trading by sea my Lords the general States, after the yielding up of this great & mighty fort of Saint Andrews near to Rossem in the Isle of Bommell, being desirous to pursue the victory which God had so favourably given them there and elsewhere; in the beginning of this year, after mature consultation thereupon, with the Illustrious Lord Prince Maurice of Orange, Count of Nassau, Catzenelboge, Marquis of Vere, and Flushing etc. thought it fit by common consent to transport their whole Army and power into Flanders, there to try their good fortune upon the enemeie, and if it were possible, to execute their determined projects for freeing the sea Coasts; with this resolution, that the said Lords, for the better advancement of their affairs, would in person assist his Eccellencie in this Army and new expedition.  
The 17 of june, after that 2000 great and small vessels were rigged forth of divers places and Havens of Holland and Zeeland to transport the Army, with victuals, warlike munition, wagons, Horse for draft and all other necessaries: His Excellency went from the Hague to Rotterdam, & so to Dort, from whence he caused all the fleet to sail to Rammekins in Zeeland, which was the Rendezvous.  
The 18 of june, my Lords the General States, viz. The Lord james of Egmont, Lord of Kennebourg, Schipluy, and Maeslant, john Oldenbarneuelt Lord of Tempel and Groynenelt, Advocate and keeper of the seal of Holland and West-Frizeland, jacob Huygens Ʋander Dussen, Bourgomaster of the town of Delft, Master Nicasius Sille Doctor of the Laws, Councillor and Pensioner to the town of Amsterdam, M. Geraert Coren, Bourgomaster of the Town of Alkmaer, M. jacob Boellenssz, Burgomaster of Amsterdam and Counsellor of State, M. jean de Santen Counsellor and Pensioner of the town of Middelbourg, M. Ferdinand Alleman Counsellor of State, M. Nicolas Hubert Burgomaster of the town of Ziriczee, M. Gerart de Renesse Lord of Ʋander Aa, M. Abel Franckena Doctor of the Laws, M. Egbert Alberda Burgomaster of the town of Gronningue, M. Cornellis Aerssen Register to my Lords the General States of the united netherlands Provinces. All these with their train, departed from the Hague about five of the clock in the morning and came to Rotterdam, where they embarked themselves, and sailed the same day to Saint Annes-Lant, where they came to an anchor, tarrying for the tide.  
The 19 day because the wind was contrary, they could that night but reach to Armuyde, and because the tide was spent they were therefore enforced to cast anchor there likewise.  
The twentieth about five of the clock in the morning the said Lords landed at Armuyde, and from thence went to Flissingue to visit his Excellency, who lay at anchor before Rammekins, where so great an army and such numbers of boats lay, as no man living ever saw the like together at one time.  
The same day a consultation was had before Rammekin how to transport the army safely into Flanders for execution of the determined project: and all things being well & maturely considered, after that sundry matters were propounded, in regard the wind was contrary, and for other difficulties which might arise at sea, they at last resolved, (because they would not long be idle nor put the country to unnecessary expense, nor yet give the enemy time to fortify himself in those quarters) to land the whole army at Philippine; and from thence to march through the Country betwixt Gaunt and Bruges, towards Ostend.  
According to which resolution, his Excellency on the 21 day, departed with the army towards Philippine a fort which the enemy yielded upon the first summons to Count Ernestus of Nassau, who commanded the fleets vanguard.  
The two and twentieth of june about noon his Excellency arrived with his Army at Philippine, the vanguard having already taken the fort, from whence the garrison to the number of thirty or forty were departed without other arms than their swords.  
The same day, his Excellency in five hours space landed all his forces; which done▪ he dismissed the boats, willing them presently to be gone, for fear least after the army's departure, the enemy by fire or otherwise should endanger the vessels: Then he mustered his Army, and found it to consist of twenty thousand strong and able men: His Excellency likewise road throw the Army, and demanded of the soldiers, if any among them could complain for wa●● of pay, and if any one had not received money, he willed him to speak, because my Lords the States were there present to give them all contentment: They all answered that they were well satisfied, saying that they would live and die for them and in their service.  
The same day, the States departed from Flushing towards Philippine, and arrived there at the same time as the army was landed: Then they began to dispose the Regiments, and to place them every one under his commander; and the soldiers were furnished with six days victuals, which they were to carry along with them.  
The three and twentieth day the Army marched from Philippine towards Assenede, a village not far from the t'Sasse of Gant, where the vanguard before the arrival of the whole Army did by composition take a certain Castle, wherein were some forty men. Those of t'Sasse, having laid an ambuscado took thirty or forty of our men prisoners; our soldiers likewise towards the evening, brought Priests, Bailies, and other prisoners to the army, most of whom they had taken from before Gant.  
The four and twentieth in the morning the army departed from Assenede towards Eeckeloo, situate on the passage betwixt Gant and Bruges, where seven hundred soldiers had gone over the same morning that we arrived there at night: those soldiers were drawn forth of the forts before Ostend to man the t'Sasse, because the enemy feared we would have besieged the same place.  
The 25 we went from Eeckeloo to Male near Bruges, where our men brought away much cattle and many prisoners from before the town.  
The 26 we came within Canon shot of the City of Bruges, and marched towards jabbeke: Those of Bruges with their ordnance played upon our Army all that day, yet did no great harm but only slew one of his Excellency's Muleteers. They showed themselves likewise with certain troops of horse, but durst not come forward, so as if our men had been willing to have fought with them, they could not have done it with any advantage.  
On the way betwixt Bruges and jabbeke his Excellency had intelligence that the Garrison was fled from Oudenbourg, so as on the 27 day, the army marched from jabbeke thither, whither he sent two Companies of soldiers, because the fort stood upon the passage towards Ostend. Those which live in the forts of Plassendale & Bredene were likewise fled, those of Bredene left 4 piece of ordnance behind them, & burned the houses, cabins, munition and other necessaries, having not once seen the enemy.  
My Lords the General States with their train, accompanied by Count Solmes with 8 Cornets of horse, and the Regiments of French, Walons, and Swisses, together with the Colonels Gistels and Huchtenbroeck, who that day marched in the vanguard, went on and arrived the same afternoon at Ostend, and his Excellency in the mean time remained with his army at Oudenbourg.  
In all our march we found the villages naked and forsaken, divers goodly houses ruined, & not one boor to be seen, but only the Sexton of Eeckeloo and his wife, with two aged and sick persons unapt for flight.  
The Boors that were hidden in the woods, showed themselves very cruel to some of our soldiers that were scattered here and there upon the ways and were fallen into their hands: so as our men displayed the bloody Ensign, which did in no fort hinder their cruelty to us ward.  
Our soldiers took great store of cattle, so as flesh was better cheap and more plentiful in the army than either wine or beer. The first night we lay at Assenede, a pot of beer was worth six pence, the second night at Eeckeloo twelve pence, and the next night at Male and jabbeke, eighteen, twenty, and twenty six. In this journey three Cows were offered for one pot of beer, and yet it could not be gotten. At Male a Cow was sold for three groats, and after she was milked, he that sold it would have given seven pence for the milk.  
Whilst we made this journey by land, it happened on the 24 of june that some forty boats laden with victuals and other provision, convoyed only by Captain Adrian Banckerts' man of war, sailing from Flushing towards Ostend were set upon by the Galleys of Sluice, who on the five and twentieth day, took above twenty of the said boats, which being unladed, they burned. The said Captain did what he could to free them from the enemy, but himself and one and twenty of his men were slain in the fight, and his ship though much bruised arrived at Ostend with some of the hurt men.  
The six and twentieth day the Admeral the Lord of Warmont arrived safely in the Haven of Ostend with the chief fleet, wherein, were victuals, ordnance, munition and other necessaries: yet by taking of the above mentioned boats, the Country received a great loss, which fell for the most part upon some particular persons, who procured it to themselves by being so hasty and not tarrying for the chief fleet, the which consisted of many brave ships of war.  
To return to that which was done on land, Count Solmes on the eight and twentieth of june with eight Cornets of horse and five foot Regiments, with which troops the day before, he had led the vanguard, went to besiege the fort called Albertus, which stands upon the Downs, some hours journey from Ostend, on the passage towards Niewport, it was not very great, but well built, and strong.  
The nine and twentieth day, having battered it with four demi Canon and made a passable breach, Captain Neron that lay there in Garrison, did beat his Drum and craved parley, in which it was granted, that the Garrison should depart thence with their arms and as much baggage as they could carry away with them, but on condition to leave their Ensign behind them, promising not to serve in Flanders for six months.  

Count Solmes is before Niewport.  The last of june the said Earl with the vanguard according to his Excellency's direction, went to besiege the Haven of Niewport, and took the forts there: his Excellency early in the morning the same day, marched with his Camp from Oudenbourg towards Nieuwen-dam, a fort not far from Niewport, to take it. But his journey being stopped by reason of water he returned by an other way over the Downs towards Albertus' fort, and the next night tarried there with his Army.  
The first of july early in the morning his Excellency marched thence with his Camp towards Niewport, and presently gave directions, as well as the situation of the place would give him leave, for enclosing and besieging the town.  
After dinner, my Lords the General states received news how that Archduke Albert had levied ten thousand foot and one thousand five hundred horse, & was come to Oudenbourg: Hereupon, four of our Companies that lay in the forts of Bredene and Plessendale, withdrew themselves not tarrying his coming, and the Garrison that was in Oudenbourg, which consisted of six foot Companies, and two Cornets of horse (left there by his Excellency) were enforced to yield it up on composition. The like did two Companies that lay in a fort at Snaeskerck: unto which Garrison though the enemy had promised good quarter, and that they should depart with their arms and baggage, only leaving their Ensigns behind, and the capitulation signed by the Archdukes self; yet they broke their promise, for first, divers horse and foot of the Garrison of Oudenbourg breaking their ranks, slew many of them, hurt others, and disarmed the rest; and for a testimony of their treacherous and bloody nature, did most villainously murder the two Companies that lay in Snaeskercke, contrary to their word and promise.  
Some few soldiers that escaped, having brought these news to Ostend, my Lords the States did in post advertise his Excellency thereof, that he might be in readiness, and presently sent more men to Albertus' fort, which they furnished with victuals, munition, and other necessaries.  
The second of july, the bloody battle near to Niewport was fought, whereof we will speak in the next description.  
The third of july, about nine of the clock in the morning his Excellency came in person to Ostend, bringing Don Francisco de Mendoza Admeral of Arragon with him as his prisoner. And after that my Lords the states had congratulated his Excellency's victory, he requested that general thanks might be given to God; which done, himself with the admiral, dined with the states, the army remaining on the Downs beyond Albertus' fort.  
The same day, and the day before, divers prisoners men of note, brought from the Army to Ostend, were slain both within and without the Town, by the remainder of the Scots and other soldiers, in revenge of the wrong and cruelty committed by the Enemy upon our men, contrary to their promise and Law of arms. The fourth, and fifth day, whilst the army refreshed itself his Excellency remained in Ostend in consultation with my Lords the states: The same day we were busied in burying our dead, looking to the hurt and sick soldiers, sending them to places where they might be healed, & in delivering prisoners. Many horse, arms, and much booty taken in the battle, were sold: many Spanish cloaks, cassocks, with store of apparel were likewise taken, which were not unwelcome to our men.  
The sixth day in the morning, his Excellency returned with his army to N●ewport, and lay before the town in the same quarter where he had formerly rested, not being able that day, nor the night following to do any notable exploit, by reason of the continual rain and foul weather. After dinner, order was taken for sending the prisoners into Holland, and likewise the admiral, who by some of the States was conducted aboard the man of w●rs Brigantine.  
His Excellency on the seventh day received letters from Count Frederick of Berguen, wherein he craved liberty to send some to search among the dead bodies for some Captains and chief Commanders, and for burial of the dead in the place of burial. Towards Evening the admiral justine of Nassau came to the States with letters of credence from his Excellency, containing certain propositions wherein he craved their resolution: but the said Lords thinking it necessary to confer with his Excellency, sent for a convoy. About the seventh day we took from the enemy a certain half moon standing before the town on the North side of the haven, which was taken with loss of six or eight men on either side.  
The eight day in the morning a Convoy of four Cornets of horse arrived, and the said Lords, departed from Ostend to the Camp before Niewport, where they consulted with his Excellency concerning those propositions which the admiral of Nassau had made unto them the day before.  
In the evening, 25 soldiers with Lopestaves and half pikes, were sent to leap the dikes, carrying with them two Wagons, each of them laden with one boat, and other provision, to set on fire on some bridges on the Southeast side of the town, which in part was effected, but not wholly.  
The enemy the same day made great fires upon the towns steeple, and discharged many shot fro● a Ravelin on the northside of the town, to hinder the approach of our men: we afterwards understood by prisoners and others, that supplies were the same night brought into the town and in that regard, those fires were made. The ninth day after that the States had dined with his Excellency, they returned again to Ost●nd, crossing the haven on foot over a bridge, leaving their wagons and convoy behind to follow them: the enemy made many shot at them, but did no harm to any man.  
Whilst the wagons passed over, the said Lords walked on foot for a while upon the Downs, where they saw such numbers of dead bodies, as was lamentable to behold.  
His Excellency having intelligence the same Evening, that Colonel La Bourlotte was onward on his way with two thousand soldiers to try if he could enter into Niewport, did presently double all the guards, and ga●e directions to hinder the enemy's attempt if it were possible.  
The 10, and 11, days no notable matter was done, but only our approaches were set forward, as well as the bad and rainy weather would permit.  
The 11 day at night the foot Regiment of the Marquis Varrabon entered the town, and the next day they made three fires upon the tower.  
The twelfth the enemy made a sally upon our trenches and with such fury, as our soldiers, were enforced to retire to the principal guards: and then the alarm being given, our men began to skirmish, and did in such sort assarle the enemy as they dra●e him in disorder to the town gates, and slew the Lieutenant Colonel, two Captains, and certain soldiers of the same Regiment.  
The Marquis his Regiment having entered the Town, and others likely every day to enter, in regard we could not enclose the town on one side, by reason of the broken lands and other inconveniences, his Excellency found many difficulties in continuing the siege; and therefore on the 13 of the said month, he went early in the morning to Ostend, to propound these difficulties to the States, and to crave their advise.  
After some conference, it was thought fit, (seeing that General Wijngaerdens' Regiment was newly arrived, with five new Cornets of horse (wherewith our Camp was strengthened) to continue the siege, and thereupon, after that his Excellency and my Lord his brother had dined, they returned to the Campe. During his Excellency abode in Ostend, the enemy had made another sally on Count Ernestus of Nassau his Quarter, (but not so fierce an one as that of the day before) and was presently repulsed with loss of Commanders and soldiers.  
The 14 and 15 we were busied in making three small forts, there where our battery was to be made, thereby to assure the Canon, and in the mean time, the ordnance that was landed, was again sent to the ships.  
My Lords the States perceiving their presence at Ostend and in those parts to be to no great purpose made all things ready for their departure the next day, and to this end, the Advocate Barnenelt went to his Excellency's Camp after dinner, to confer with him once more, returning the same night to Ostend.  
The sixteenth of july in the morning the admiral of Nassau came to Ostend from his Excellency, propounding new difficulties to the States for continuance of the siege, whereon having consulted, they wrote back to his Excellency that they wholly referred it to his own discretion, to proceed therein as he should find it most profitable for the Country's service, and if he did break up his Camp, to give careful directions for the timely embarking of the munition, ordnance, and other necessaries, for preventing of greater mischief: with this answer, they dismissed the admiral.  
About five of the clock in the Evening my Lords the States being embarked in the haven of Ostend, and word brought them that his Excellency was come thither in person accompanied by my Lord his brother; Barneuelt, the Lord of Santen, and others were set on shore and had some conference with his Excellency, which done, they took their leaves and returned to the ships.  
His Excellency had showed them sundry reasons, why he thought it not fit to continue the Army any longer before Niewport, and therefore resolved to depart thence, and to lead it before the forts about Ostend, and first, to assault Isabelles for't, and then the rest. The States having taken their leave, set fail about six or seven of the clock the same evening, and arrived, on the 17 day in the Morning, at Middelbourg, where they resolved to go to Berghen-op-Zoom, and there gave audience to the commissioners of the general States of the Provinces on the other side, assembled at Brussels, viz. the lord Gerart of Horn, Earl of Bassingeri, Philip of Pentinck, lord of Vicht, the Drossart or Magistrate of the land of Montfort, and Master Henry de Co●t pensioner of the city of Ypre, and to this end sent them passport, writing unto them to meet at Berghen-op-Zoom on Thursday the 20 of julie: these letters were sent in post to governor Bacx, that he might send them away by a Trumpet, with commandment to make ready the Court against their coming, and to prepare lodging for both parties.  
The eighteenth and nineteenth of julie, the States tarried at Middelbourg, taking order for whatsoever was necessary for the commonwealths service. Letters likewise were brought from Ostend, certifying them that his Excellency had, on the 17 of the same month begun to break up his camp, & had brought his army near to Ostend to besiege the fort of Isabel.  
The 20 of julie, early in the Morning, the general States departed from Middelbourg to Berghen-op-Zoom, where they arrived the same Evening, whither the commissioners of the other side likewise came, the same night, within an hour after their arrival, being in number 23, who supped that night in the company of the said Lords, at the governors house.  
The 21 day they delivered their letters of credence and commission, and after dinner, an answer was prepared for them. At night, the commissioners supped with the said Lords, whither the governor and some of the Magistrates were invited: and having received their answer in an enclosed letter whereof a copy was given to each of them, they departed thence on the 22 day very early in the Morning. The Magistrates of Berghen did that day at dinner feast my Lords the States, who in the afternoon embarked themselves, and sailed till they came before Saint Annes-land, where they came to an anchor, tarrying for the Advocate Barnevelt, and the Burgomaster Ʋander Dussen, who were goneto a place called Saint martin's Dike to visit Count Hohenlo who was sick, meaning to return the next day to the States. The three and twentieth day, the said lord Barnevelt being returned, they weighed anchor and set sail: but having a contrary wind, the said lords landed in the country of put, and by crossing certain passages, arrived the same night about ten or eleven of the clock at the Hague, leaving their baggage with the ensigns and cornets won at the battle of Niewport, to follow after, which were brought the next day in the afternoon to the Hague. The said ensigns, cornets, and some Trumpets, were, on the eight and twentieth of julie, hung up in the great hall of the court, for a perpetual remembrance of so famous and notable a victory granted by God to these countries.   

¶ A true description of the bloody battle, betwixt. Prince Maurice of Nassau, and the Archduke Albert of Austria, won near Niewport in Flanders, the 2 of julie, Anno 1600.  
THe Archduke, upon intelligence that his Excellency lay before Niewport, did speedily march with his army towards the Downs, the very same way that his Excellency had gone, intending to pass on directly to Niewport. His Excellency, using all means possible to hinder his coming, and to win time▪ did, on the 2 of julie, by day break, send his cousin count Ernest of Nassau forth of the army, with 2 foot regiments Scots & Zelanders, & 4 cornets of horse, unto whom the States (according to his Excellency's direction) added certain companies of the garrison of Ostend, to stop the enemy's passage over the bridges lying upon a water on the high way towards the Downs near to Albert's fort. But the enemy before their arrival had already taken the bridge, & passed over his chief force, our men being too few to hinder his passage to the Downs, and our regiments being engaged by the enemy, & too weak to make resistance against their whole army; yet after a brave fight like valiant soldiers, they were at last put to rout, the whole loss falling on the Scots, who lost all their Captains and commanders, and 800 of themselves were slain upon the place, among whom were eleven Captains, many Lieutenants, and other officers: upon this victory the Archduke wrote to Bruges, that he had defeated Prince Maurice his vanguard, and so engaged the rest of his Army, as he could not escape, whereupon, Bells were the same day rung at Bruges, and afterwards in other towns, as though they had already won all, but, to their great loss, they soon perceived the contrary.  
This overthrow did greatly perplex the States and others that were in Ostend, considering the great danger the Commonwealth might have sustained if any mishap had befallen our Camp, which lay on both sides the Haven, divided one from an other. And because in such extremities, when human help seemeth to fail, there is no better remedy than to have recourse to the Lord of hosts: Therefore my Lords the States with their followers, and many others there present, together with the Minister prayed unto God for preservation of his Excellency's person, and those of the other Lords and Captains and the whole Army, recommending the rest to God, hoping for fortunate success.  
The Archduke being puffed up with his good fortune went in all post hast to Niewport, verily supposing that he should find his Excellency and whole Army daunted with this loss, and so be able easily to disorder them. But God would not have it so, but in his mercy provided for the preservation of the State of these Countries, and by consqevent for defence of his Church, giving his Excellency such foresight, as he had caused all the ships and boats to withdraw themselves from before Niewport, to Ostend, and had moreover caused his troops which lay on the one side of the Haven of Niewport, to pass over at a low watel to the other shore, intending with a courageous resolution to fight with the enemy; whereupon, his Excellency road thorough all the troops animating and exhorting them; That seeing they were on every side encompassed with the Sea and enemy, there was no means in the world to escape but by giving battle: And for that his Excellency's reputation and all their own honours, lives, and wealth of the Country depended thereon, he entreated them to fight valiantly, assuring them that God would give them good and happy success Count Henry Frederick of Nassau did likewise encourage the Walons or new Gueux, of his own Regiment, the like did other Captains and Commanders.  
His Excellency caused his Army before Niewport to cross the haven after this manner.  
Cont Lodowick passed over first with five Cornets of horse, two of which being Carabines, passed on towards the enemy, and about ten of the clock skirmished with two companies of the enemy's horse, and then the rest followed, who were scarce come on shore, when they perceived the enemy coming on from Ostend ward, who if he had then come forward, might have prevented his Excellency, ere his fanterie could have passed the Haven: but the enemy being ignorant how many passed it, stayed a long time upon the shore and gave his Excellency time to send over his English and Frison Regiments, which were in the vanguard together with the guards of his Excellency and Count Hohenlo, commanded by Sir Francis Vere, and also the Regiments of French, Walons, and Swisses, that made up the battle commanded by Count George Euerat of Solmes, and in a manner all the rest of the cavalry, the two Regiments of Count Ernest, Gistels, & Huchtenbroeck, were left to shut in the town of Niewport and commanded to stand still in good order, and to pass a bridge upon his Excellencies first command, which was made on boats overthwart the haven of Niewport. For a more ample declaration of this fight, we will hereunto add his Excellency's order who arranged his battles after this manner.  

His Excellency's vanguard.  
Count Lodowick of Nassau brother to Count Ernest had charge of the vanguard of horse, as their Lieutenant general, and had with him his own Company of horse, that of his Excellencies commanded by the Lord Walrauen of Gend; that of Count Henry Frederick the Prince's brother, conducted by Captain Bernard all in one troop. The second troop was commanded by Marcelis Bacx, with his own Cornet, that of Paul Bacx conducted by his Lieutenant Hans Sixen, and that of Captain La Salle: behind these were the Carabins of Couteler, Peter Panny, and Batenborch.  
near to this vanguard, were the foot Companies of his Excellencies guard commanded by Captain Ʋander Aa, and that of Count Hohenlo conducted by Lieutenant Stridthorst, with the English Regiments consisting of thirteen Conpanies under the General Sir Francis Veer, viz, his own Company, tha● of Captain japley his Sergeant Major, those of Denis, Daniel, Veer, Hamond, Ogley, Tyrrill, Farfax, Sir Calistines Brook, Foster, Garnet, and Holcroft.  
Near to these was Sir Horatio Veer his Regiment, viz his own Company, with those of Sutton, Sir Thomas Knollis, Sicily, Morgan, Meetkerck, Scot, & Vavasour, etc. making up together eleven Ensigns. Next them, were the Frisons commanded by the Lieutenant General Taco Hottinga with his Company, that of the Baron of Sidenische conducted by his Lieutenant, that of Gaspar Eussem by his Lieutenant, and others amounting to seventeen companies. These one and forty Ensigns made the foot vanguard, ad were all commanded by the General Sir Francis Veer.   

His Excellency's Battle.  
Count George Euerard of Solmes led the battle with his horse Company, those of Count Frederick of Solmes, joos Wierich Clout, and jean Bacx, in an other troop was the Cornet of Goddard de Balen, that of Sir Francis Veer conducted by his Lieutenant, & that of Sir Edward Citill, making up together seven Cornets. The footmen in midst of the cavalry, were the Regiment of Count Henerie Frederick of Nassau commanded by Daniel de Hertain Lord of Marquette his Lieutenant Colonel, and in this Regiment was his own company, those of jean du Bont, Antony de Savoy, Francis Marli, etc. amounting in all to nine Ensigns, unto which was added the Regiment of Swisses, wherein were four Ensigns, viz, that of Hans Kriegh, of Ballichom, of Hans Sas of Vnderwald, of Hans Meyer of Zurichland of Guillam de Puis.  
Moreover two French Battaillons, commanded by the Lord of Dommeruill Lieutenant Colonel to the Lord la Nove, his company, that of la Rocques by his Lieutenant, that of du Sault, commanding the second Battaillon, that of la Simendri, de Mareschot, de Hamelet, de Brusse, de Corimeres, conducted by his Lieutenant (himself being shot before Albertus' ●ort) de Formentiere, de Vernevill and du Pont Aubert, to the number of twelve companies. In midst of whom, was his Excellency to give directions for all matters, accompanied with his brother Count Henry Frederick, and other Lords, as jean Adolph Duke of Holsteyn, jean Ernest, Prince of Anhalt, three Earls of Solms, the Earl of Coligni, lord of Chastillon, Nephew to that renowned admiral of France, and the lord justine of Nassau, the lord Grace, sir Robert Drewry, and many other English, Erench, and Alman gentlemen, who without any command accompanied his Excellency: the battle consisted of five and twenty ensigns of foot, and seven cornets of horse.   

His Excellency's Rearward.  
THe rearward was conducted by Oliver Ʋander Tempel, lord of Corbecke, wherein were three cornets of horse, commanded by Wernhard du Bois, viz. his own, that of Hammelton, and that of George Couteler, which Couteler, was set foremost in the battle.  
There were likewise three battalions of foot, the regiment of Count Ernest of Nassau, wherein was his own company conducted by his lieutenant, the company of Heusman lieutenant Colonel, that of Massau, Imbise de Corwis etc. in all thirteen ensigns.  
The regiment of the lord of Gystelles, his own company, that of George Euerard Count of Solms by his lieutenant, that of Aeneas de Treston, de Trebourg, de l'Amovillerie, de Langevelt, de Ruisse, and de Floris de Wijngaerden.  
In the third Battaillon was the regiment of Colonel Huchtenbroeke with his own company conducted by Marlin, that of the lord of Tempell by Belin his lieutenant, that of the said Marlin, of Dierick de Ionghe, de Ruyssenbourg, of john de Loon, and de Caluart: these 26 ensigns made up the rearward, together with 3 cornets of horse.  
His Excellency stood fast in Battle upon the shore expecting the enemies coming, he had sent the guards to the Downs, and had drawn some fifty musketeers forth of the battle, placing them on the shore, and four troops of Frizeland musketeers for second, with these to flank the enemy's troops, if he had come along the shore, and the better to divert their approach, he had planted fix demie canon there.  
About eleven of the clock, the enemy's cavalry approached, who were saluted by our canon, which made them retire to the Downs, when they tarried for their own ordnance and fanterie that came on very slowly.  
His Excellency had enjoined the lords of Warmont and Duyvenvoord to command the ships to shoot into the enemy's battles, which was effected: the Vice-Admerall of Zealand, whose name was joostle Moor and Captain Knoopes made some shot into the enemy's battle, who on his part answered them with two demie canon.  
His Excellency, in the mean time, abandoned the town of Newport, and caused the bridge to be broken, commanding the rearward to follow him and to place themselves in order; he caused two demie canon to be brought upon the Downs, and planted them upon a little rising, meaning with them to scour the plains: His Excellency still had the wind and Sun, which is no small advantage, especially on the Downs, when the wind blows somewhat hard, as it did all the time of the battle.  
The enemy being come betwixt the parishes of Westeind, and Willekins Kerck, within a small mile of Niewport, and two miles from Ostend, did likewise plant five demie canon and one field piece upon the shore: then his Excellency shot into the enemy's battle, who answered him presently with the like, but the enemy receiving much hurt by our canon, was enforced to retire farther up into the Downs, in regard the Tide did rise, by reason whereof, the shore was so narrow, as few men could stand upon it, and then all the boats which lay dry before Niewport, began to float, and sailed towards Ostend, five excepted, together with the greatest number of those boats that made the bridge, which could not be loossened: those of Niewport took a Carvell and carried it into the town.  
To defend these boats from the sallies of those of Niewport, his Excellency left certain troops of soldiers to skirmish with the Townsmen. Then the Archduke began to march athwart the Downs towards the plain behind them, the like did his Excellency, causing his troops to march against the enemy: sir Francis Veer led the English pikes and muskets, as also the Guards and Frizons, and himself marched in the foremost rank, and was the first man that charged the musketeers of two Spanish regiments: he was seconded by Count George Euerard of Solms, who led the battle: the French musketeers being divided into four troops, he did with three of them charge the musketeers of two Spanish and Italian regiments; the said French shot were led by Captain du Puy, Captain Bruill lieutenant to the Lord la Noüe, Captain Pommared lieutenant to Dommerville, and captain Vander-Burch lieutenant to Captain du Fort.  
His Excellency perceiving that he must needs fight, and that he could not avoid it, did valiantly resolve thereon, trusting to the equity of his cause, and to God, and thereupon commanded Count Lodowick to charge the enemy with 6 cornets of horse, viz. that of his Excellency, Count Henry, and his own, appointing Marcelis Bacx, Paul Bacx, and Captain la Sale to second them, who broke the enemy's horse, and put them to rout: this done, the battle began on every side with a furious battery, which was terrible to behold: on the Downs they fought continually from the beginning to the end, but in the plain beyond the Downs, by sundry charges, his Excellency having divided his men into divers troops, unwilling to have them fight all at once. The General Veer fought with a battalion of pikes of two Spanish regiments, after that he had repulsed the enemy's shot. The said battalion was conducted by D. Lewis de Villar, and D. Hieronimo de Monroy; on the right side, the enemy had a wing of horse, with which he did much annoy our Vanguard: General Veer being sore wounded, did notwithstanding fight along time, leading the English and the 2 Guards, but at last retired, being seconded by his brother sir Horatio Veer, and Captain Quirin de Blau. The enemy charging furiously upon us, certain of our soldiers began to fly, but it was soon redressed. Presently after the first charge, these Captains of horse, viz. Coutelor, Peter Panier, and Batenburch, charged the enemy's fanterie; they were seconded by count Lodowick with six companies of Cuirasses, with whom Count Frederic of Solms served.  
Count George Euerart of Solms, with the French, did, by his Excellency's command, charge, marching foremost in the battle, and divided into two troops, of which, that on the right hand was conducted by Monsr. Dommervile, lieutenant Colonel of the French, and the other on the left hand, by Captain du Sau. This was the second charge of the French, fight with a battalion of pikes of two regiments, the one Spaniards, and the other Italians, conducted by D. Alonzo d'Aualos, and Sapena the Camp Master.  
Count George Euerart retired with the French, and brought up Count Henry of nassau's regiment, videlicet, the Walons (of whom Monsr. Marquet was Lieutenant Colonel) to charge the enemy again, and also the regiment of Suisse by Hans Krijc; these two regiments, fought with la Bourlotte and the Earl of Bucquoy, who commanded the enemy's rearward, consisting of three regiments of Walons, and Irish. Then his Excellency commanded Monsr. de Gystelles, who conducted the rearward, to charge with his own regiment, and that of Huchtenbroeke. And the regiment of Count Ernest, under the conduct of Heusman his Lieutenant Colonel, did likewise charge.  
The fight continued doubtful for three hours space, 
They fight for three hours space uncertain of victory.  for now one side prevailed, and anon another, and yet his Excellency's cavalry had still the advantage of the enemies, which gave back by little and little, and some of them fled towards Niewport, and were pursued by our men.  
The enemy's infantry fought with better vantage on the Downs, where they took one hill after another, from his Excellency's footmen; and did mightily endanger the ordnance. Behind the Downs, Sir Horatio Veer charged, with six English ensigns, with Captain Henry Sutton his Lieutenant Colonel, Captain Lovel, Captain Ogle, and Captain Farfax. Count Lodowick, with ten horse, was engaged by the enemy: captain Cloet knowing the Earl by his Orange coloured plume, charged upon a company of lancers, that were coming to charge the Earl, who by this means escaped: our cavalry retired to his Excellency, who encouraged the soldiers, reinforcing them with two companies that were with him, who constrained the enemy to give back.  
His Excellency sent two cornets of horse to the shore, viz. his own, commanded by Captain Bell, and General Veers company commanded by Captain Pembroke.  
These two companies being come to the shore, stayed near the battery, expecting the enemy: Our ordnance, charged with musket bullets, played upon the enemy, who lost many men and horse, and were enforced to quit the Downs; and yet they returned again to the shore, and came before the battery.  
Then the companies of Baell and General Veer charged fiercely upon the enemy who fled, 
The enemy is put to rout.  and then charged the fanterie likewise, so as Baell took Sapena prisoner on the Downs, and General Veers company D. Lewis de Villar. His Excellency's cavalry on the plain repulsed the enemy; for he did continually put them in order, and caused them to charge there where he saw most need; so as in the end, our men perceiving that the enemy began to fly both on the shore and Downs, took courage, and on every side charged him, who at first began to give back, and afterward, betook himself to open flight: and thereby our men won the place of battle, and obtained the victory; divers pursued the enemy into the Marshes, and to the new Dam, taking many of them prisoners: this battle was sharp and bloody on both sides.  
The Archduke, who hardly escaped, did in this battle (both of such as were slain and taken prisoners) lose the greatest part of all his commanders, chief Lords, noblemans, and household servants, together with most of the captains and officers of his army, videlicet, D. Francisco de Mendoza, admiral of Arragon, Count Salines, D. Lewis de Villar, camp-master, D. Lewis d'Avila, D. Pedro de Mendoza, Doctor Andrew N. one of his highness physicians, Count Charles Rezin, one of his Pages, D. Gaspar Moragon, five and thirty Captains both of horse and foot, two hundred and three Lieutenants, ensigns, Sergeants, Dons, Cavaliers, and others of name, to the number of thirty.  
And beside these, we got 8 pieces of ordnance, all the munition, much baggage, and the very furniture of the Archdukes own Chamber and Cabinet, and among other things his Signet, and above 100 ensigns, with certain cornets and Trumpets. The number of the dead on the Archdukes side was 7000, beside those that were afterwards slain and died of their hurts: and his Excellency lost betwixt two or three thousand, accounting those which had been defeated in the Morning.  
Among other ensigns, there was presented to my Lords the general States, a Standard belonging to 1600 Spanish mutineers, made of blue Damask, having on the one side in midst of a field, the figure of our Lady in a Sun, before whom a Monk kneeled, & over his head, these words in golden letters, ave gratia plena, over the virgin's head was a great golden star, and near to it in golden letters, Stella Maris; in the midst, on her right hand, was the figure of a Sun, and near it, these letters, Electa ut Sol; on the left hand the Moon, with this inscription, Pulchra ut Luna; at her feet stood a Turret, with these words, Turris Davidis, and beneath upon the hem of the Standard, Benedicta tu in mulieribus. On the other side, was the represention of our Lord jesus Christ upon the Cross, over his head were these words in golden letters, Adoramus te Christ, & benedicimus tibi; in the midst, Recordare novissimatua, & in aeternum non peccabis; and beneath, Quia per crucem tuam redemisti mundum. All these figures were cunningly wrought even to the life.  
In this battle, the greatest loss fell to the Spaniards and Italians, who were the chief strength and glory of the Spaniards army, who in the Morning did assure themselves of the victory, and that with such confidence, as they made no doubt of it, but marched on before, hoping alone to gain the honour of the day.  
It was a magnificent and gallant victory for my Lords the general States, his Excellency, and for all the united Provinces, but obtained with much labour and blood: for on his Excellency's side, 1000 men were slain, among whom, were three Captains of horse, thirteen of foot, viz. six English Captains, two Frizons, three French, one Walon, and one Alman, with many Lieutenants, ensigns, and other officers, beside some 700 hurt men, among whom was the noble sir Francis Veer, and many other Captains and officers both of horse and foot.  
As the enemy fleed, the cavalry came forth of Ostend and slew many of them. But his Excellency (who in the battle had showed himself valiant & discreet, & for better encouragement to his soldiers, had himself, together with his brother and other Lords there present, charged the enemy) did in the end reassemble certain cornets of horse, and some foot regiments, setting them in order in the place of battle, keeping them for reservation and seconds if any disorder should arise.  
The enemy being wholly put to rout, and night drawing on, his Ex. marched to the Church of Westend, where with his whole army he remained that night upon the plain where the battle was fought, and in his Tent supped with the admiral of Arragon and others, who were requested to deliver their opinions, what they thought of these exploits, & of these new unexperienced soldiers (whom they had so termed) who could do nothing but win towns and sconces, not daring to show themselves in open field; and whether they thought that they would one day prove tall soldiers, with such other like discourses. But the admiral gravely and discreetly knew very well how to answer: and among other discourses, at Table, concerning the battle, he complained of their own cavalry, taxing them for not doing their duty; for had not they retreated, there was some likelihood that their footmen would have become Masters of the ordnance, with which they might have obtained the victory. He complained likewise of their charging all at once, and for that they had not reserved some to second the squadrons here and there, who should have put them in order again when they retreated, and with them have given a fresh charge, as Prince Maurice had done, husbanding his horse and foot, not hazarding all his forces at once. He highly commended his Excellency likewise for planting his ordnance: but he chiefly praised him, for that he had so bravely presented his forces to his enemy, sending away all his boats, and thereby enforced all his soldiers to fight, if they meant to save their lives, and for that himself and other commanders, had no more advantage than the meanest soldier.  
His Excellency perceiving, the next day, that his soldiers were much burdened with the enemy's prisoners and wounded men, that all the victuals were lost in the battle, and that they could get none, by reason that the boats were gone; marched with his whole army towards Ostend to refresh it, sending the wounded to places where they might be cured, discharging his soldiers of the enemy's prisoners.  
He brought his army to S. Mary's Church near to Albert's fort, and himself went into Ostend, where he presently caused public thanks to be given to God for this notable victory, himself and whole Court being present at it.  
He remained certain days at Ostend to order matters, and to provide for the better execution of his enterprises. He caused all the prisoners to be brought together, viz. the admiral of Arragon, D. Lewis de Villars, with many other Captains and officers, whom for the most part he shipped for Holland: he kept some one hundred and fifty prisoners still in Ostend, and among them divers hurt men, to exchange them for his own soldiers whom the enemy had taken. The glory of this victory belongs to God alone, who hath not only been pleased thereby to maintain (as he hath wonderfully hitherunto done) the just and lawful cause of the united Provinces for the conservation of his Church, but hath likewise pleased to abase the haughty and insolent courage of the Spaniards, learning them to feel his mighty arm, and letting them know how dangerous it is to kick against the prick.  
To this only God, the Lord of hosts, who in the battle hath taught his Excellency's hands to fight, and so admirably exalted his countenance that day, be honour, praise, and glory for ever.  
To conclude, we must of necessity hereunto add that which certain Historians mention; how that justly upon the same day the second of julie 1600, some three hundred and two years before, viz. in anno 1298, one of the Archduke Albert's predecessors (called Albert of Austria like him) had with his power defeated, one of Prince Maurice of nassau's predecessors, called Adolfe of Nassau, Emperor of the Romans: whereby we may see, how that by this means the house of Nassau hath revenged the wrong done to it by that of Austria.  
This is a matter worthy of note, and we may be well assured, that though God defer for a time, yet he can and will aid and assist those that put their trust in him.    

¶ The Lord john of Duyvenvoord, admiral of Holland, fighteth with the Galleys of Sluice, and puts them to flight.  
Whilst Prince Maurice his army marched in Flaunders, there were some forty or fifty flat bottomed boats and and other vessels laden with munition and victuals, which, on the five and twentieth of june, did set sail from Zealand toward Ostend: these, had a man of war for their convoy, whose Captain was called Adrian Baucker: he, being come before Blauckenbourg, was becalmed: the galleys of Sluice perceiving it, four of them came forth and assailed the fleet, and took twenty of the boats, but most of the men escaped: some of these vessels they burned, and carried the rest away with them. The man of war made what resistance he could, but the calm made him like an unplumed bird. The Galleys approached the ship, but did not board her, thinking to sink her with their shot, or else enforce her to yield: she was in sundry places shot thorough, and began to leak, and without the help of men and women, that came aboard her from other boats, and with scuppets, tubs, and their very hats emptied forth the water, she would have been in danger of sinking: by this means she was kept above water; and when the galleys came near her, she played so terribly upon them with her ordnance, as they were enforced to give back. The ship, having at last, lost three and twenty men, among whom was Captain Baucker, and most of the rest wounded, the men cried out desperately, saying, That rather than they would yield to the enemy, they would blow themselves up and set the ship on fire: Hereupon, the galleys left her, and with great harm and loss of men returned to Sluice, with a good booty, and the ship went back to Flushing.  
The next day, being the six and twentieth of june, the Lord john of Duyvenvoord, admiral of Holland, with six ships of war, called, Cromstevens, or Smackseylen, all well provided, sailed from Zealand towards Flaunders, to convoy one hundred and fifty vessels laden with ordnance and warlike munition for the army. This fleet being come before Sluice, and the wind very calm, four galleys came forth; and presently the wind rising, the men of war came so near them, as they did not only annoy them with their ordnance, but with their small shot: whereupon, they were constrained by force of oars to return back again against the wind: one of the galleys was shot under water, and did for a long time lie upon one side, till the leak was stopped.  
A certain Turk of Constantinople, a very valiant and skilful man, being a slave in one of the galleys, had his chain wherewith he was fastened, broken a sunder by a canon shot, himself not hurt, and perceiving that he was lose, leapt into the Sea with a piece of his chain, and with great danger of his life (for they shot terribly at him) swum to the Zelanders ships, and in swimming showed his chain: whereupon, the ships took him in: being aboard, he acquainted them with the galleys intent and loss. They afterwards clothed him, and presented him to prince Maurice, who asked him if he would serve; but he having great means at Constantinople, craved a passport, unless they would make use of him for a Patron of a galley to command the Spanish slaves, which charge he had in former time taken upon him: But the Netherlanders, having never used to employ any infidel, would not then begin, but gave him a passport for England, whither he went, and from thence to Barbary, and so by land to Constantinople, where by the way he acquainted Princes, and Kings, and the great Turk his Lord, with the wars of the Christians.   

¶ The admiral's ship of antwerp, and seven other ships, are taken by the Captain of the Black Galley, on the 29 of November, 1000.  
MY Lords the States and his Excellency, perceiving the great loss they sustained by the galleys of Frederick Spinola, which lay at Sluice; resolved likewise to build and set forth certain galleys, and with them to annoy their enemies. Whilst they were making ready, the galleys of Sluice came not abroad, wanting slaves to row; for the Zealand ships had slain most of them, many of them likewise were dead in winter with extremity of cold, and those prisoners of the united provinces, whom they had taken and made slaves, could not suddenly be brought to handle the oar.  
They likewise sent into Hungary to buy Turkish prisoners, but they knew not by what means to transport them into the Low-Countries.  
Whereupon, the four Estates of Flaunders were about to buy the said Galleys and slaves of Spinola, and to build others, hoping to move the Archduke to go and besiege Ostend, to free Flaunders from daily contributions and expense it was at for entertainment of so many garrisons and forts upon passages, and to that end offered the Archduke a great sum of money.  
The States of Holland, did with all possible speed build a great galley at Dort, to make head against those of Sluice, in length eight and forty paces; so soon as it was ready, it was in September sent into Zealand, it carried fifteen brass pieces, many Bases, it was manned with rowers and soldiers: the rowers sat upon benches, and were shrouded with a defence which was musket proof: it was called the black galley of Dort, the Captain's name was jacob Michielz; it was presently sent to Sluice, and there recovered a ship taken by the enemy.  
On the 29 of September, the admiral of Zealand, and Captain Legier with this galley well provided, and certain shalops, went towards antwerp, and in the night passed by Ordam Fort: the garrison supposed they were boats which went to victual Hulst: About midnight, coming before antwerp, they there found the admiral's ship, a goodly great vessel, called a Smackseil, or Cromsteven, so big and strong, as the Hollanders had none such, it was of the burden of one thousand eight hundred tun or more, it carried sixteen or seventeen brass pieces, beside those of Iron and the Bases: it had three tier of ordnance one above another. Captain Maes, the admiral, was then absent; this vessel lay opposite to the new Town, towards Flanders point. The black galley stemd this ship with her iron beak so forcibly, as they could hardly get it out again, but with great danger were fain to saw it off: the soldiers, in the mean time, became Masters of the ship, some of them that were in it were slain, others leapt into the water, and escaped by swimming. The ship being taken, our soldiers enforced the two ship Boys, whose lives they saved, to tell them where the sails and other tackle were, which done, they fell down the river with the Tide. They likewise took two new vessels which daily carried provision to Brussels and Malines, each of them carrying four brazen pieces, and others of iron, with five other vessels called Smacks, which by chance they took the same night, and with these eight vessels, fell down the river towards Lillo, having gotten above fifty pieces of ordnance, & a booty more worth than the galley. Those of antwerp hearing the shot, th'alarm was presently over the City, and the sooner, because our Trumpets upon the Key sounded the song of William of Nassau, so well known, wherein they recorded the commendation of the late virtuous Prince of Orange.  
Within a while after, the admiral and Count Arenbourg came to antwerp to punish the negligence of the admiral Maes and others, and to prevent the like affronts: he likewise caused a Fort to be built upon the Key to defend the ships by night.   

¶ Captain Cloet winneth the Castle of Cracow on the 9 of February 1601.  
THe Castle of Cracow, and Lordship thereof, being by the last will and Testament of the Countess of Meurs, given to his Excellency, as a Lordship under the jurisdiction thereof, the Duke of Parma, in ann' 1586, had given it to Salentino Count of Isenbourg, in regard of certain claim he laid unto it, since when, the said Earl had still possessed it, and placed a certain fellow for captain there, who was called long Huben, with 15 or 16 soldiers to guard the Castle, which by nature was strong, being seated in a fenny soil.  
But Prince Maurice being desirous to enjoy his own, and understanding that the Dikes were frozen in winter, commanded Captain Cloet, a brave and valiant soldier, to make an attempt upon the said castle, with three hundred horse of Nimmeghen, and certain foot companies from Watchtendonck. The said Captain, according to his Excellency's command, came to Niewkerke, near to Wachtendonck, on the eighth of February, whereof the governor of Stralen having intelligence, followed him with forty horse, and 500 foot, who, in the Morning by day break, did so fiercely assail Cloets soldiers, as 40 of them were surprised ere their fellows knew it: who at last turned back, and perceived that those of Stralen retired through a certain narrow way, very advantageous for footmen against horse; the enemy having by this time taken 30 of Cloets horsemen prisoners, most of whom being of his Excellency's company, were soon released: for Cloet thereby incensed, took another way, by which, he intercepted their passage, and encountering them at their coming forth of that way upon a plain, he assailed the Governor of Stralen in front & behind, and overthrew many of his horse and foot; the rest escaped into a house, which he presently encompassed, & enforced them to yield on composition, and on condition to pay ransom.  
He freely sent away three hundred and seventy soldiers, and only detained the General Dulchen governor of Straelen prisoner, with Captain Golstein and seven officers as caution for the rest. Cloet lost six or seven men, and many of his men and horse were hurt.  
After that, the foot companies of Wachtendonck came to Cloet, and went forwards towards Cracow, and arrived there on the ninth of February at night: the horse men alighted, and went over the ye into the first Court of the Castle: thereupon, those within it began to shoot, but Captain Cloet shot so terribly upon the Gate, as those within it durst not abide there, and then he caused his men to cross the dike, to let down the drawbridge, and to plant the Perard at the Gate, which presently broke it open: Whereupon, those within, yielded themselves and Castle by day break. Captain Cloet left his Lieutenant there, with forty men & 20 horse, till his Excellencies further pleasure were known, and returned again to his garrison, having performed that which was enjoined him: and by this means his Excellency became Master of this Castle and Lordship.   

¶ The second siege and taking of the Town of Rhynberg in Anno 1601.  
RHynberg is a town belonging to the Bishopric of Collein, seated on the Southward of the Rhine, eight miles from Collein, it is rather small than big, and fortified with double rampires, well seated both for war and traffic, taking great toll of all goods and Merchandise which come down the river.  
During these wars, both parties have sundry times fortified it: and first in the war of Collein betwixt the two Bishops, it fell into the hands of the united Provinces, which a long time held & defended it against the attempts of the Spaniards, freeing the river, both from the prince of Parma, who after the taking of Nuis in anno 1586, did furiously assail it on the 13 of August, and w●● enforced to raise his siege, having lain three months before the town, which he left blocked up with many Forts: as also from the marquess Varrabon, who pursued & continued the said siege, in whose view the town was often victualled, which marquess, as he thought on a time with all his power on a sudden to charge the rearward of those that brought succours, was himself wholly defeated by Coun● Ouerstein and sir Francis Veer. Whereupon, Count Charles of Mansfelt came presently thither from Brabant with seventy ensigns, who in the end, on the 30 of januarie 1590., won the town for the Bishop of Bavier (as it was reported) but in effect for the king of Spain, as experience did afterwards manifest, that he might thereby become Master of the Rhine, and divide Germany from the united netherlands Provinces, and likewise to open a way for him to enter into these Countries, and to burden the town of Zutphen and Ouer-Yssel with continual contributions.  
In this regard, Prince Maurice did again besiege it on the 10 of August, in anno 1597, and after ten days siege took it, as heretofore hath been largely mentioned in the description of the first siege: whereupon, the Bishop craving to have the Town restored to him (which was granted) it was left unfortified, and enforced to fall into the admiral of Arragon's hands, who easily took it with his mighty army on the fifteenth of October 1598.: and with so much the more ease, because the Governor Shaef, and the whole garrison, in a manner died of the plague, and likewise, for that treachery the by powder, to the quantity of 150 barrels, was set on fire: this did not only much diminish the remainder of the garrison, but overthrew the greatest part of the Town rampires near to Rhynport, and made a great breach.  
The town was afterward kept by a strong garrison: yet prince Maurice did besiege it on the twelfth of june, in anno 1601, with one hundredth and fifty foot ensigns, and three and thirty cornets of horse, it being a very important place for these Countries.  
The enemy reported, that there were in the town 900 Italians under john Baptista Pecchio, Sergeant Major, 4 Spanish ensigns, 700 Burgonians, 1300 Almans, 200 sailors, fifty horse, amounting in all to three thousand five hundred & fifty men, among whom were many revolted traitors.  
They were well stored with ordnance and all other warlike provision, having two and thirty great piece of ordnance, whereof twenty were brass, three canon, and twelve iron pieces. There was likewise store of victuals and other necessaries (salted and medicines for sick persons excepted) which they extremely wanted, being most necessary in a town besieged.  
D. Hieronimo Lopes de la villa, borne in Barbary of Spanish parents was governor there; he was renowned for a good soldier, well experienced, and much esteemed of his Countrymen. He, at the enemies first arrival, encamped round about the town, entrenching himself with forts and counterpoints: He likewise took in certain pastures to feed horse and cat-tail, which they durst not kill for their own provision, because they wanted salt to powder them: He likewise sank his own ship of war, and other vessels, cutting the masts a sunder, for that the enemy should not make use of them.  
His Excellency presently sent his ships of war up the River, one of which the enemy sank: These vessels kept good guard every where on the river Rhyne as far as Cullein, and by the way, met with certain of the enemy's boats which were sent abroad for provision.  
The eighteenth of june, he took the Fort that stands in the Island, which being weak, the enemy soon abandoned.  
The camp was likewise speedily entrenched with dikes, palisadoes, gates, and draw-bridges, and the ways every where fortified, both abroad and within against those of the town, who in great troops made continual sallies, namely, on the twentieth of june, they fell upon the French with 1500 men divided into three troops, who charged one after another, and after they had fought an hours space, were beaten back and enforced to re-enter, not without loss on both sides.  
In this sally, the French General the Lord of Chastillon was hurt in the leg, and the governor of Berck in the face, as he stood upon a bulwark to behold the skirmish, so as for a time he could not speak, but was constrained to refer the government of the Town, and authority of commanding to Captain Botberg, and to an Italian called Francisco Nello.  
The enemy likewise, on the eight and twentieth day, came with a thousand men to Count Ernestus quarter, and with great rumour fell upon one of our trenches, from which he was soon beaten with great loss of men.  
His Excellency, on the contrary, did daily approach the enemy's trenches: he also made four batteries, and on the first and second of julie, planted thirty piece of ordnance: He planted 2 can●n in the Fort of the Island called Middle-weert, and two demie canon, by which, as by the rest from other batteries the Town was greatly annoyed.  
The besieged, on the seventh of julie, took order for their victuals, distributing to every man a pound of bread a day, and began to fortify the Market and Church, making it a place of retreat upon extremity.  
They had likewise sent many letters and messengers which for the most part were intercepted: so as on the 5 of julie they made divers signs by fires, & were continually answered with the like by those of gelders, who gave them hope of aid; whereunto the Archduke seemed to incline, raising many men near to Maestricht and Ruremond, who notwithstanding, were sent away into Flanders, as were the Italian troops newly arrived, of whom, first eight hundred were sent towards Ostend, than afterwards 2500 more, and twenty forth of every company of those that remained behind.  
And yet all these troops seemed to be appointed, for raising the siege of Berk, under conduct of the Earls Barlaimont and Bucquoy, who had already made great provisions for it at Couloigne, and hired sundry wagons, which they were enforced to send back, the enemy's intent being only to encourage those of Berck by a vain appearance, and to cause them hold out to the last, and themselves in the mean time to assail Ostend on the sudden, and thereby to draw away our army from that siege into Flaunders.  
Notwithstanding, of all our army no man was embarked for Ostend, but the admiral Duyvenvoord, with eight English companies under the conduct of sir Francis Veer, unto which, afterwards twelve other ensigns were added, in whose stead other ensigns from elsewhere arrived at the camp on the 22 and 27 days.  
His Excellency, in the mean time, came under the enemy▪ trenches: he likewise undermined the Counterscarpe on the eastside of the Town, and, on the seventeenth of julie, having drawn great numbers of the enemies thither by a false alarm, he fired the Mine, which having prosperous success, our men presently assailed it on every side, and took the Counterscarpe with loss of one hundred men, notwithstanding all the enemy's resistance. This counterscarp taken, his Excellency made three Galleries, which were brought on as far as the Town Dikes, and from thence to the Bulwark on the eastside, which he began to undermine in three several places.  
The days following, he likewise won, with the time, the rest of the entrenchments which were without the town, partly by force and Ours, and partly because the enemy quitted them: And on the two and twentieth of julie his Excellency came altogether before the Town, having been kept from it by his works without.  
The next day, he sent his Trumpet to Rhynberk, who received this answer, That they thanked his Excellency for his offers, but that they could not as then intent to yield, seeing the Town had been besieged but one day: whereupon, his Excellency, the day following, summoned the Town the second time, because all his Ours were ready to play.  
There the Townsman began to hearken unto it, craving that they might first send some speedy messengers to gelders to request aid, which was denied them. Whereupon, at last, after some treaty with the Trumpet, on the one and thirtieth of julie, they sent Captain Botberg and Francisco Nello the Italian, to the Camp about six of the clock in the Evening, who granted to yield up the Town to his Excellency on these conditions following.  

Articles in regard whereof those of Rhynberck yielded on the 30. of julie.  FIrst, his Excellency is well pleased, that the Governor of Rhynberck, all the soldiers, both horse and foot, and all those which have served in the ships of war, with their Captains and officers without exception, shall freely depart with displayed ensigns, arms, kindled match, bullets in their mouths, and drum beating, their wives, family, stuff, wagons, horse, and other things thereunto belonging, without examining any one, for matters done, and namely the person of john Peters-Thas Captain of a Ship, who certain years before, yielded both himself and ship to the enemy.  
2 The governor shall carry away with him two fieldpieces, such as his Excellency shall think fit, with two barrels of powder, and fifty bullets.  
3 His Excellency shall lend them two hundred horse to carry the sick, wounded men, and baggage to gelders and shall give a safe-conduct for the soldiers and their baggage to Maestricht, and if any of those that be hurt, are unwilling as yet to depart, they may remain in the town till they be healed, and may afterwards go their way with the governors Passport.  
4 That the Lord Evert de Ens, his wife, and children, with their writings, stuff and goods, may freely depart, as also the Councillor Westendorp, Nicholas de Hove, & the receivers of the revenue and contributions, with their writings and stuff, as hath been said, and namely Goswijn de Manen, the customer & his officers, who may depart either by land or water, unto whom his Excellency will give a passport, as likewise to all Commissaries and officers belonging to the king of Spain or the Archduke, without any refusal, who are not to be detained for any cause or pretence whatsoever.  
5 That the Governor shall satisfy the Magistrate and Burghers for all such debts that he oweth since the siege, with the goods belonging to his Highness, arising of booties taken, and Merchandise confiscate and found upon the river Rhyne, contrary to the Placard.  
6 That the Governor shall send for all those whose cat-tail have been taken from them during the siege, and give them letters of assignation, to procure satisfaction from their Highnesses, because it was done in their service.  
7 That the prisoners expenses by reason of contributions, shall be presently paid, according to the treaty made with the admiral of Arragon, and confirmed by his highness.  
8 That the receiver john le Bruni may freely depart with his writings and stuff, in giving a copy of the moneys remaining behind hand of the revenues of the County of Zutphen, and Country of Ouer-Yssel.  
9 That all horse taken on both sides during the siege, shall be redeemed, every one at the rate of twenty livres.  
10 That all victuallers and Merchants following the Camp, belonging to the king, together with his highness soldiers, may remain in the town till such time as they have sold their wares, and afterwards depart with the governors passport.  
11 That all Burghers, who are willing to leave the Town and dwell elsewhere, may sell their goods and horses within the space of ●ixe months.  
12 That all religious persons, men and women, may freely and safely depart.  
13 That prisoners on both sides shall be released.  
According to this treaty, the governor D. Hieronimo went his way on the first of August, in the Morning, with sixteen ensigns, amongst whom were six companies of Almans, thirty horse, eighty sailors, accompanied with two hundred and nine wagons full of stuff and hurt men, leaving the town very ruinous, and more than one thousand two hundred of his soldiers de●d there, fifty barrels of powder, and victuals for two months.  
The States of the united Provinces, and Prince Maurice, did after this manner win the town, resolving to keep it, both for the service of the Country, and for their neighbours and allies of ●●e sacred Empire, unto whom it importeth much to have the River free, that no foreign armies may cross it; a town deserving to be kept at the Empire's common cost: so as they determined to fortify it, & caused a great fort to be made in the Island standing in the river before the town, for finishing whereof, a bargain was made with certain men for a round sum of money: the government of the town was given to Colonel Gyst●lls.  
The Nobility & the States of the Country of Ouer-Yssel, perceiving that their Country and the river Rhyne was free, caused a placard to be published on the eight and twentieth of julie, forbidding to pay any contribution to the enemy, appointing good guard to be kept in every village and parish, on great penalties, as to the officers on forfeiture of 25 crowns, and the Boor one crown, as often as they should be found faulty therein: They were likewise commanded to be ready with their armies so soon as the alarm bell should ring, prohibiting on pain of life, that no man should harbour any of the enemy's soldiers, and he that could take any of the enemy's soldiers dead or alive, in the Country, should receive five and twenty florins of the Country's money.  
If any Merchant travailing by the way should happen to be taken or hurt by the enemy, those of the Country or place where it was done, shall be bound to pay his ransom, and satisfy his losses, and it shall not be lawful for any man to hold any correspondence with the enemy, with many other points, necessary for the country's preservation.   

¶ His Excellency takes the town of Meurs on the 16 of August Anno 1601.  
BEcause the town of Meurs was guarded but by certain soldiers called Hanevederen, 
His Excellency takes the town of Meurs and fortifies it.  which lay there in garrison, serving the Duke of Cleves, for whom they kept it, Prince Maurice pretending claim to that Earldom, as given unto him by the Countess of Walbourg, did, on the sixth of August, send Captain Cloet and Colonel edmond's thither, with twelve cornets of horse; yet the garrison would not give place nor leave the Town: Whereupon, his Excellency, the next day, came thither in person, with five and twenty cornets of horse, five and thirty foot ensigns, and four demie canon: which when they within it saw, they delivered up the town to the true Lord prince Maurice, who placed a strong garrison in it, & gave order for fortifying of the Castle, causing five bulwarks to be made there, which cost more than 100000 florins.  
The twelfth of August, with great magnificence, he was received into the town, as Lord of the Country, with all due ceremonies: he was afterwards received into the Castle of Cracow, which he likewise caused to be fortified, in which, he spent eight and twenty thousand florins, keeping above 2000 men at work there, so as these two places were made exceeding strong, and cannot be taken but in Summer, or in time of great drought.   

¶ A description of a long fight at Sea, in the Eastern Indies near to the City of Bantam, betwixt five ships of Holland, and the Portugals mighty fleet, in Anno 1601.  
IT is notorious to the whole world, that the Staple or principal Mart of Spices, as Pepper, Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmegs, Macis, Ginger, and other medicinable drugs; of precious stones, as Diamonds, Rubies, Turkois, Emeralds, sapphires, and others; of Pearl, and infinite other rich Merchandise, which are only found in the East Indies, and from thence brought into these parts; hath chiefly been for many hundred years, in the famous and magnificent city of Venice, 
Venice in time past the staple for merchandise brought from the Eastern judies.  where they were wont to be bought and sold, and from thence sent abroad over all Europe: so as the said city and republic flourished, and was every where famous in regard of the said traffic. These Spices, drugs, and other strange things, were transported by Sea from Alexandria to Venice, but they were first brought by land to Alexandria, with great and incredible cost and danger, as well by reason of the long and tedious way, as the great convoys, which the Caravans usually had to secure them from the incursions of the Arabians, who lay in wait upon the ways. All these merchandises were burdened with these great costs and expense, to the profit and advantage of those who transported them from the Indies to Alexandria, from thence to Venice, and from Venice to other parts of Europe, where these things were much desired, and could be brought hither by no nearer way, nor by any other means, but by land, and by these Cor●uans. But, within these few years, by the resolution of certain bold and valiant Sea men, who contemned all the fearful and tempestuous dangers of the winds and seas, and endured infinite miseries, torments and adversities, a new way hath been discovered, altogether unknown to our predecessors, by which we may go to the said Indies by Sea, viz. in sailing round about Africa, in view of the Cape of good hope, and passing from thence to the other side of Africa, betwixt it & the Isle of Madugascar, in coasting sundry Islands, the red Sea, Arabia foelix, and the Persian Sea, as far as Calicut or Goa, or else from the said Cape, directly towards the strait of Sunda, leaving the Isle of Madugascar with many more on the left hand. By this means the said spices, drudges, and other costly merchandise, have been brought into Europe with far less charge and difficulty, so as in Venice, the trade hath begun to decay, and doth now flourish in Portugal in the City of Lisbon, 
From thence the trade is removed to Lisbon.  so as we may say, it is removed from one town to an other, and that it is at this present wholly and alone in the said City; for all other places must rate their wares according to the price made in Lisbon. And because the Realm of Portugal, and namely the city of Lisbon hath for certain years had the said traffic, as it were proper to themselves, both because they were the first which discovered and found out the said way, as also for that their king gave a certain sum of money to the Emperor Charles to buy this privilege, that the Spaniards should in no sort go that way; by this means the said city of Lisbon, with the inhabitants of the whole kingdom, are become so rich, as perceiving the great profit which their kingdom and people obtained by this trade, have sought all means to appropriate to themselves alone this traffic, by sailing into those parts: And to this end, have not only subdued divers towns, provinces, and entire kingdoms in the Eastern Indies, subjecting them by force of arms, and continually bridling them on every side by forts and castles, but have likewise made leagues and alliance with other Kings, Princes, and Potentates of the Eastern Indies, whom they could not subdue; as it seemed, (according to the report which came from thence hither) none should trade thither but themselves. This notwithstanding, some few years since, certain ships of the united netherlands Provinces tracing the Portugals, did likewise pass the Cape of good hope, and arrived in the East Indies, where by experience they found the contrary of that report which the Portugals had caused to be bruited, how that none but themselves might trade into those Countries: for divers kings and Islands where the said spices and other costly merchandizes grew, were either mortal enemies to the Portugals, or else so inclined as they would not (to satisfy them) prohibit others from trading into those parts: 
The Portugals by force seek to keep the Hollanders from coming to the East Indies.  which the Portugals considering, and being incensed with the Hollanders arrival, did with great expense set forth the above mentioned mighty fleet to enforce the Kings of those Countries and free Islands where these spices grow, not to give them comfort to trade with any but themselves: and on the other side, to keep the Hollanders from landing or taking in fresh water, and in a word, to assail and encounter them in such sort, as no news might be carried home of them into Europe. Now because this famous encounter and sea battle happened but in the year 1601, and the said fleet was ready in anno 1599, we will briefly set down how this Armada was employed in the interim of the two years, because for the novelty thereof it deserves it. The king of Calicut being a mortal enemy to the Viceroy and Portugals of Goa, and other places of the Eastern Indies, they armed against each other both by land and sea: The King had a certain Indian in his service called Cunall, a man so fortunate in all his enterprises and piracies, as in a short space he became so famous and wealthy (by his continual booties gotten from the Portugals) as those who followed his party, seeing these happy beginnings, made him King: He had a castle and place of retreat, on the coasts of Malavar called by his own name Cunall, or Cuchall: where after he had forsaken the king of calicut's party, he did so continue his thefts and robberies for the space of 50 years with good success, as in all encounters with the Portugals, he still carried away the honour, 
F●r what cause the Portugals rieged forth a fleet in the Indies.  till at last the Viceroy of Goa did rig forth the said fleet, and made peace with the king of Calicut.  
The King was moved to grant this peace in hatred to Cunall, who had shaken off all obedience: & so soon as he had confirmed it with the Portugals, he did presently proclaim war against him: The Viceroy was loath to lose this fair occasion whereby he might pluck this thorn forth of his own foot, and having his fleet ready, sent 1500 men under the conduct of D. Lewis de Gamma his lieutenant general, to Cunals for't. This lieutenant landed all his men in a country called Ariori, where he fastened his ferry boats together upon the river above Cunal in manner of a bridge, and of these, made 31 bridges, on which he placed guards. That done, he appointed a captain called Lewis de Silva, to pass over the said bridges with 300 Portugal soldiers who began the fight, and opened a way to the fort, himself in the mean time remaining in the Camp with the rest of his troops, to send succours to those that should stand in need. This done, the soldiers on the 22 of March 1599 by night passed over the bridges, and encountered with Cunals men on the further side of the river, who after a short fight, drove them thence: Towards noon 300 Portugal soldiers more, & 5000 Najos or Indian soldiers which had already passed over in an other place, marched towards the said Castle: the fight was fierce, resistance great, the ordnance and small shot played furioursly from both sides, and among others, 
Captain Sylva sla●ne.  captain Silva was slain with a musket shot: he was a brave soldier, & his valour caused the Portugals to make head, but so soon as he was dead, the rest fled towards the bridges, which being abandoned by the guards, floated in the midst of the river, so as the runnaways could not make use of them.  
This first attempt of this fleet in anno 1599 had bad success, their own pride & overweining procuring their loss and overthrow, for had they followed the King of calicut's counsel who was present in the battle, this had not happened, as appeared the year following: for having then learned to their cost, they renewed the enterprise under conduct of their general Andrea de Furtado de Mendoça on the 20 of March anno 1600. They were not now so greedy of getting all the honour to themselves, as before, but behaving themselves discreetly & avoiding the former inconveniences, 
The pirate Cunall and his Castle are taken.  with little labour they took Cunals for't, & himself prisoner, who with his soldiers were put into the Galleys. By this means Cunall, who from a mean fellow became a king, was at last made a slave. This exploit performed in anno 1600 towards the end of the year, they began to strengthen the fleet with men & two new Galleons. In August 1601 they determined to go before Bantam, but winds and tempests did so beat them back, as it was the 24 of December ere they arrived there, even on the same day, as by a singular providence of God, three ships of Holland and two Brigantines were come thither: these fought the sea fight.  
The Hollanders so soon as they are passed the Cape of good hope, do commonly stow their ordnance in hold, because they have no use for it till they come to the strait of Sunda, and by this means they had like to have fallen into the Portugals hands, had not almighty God (a matter worthy of note) sent an unlooked for messenger to advertise them what would ensue. It was a man of China, who in his boat came to them and gave them notice of the approach of the mighty fleet of those of Goa, Cochin and Malacca, assembled before Bantam, in number thirty sail, amongst which, were eight Galleons, twelve Foists and Galleys well provided, the least of the Galleons was of the burden of 400 tun.  
The Chinois told them, that the Portugals meant to besiege Bantam by land and sea, that none might trade thither but themselves.  
These ships of Holland were called, the one, Guelderland, of two hundred and fifty tun, the other Zealand, of two hundred tun, the third Vtrecht, of one hundred and thirty tun, the two Brigantines, the one called the Pigeon, was twenty eight tun, and the other la Guard, threescore and ten: these vessels came from the Tussell and had set sail on the 23 of April 1●01 in company of seven other ships, making up the number of twelve vessels, both ships and Brigantines. Being at sea they were dispersed, so as but five of them arrived at the straight of Sunda, where the Chinois brought them that news, who thought he had done them a great courtesy, in advising them to shun the encounter of so mighty a fleet.  
But God strengthened them, so as they resolved otherwise: for the Admiral of the fleet, whose name was Wolfart harman's, so soon as the Chinois had told him these news, commanded them to cast anchor, and calling the captains aboard his ship, after prayer, they consulted together what was best to be done for the present good of the fleet, and for the future trade to the East Indies, and what was most expedient for the honour of the Netherlands: whereupon they mutually resolved, considering the importance of the business, whereon the preservation or ruin of Bantam depended, 
The Hollanders resolve to assail the fleet and to relieve Bantam.  valiantly to assail the Portugals fleet, and by God's assistance to drive them thence, and thereby to free the City of Bantam. Thereupon, the decks were cleared, and all impediments removed, to the end, the ordnance might be well managed, and every man have room enough to use his arms against the assault.  
This done, as soon as time and place would permit, the next morning two hours before day, after a sign given, they all weighed anchor.  
The 25 of December about sun rising, they descried the Portugal fleet, which had placed two galleons in Guard directly beneath the West point of the Island Pulo Penzano, & little dreamt of our men, who came on their backs before they could hoist sale or be rescued by the rest; so as they would have been enforced to yield, had not a certain mishap befallen our admiral, who shooting off one of his pieces, it broke, which fell out well for the enemy. The two galleons fearing to be assailed again, went away with their Foists.  
Our Vice-Admerall Hans Brower, ignorant hereof, played with his ordnance so furiously on the ship of Malacca, as we might easily perceive a certain amazement in the Portugal fleet, who retired, and came to an anchor beneath the Island Pulo Penzano. Our men having notice of the mishap which befell the Admeral, did likewise cast anchor under certain high Islands, where they repaired the hurt done by their canon.  
The 26 of the same month was very foul, so as neither side could use their sails or ordnance, God thereby fight for us, giving our admiral sufficient leisure to repair his loss.  
The 27 day, they set sail, and made towards the Portugal fleet, shooting fiercely one at another. On the East side of Bantam, towards the farthest Island, lay two great galleys, who seeing the Hollanders, betook themselves to flight, thinking to escape, but two of our ships, the one called Vtrecht, and the other la guard, assailed them. divers Portugals got up into the Vtrecht, thinking to save themselves, but our men being in fear of their multitude, called the Brigantine, to their aid, at whose arrival, most of them leapt into the sea.  
The Captain of the one galley, was called Francisco de Sousa, son to john de Teves, Contador Major of Lisbon: In this galley were 23 Portugals, and 60 Indians, among whom the said captain, with certain Portugals, were saved, the rest were for the most part slain.  
In the other galley, which our Brigantine la guard assailed and took, was an old Captain, who had faithfully served the king of Spain, in those parts, for the space of 32 years, his name was Andrea Rodrigues Palhota: he, refusing to yield, was strucken through the body with a pike. They took four brass pieces out of the said galley, & afterwards burnt them both, notwithstanding that they were laden with Rice and other victuals.  
And because by certain prisoners we have learned the particulars of that fleet, it shall not be impertinent to speak somewhat of them.  
First, 
A particular rehearsal of the strength of the Portugal fleet.  there were five galleons of Goa, of which Andrea Furtudo de Mendoza was admiral, the Vice-Admerall Thomas Zuza de Reucha, Francisco Silva de Menesee, Antonio Zuza Faleud, and D. Lopes d●Almeyda, were Captains. There were two ships of Malacca, whose Captains were Traiano Rodrigues de Castel-Bianca, and joza-pinto. There was one gallion of Cochin, whose Captain was Sebastiano Swarco. These are the captains names of the eight galleons.  
There was moreover, one Gallion and eighteen foists, which departed likewise from Malacca, came to Seylao, and went on no farther (one of them excepted) which our men took, whose Captain was Francisco de Zuza Toves. From Nimar and Seylao came two foists, and as many galleys, whose Captains were, Andrea Rodrigues Palhota, slain by our men, Andrea Guiedes de Carnalco, Diego de Melo, and Manuel Dias. From Malacca came two galleons, commanded by these Captains, Gonçalo Vus de Castel-Bianco, & Andrea Pessoa. And beside these, two other vessels, called joncques, commanded by Captain Francisco de Maris, and seven Brigantines with oars.  
It was likewise reported that there were above eight hundred Portugals in the fleet, beside the sailors which were all Indians: That four other ships▪ and one Brigantine, lay at Achea, and that the fleet expected none other supplies, but only those which in April were to come from Goa.  
The eight and twentieth day, the wind blew hard, so as they could bear no sail, each side being enforced to lie still. The nine and twentieth and thirtieth days, they remained quiet on the West of java, a little beyond the point of Bantam: The Portugal fleet, had gotten the wind of the Hollanders, but durst not come up to assail them, which our men would have done, if the time and wind would have permitted them: yet because they would not be idle, they did set fire on 2 of their galleys, meaning thereby to enforce the Hollanders to retire, but they were burnt ere they could come near them: they did likewise sink two of their Foists near to the shore.  
The one and thirtieth day, the Hollanders weighed anchor, setting forward with an intent to charge their enemies, notwithstanding they had a fair wind, who perceiving their meaning, hoist sail, and the wind beginning to slacken, the Hollanders struck sail and tarried for them, & because the Portugals should not think that they meant to run away, they let fall their anchors, which they seeing, did the like, not daring to assail them.  
The first of januarie 1602, in the Morning, the admiral of Holland, Wolfart Harmanz, weighed anchor, clapped on all his sails, and directed his course towards the Portugal fleet, who with full sails came likewise towards them, so as at first, every man imagined they would have fought; but when they came near one another, the Portugals turned back, being afraid of our ordnance: Their admiral in vain displayed the banner for the fight, his men having no devotion to it.  
Whereupon, on the third day, the Hollanders returned towards Bantam, where they were most kindly entertained. Their loss was small, & they were greatly honoured over all the whole Country. They lost but one man, yet many of them were hurt; the harm done to their ships was repaired ere they departed from Bantam, where, to that end, and likewise to refresh their men, they continued till the 12 of the same month.  
And, notwithstanding there was freight enough at Bantam, yet they were desirous to pursue their voyage to the Molucques, where, on the 17 of Febr. the Admeral arrived at Terrenata, finding our men that had bi● left there, to be in good health.  
The king did with singular love and affection entertain him being exceedingly grieved, that the gathering time of Cloves, had been for certain years very unseasonable, so as he could not furnish the fleet to their content, yet he hoped ere long to give them full satisfaction, promising that none should buy any Spice in his Dominions, ere our fleet were sufficiently stored.  
Not long after, our other ships arrived likewise at Bantam, and there took in their burden, all of them retiring into the Low-Countries richly laden.  
We cannot be thankful enough to God for this victory, the benefit whereof was by time more manifested. For we have not a little daunted the Portugals pride, overweening, and reputation, and augmented the valour of those, who from hence, travail to the Eastern Indies, For, as the Reader may perceive by the above mentioned enterprise of Cunall, the Portugals think three hundred of their men good enough for five thousand Indians, what rumour then will be spread in India, how that five of our merchant ships, did put the great fleet of Portugal to flight? But it is God that encourageth his servants to attempt great matters, bravely to execute them, and to come off with honour, To him be glory for ever.   

¶ A description of the horrible, bloody, and unheard of siege, of the town of Ostend besieged by the Archduke Albert of Austria, in the years 1601, 1602, 1603, and 1604.  
SOme will peradventure think it strange, that among the victories of the united netherlands Provinces, we set down the famous siege of Ostend, seeing it was not Prince Maurice, but the Archduke of Austria that besieged and took it, with great loss of human blood, incredible expense, and to the small profit and advantage of his countries. Yet, if any man will well consider this siege, and the sequence of the History, reading it to the end, he will find and confess, that this siege hath given to the state of these countries, not one, but many victories, both in that this town was so well defended, and thereby much hurt done to the enemy, forces, as also because during this siege, they have won from the Archduke, the towns of Rhynberck, Grave, and Sluice, each of which is as much worth, and as commodious for these countries, as Ostend ever was or could have been. On the other side, seeing this siege was so notable, as we never read of the like, and that the honour of our gallant Captains and soldiers in defending it together with their brave exploits do manifestly therein appear, we should do them wrong, to passed them over in silence.  
Before we come to the description thereof, we will first briefly speak of the situation of the town, and the duke of Parma's sundry attempts upon it, and lastly what moved the Archduke to besiege it, for it would be over tedious, to set down every days actions there: we will only touch the principal occurrences, and whosoever is desirous to know more, we refer him to a journal that hath been Printed thereof.  
Ostend, not long since, was a small contemptible town, fortified at first against the enemy's incursions with wooden gates and palisadoes: six years after, videlicet, in an. 1572, the States of the united Provinces having well considered the situation and commodiousness thereof, caused it to be so strongly fortified, as the duke of Parma, by reason of alteration in the government, having won the towns of Dunkirk and Niewport, coming before Ostend, could not take it; for considering with himself that he should lose much and win little by tarrying there, after some 5 days lying before it, he departed thence in anno 1583.  
Since that time, Ostend continuing under the State's government, they have omitted nothing necessary for the fortifying and assurance thereof, and in anno 1600, it was so well fenced, not only within by renewing and heighthening the bulwarks and rampires, but likewise without, by new dikes and counterscarpes, as we may rightly number it among the most impregnable places of Europe; for the rampires within were very high, and divided by a deep ditch from the counterscarpes without, which took all hope from the enemy of being able to force or hold them.  
Beside, it seemeth that Nature, by this Town, was willing to show the world some rarity, for within these few years, the Sea hath made it more impregnable than before, by a new rupture on the eastside of the town, which they term the gullet: it is in breadth above one hundred foot, and within the land, the depth of two pikes, even at low water, and in the Sea where it takes it original it is not half fathom deep. It cannot be denied but it hath ever had a Haven, but the old is not comparable to the new, for the old Haven every six hours at an ebb, leaves to that which encloseth the Town, a free access, and means to fill it up; so as no boats can that way enter without great danger.  
The general States, for the better defence of the town, having caused the sand hills on the eastside, which are near the Gullet, & whose height command it, to be leveled, the sea at every Tide doth so fill the leveled place, as the seemeth unto man's judgement, that no means can be found to take that Haven from the town, for commonly at every Tide the Sea riseth so high, as it extends itself 1200 paces beyond the Town, and at full sea, a league into the country, so as the whole land round about, is filled with water, together with many dikes and ruptures, so that without great danger a man can hardly pass. In a word, whatsoever might serve for the strengthening and assurance of a town, hath not been omitted or spared for any cost whatsoever: for Ostend stands so, as it can keep a great part of Flaunders, every way, under contribution, whereupon the Flemings have still gone about to make it theirs: and since that the Prince of Parma was enforced to give over his siege before it, they have by all means sought to surprise it on the sudden, or otherwise: and among others, La Motte governor of Flaunders in anno 1585., having along the sea shore surprised the old town, which was only fortified with a Ravelin and palisadoes, attempted to fortify and entrench himself there, but he was driven thence with great loss of men, among whom, forty of his Captains were slain.  
Again in anno 1596, after Archduke Albert had taken Calais, the States of Flaunders did earnestly solicit him to employ his forces in besieging Ostend, and to that end, promised to give him beside the ordinary allowance of three months, three hundred thousand florins: to which motion his Highness in part seemed to incline, taking certain sums of money before hand, yet he only showed himself before the town, and having viewed it, presently went thence. This attempt being vain, and perceiving that stratagems, and sudden surprisals, made the soldiers of Ostend more vigilant, they watched a time, till the Archdukes army invaded the fontiers of Holland, amusing the States of the united Provinces, thereby to divert their forces from Flaunders and Brabant, and then they built seventeen or eighteen forts about the town, therein following the direction of a revolted corporal, who had a long time served in Ostend, & knew what would most annoy them: this they did to stop the incursions of those of Ostend, and to cut off the contributions which they raised in the country.  
But time and experience taught them, that the entertainment of the Garrisons which they were to keep in the said forts, amounted to more than the contribution which the townsmen raised upon the country, and beside, that the roads of them which lay in Gartison in the forts were more hurtful than the contributions, so as at last they were so earnest with the Archduke, showing him the necessity of the matter, and how he ought to lay hold on that occasion, (his Excellency lying then before Berck) with divers other reasons which they alleged, as his highness was moved to enterprise and begin this siege: and to this end, on the fifth of july 1●01, he sent Count Frederick Vanden Bergh thither as marshal of the Camp, with four regiments of soldiers, who encamped on the downs Eastward from the town, and the next day played with four canon upon it, to give them notice of his arrival: and the same day, after noon, D. Augustino de Mexia governor of the castle of antwerp came thither with 5 regiments making up the number of 8000 men, and four Cornets of horse, who encamped on the West side of the town, that he might lie betwixt the forts of Isabel and Albert: but those of the town shot so at him, as with loss he was enforced to retire to the downs, from whence by little and little he made his approaches with entrenchments, and so planted his canon.  
In the town were one and twenty camps of soldiers of sundry regiments, and one company of Burghers, it was well stored with ordnance, munition, victuals, and all necessaries: the Lord Charles Ʋander Noot was governor there.  
The General States of the united Provinces having intelligence of the siege of Ostend, sent Colonel Huchtenbrock thither with ten companies, and entreated general Vere to go thither with three thousand men which were expected from England, but he made some difficulty therein, being laoth to go without his own regiment, and that of his brother: whereupon on the eight of julie, eight companies were sent unto him, and on the fourteenth of the same, twelve other companies which had been at the camp before Berck, making up in all one and twenty companies, 
Sir Francis Vere entereth Ostend on the 15. of july.  among whom were six English: General Vere came thither on the fifteenth of july by night, and the next day all sort of munition were brought thither by the Lord of Warmont in despite of the enemy's canon, the report where of was heard into England: for the besieged, made counter batteries, and often broke the enemy's ordnance, and dismounted it: whereupon, two double canon, and four demies were sent to them.  
The fifteenth of julie, 
Th●se of ●●ten● 〈…〉 by 〈…〉 〈…〉 〈…〉 d●●. N●●t.  two of the Queen of England's Ships arrived there with new supplies of soldiers. Two days before General Veer his arrival, the besieged had made a furious sally upon the enemies in their trenches, killing many of them, to the number of five or six hundred, who were not well entrenched; D. Augustino de Mexia was hurt there, and D. Hieronimo de Monroy the camp-master, was slain in his Tent; the besieged lost some 30 men: At the same time, or thereabout, D. Diego d'Idiaques, and D. ivan Bracamonte, Nephew to Count Fuentes, D. Pedro de Lojas, son to the marquess de Lojas, who brought news of the King's daughters birth, with divers others, were likewise slain. Sir Francis Veer, being in the town as chief commander, gave direction for all matters, dividing the Dutch companies into two regiments, under the conduct of the governor Vander-Noot, and Colonel Huchtenbroecke, who commanded in the old town.  
The seventeenth and twentieth of julie, General Veer having store of men, seized on a piece of land that lay Southward, which he fortified and entrenched, placing strong guards in the counterscarpes and forts near adjoining.  
The two and twentieth of julie, the enemy's canon did so command the Haven as no boats durst enter; but, the five and twentieth of julie, the governor, and the Engineer Master David of Orleans, with other old and experimented mariners, found that the gullet would serve to bring in boats, by opening a causey or rampire of the counterscarp, & that the said boats might lie safe in the town dikes: But the Archduke caused boats to be laden with stones at Niewport and elsewhere, which he sank within and near the gullet to choke it up; but all the labour was to no purpose.  
Those of Ostend made many curtains to secure their men from the canon, they likewise filled the fortifications which were made in the Sea, with stakes and cross beams, full of stones, the better to divert the Sea waves from the Town. By this means the works and counterscarpes abroad were fortified, like the rampires of other strong towns, being guarded with ravelins, half Moons and forts, so as the enemy could not bring his ordnance near the town to make a battery or come to the assault; they did moreover secure the going out and in of the boats; so as the united Provinces were encouraged to defend the town, sending thither daily all manner of stuff, and workmen to make it more strong therein sparing for no cost.  
The enemies could by no means come nearer the town than by the West side along the downs, from whence they fiercely battered it, 
Description of ●●●wa●ke called S●and●●ll.  and especially the Sand hill. This Sand hill was a Bulwark of double works one upon an other, having round about it sundry ranks of palisadoes from the bottom to the very top, all made of fagotts laid one upon an other, with other Bulwarks near adjoining, for it was made to defend the West side, which was the weakest part of the town, together with the haven on that side. This Sand hill was so battered with the canon, as it seemed like an iron hill, for they shot bullet upon bullet, which struck upon one an other, and sometimes rebounded back again.  
near to the Sand hill was a causey opposite to the sea, extending itself as far as the downs where the enemy lay. This causey was defended by a half moon, and by pallizadoes, and the Porcuspine by a very strong fort, which the Archduke caused to be undermined, the better thereby to approach the town: In that regard, the besieged on the fifteenth of july pierced the said causey, behind their half moon, and armed the point of it with planks and faggots against the force of the Sea waves: and yet they feared that the same opening would have done more hurt to the Bulwarks and other works than it did: this only enforced the enemy, by reason of the water, to quit sundry forts. By this means the town became like unto an Island, wholly environed with the Ocean Sea, being divided the breadth of one hundred foot from the firm land, and from the enemy, who was in great hope that the Sea (the causey being pierced) would do more hurt to the town in winter.  
The united Provinces on the contrary were assured that God by that means would preserve and keep the town, so as they for their parts used all diligence to secure it, and at General Vere's entreaty, sent three and twenty foot ensigns more thither after the taking of Rhynberck under conduct of Earl Chastillon, notwithstanding that there were already nine and fifty ensigns in the town, 
Many men and much provision are sent to Ostend.  beside those who were daily sent from England, whose number amounted to 2000 men.  
The enemy shot continually into the town, more than ever into any that was besieged, so as many men were daily slain. The united Provinces in September, sent thither in less than fifteen days (under conduct of the Lord of Warmont admiral of Holland, who with his men of war guarded the Seas,) one hundred threescore and ten boats laden with all sorts of victuals, wine, beer, bread, turf, and fire wood for winter (not reckoning five hundred and fifty barrels of powder which were there before the siege:) the said one hundred threescore and ten boats did likewise bring three hundred seventy three thousand pound weight of fine and course biscuit, seventy seven thousand weight of match, ninety eight thousand pounds of musket and harquebus shot, with fifteen thousand iron bullets, and all manner of provision necessary for defence of the town, so as victuals were so plentiful and cheap there, as a pot of wine was sold for a groat, and the best for six pence, and a tun of Delfts beer for five florins.  
By this means the siege of Ostend grew so famous, as people came from all parts to behold the besiegers and besieged.  
The Inhabitants of Zealand, did for curiosity sake go boldly thither with their wives and children. All manner of victuals were better cheap there than in Holland or Zealand, in regard they paid no imposition.  
The Duke of Holst brother to the King of Denmark, with Count john of Nassau, Count Hohenlo, and the Earl of Northumberland came from England thither, to view the manner of the fortifications, Count Saint Paul Governor of Picardy, was likewise onward on his way thither, but by a contrary wind was carried into Zealand: yea Henry the fourth the great French king came in August to Calais to understand the particularities of that siege, from whence he sent one of his Lords to visit the Archduke, who likewise sent Count Solre to the king.  

The Lord Chastillon, Colonel Hucht●nbro●ck and others, slain in Ostend.  Count Chastillon, a gallant, noble, and valorous Lord nephew to the great admiral of France commanded the French forces in Ostend, and as by unlucky chance he stood on the top of the Sand hill viewing the Gabions in company of the governor, the Lord Ʋander Noot, Colonel Huchtenbroeck governor of Saint Andrew's fort, and Brog Lieutenant Colonel to the Scots, with divers other gentlemen, the scalp of his head was carried away with a canon bullet, so as the brains and bones flew in the face of Huchtenbroeck, Captain Brog and others. Within a while after, namely on the last of September, the said Colonel Huchtenbroeck was likewise slain, and was much lamented, as also a French Captain named Pomarend: It would be an impossibility to set down the names of all the Captains which died both within and without the town together with the sundry accidents which daily happened there, with so small terror and amazement as is almost incredible, custom wholly banishing fear. Among others, a soldier bought a loaf of bread, which he held up in his hand showing it to one of his fellows, and in the mean time a bullet took away the one half of it, whereupon, the soldier merrily said that there was some good fellowship in him that made that shot, because he left him some bread and took not all away.  
An English gentleman of the age of twenty years had in a sally his right arm shot off with a Canon bullet; he took it up and carried it along with him to the Surgeons, who dressed him, which done, he took his arm with him to his lodging, where without being sick or distempered, he held it in his left hand, saying, this is the arm which to day at dinner served the whole body.  
another soldier having his arm shot off, and being very weak was led away by two of his fellows, as he went along an other bullet took away one of his legs, of which hurt he presently died, those two which led him being in no sort hurt.  
A Grocer standing in his shop was slain with a great shot, and being laid in a coughing, the body was carried away with a Canon bullet.  
A young man being on horse back, his horse was slain under him with a bullet which entered at his hinder parts, and came forth at his breast, and yet himself had no harm, only his breeches were torn a sunder betwixt his legs with the wind of the bullet.  
A Sea Captain being in conference with one, who laid his arm upon the captains shoulder, it was taken away by a great shot, the Captain having no hurt but only astonished with the wind of the canon.  
It fell out likewise oftentimes that the enemy discharging his ordnance, the bullet flew into the mouth of our canon which was charged, and setting it on fire, two bullets were sent back in steed of one.  
divers other strange accidents happened there among so many millions of shot: for the first ten weeks both from the town and enemy's camp more than threescore thousand Canon shot were spent, beside fireworks to burn down the town building, which took no great effect in regard the houses were low. Now this is not strange, for the meaning of the Spaniards was to win the town with their ordnance, and to make it a heap of stones and ashes, but the besieged shot as much as the enemies, dismounting their canon, and tearing down their forts. For there was never any place among Turks, Heathen, or Christians, where so many shot have been bestowed on either side: the canons being so worn, and the holes made so wide, as the like hath not been seen.  
The fourteenth of August, General Vere being on the Sand hill, was hurt in the head with a wooden splinter, and because his wound was dangerous, the surgeons told him that he must withdraw himself to some quiet place free from the noise of ordnance, whereupon, he went from Ostend, and remained for a time in Zealand.  
The besieged made brave sallies, wherein the enemies were still put to the worst: the four and twentieth of August, our men made two sallies, the first by the English alone, the second by Dutch and English, of whom some nine or ten were slain, and thirty hurt, but of the enemies many more were slain who still repulsed our men, and when their foot men were too weak, they made use of their horsemen, among whom, the ordnance made great slaughter, so as this siege was very bloody and long, as it shall appear by the sequel of the History.  
The enemies were often at variance among themselves, because many of their attempts had no good success.  
They were entrenched in the West downs in seven or eight trenches, the one higher than the other according to the nature of the ground, their trenches being conjoined with faggots and sand: further off from these, they had made an other trench, with platforms for their ordnance, which extended as far as their fort in the ruined churchyard, betwixt the forts of Grooten-dorst and Isabel, standing on the river Yperlee, where likewise Saint Clares fort stood, and part of the camp of the Southern quarter, from whence they had made a way with faggots as far as the Eastern camp.  
Count Frederick Vandenbergh had made a trench to the Southward, opposite to the Englishmen trenches on the Polder, well fortified with ordnance and batteries.  
D. Augustino de Mexia with some eight thousand men commanded that quarter: on the East side of the town near to the bridge, was another camp likewise, wherein lay two thousand men, under Count Frederick: Beside, they had a company of revolted English, commanded by Captain Flood, and four cornets of horse: Three thousand men did every night guard the camp: Captain Catrice had chief command of the trenches with one Simon Antonio: Matheo Serrano was lieutenant general of the ordnance, D. Lewis d' Auila, Balthasar Lopes, & D. ivan Panrache were Sergeant Majors of the Army. The Regiments of the Earls Solre, Bucquoy, Frisin, Achicourt, and others where there, who agreed but badly with the Spaniards whose intolerable pride they could not endure.  
The mutiny in certain forts was not wholly quieted, but the mutineers were sent to Saint Winocks Bergue till they might receive their full pay, which came too late, so as they reduced the whole country under contribution.  
Archduke Albert was in person in the Army, and lay in Albert's fort, where the Camp was fortified and provided for winter, as if it had been a town, and it was called West end. The Infanta Isabel lay at Niewport, and on the second of August she came with eighteen Coaches to the camp, being seen by those of the town. It is reported that whilst the ordnance played fircely on both sides, herself gave fire to certain canons, which was reputed for a singular honour.  
They fastened wooden platforms to the shore on the East side, which they fenced with Gabions tied with Cables from thence to play upon the boats which entered the old Haven: They attempted likewise to stop the sluice of the Causey, with wood & sacks filled with ●and, but those filled sacks sank down to the bottom, & were carried away with the tide, so as all that labour was vain.  
After that, by the advice of Captain Catrice who had been lieutenant to la Bourlotte, and had now his place, they resolved to give a general assault to every corner of the town, contrary to the opinion of the whole Council of war, thinking at a low water to win the West Rampire of the old Town, and there to fortify themselves: but the besieged had provided for it, and the assault being begun, Captain Catrice was shot in the head, whereupon it was deferred, and yet his wound was not mortal, for he was healed for that time.  
From August to September, the Archdukes Camp spared for no travel nor expense to win the town, which they continually battered day and night, overthrowing certain fortifications, killing divers, and laming others: They likewise came at sundry times into the trenches, half moons, and other works, from whence by the courage and magnanimity of our soldiers, they were beaten with great loss of men. They went about by all means to choke the Gullet, therein using all the cunning that man could invent to keep victuals from the town, but they could not do it, nor yet by all their attempts cause the besieged to yield. For General Vere and all the Captains were resolved to defend it by all means possible, and by their sallies did much annoy the enemy both in his Camp and forts.  
At the same time, certain men went about to betray and deliver up the town to the enemy, but they were bewrayed and executed.  
After Harvest, the soldiers on both sides were so badly clad, as they were much tormented with cold, especially the besieged, who kept guard without the town in the counterscarps and forts, where the ways were very dirty, which caused divers English men to run away, others grew sick and died, the Garrison being so weakened, as of seven or eight thousand, there were in December but two or three thousand left; whereupon, General Vere wrote to the States for more men.  
The Archduke lying in Albert's fort, and the night's waxing long, was desirous to make some attempt, sending four hundred of his soldiers on the one and twentieth of December about midnight at a low water over the Haven on the West side, along the shore, who passing by the Sand hill gave an alarm to the East side, and from thence, at a place called Schottenbergh, mounted the rampires, killing a sentinel of Gystels' company, and by help of a great wind, fired a curtain or great heap of fagotts which were laid to break off the Sea waves and to preserve the Bulwarks foot made on the North side at the end of the falce-bray or out-wal beneath the Sand hills point, where the foot of it, made with faggots, burned three days and three nights and could not be quenched, by reason the enemy shot so fiercely.  
The same night, an Italian soldier that had lost his way, was taken betwixt the rampires and palisadoes. This Italian being secretly examined by General Vere, told him, that the Archduke having intelligence of the Garrisons weakness, and how the town had not of a long time been supplied with men and victuals, had speedily sent for all the Garrisons of Brabant, Artois, and other places, and with these, was come before the town, with a firm resolution to assault it in sundry places, namely towards the South and West Quadrant, and the half moons, and that Count Bucquoy should assault the Northwest ravelin of the old town at a low water, which he might easily do in the night.  
Certain other Captains should assail the Sand hill, and two places of the old town, namely the Porcuspine, which was a small ravelin in the counterscarp, which guarded a certain place called the Bier: they retained the water of the dikes, which is a matter of great importance.  
The other assaults should be given to the works without the town to the South-South-East ward, called the South Quadrant, the Polder, and East Quadrant, to which some three weeks past, the enemies had given a fierce assault, from whence they were driven with great loss.  
General Vere, knowing this in particular, did on the three and twentieth of December at two of the clock in the afternoon, send four Captains to view the Porcuspine, and to bring him word whither it might be defended against the enemy's assaults: and as the said Captains were visiting this place, Captain Lewis Couture came thither about three a clock with commission from the General to crave a parley of the enemy, and to send hostage from either side: This was done unknown to the Captains, but Captain Couture, found the Archduke very willing thereunto.  
The General to excuse this parley, alleged sundry reasons, viz. that he feared the assault, because he was weak in men, and they of sundry nations, that he was loath to come to a general assault, and therefore thought good to beguile and amuse the enemy and win time, till cernaine fortifications in the old town were finished.  
Whereupon, hostages were presently sent from the town, upon the enemy's word, namely Captain Ogle lieutenant Colonel, and Captain Farfax to procure that some others might be likewise sent from the Archduke to treat: And the same Evening, the General sent the Sergeant Major Carpenter, commanding him to let in on the East side of the town, the governor of the Sluice Matho Serrano, master of the ordnance and Councillor to the Archduke, together with Captain Ottaigno, Sergeant Major of a regiment, both of them discreet and well experienced persons, with promise, that in the mean time there should be a cessation of arms by land on both sides, and not otherwise. These two Commissioners from the Spaniards were brought by the falce-braye over the Sand hill, and so carried towards the new town: But a great tumult rising on a sudden among the Captains and soldiers, especially because this was done unknown to them: they were by the General's commandment sent back again the same way without audience: and in the mean time, the tide was risen so high, as they could not pass on the East side, but went through the town towards the West part, where they passed over in a boat to Count Bucquoys quarter with some excuse, promising to send back our hostages, who returned not to the town the same night. General Vere, the next day at one of the clock after midnight, in regard of the tumult among the Captains and soldiers, sent for all the Captains, French, Scottish, and Dutch, and after long debating on the Garrisons weakness, and great want of men to defend the old and new towns with all the counter scarps, ravelins, South and East Quadrants, together with the half moon beyond the Gullet standing towards the south-west, he craved their advice, by what means all these places might be defended from the enemy's assaults, demanding whither the Captains thought it not fit, to race and abandon those works, which were already forsaken unknown to the Captains, together with the falce-bray, or lesser Sand hill, where they had already planted one canon and a demi, and carried five barrels of powder thither the same day.  
All of them thought it fit to raze the South Quadrant which was least hurtful to the town, and to send the men to more needful places; and yet this was not effected, because five companies came from Zealand on the five and twentieth of December.  
The falce-bray which should have been abandoned, was nevertheless by consent of certain Captains, and in presence of Captain Saint Clare the Scot unknown to the General manned with six musketeers of Saint Clares company, two other companies being appointed to second them, if the enemy should give an assault.  
The next day at nine of the clock in the morning the General sent again for the French, Scottish, and Dutch Captains to his lodging, where in presence of Colonel Loone he made his Apology in French, declaring to what intent, he entered into communication with the enemy: the Reader may see the excuses he alleged, in a letter hereafter ensuing which he wrote to the States. The same day, and in the same assembly, it was concluded to demand hostages and commissioners from the enemy for assurance of those which had been sent from the town, whereupon, two Captains, john le Rijck, and Charles Cassart with Captain Saint Clare the Scot, were sent to receive the two above mentioned hostages and Commissioners, viz. Serrano, Governor of the Sluice, and captain Ottaigno the Sergeant Major, who craved to hasten the business, being sent into Ostend for none other purpose. They were answered, that in regard it was very late, and divers Captains already upon the guard, they must have patience till the next day.  
The same night the five above mentioned companies from Zealand arrived, and because it was Christmas day, the Archduke sent a Spanish Captain with a trumpet and a letter to his Commissioners, wherein he willed them to hasten the matter by all possible means. Captain Rijcks fetched the letter and gave it to Serrano, who thereupon was very earnest for dispatch: he was entreated to stay till eleven of the clock, and then he should receive all content: this answer he presently sent to the Archduke. In the mean time the five companies which came from Zelland entered the town, viz. that of Captain john Pottey, the company of the Lord justine of Nassau, those of the Lord Vandernoot, Captain john Piron the younger, and Captain la Cord. These five companies being come into the town, General Vere about noon, gave this answer to Serrano and Ottaigno: how he could not deny, but that being overtaken by want of wind, fair weather, and other accidents, he had been enforced to invent means to help himself and men, and through want enforced to come to some agreement. But perceiving that the States of the united Provinces, had so well relieved and furnished him with all necessary provisions, he could not as then proceed any farther in this treaty with his Highness, and therefore had no more to say, unless some new necessity should unluckily surprise him, and enforce him again to crave parley, hoping that his Highness as a virtuous Prince, would not take this denial to proceed any farther in the treat, in bad part, for being a soldier, he could do no otherwise for maintenance of his own honour, and that this sleight was commonly used among soldiers: Thereupon, the Spanish commissiioners went their way.  
The Archduke was much displeased with this warlike policy, and grew exceeding angry with some of his own servants, who had counseled him thereunto. By this sleight, a rumour was bruited abroad, how that Ostend capitulated, and it was so confidently believed, as in the Courts of France, England, that of the States of Holland and Zealand, nothing was known to the contrary, till such times as they received letters from General Vere. The Burghers of Gant, Bruges, Dunkirk, and Newport came with their wives and children to the camp, thinking that the town would yield, but they were all deceived. This did so incense the enemies, as they resolved more by passion than reason, to give a general assault.  
The States of the united Provinces were amazed at this treaty, and never thought that the English soldiers would have so slipped away through the carelessness of their Captains who gave them passport, so as forty, fifty, sixty, and more at a time returned into England, who were lusty and in health; whereupon men, and other necessary provisions were sent thither, which did encourage the besieged.  
The Archduke tired with lying so long before Ostend, and deceived in his vain hope, was persuaded by his Council to give a general assault, ere greater forces entered the town: and to this end, he did satisfy and pay many of his mutineers and unwilling soldiers, making great preparation for an assault hoping to surprise the Sand hill, there to entrench himself and become master of the old town, appointing the seventh of januarie 1602 in the afternoon at a low water the time for execution.  
Colonel Gambiotta the Camp master was to assault the new town, and Count Ferneste with Captain Ottaigno, the Sand hill and falce-bray: The governor of Dixmuide, the Porcuspine, an other, the West and South Quadrants, and the North Ravelin: and Count Bucquoy with two thousand men was to assault on every side, Count Triwlcio, Alonzo d'Avalos, and other troops were ready to help and second those that should stand in need, the cavallier likewise having an eye every where.  
The Archdukes self stood behind the battery of the key, and the Infanta was in Isabella's fort.  
This thus appointed, a certain Italian whose lot was to be one of the first that should give the assault, fearing the danger, swum over the haven by night with his sword in his mouth, and declared to general Vere the enemy's resolution concerning the assault, whereunto he gave the more credit, because the precedent day and night their ordnance had without intermission played upon the town: so as he gave order for defence, fortifying all places, transporting the ordnance, and planting seven great mortars at the entrance of the haven, charged with stones and musket shot, commanding his men carefully to do their duties, and not be too hasty in shooting, but to do it opportunely.   

¶ A Description of the fierce and bloody assault made upon the old town of Ostend and other forts on the seventh of januarie 1602.  
AFter that the Archduke on the seventh of januarie, had with his ordnance all the day long, played upon the Sand hill, and places near to Helmont, the Porcuspine, and others, from his two batteries, namely, that beneath the downs upon the cavallier, and the other to the Southward with eighteen great Canon, carrying bullets of forty and fifty pound weight, beside his battery on the East side: about 6 of the clock in the evening when it was low water, he enforced his foot men to give a furious assault, causing his cavalry to push them forward.  
First with great noise they assailed the old town whereinto they came, along by the Western haven, beginning at the Sand hill, and so going on with many light ladders and bridges for assault, which they carried with them to scale the town; for the pallizadoes which were wont to be there, were all burnt.  
This assault was so fierce, and made by so many troops in sundry places at once, as it seemed they would have taken the town, and made passage through a wall of steel: But General Vere who had an eye to every place, together with his brother Horatio, who was near him with a gallant troup of choice soldiers to second and relieve where need should be, marched over the mines to the falce-bray, where with great cries he assailed the Archdukes troops, whom he thrice repulsed, for as often as they came on with fresh men, so often did he beat them off, their shot and pikes doing them small good against the English, who at every time made havoc among them with their short swords.  
It cannot be denied but that the Archdukes soldiers did very valiantly behave themselves, assailing their enemies on every side without fear, but their coming being known and expected, they received such entertainment, as they had soon their bellies full; for they in the town had their cates ready, which so soon as the enemies tasted, many of them could never digest: all places were so well fortified, as their condition here would have resembled that of their fellows in the half moon on the further side of the Gullet, if they had become masters of the place. The assault on the East side was given very near 2 hours too late, so as the tide began to rise, which did not a little terrify them, perceiving that if they stayed there any longer they could not be relieved, whereupon, they retired, & in their retreat a great slaughter was made, for our men with great and small shot which could not miss, thundered among them. The Archduks' soldiers gave the like assault to the Bulwarks of Helmont, the Porcuspine and all other trenches belonging to the English wherein few men were, which the General had done of purpose so as they were easily taken: but within a while after, forces being sent from the town, namely from the Polder and Southern bulwarks with their Ravelins, and the enemy perceiving they could not that way gain any access into the town, forsook those forts again, setting fire on the corpse de guard. General Vere had caused two double canon to be planted on the flanquers of the West gate, beside the seven which were there already, the which with others, scoured the Sand hill and West Ravelin where the assault was given, being charged with chain shot, nails, and bags full of musket bullets, which could not miss the enemy's; on whom they fell as thick as hail, and made a terrible slaughter, the cry being so great among those that were hurt, as the living and dead fell in heaps one upon an other. In the hottest of the assault as the tide was risen, General Vere unstopped the Sluices, the more to terrify the enemies, who saw pale death on every side before their eyes, which he considering, would not omit that occasion, but with his troops so furiously assailed them, as he did wholly put them to rout taking all the enemies ladders, bridges of assault, and other warlike engines, leaving all places near to the Sand hill, as far as the old Church, and round about the Porcuspine, the Western Ravelin, and the English trenches, filled with dead bodies: the number of those that were slain by the Canon and small shot was very great, and no less was that of those that were drowned in the Sea, for many of them were taken up beyond Callais in France, and in Zealand, where they were stripped: the booty was very great, both in money, garments, and fair armour, and among other a Spanish woman was found in man's apparel who had been at the assault, as appeared by her wounds; she lay at the foot of the Sand hill, under her garments she had a chain of gold, enriched with precious stones, beside other jewels and money.  
The Archduke during the assault was in person behind his batteries upon the Cavaliers. Those which assaulted the town had brought victuals with them for two or three days, (though in vain) and made all manner of provisions for entrenchment, if their attempt had prospered, they had likewise brought six barrels of powder to the Ravelin of the Porcuspine, to undermine the town, but they were soon enforced to abandon all, for the besieged had of set purpose dismounted the ordnance on the falce-bray, and porcuspine, because the enemy should not use them to the towns detriment.  
The assault beginning on every side, the Archdukes men were gotten on the West side beyond the Gullet, having many bridges on which to pass over at their pleasure, and to assault the old town likewise on that side. There was great likelihood that thi● assault would have had good success, considering the great number of those that might have seconded, whom the besieged could not have well resisted, had it not been prevented by one that went and yielded to the enemy, and likewise by the rising of the tide, this revolted fellow ran forth of the half moon, and told them that there were but forty men in it, offering to conduct them thither, and to give them entrance, which he did, so as they easily took it, not considering that their adverse party had done it of purpose, to divide their enemy's forces, the better to be able to defend the most dangerous places where the assault should be gruen, being well assured that they could with more ease recover the said place, than the enemy take it.  
The said half moon being taken, and many men placed in it, they presently began to entrench themselves with spades and mattocks which they had brought with them for that purpose, but all their labour and diligence was in vain. For the ordnance and small shot from the South side, and Spanish bulwark, fell so thick upon them, as heads, arms, and legs, flew every where, and perceiving that the Sea might enclose them, they grew fearful, which the General considering, sent Captain Day thither, who with great cries fiercely assailed them and with much effusion of blood drove them thence, so as the next day, above three hundred dead bodies were found in the said half moon, beside those that were hurt and drowned. In this general assault which continued two hours; the Archduke lost in all above two thousand men, for in the fury no man was spared, notwithstanding he cried out, take me prisoner, I am an Ensign, Lieutenant, or Captain, one promising an hundred, an other, two, three, four, five, yea six hundred crowns to have their lives saved, but it was to no purpose, for none were spared during the fight, but afterwards, the heat being passed, many were taken prisoners, and great numbers of them brought into Ostend. Very few of our men were slain, and in all but thirty or forty, and some one hundred hurt: these Captains were slain, Captain Haeften, and Captain Nicholas de Leur, a lieutenant of Saint Andrews fort, two English lieutenants, one Ensign, two of Captain Haeftens Sergeants, one of General Vere his gentlemen, and Sir Horatio Vere was shot in the leg. There died of the enemy's commanders, Count Imbec an Italian who was very rich, and had three hundred pistolets to spend every day, he promised to give as much gold for his ransom as his body weighed, but a common soldier slew him with a poniard, Don Durago camp master, the Sergeant Major general who had been hostage at Ostend, the governor of Antuerps lieutenant, Colonel Lewis Gambaliotta, D. Alvero Strugas knight of Malta, Monsieur de la Tour, lieutenant to Count Bucquoy, D. Pedro de Velasco, Lewis de la Villa verde were sore wounded. His Highness sent a Drum, craving leave to survey the dead, who had four hours granted him.  
The commanders which conducted the soldiers to the assault on the seventh of januarie 1602, were Count Ferneste an Italian, commanding 2000 of his country men who were to assault the Sand hill; Count Bucquoy on the West side of the Gullet with two thousand men, assailing the Eastern Ravelin, but the tide being risen very high, he assaulted the half moon beyond the Gullet, from whence he was bravely repulsed.  
The Governor of Dixmuide, at the Porcuspine with two thousand men, from whence he was likewise repulsed, besides an other Captain with five hundred men on the West Ravelin, who was also beaten thence. another Captain with five hundred men on the South Quadrant, who did nothing. The Sergeant Major with one thousand men on the West Quadrant, who was likewise repulsed.  
After this, because the prisoners said that the enemy would the next day give an other assault, General Vere did every where fortify and fence the weakest places. He was likewise told that on the one and twentieth of januarie, the town should be again assaulted by two thousand cuirasses armed at proof: but it seemeth, because they could get no firm footing on the Sand hill, that therefore it was deferred, as also, because the soldiers began every where to mutiny, especially the old Spaniards and Italians, by reason of their bad usage, in being led so to the slaughter, contrary to all law of arms, and driven forward ●●●e bruit beasts by the horsemen after the Turkish manner, against the opinion and consent of all the wise and discreet council of war; so as it only seemed to be done in despite and bravery. But the Archduke presently caused part of these mutineers to be imprisoned, and hanged up forty or fifty of them, of whom, three were men of note and respect among the soldiers, one of them being an old soldier, said aloud at his execution, that there were four thousand who would revenge their death; an hundred and fifty of them were likewise condemned to the Galleys. The mutineers of Isabella's fort were sent to Winocxbergue, without pay, who reduced the whole country under contribution, paying themselves.  
Within a while after, the States of the united provinces, sent more men to Ostend, and furnished the town with all necessaries, notwithstanding the enemies continual shooting, so as we can reckon, that from the first day of the siege, which was the fifth of july, till Christmas, one hundred sixty one thousand and five hundred shot had been made upon the town, and half as many from thence. The harm done by the enemy's Canon was not only repaired, but the town thereby made more strong. The Sand hill was so full of bullets as the workmen could not enter the pallizadoes which had iron points, meeting many times with seven or eight bullets in one hole. It was a very hard task to undermine the town, by reason that there were so many trenches and fortifications abroad hindering the enemy's approaches, the Sea did likewise keep them from any long work: To famish the town, was likewas impossible; for though the enemy shot on every side, yet in one day, twenty, thirty, yea ' forty boats entered the town, and they had moreover an other haven ready, by which they might at all times enter with less danger, and though all the havens should fail them, yet they might continually bring provision into the old town by shallops. After this assault, 
The Garrison of Ostend changed.  the united Provinces, resolved to change the Garrison of Ostend every four or six months: so as by little and little the Lord Frederick of Dorp entered the town as Governor and Colonel, together with William edmond's the Scottish Colonel, with th● Colonels, Daniel de Hertaing Lord of Marquette, Barendrecht, the Lords of Dort, and Domervile, with their troops of sundry nations. These men so fortified the places of the Corpse du guards, as the enemy could no more do such harm as he was wont, and in that regard, shot not so often into the town. As these entered, the old Garrison departed thence to refresh themselves. General Vere went away likewise, and made a journey into England.  
The going out and in of these soldiers was seldom done without danger, and yet sometimes it was not dangerous: as on the seventeenth of March, when five boats entered by night without any harm, notwithstanding, all the enemies shot. The next morning at clear day light, nineteen boats richly loaden entered: the enemy made one hundred twenty and two shot after them, and those of the town discharged above sixty shot upon the enemy's Canon and Gabions. Of these nineteen boats, sixteen were touched, but no great hurt done, only two men were slain, and seven hurt. In a word, they entered sometime with danger, and sometimes without.  
In less than six weeks, one hundred thirty and six boats loaden with all manner of provision and munition entered the town. A Sea Captain called john Adrian Caut, did on the tenth of February bring 60000 pound weight of match, and thirty barrels of powder thither, the like did divers others, so as the town was provided for a long time. Great quantity of faggots and other stuff was likewise sent thither to defend the town from the Sea waves.  
Soldiers were commonly brought in, in great shallops and by that means the old Garrison of English and other nations were carried thence in March.  
The Archduke likewise sent for more men to his Camp, with a firm resolution, according to his directions from Spain, to continue the siege to the end, because it stood him so much upon, as the only means to shut up the havens of Zealand, and thereby to hinder their fishing and trade, yea, their passage to and fro into England. To effect this, he sent for many Galleys from Spain and Italy conducted by Frederico Spinola and hired mariners from Embden and the East parts, thereby to take the dominion of the Sea from the Hollanders, for it was that which made them able to resist the power of so mighty a Prince: This was a matter of great importance, not only for the king of Spain's reputation, but likewise for the Archdukes. Whereupon, he sent for more money from Spain, and raised certain sums in the Country. He likewise sent abroad for skilful Ingeneers, who were entertained and set on work, not sparing for any cost, & to some of them 100000 crowns were promised. These men made sundry new inventions to choke the Gullets haven, and to keep boats from entering, as by making platforms and Cavaliers whereon to plant the Canon; by filling boats full of stones, and sinking them in the haven, filling baskets full of sand, and rolling them into it, they likewise made engines of wood and wicker like to Gabions, which they termed Sausages, some of them fifty foot in length, and eighteen in height, filled with stones and gravel tied together, the which they thought, by help of men, to roll into the gullet, and with many of these to build a fort. They likewise tied divers wooden beams together, and began to make Bulwarks upon them, which at a full Sea they intended to have thrust into the Gullet, and from those bulwarks to sink all ships that passed along, with such like other inventions, devised by skilful and ingenious men: and in this manner, did every day make some new work or other.  
But so soon as the enemy finished such inventions, those of the town presently devised remedies against them, either to beat them down with the canon, to set them on fire, or to keep their workmen from their labour; and when they descried any of these works, they knew well enough how to pluck them into the Sea, which at an high water carried them clean away.  
The siege continuing, divers houses and cabins were built in the camp, so as it resembled a new town, by which means the enemy was well lodged: and the camp towards the West, was called the West-eynd.  
In continuance of time, the town was fortified both against the enemy's ordnance, waves and tempests of the Sea, yet the enemy approached by little and little, the soldiers cabins were repaired & renewed, the better to preserve them from the plague and other contagious diseases: especially the second year of the siege, at what time the plague was very rife both in the Camp and town.  
The united Provinces, notwithstanding this continual siege, which did put them to such infinite charge, as our children will hardly believe, what mass of treasure hath been spent there, viz. in extraordinary expenses one hundred thousand florins a month, beside the soldiers pay, and how these small and weak Provinces, have been able without extraordinary means to furnish such expense, resolved to keep and defend the town so long as they could, yea though the siege should continue many years.  
The Archduke for continuance of the siege, used all possible means to get money, and to that end went to Brussels in winter, and there assembled the States of the Country, but those of Brabant would give no money, unless his Highness did first fulfil his promise to satisfy the mutineers of Artois, Hainault, and Luxembourg, saying that they expected the French, so as they of Flaunders only contributed. Those of Brabant likewise craved to be disburdened of twenty five thousand florins a month which the champain Country was enforced to give the Hollanders for their contribution.   

¶ An Assault given by the Archduke on the thirteenth of April 1603, on the Polder, East, and South Quadrants.  
AFter that the Archduke had continually battered the town all anno 1602, and by his infinite number of shot done great hurt both to it and the forts, slain many men, and yet never the nearer to his purpose, in regard the besieged made such brave resistance.  
He did again on the thirteenth of April 1603 give a furious assault on the Quadrants of the East, South, and Polder, so as he took them, in this manner following. The thirteenth of April, the wind was so high, as it carried away the tops of houses, threw down whole buildings, and namely the tower where many were slain. The enemy laying hold on this occasion, made an assault both on the East and West side with great numbers of men: on the East side, they plucked up about 100 stakes forth of the half moon, but they were enforced to quit it, for they were beaten back even to their Quarter: they came on the West side as far as the Porcuspine whether they brought two barrels of pitch, but they were likewise driven thence with loss of men.  
They did also with great fury full on the Ravelin of the Polder, and were likewise enforced to retreat, but they renewed the assault with freshmen, and became masters of all these three places, videlicet, the Quadrants of the East, South, and Polder, notwithstanding that a demi Canon and other iron pieces lay upon the Polder Quadrant: in taking these places they inhumanly slew all they met with, the fight lasted some two hours.  
The next day about nine of the clock at night the besieged gave a fierce assault to the East Quadrant, but were driven thence with loss of some four hundred men, among whom were many brave soldiers. But the enemy in these assaults lost above one thousand.  
Continual travel, and resistance made this truce so famous, as it was termed a martial academy, both for Governors, Officers, Captains, and private soldiers, as also for mariners, Pilots, Ingeneers, Physicians, Surgeons, etc. so as those who had but continued certain months in this school became masters in in their arts, both for defence and offence.  
Skilful Ingeneers, notwithstanding they had studied a long time in books, did confess that in comparison of practise here, they were but novices: Physicians and Surgeons learned more here in a week, than elsewhere in a year.  
Pilots and mariners learned here how to guide their vessels to avoid the enemy's canon.  
cannoners were taught here how to plant their ordnance to sink ships under sail, how to make counter batteries to dismount the enemy's Canon, which on both sides consumed infinite numbers of men.  
The six first months the enemy made above two hundred and fifty thousand shot, shooting bullets of thirty or forty pound weight: for all the time the Infanta lay at Newport, if she heard not the repot of the Canon, she was malcontent, and commanded her Gunners to shoot continually.  
The besieged were not much indebted to the enemy, but in the first 20 months, discharged 100000 shot, 18000 of the enemies were slain the first twenty months, as well by the ordnance, and extreme cold which they endured the first two▪ winters, as by sallies, sickness and misery. And in the town six or seven thousand died, though the number was not well known, for sick and wounded men were sent away: the like did the enemy, who sent his to the next towns and hospitals.  
Notwithstanding all these batteries, and that many in the town died of the plague, and through want, yet the besieged were visited by their friends, kinsfolks, wives and children which came forth of Holland and Zealand and went thither as to a festival. Some Captains brought their wives and children thither: Gentlemen and great Lords came thither from France and England to see the fortifications,  
All the three years that the siege continued, the besieged kept the fifth of july holiday, beating their caudrons in steed of bells, discharging all their ordnance: and that day a solemn sermon was made, wherein thanks was given to God for preserving them so long a time from their enemies, entreating him still to do the like.  
Sundry sallies and assaults were made, store of fireworks were thrown into the enemy's Camp and platforms which were made of sagots. Among others a certain Engineer called Pompey the Roman, invented sundry means to choke the gullet, but all his labour was to no purpose.  
The besieged had made an half moon on the farther side of the Gullet to defend the going in and out of the boats, and to keep them safe in the town dikes: and the better to scale the said stalfe moon, this Pompey had framed a bridge for assault, mounted on four great brazen wheels like to a Chariot, on which this bridge was to be drawn: it bended in the midst and rested on a great mast one hundred and fifty foot long, whereon this bridge might be drawn up and let down: It was made of Cables and small cords twined together on small masts. The fore part was drawn up along the mast like a draw bridge, which being brought near to the town, they would have let fall overthwart the dikes, upon the Rampires: this bridge was drawn by forty horses. With this bridge which they termed the luy-wagon, or idle waggon, they thought to have assaulted the half moon beyond the gullet. The besieged perceiving it to come forwards, did with their Canon shot break one of the wheels, & before it could be mended, had erected masts upon the counterscarp of the half moon, that when their bridge should be let fall, it might rest upon the said masts: this being perceived by the enemy, he gave over his invention.  
In june 1603, D. Rodrigo Lasso came from Spain and brought news that Marquis Ambrose Spinola (brother to jeronimo Spinola that was slain in the Galleys before Sluice) had after his brother's death covenanted with the king of Spain to take up great sums of money for his Majesty's service, on certain assurance and conditions, viz. to have the chief authority and sovereign command at the siege of Ostend, with ample power from the Archduke, and not to be envied of the other commanders in the army, of-what nation soever.  
The said Marquis being come into the low Countries with this commission, undertook the charge, and presently reform many matters, deposing sundry officers, placing others in their steds, carefully providing money, and setting divers skilful Ingeneers on work, by whose help he hoped to take the town: for the besieged had long since lost all their fortifications and works abroad. The Marquis presently caused mines to be made, and assaults to be given.  
The Sea and high tides caused by a north-east wind which blew on the first day of March, did great harm, spoiling and carrying away the mines, trenches, and conterscarps.  
The besieged, though they daily received supplies of men and other necessaries, yet the six last months they were mightily annoyed by the continual batteries, and sustained great loss: for after Colonel Huchtenbroeck, the Lord of Gystels, the Governor, being slain in March, who was a brave and valiant gentleman, and much lamented, Colonel Loon succeeded him, who within a while after was likewise slain, and after him many other Captains which had the chief command, next, Colonel Berendrecht, whom Colonel Vtenhove succeeded, and left the town being hurt. At last when the town had been a long time without Governor, the Lord of Marquet was sent thither on the tenth of june 1604, he was the last Governor there. David of Orleans the Engineer was shot in the town, and went his way into Holland to be healed. But master Rafe Dexter the Englisman, a valiant and skilful person tarried there still. This change of governors hindered the prosperous success of many matters: their good Decrees being not well observed: some of which, we will here set down. It was decreed, for preventing controversies betwixt victuallers, That no wares or victuals should be sold till they had first continued four and twenty hours in the Market place. All soldiers were likewise forbidden to play at Dice or Cards, on pain of eight days imprisonment, and fasting with bread and water. No officer might come upon the guard being drunk, on pain of losing his place and arms: because that many soldiers went to the enemy, the townsmen offered fifty crowns to him that could bring in such an one either alive or dead. The enemies, in regard divers of their men came to our side, caused their horsemen to keep continual guard, yet it was to no purpose at all. In April, May, and june, Marquis Spinola used all speedy means to take the Town, that he might go and relieve Sluice, sparing neither men nor money. Among others, Captain Catrice was slain, he was a man of great experience in martial affairs: divers other commanders, Colonels and Captains, were likewise slain: they also took the Porcuspine, and approached daily by assaults and Ours.  
The twelfth of june, Spinola blew up a Mine near to the Polder Bulwark, which buried many of his men alive: thereupon, he gave an assault, wherein certain hundreds of his men were slain, and some forty or fifty of the besieged. The sixteenth of june, the besieged made a fierce sally upon the pioneers, & drove them away. divers other assaults, Ours, and sallies were made that Summer, by means whereof, they came at last even to the Dikes; they likewise stopped up the old haven with Faggots. In August, they undermined the Sand hill, and approached the other Bulwarks, by means of their platforms, from whence they shot fiercely. In the end, Spinola resolved, in September, to assault the chief Bulwark the Sand hill, and finding the Spaniards and Italians unwilling to march, in regard of the danger they had before been in, he resolved to make use of the Almans, promising them great rewards: and though Mynes were made on both sides, yet he was desirous to get the Sand hill: whereupon, he gave an assault by part of the Almans of the regiments of Biglia and Barlaymont, and as those that went foremost were blown up into the air by the towns Ours, and they that followed retiring, thereupon, he enforced them to march again to the charge, saying, that there were no more mines, which they found to be true, and so without any resistance took the Sand hill, and highly recompensed the Almains: he used like means against the other forts, for all the besiegeds defence consisted in sallies whereby they often drove the enemies forth of those places they had gotten.  
The besieged, by means of their Ingeneers, and by Rafe Dexter the English man who had a long time served in these countries, had behind the bulwarks of the Sand hill and Helmont, made a new Sand hill and Helmont: which done, they divided the town in the midst, with bulwarks and flankeers athwart the town; and behind it, they likewise entrenched more than a quarter of it, towards the Gullet and new haven, with bulwarks and flankeers, for their latest retreat, naming that place new Troy, hoping still to hold out for a time.  
But all these new works being not steadfast and firm, could not long resist the Canon: for the enemy had already brought his ordnance upon the Rampires and battered the new town.  
Whereupon, the besieged perceiving that the Sand hill was lost, and that the enemy undermined the town near to the old Church, and that it was likely that high tides with an north-east wind would do much hurt, because the old town was their best defence against the Sea, they advertised the General States, and Prince Maurice, (who were assembled at Sluice) of their condition. Their Lordships and his Excellency, considering that by the conquest of Sluice and other places, they had now gotten footing in Flaunders, and thereby were able to invade the enemy in his own Country, which they had a long time desired, and that now Ostend would stand them in no great steed, it being environed and blocked up with so many of the enemy's forts, and also a place from whence the Archduke could not annoy them, and might easily be by them recovered, so long as they were Lords at Sea: These and such like reasons being well weighed: The States gave authority and leave to the Lord of Marquet Governor of Ostend, to capitulate with the enemy for his most advantage, seeing themselves were out of fear of the Archdukes forces before Sluice that winter.  
Thereupon, the Lord of Marquet with his Council of war, fearing least winter would impair his composition, began to ship away his ordnance, munition, remainder of victuals; and all those whom he supposed might have hindered the treaty, as, Preachers, Ingeneers, Gunners, etc. Then he sent two Captains forth of the town to treat with the Marquis about surrendering it, the enemy likewise sending two hostages into the town.  
At last on the twentieth of September 1604, after much contestation about the ensuing articles, the accord was made betwixt Marquis Spinola in name of their highnesses on the one side, and the Lord Governor, Colonels, and Captains in Ostend, on the other.  
FIrst that all Church men with their goods and movables may freely and without impediment depart thence.  
2 That the Governor, Colonels, Captains, and soldiers, of what quality or condition soever, as well within the town, as abroad in the forts, the Captains of ships of war, with their officers, mariners and soldiers may freely depart with all their vessels loaden, or otherwise, to Flushing, with all their arms, ensigns displayed, drums beating, match in cock, and bullets in the mouths, together with all their baggage: and if they shall want boats for transporting their baggage and hurt men, time shall be granted them to procure such, according as wind and weather will permit, which boats shall likewise freely return.  
3 That the said Governor, Colonels, Captains, and soldiers may take four piece of ordnance with them and no more, without any powder: And to this end for better assurance of his Highness, Captain Wingaert Lieutenant of the ordnance, shall make a review thereof, not unloading any of the boats in the haven. And for conduct of the said boats, the Master of the ordnance, gentlemans, Conductors, Gunners, Carpenters, pioneers, horse, and whatsoever depends thereon, shall freely depart.  
4 All Officers and Commissaries, which have managed accounts and soldiers pay, & others, may freely depart with the goods, armour, horse, and other things belonging to their office.  
5 That all Commissaries of victuals, and other the States Officers, may do the like.  
6 That the two Captains Lantscroone and Gystels that were prisoners, with all other Officers and soldiers shall be freely released: as likewise all Captains, Officers, and soldiers belonging to his Highness, who are prisoners in Ostend: Always provided, that the prisoners on either side, shall pay their costs and charges.  
7 That all Burghers, victuallers, and others, in pay or out of pay, may likewise freely depart, with their arms, movables, boats, and baggage.  
8 That the said Governor, Colonels, and Captains, shall this present day deliver up to such as the Marquis shall appoint, all the old town, with the small platforms, called Moses' Table, and four hostages, in whose stead the said Governor, Captains, and Colonels, shall retain those whom they have already.  
9 The said Governor, Colonels, Captains, soldiers, and officers, are all of them bound to depart on the two and twentieth of this month, because it is not possible for them to do it sooner, by reason of foul weather; as for sick and hurt men, they may follow after with the baggage.  
10 If, by reason of a contrary wind, the Governor, Colonels, Captains and soldiers, can not depart at the time appointed, they shall then be bound to go their way by land, and to that end, such wagons as are needful, shall be lent them.  
11 And for security of their persons and boats, if foul weather should happen to delay their departure, yet, that this Article may not be infringed, hostages shall be given them for their Highnesses, who when the boats shall depart, shall be safely sent back to Ostend; as also, those Hostages given by the Governor, Colonels, and Captains, to his Highness, shall remain as caution for the above said wagons till their return, and shall afterwards be sent safely to Sluice.  
In this manner did the famous siege of Ostend, break up, which continued three years and fourscore days; a siege which will be spoken of so long as the world lasteth, and will seem incredible to after ages.  
The accord thus made, the enemy entered the old town, and our men into their entrenched works called New Troy, till the two and twentieth of September, and then they went away by land, according to the capitulation, crossing the gullets, in sloops and Ferrieboats. Governor Marquette, the Colonels, Captains, and others, were by Marquis Spinola invited to a banquet, whilst the troops were putting themselves in order to march. They went along the Sea side, after this manner, the French led the Vanguard, the Dutch, the battle, and the English and Scots, the rearward, they were in number three thousand, all lusty, & able men; they carried four piece of ordnance with them towards Blanckenberg and the next morning arrived at the camp, where Prince Maurice and all the Lords did courteously welcome them, taking them by the hand, saluting them all as they road through the troops, thanking them for their faithful service done to the commonwealth: Then, their Quarter was appointed where they should rest, the captains, officers, and brave soldiers being preferred to good places, and largely recompensed.  
Most of the Burghers likewise went their way to Sluice: The bailie of Ostend, was made bailie of Sluice, and none tarried in Ostend, but a few old people.  
divers notes were found of the number of those that died at this siege: one of Spinolas soldiers that was slain before Sluice, had a note about him, of all the colonels, captains, officers, and soldiers which died before Ostend. An Alman gentleman that was at Ostend, saith, that during the siege, there died 15 Colonels, seven Marshals of the camp, 19 Sergeant Majors, 560 Captains, 322 ensigns, 4911 Sergeants, 1166 Lieutenants, 9166 Corporals, 56366 soldiers, six thousand and eleven Mariners, one thousand one hundred ninety six women and children, amounting in all to 76961. All these died, from the beginning of the siege, to the last of july, 1604, not accounting those that died since. This number is great and incredible: unto which, the sick and wounded, which were sent abroad to the Hospitals may be added.  
Some have likewise set down the number of the besieged which was very great, but I think it impossible, truly to number them, for those that were sick or hurt were presently sent away; but the number of the enemies was far greater, yet the besieged had more plenty of all things, & endured less misery than the Archdukes soldiers, who lay 3 whole winters, in so cold and moist a place, and therefore it is likely that very many of all nations died there. Ostend was afterwards visited by divers men of all sorts, who found it an heap of stonss & sand, there were few houses, but many cabins, much munition, and some 11 piece of ordnance which were unserviceable, with certain mortars and other engines, and an infinite number of bullets.  
The Archdukes went thither to see the town, which they wonderfully admired, & perceived, that they had spent & consumed, huge sums of money, time, and men, only to win an heap of sand, and finding it ruinous and inhabitable, they gave order to have it repaired.  
From thence their Highnesses went in pilgrimage to our Ladies near Dunkirk, to whom many attributed the victory: they gave order that the houses and Church should be re-edified, and the town fenced against the waves of the Sea: and the better to draw people to dwell there, they gave great privileges and immunities to it, but the first year few came thither: and at this day, they have neither fishing nor navigation.   

¶ A description of the General State's army marching through the Duchy of Brabant, under conduct of Prince Maurice of Nassau in Anno 1602.  
THe Estates general of the united Provinces together with his Excellency Prince Maurice of Nassau, considering that the Archduke of Austria went about by all means to reinforce his troops which he already had in the low Countries with a new and mighty army from Italy, and with it, not only to continue the siege of Ostend, but to invade the said united Provinces; were likewise desirous for their parts, to show their fatherly care aswell for defence of their own subjects, as for abating the pride of the haughty Spaniards, and preventing all his determinations, did, in the beginning of june 1602, with great expense, set forth a gallant army of horse and foot, which on the 17 of the said month passed master at Elten in the Isle of S Gravenweert, at Pauderen, and places near adjoining; it consisted of more than 5000 horse and 18000 foot, with 1930 wagons, not accounting those of victuallers, & 6047 horse of draft. General fasts & prayers being made over the whole country, the army crossed the Rhine & Waell upon two bridges made over those rivers, and marched towards Nimmeguen, and from thence to Moocke, where his Excellency, as General of the army, caused some of his troops to pass the Maze, and the same night reposed his army at Moock, from whence without any stop, he passed his forces over the Maze, and lodged at little Linden, bravely determining to go and seek the enemy, and to offer him battle, who had already received his Italian forces; and if God should grant him the victory, he then hoped to be able to relieve Ostend, which had been besieged eleven months, or at least, if he could not sitly meet with him, yet to dare him, who seemed to desire nothing more than to meet with his Excellency upon his own territories, to revenge his loss at the battle of Niewport in Flaunders.  
The whole army being in Brabant, the General States of the united Provinces, made a declaration and caused it to be printed, wherein they showed the causes why they had prepared this army: the effect whereof was thus.  
For as much as the General States of the united netherlands Provinces, 
The State's letters for contributions.  have by God's grace, and assistance of Princes and and Potentates their friends, done their utmost, for the serious advancement and profit of the Netherlands this present year, to free them wholly from the tyranny of the Spaniards and their adherents. And because it is just and reasonable that all provinces, towns, villages, parishes, and inhabitants of the low Countries, that groan under the Spanish yoke, should presently aid and assist them: In that regard, the administrators of N. N. are entreated and warned for the first and last time, to deliver within three days after sight hereof, into the hands of the deputy of the receiver General of the united Provinces resident in our army, the sum of N. N. in abatement of the contributions, wherewith they have been and still are charged, for the freedom of the low Countries: upon sight hereof, the said administrators shall send two hostages into our camp for the said payment, with commission to treat with our commissioners as well in regard of reasonable contributions, as for their own defence, that they be not molested by our soldiers; wherein, these presents shall serve for their safeguard and passport: otherwise, for default of accomplishing the tenor of these presents, we will therein proceed (which we shall be very sorry to do) by way of arms.  
Given in the assembly of the said Lords general States at the Hague, the 7 of july 1602. Here de Hotting a vidit, and subsigned C. Aerssens.  
The said Lords did likewise cause this ensuing placard or inscription to be printed, that the Countries might seriously look to what they were to do.  
To the high, illustrious, honourable, noble, learned, wise, and discreet Lords, good friends and neighbours, the Prelates, Princes, Earls, Lords, Gentlemen, and Cities of Brabant, Flaunders, Artois, Hainalt, Valenciennes, Lisle, Dovay, Orchies, Namur, Tournay, Tournesis and Malines, representing the body of the Netherlands, under the Spanish, or Archdukes government: To all of them in general, and to every of them in particular.  
MY Lords, we doubt not but that your Excellencies do still remember, the loving remonstrances and exhortations which we have often made unto you, wherein we entreated you maturely to consider, and well weigh the determination and end of the Spaniards and their adherents, enemies to the State, laws, privileges, goods, and persons of the Netherlands, viz. their original, and rooted determination, which is so base and hurtful, as it wholly tends to the entire ruin of the Inhabitants of these Countries. We know very well (notwithstanding that the said determination is likewise among you held indubitable) that some of your Excellencies, have been drawn thereunto, partly by your own good natures, and partly by persuasions, that matters might be redressed and amended, by means of the Archdukes and presence of their Highnesses. But because we are well assured of the Spaniards and their adherents continuance in their determination for ruin of the Netherlands, and subjecting them for ever to the Spanish yoke, that they might bear rule over the consciences, bodies, laws, and goods of the inhabitants thereof, and that the Archduke can no way help it; this is the reason why we cannot be of your opinion. And not to precipitate your Excellencies nor ourselves, into a certain, continual, and irreparable ruin, we have found out this to be the best remedy, still to continue, with a constant courage in the laudable resolution taken from the beginning by the chief persons and members of the whole Netherlands, of all estates and conditions: and being assured of the aid and assistance of God, and that of Kings, Princes, and Republiks with whom we are in league, as also on the equity of our cause, we do patiently expect good success, especially by your Excellency's directions and discreet government,, and will voluntarily undergo all difficulties, dangers and expenses requisite for maintenance of so holy, commendable, honourable, and necessary resolution. Nor can the base and deceitful conveyance of the low Countries, made to their Highnesses, ever move us to any alteration: we having in that regard, after the said conveyance, seriously by letters and word of mouth conferring with your commissioners, requested and exhorted your Excellencies to be careful on your side for the managing and government of affairs of State and war, both within and without the Country: we are well assured, that if it be duly considered, and not with a passionate spirit, that none will judge otherwise, but that the said deceitful conveyance doth undoubtedly tend to the assured ruin of all the Netherlands and the inhabitants thereof. Your Excellencies do perceive, understand, and effectually feel what is past, and may easily judge of that which is still likely to ensue, so as we think it needless to writ more amply unto you of it: only we lovingly entreat, exhort, and earnestly request your Excellencies to remember the laudable reputation purchased by your predecessors certain hundreds of years past, which they have left unto us as a rule, which is, to be Protectors and defenders of the liberties and laws of the Netherlands in common, and of the members, towns, and inhabitants thereof in particular; and to consider whether the contents of the said idle and unworthy conveyance, and of the treaty which ensued it, doth agree with the duty, wherewith your Excellencies are tied, to your houses, estates, posterity, and especially to your Country. If so, (which we by no means think) we will pray unto God to enlighten your Excellencies, and to give you a better and clearer judgement: But if your Excellencies perceive that the said pretended conveyance (made for necessity, and to avoid a greater mischief) be deceitful and dishonourable, and as an infamous blot to the Netherlands: if likewise ye understand that the Spaniards and their adherents proceedings which have ensued thereupon, and are till now grown from bad to worse, both in affairs of state and war (as we know that the most of your Excellencies do) are preiudicious and intolerable; and so by consequence your Excellencies are not bound and tied to them, as repugnant to the common good, the laws and privileges of the Netherlands. If your Excellencies do likewise consider, that all forcible extremities, all prohibitions of trade and commerce, all devices and practices to entangle the Majesty of England and the united provinces, do more and more come to light, and are not only repugnant to this resolution, but bring forth clean contrary effects: That the treacherous attempts on the Towns and Castles of the French king, give great occasion to take speedy revenge: That libels and rhymes (wherewith they seek to make the French King and his affairs odious to the common people; and call in question the rightful successions of the Crowns of France and England) are but vain propositions, only tending to incense their Majesties; and that they go about in vain to raise tumult & sedition amongst the people of the Low-countries, considering that whilst they are at quiet, and live under obedience, their condition (thanks be to God) is an hundred times better and more safe than that of the common people under the king of Spain, and Archdukes; and that they have no occasion to distrust their lawful superiors or their actions: but on the contrary, the Spaniards, and Archdukes subjects (perceiving that all their affairs do daily impair) that the authority of the States, Prelates, Princes, Lords, Gentlemen, and towns of the Provinces both in general and particular are without any respect trodden underfoot: that they defend themselves only with strangers in contempt of all good Patriots: and that, not only in the chief garrisons, towns and forts, but generally in all matters (some few excepted) they seem to proceed formally and in appearance, the which without all question they will soon leave off, if they were once absolute Lords; so that the Provinces and people should not be only without trade, wealth, and navigation, but even the third part of the Inhabitants would be deprived of necessary means to live, the chief cities made Dove-coats, the Country villages ruined, and the people eaten and consumed to the very bones by soldiers, who are so badly paid, as mutiny in one place is no sooner quieted, but two worse than it breaks forth in another; so as it is to be feared, that in the end all will become desperate. In which regard, we entreat your Excellencies, effectually to embrace the necessary remedies, and so to handle the matter, as their Highnesses may be persuaded to depart from the Netherlands, and to procure themselves a more quiet and certain portion: for than it will be no hard matter for your Excellencies and us, to cause the Spaniards, and other strangers to follow them, and to enforce the greatest parts of their adherents, to become true Patriots and Countrymen. If any shall herein propound some impossibility, how that your Excellencies cannot safely take this course, let it please you to believe the contrary, videlicet, that if your Excellencies for six months will assist us with as much money, as the moiety of the ancient and ordinary taxation of Brabant, Flaunders, Artois, Haynault, Valenciennes, Lislie, Dovay, Orches, Tournesis, Tournay and M●lines amounts unto, and to lie still yourselves, respecting thei● Highnesses, or else to join with us, which we leave to your Excellency's choice and pleasure, we hope, by God's help, to bri●g things to such pass, as your Excellencies shall judge that there is likelihood of good success. And seeing that many honest people, dare not set themselves forward, but are in divers points irresolute, your Excellencies shall give such directions, both for government, and matters of Religion, as ye shall think fit and most expedient; and ye are not to suppose, but to be well assured that we will not attempt to do any thing to the contrary. Your Excellencies may likewise be assured that in an action so necessary, laudable and honourable, neither yourselves or us, shall want the aid and assistance of our neighbour's Kings, Princes, and common wealths. In which regard, we once again entreat your Excellencies, to forget all passion, suspicion, and bad conceits, and with us to embrace this present occasion, as the only means to settle the Low-Countries in their ancient glory, prosperity, peace, and quiet; not depending on pretended new forces, which cannot but cause great ruin and misery. If otherwise, we foresee, that miseries and mischiefs will grow greater than ever heretofore, from which, before the whole world we will clear ourselves.  
Whereupon, we beseech God, high, illustrious, honourable, noble, magnificent, learned, wise, and discreet Lords, friends, and neighbours, to inspire your Excellencies, with a desire tending to the common good of the netherlands Provinces, and prosperity of the true and honest Inhabitants thereof.  
From the Hague in haste this seventh of julie 1602, signed by Hero de Hottinga, and underneath, The true friends and neighbours of your Excellencies, The general States of the united netherlands Provinces. By their appointment, signed by C. Aerssens.  
So soon as all things which were thought necessary for this army were speedily prepared, and that certain Lords of the General States, and council of State, were appointed to be present with his Excellency, to assist him in all matters which might happen in the army, videlicet, from Holland the Burgomaster of Alcmaer whose name was Gerard Coorn: from Zealand, Albertus joachimi, counsellor and pensioner of Tergoes: from Vtrecht, Gerard de Renesse Lord of Ʋander Aa: from Frizeland, julius Essinga, and from Ouer-yssell Otto Roeck. The army was divided into three troops: The first was that of his Excellency, conducted by Count Ernest of Nassau, which commonly marched in the left wing: the second, by Count William of Nassau governor of Frizeland and Groeningue with whom was Count Henry of Nassau his Excellency's brother, who usually marched in the middle or battle: The third by Sir Francis Vere General of the English Regiments, who led the right wing. The horsemen were conducted by Count Lodowick of Nassau General of the cavalry, and with him the Lord Grace, who were likewise divided into three troops, each of which near to one of the foot troops. The wagons and carts were also divided into three parts, (the ordnance excepted) being twelve demi canons and three field pieces.  
The three and twentieth of june the Camp departed from a place called Little Linden, and marched in the foresaid order not one behind an other, but close together, being sometime separated half an hours journey from one an other, and sometimes less, and was quartered the same day at Sambeer, Mullem, and Oploo.  
The four and twentieth at Bleyterwick, Meerle, and Venroy: the five and twentieth, at Baecken near to Venlo, Brey and Zevenum: the six and twentieth, at Bingenum near to Remunde, Baxen and Heilhuyse: the seven and twentieth, at Aldeneyck near to Masieres, Gestinghen, and Ophoven. The Reader may consider that by the first mentioned places, are meant the quarters of his Excellency's troop, the second of Count William, and the third of General Vere.  
The eight and twentieth, nine and twentieth, and thirtieth of june, and first of july, the whole camp remained in the said places, setting up mills to grind, and ovens to bake, and making other provision in the town of Masieres. The second of july, the army marched in the same order, and quartered at Lent and thereabout. The 3 day, (leaving Mastricht on the left hand) at Gellick, Moperdingen, and Eygenbilsen.  
The fourth at S. Heeren-Elderen, Heins, and near to Tongren, where it stayed.  
The fifth and sixth at Gelmen, Hopperdingen and Rijckel, near S. Torns: the seventh, all the troops lodged together at Halmael near S. Trons.  
The Archduke having assembled his army beyond the town of Thyenen, under conduct of the admiral of Arragon, at a place called Hackelduyvel, entrenched and fortified his camp with Rampires and Bulwarks well fenced with ordnance.  
His Excellency on the eight of july, with a great part of his horse and foot (leaving the rest in arms together with the wagons and baggage at Halmael) crossed a small river called Dormaele, and a village in Brabant called Nerelant, leaving Lovayn on the right hand, and went even in sight of the enemy's camp, sending some of his horsemen to a little river called the Get, not far from the enemy's Camp, to view and to try whether there were any likelihood to draw him from his place of advantage to battle. But perceiving that he did not stir, his Excellency and men after some stay on an high place, having showed themselves to the enemy, returned to his Camp at Halmaell, where he continued the ninth day, the enemy not once coming abroad: and want of victuals enforcing his Excel. to abide there no longer, and perceiving that the enemy was strongly entrenched, having with them certain Italian troops newly arrived, amounting in all to the number of 20 thousand men, together with 18 piece of ordnance, he resolved to do that which should be most commodious for himself; the difficulties of the passages and bad ways were propounded, the number of wagons being very great, and the labour to journey greater with such a carriage.  
They found the towns and villages of the country of Liege very unwilling to give them bread for money, and there were so many men and horse in the army as sufficient forage could not be found for them; corn could not be ripe in a fortnight or three weeks: they came likewise too late to hinder the Italians from joining with the admiral: whereupon they resolved to besiege some town of importance: some propounded antwerp, but their necessary provisions were not ready for such an attempt. In the end they resolved to turn back and besiege the town of Grave, and there to attend the admiral's army. Thereupon, his Excellency departed the next day being the tenth of the said month, in the self same order as before, towards Aix, and places near adjoining. The heat of that day was so intolerable, as many soldiers (though the journeys were not long) died of faintness by the way, and others were so weak as they were enforced to tarry behind, yet in the cool of the evening they came to the camp, the enemy in all the march giving no alarms to our men either by day or night.  
The 11 day, the heat continued, so as his Excellency stirred not that day, but refreshed his army.  
The 12, the army lodged upon the heath before the town of Hasselt.  
The thirteenth, at Helchteren, the fourteenth, at Lille, the fifteenth, at Hees, where his Excellency sent a trumpet to the enemy's soldiers at Eyndhoven, commanding them to depart thence, which was done.  
The 16, the army lodged before Helmont & Stiphent, and upon refusal to depart which the enemy's garrison in Helmont Castle made, his Excellency commanded a volley of six canon to play upon it, whereupon, they presently capitulated and went thence.  
The 17, the army rested at Vden, the 18, at cassel, Esteren, reckon, and Whelp, and at last before the town of Grave, which his Excellency besieged and took, as shall appear in the following description.   

¶ The siege and taking of the town of Grave in the land of Cuyck, in anno 1602.  
HIs Excellency according to the resolution of the General States, brought his army before the town of Grave, the chief City of the land of Cuyck, seated in Brabant upon the Maze: in former time it belonged to Guelderland, but was afterward reduced under the government of Brabant, being engaged to Maximilian of Egmont Count of Buren. The Prince of Orange of happy memory mariying his daughter, bought it together with all that depended thereon, and enjoyed it a long time: but after the pacification of Gand, certain Almain troops lying in garrison there for the Spaniards, were driven thence by the Prince's forces together with the help of the Burghers.  
The Prince of Parma did afterwards besiege it in anno 1586, unto whom, the Lord of Hemert delivered it up. Since then, the town being strong by nature, was better fortified with Bulwarks, Ravelins, and Counterscarps, and is now one of the strongest places of the Netherlands. Antonio Gozales the Spaniard was Governor there, who fearing and expecting a siege, D. Inigo d'Otaiola a very skilful Captain, brought force's thither, most of them being Italians and Spaniards with some Germane Companies, under command of Pangus Gallais of Tiroll, Lieutenant to Colonel Tyssing, amounting to the number of one thousand and five hundred men, beside the Burghers: the town was well stored with ordnance, munition, and victuals.  
His Excellency being come before the town, disposed his quarters after this manner: himself encamped on the West side of the town on the banks of the Maze, on which a bridge was made of two hundred and thirty paces in length: Count William lay on the South side of the town, and the English under General Vere on the West side, where another bridge was likewise made over the river, whither divers boats came presently forth of Holland laden with victuals and all other necessaries for a siege. In the mean time news was brought that the admiral of Arragon, had broken up his camp at Thynen, and was coming with 20000 horse and foot into the Country of Liege, and from thence to Ruremond and Venlo, with an intent, by one means or other, to relieve the Grave. Whereupon, his Excellency spent some time in fortifying his camp abroad, especially on that side where it was most likely the enemy would come.  
And the whole circuit of the camp round about the Town on both sides the Maze (partly by reason of the Marshes, and partly to enclose certain high and eminent places which were not fit to be left abroad lest the enemy should seize on them and thereby give some advantage) was wholly entrenched, and fortified with Sconces and palisadoes. Batteries were likewise made upon the principal ways, where ordnance was planted.  
Certain engines were likewise directed to give signals by fire, that the quarters might in the night advertise one another, if any alarm should be given.  
All the time, from the six and twentieth of julie, till the 3 of August, was spent in these fortifications and works, which were very great and many. But then, in the Evening, the musters being taken, and certain wagons and horse for draft sent away, they began to make their approaches.  
The admiral, in the mean time, tarried near Venlo, making show as if he meant to cross the Maze, to go to besiege Rhynberck, thereby to draw his Excellency from the Grave, who in time prevented him, sending his cousin Count Ernest of Nassau with sixteen foot companies thither. The admiral having notice hereof, departed from Venlo, and by easy journeys came on slowly, putting men into the town of Gennep, which belonged to the Duke of Cleves.  
The tenth of julie, he lodged at great linden, within half an hours journey of his Excellency's quarter and there encamped, drawing his Camp forth in length as far as the Maze (where he made a bridge) and Heumen Castle, which he took and fortified, entrenching his camp before, and planting divers canons.  
The Garrison of Grave had at times made sallies upon the approaches, but very slowly at first; yet after they perceived succours, they came forth with greater fury, as on the thirteenth day in the morning by day break, having first made some signal by fire, so as it was thought that the enemy would have assailed the camp, but nothing was done: whereupon, the enemy was beaten back into the town with great los●e, and with little or none at all on our side.  
The fifteenth day, the enemy did again make show to assail our camp, whereupon, the town garrison made a furious sally upon the English Quarter, and was again beaten back: in this skirmish we lost an English Captain.  
In the mean time the enemy's soldiers (namely the Italians) did in great troops come and yield themselves to his Excellency in regard of the great want and misery they endured, and told him that the admiral approached with his ordnance near to his Excellency's Quarter, on which he meant continually to shoot, and thereby enforce him to dislodge: upon this advertisement divers fortifications were made, whereby this mischief was prevented.  
The twentieth day at night the enemy made some shot from a far off, both upon the bridge over the Maze, and into his Excellency's Quarter, hurting two or three men, and within a while after he began to dislodge his troops, who carried ladders, spades, mattocks, and other preparations with them, coming down to our trenches betwixt two sconces which stood in the midst betwixt his Excellencies and Count William of nassau's quarters, intending as it seemed there to break in, and attempt to put forces into the town. But considering that his Excellency stood on his guard and that all his men were in arms, he presently retired in great fear, and attempted nothing leaving certain ladders and tools behind him, which our men took and brought to their quarter.  
This attempt being vain, the admiral without sound of trumpet or drum departed thence in the night, and marched towards Cuyck, which his Excellency perceiving, the next morning, would presently have followed him, but was stayed by a thick mist which arose, whereby the enemy had sufficient time to get far enough.  
After his departure a rumour was spread, how that he was gone to Rhynberck, whereupon Count Ernest was sent thither again the second time, and yet nothing ensued: for the enemy remained near Venlo, attempting to put a garrison into it, which the townsmen for a time refused, in regard of the disorder which soldiers usually do commit where they once are masters.  
The ninth of September, the General States whose names here follow, departed from the Hague, and on the eleventh day, arrived at his Excellency's Camp before Grave: The Lord john of Renesse Lord of Wulp: the Lord john of Oldenbarneuelt Lord Temple: Cornelis Frans Wits Burgomaster of Dort: Arent Meynertsz Burgomaster of Harlem: jacob Ʋander Dussen Burgomaster of Delft: Gerart Keg eling Burgomaster of Ter Goude: Bartholt de Vloswijck Burgomaster of Rotterdam: Nicolas jacob Simons Burgomaster of Horn: Albertus joachimi of Zealand: the Lord Hottinga of Frizeland: Doctor Scherf of Ouer-yssell. john Reingers ten post of Gronningue and the Ommelands: Corneillis Aerssens the Register: And of the Council of State, jacob Boelejz of Amsterdam: Ferdinand Alleman of Zealand, Ecko Everts Boner's of Frizeland, Lauwijck of Ouer-yssell, George de Buy treasurer, and Christiern Huygens Secretary.  
After the enemy's departure our men on every side approached the town, the counterscarp being even with his Excellency's quarter, so as our men partly by galleries made overthwart the dikes, and partly by undermining, mounted the chief bulwark in Equal height with the town Rampires.  
From Count William's quarter the galleries stretched to the midst of the chief town dike: and the English were come as far as the enemy's fortification on that side, being ready to assail it and make themselves masters of the chief dikes. Those in the town perceiving this, and considering that succours failed them, did on the eighteenth day send a drum to crave a parley, whereupon, hostages were sent from both sides, and on the 19 day an accord was made in form following.  

FIrst, that the Governor, Captains, officers, and soldiers both horse and foot, together with sick people, shall come forth of the town, with their horse, arms, baggage, and goods, ensigns displayed, drum beating, match in cock, and bullets in their mouths.  
Secondly, for better carrying away of their baggage, sick and wounded men, his Excellency shall lend them one hundred and fifty wagons as far as Diest.  
3 They shall leave two Captains as hostages, for assurance of the return of the said wagons, horse and wagoners.  
4 His Excellency will give them passport and convoy to carry them safely to Diest.  
5 Those soldiers which have in former time served the States shall enjoy the benefit of this treaty, like other soldiers of the said garrison.  
6 That all prisoners shall be released on both sides, of what estate or condition soever, in paying their charges.  
7 The King's officers both of war and justice, shall freely depart with their baggage: such as cannot follow the troops, it shall be lawful for them to tarry longer in the Town, and at their departure, boats shall be lent them to Mastricht: Provided, that they give caution for them.  
8 That all officers of victuals, warlike munition, and ordnance, shallbe bound to deliver the said victuals, munition and ordnance, to such Commissioners as his Excellency shall appoint to receive them, without diminishing or wasting any of them, or else this treaty to be broken.  
9 The Governor shall promise to be a means to their Highnesses, that what the Magistrates and Burghers of the said Town have lent to the said governor, Captains and Soldiers, may be presently repaid.  
10 The said Governor, Captains, officers and soldiers, shall depart the next day, which if it cannot be so soon, the said Governor shall suffer two thousand men, whom his Excellency will appoint, to enter the Castle and Bulwark behind it.  
Granted in the Camp before the Town of Grave the nine & twentieth of September 1602.   
According to this agreement, the enemy, on the twentieth of September, went his way, and gave place to our men: their number was eight hundred, beside two hundred that were hurt: The Church being cleansed and purified from superstitious images, divine service and a Sermon was made there after the manner of the reformed Churches, with Prayers and thanks giving to God in the great Church, in presence of his Excellency, the general States and other Lords, on the two and twentieth of September being Sunday. Upon the eight and twentieth of the said month, a solemn Sermon and exhortation was made in the same Church, about the inauguration and reception of his Excellency, as Lord of the town of Grave, and land of Cuyck, the which after the sermon, was presently solemnized in the market place, before all the people. And after that, order was taken for keeping of the town, (whereof the Baron of Sidnisky was made Governor) and for the government and fortifying thereof, the Camp was dissolved on the last of September: his Ex. returned to the Hague, and the soldiers were sent to their garrisons.  

A supplication, together with the points and articles of reconciliation of the town of Grave, with his Excellency Count Maurice of Nassau, as Lord of the town, and general of the army of the united Provinces.  
His Excellency having well viewed and considered these points, together with the Lords general States of the united Provinces, hath granted and disposed of them, according as is here noted upon every article.  
FIrst, a general Pardon of what soever is past, from his Excellency and the said Lords States, in behalf of the Burghers and inhabitants of this town, both those that are gone away from thence, and those that remain still, as well for matters of religion, administration of offices, as otherwise without any exception: no man to be punished or taxed for any thing heretofore done. And therefore his Excellency in quality abovesaid, shall take the burghers and inhabitants of this town, aswell ecclesiastical as civil into his protection, and as their Lord, use them with all love and gentleness.  
His Excellency grants this demand.  
Secondly, confirmation, and continuation of the towns privileges, in the same manner as before the troubles, and afterwards during the life of my Lord the Prince of Orange (of happy memory) his Excellency's father, and Lord of the town.  
His Excellency doth likewise grant his request.  
Thirdly, that all religious persons both men and women without exception, together with the burghers and Catholic inhabitants, may have the exercise of their religion, without any molestation, so long as they live peaceably: and to this end, they crave the Church of the new covent called S. Mary's Sepulchre to be given them; to the end that matrimony and Christening be not taken from the Catholics.  
For this matter, the suppliants shall in all equity be dealt with, as the other inhabitants of the united Provinces.  
Fourthly, that the old and new Nuns, as also the crossed Friars of S. Agathas Cloister may remain there still, and live in quiet, enjoying their revenues, both patrimonial goods, and Church livings, the same to be likewise granted to all Ecclesiastical persons of both Chapters being in this town, who are willing to remain there, among whom the Parson of the town, who is newly come thither, to be comprehended.  
This shallbe granted in the same manner as the former article.  
Fiftly, because divers companies of this Garrison, who are already gone, are greatly indebted to the Burghers of this town, leave may be granted them six months after the date of these presents, to procure their payment in the Archdukes Country, and to return again to the town, without craving any passport for that purpose: and if any of them shall need longer time, he shall then crave a particular passport of the towns Governor, whom his Excellency shall appoint: The same also to be promised to the officers of the receipt, that they may make up their accounts in Court and there clear their businesses.  
His Excellency granteth this demand, provided, it be done with consent of the Governor, and Magistrates of the town.  
Sixtly, that it may be lawful for all Ecclesiastical persons and others, who after the conclusion of this treaty are desirous to depart hence, and to dwell elsewhere, to do so the three years next ensuing, if it so seem good unto them, with their goods and families, not craving any passport to that end, but only this present treaty, and such as are willing to dwell in the champain Country, or in any neutral town, may likewise freely and without any impediment return hither, to take order for their goods movable and immovable, and to dispose and alienate them at their pleasure, either by themselves, or such as they shall appoint.  
This demand is granted.  
Seventhly, in regard this is a frontier town confining the country of Cleves & Ravesteyn, where the imposts of Holland have no force, such taxations not being to be laid on this town without manifest ruin thereof, especially now when the Burghers have been charged with intolerable Garrisons, and hindered by this siege: It may please his Excellency to free the said poor and desolate commonalty especially so long as it shall be a frontier town, from the said general impositions of Holland thereby to cause the inhabitants, to continue their residence there.  
My Lords the General States will take order for this, according to equity.  
Eightly, and to this end it may please his Excellency, according to the decree of Holland, to lodge the horse and foot Garrison, in the void places, now, or hereafter to be made upon the towns Rampires or elsewhere, to the ease of the poor burghers, seeing that till now, all officers and most part of the Garrison have been lodged and entertained at the expense of the Court, which hath therein spent within these 14 years more than 200000 Florins, in compassion of the small means and ability of the poor people.  
Orders shall be taken herein according to reason.  
Ninthly, that no inhabitants of the united Provinces of what estate or condition soever, claiming any debts or personal actions of the body of this town, or any particular burgher, shall (in regard of the towns poverty) commence any suits against them till two years next ensuing be expired.  
We will proceed herein as in the former article.  
Tenthly, all those are likewise to be comprehended in this agreement, who for the towns service, or their own particular affairs, are any where absent.  
His Excellency grants this request.  
eleventhly, the gardens near to the town dikes, and other places which of right belong unto it, which have been granted from the Court, shall remain to the true owners.  
The grants shall be seen, and order taken therein according to justice.  
Made in the Camp before the town of Grave the 18 of September 1602. This done, his Excellency with all solemnity was received into the town, as Lord of the land of Cuyck.    

¶ Certain instituted bands are defeated by the Captains, du Bois and Bacx; together with a description of a journey, which our men made into the Country of Luxembourg under conduct of Count Lodowick of Nassau.  
WIthin a while after his Excellency had taken the town of Grave, the Captains, du Bois and Bacx, did on the first of October depart with their Cavalry forth of the Garrisons of Breda, Berghen, and Gertrudenbergh, being in all fourteen Cornets, intending to make an attempt in Haynault, watching a time when the mutineers were gone into Brabant, and the Archduke returned from his camp at Venlo and Thoren.  
Being come to Bilsen within three miles near to Mastricht, they understood that eight troops of horse which had been to convey the Archduke, were not far from thence: the said troops were bands of institution belonging to the Earls, Mansfelt, Buren, Bucquoy, Beaurie, and others, with three Cornets of Walons and three of Italians.  
These were in the nightenuironed in two villages where they lay; the guards were set upon, and part of them slain, the rest fled, and others were taken prisoners: the Captains were not there, five Cornets were taken, and one was burnt in a Church: they found a good booty there, videlicet, five hundred horse saddles and two hundred prisoners. The Cornets were brought to the Hague, and hung up in the Hall for a perpetual remembrance. Chalon, bastard to Renatus of Chalon of the house of Nassau, escaped: This being done, our Captains with their horsemen returned to their Garrisons.  
In November following, the united netherlands Provinces resolved to make a journey into Luxembourg, under conduct of Count Lodowick Gunther of Nassau, with 33 Cornets of horse and 1000 foot, under the Colonels edmond's, Ghistelles, Dommer ville, & Marquette, there were 200 French, 200 English, 200 Scots, 200 Almans, and 200 Dutch, making up in all the number of 1000 foot, with three field pieces, and 50 wagons, for the munition four, one for every Colonel, and the rest for the horsemen.  
These, on the third of November, departed from Nieumeghen, and went to Keppelen and Bedbourg: the fourth day, they lodged at Niewkerke and Oldkerke near Wachtendonck: the fifth, at Grevenraet in the Duchy of juliers: the sixth, at juggen, from whence certain troops went to take in S. Vit: the seventh, they lodged at Renghen: the eighth, at Zeverwijck: the ninth of November at Blommendaell, where they had intelligence that their men had failed in their attempt upon S. Vit: the tenth, all the troops came before S. Vit, and lodged at Meve-dorpe, and the same night approached the Town, Colonel Marquet commanding the troops.  
The eleventh day, those of S. Vit began to parley, and an accord was made, that the soldiers of the garrison, both horse and foot, should depart thence with their arms and baggage, and should swear not to bear arms for the space of two months in the Country of Luxembourg, this was accomplished, and the Burghers compounded for reasonable ransom.  
The twelfth, they marched forward, and lodged at julligh: the thirteenth, they came before Bastoigne: the 14, they still remained there, and Captain Marcelis Bacx was sent to S. Hubert's, burning the Country all along: the fifteenth, they went from Bastoigne, and lodged at Housnegen or Hardengue: the 16, at Pedro-dorf near Dechery, where Dommer vile, the same night, began his approaches, and the next day, the Burghers compounded for a reasonable ransom: from whence certain horse were sent to demand contributions as far as Luxembourg, being conducted by Captain Cloet: The 18, 19, and 20 of November, they remained at Vitterdorf, Wolset or Walset, and on the one and twentieth marched towards Dopwiell: the 22, at Andanach in juliers, the 23, at Gheldorp, & there rested the four & twentieth day, whither the troops which had been at S. Vit, viz. 50 horse, and 200 foot came to them.  
The 25 and 26 they lodged at Korcum, the seven and twentieth at Nedertzier, the eight and twentieth and nine and twentieth at Wanlor, the thirtieth of November, the troops of Brabant divided themselves, and went to Grave, and the rest went to Couborch, and the second of December to Nieumeghen: Thus in a months space they overran the whole country without any resistance enforcing it to contribute, because the Governor Count Peter Ernest of Mansfelt had commanded that no contributions should be paid, whereupon our men burned divers houses and villages, none being found to ransom them. The Archduke sent forces to stop their journey, but wanting money they stayed by the way, consuming and wasting the country as enemies. Count Lodowick brought away many prisoners, gentlemen, and boors, and among others the Abbot of S. Haberts': they all paid ransom. This voyage ended, every man returned to his winter Garrison.   

¶ A description of a fight at Sea betwixt seven of the State's men of war, and six Spanish Galleys, the third and fourth of October Anno 1602.  
THe States of the united netherlands Provinces did under command of the admiral Opdam, send forth certain warlike vessels to serve the Queen of England: four of them were commanded to wait for six Galleys which D. Frederico Spinola brought from Spain to join with the rest that lay at Sluice in Flaunders.  
These were the names of the Galleys under Spinola, the first the admiral S. Lewis whose Captains name was Cardinalin, and in her an other Captain called Castalis d' Avila with a company of soldiers: The second, S. john, in which Vergas was Vice-Admerall, and in her two Captains with companies of soldiers: The third, Padilla, the captains name was Hasso, and in her an other Captain with a company of Portugal soldiers: The fourth, lafoy Lucera, and the captains name Calliado, with other companies of Portugal soldiers and Captains: The fifth, S. Philip, and in her D. Rodrigo de Naroys' Captain of a company: The sixth, S jacento, and in her Lewis de Camours with an other company of soldiers, so as there were in all nine ensigns, videlicet, two of Spaniards, and seven of Portugals, to the number of nine hundred men, beside one thousand and five hundred slaves, every Galley carried three brass pieces and no more. And notwithstanding that the Hollanders were advertified of the coming of these Galleys, yet the Lord of Opdam was upon necessity constrained to go for victuals into Holland, leaving the vice-Admerall john Adrian Cant for General in his ship called the moon, accompanied with Gerbrant jansz Saell of Horn in a ship of 4 hundred run called Bansome together with Captain Henry Hartman in the Lioness of Rotterdam, and Gerbant jansz in the hope of Enchuysen. These were appointed by the Queen to go towards the West parts, but were stayed to meet with these Galleys; one of the Queen's ships called the Hope under the command of Sir Robert Mansell, with her Pinnace called the Advantage under Captain jonas, were likewise commanded to wait for these Galleys. These concluded that the vice-Admerall Cant and Captain Gerbrant Adriansz Sael should lie at anchor in the downs, where an other of the Queen's ships lay called the Answer, under Captain Breadgate: Sir Robert Mansell and his Pinnace lay at Sea betwixt Dover and calais, and not far from them the other two Hollanders.  
Lying thus in wait, Sir Robert Mansell on the third of October about noon, descried the Galleys, and they him; but the air being misty, they sought to creep along the coast of England, or if the worst should come to pass, perceiving that the two Hollanders lay near them, they intended to board and take them, for the prisoners confessed afterward, that they did not respect two or three men of war: Yet it seemed that they were afraid of the Queen's ships, for they turned back hoping in the night to pass on along the coast of Dunkirk or Niewport. Sir Robert perceiving this, sent his Pinnace towards calais and the coast of Flaunders, to warn the Hollanders to stand upon their guard, and to stop the galleys passage: He likewise did his best skill to keep them in sight, the like did the two Hollanders, who were nearer betwixt him and the Galleys; and thus they gave them chase till sun set: Then did the Galleys set sail again, so as the two Hollanders were behind them. Sir Robert Mansell observing their course, and assured that they would fall into the hands of the other two Hollanders, and the Queen's ships, which lay in the downs, he shaped his course towards the coasts of France, that he might get before them ere they should recover Flaunders, still bending his course towards the Sands called Goeyingen to meet with them there. The Queen's ship, and the two Hollanders Cant and Sael having descried the Galleys, made up towards them, and fiercely began to shoot: but the weather being calm, the galleys outstripped the ships; but within a while after, a strong gale blew from the north-east, and then the Hollanders with full sail gave them chase two or three hours long. The galleys were come so near Dover rocks, as divers Turkish slaves found means to break their chains, and leaping into the Sea, escaped by swimming, and so freed themselves from their bondage. Sir Robert Mansel, being near to Goeyingen, espied a galley making away a pace, and coming within musket shot of her, he discharged thirty piece of ordnance upon it, whose Masts he broke in pieces, and heard a lamentable cry in her: This done, he saw the other five galleys coming up towards him, on whom he made many shot, and suffered them to pass on, thinking it rashness and indiscretion to suffer himself to be boarded with so many galleys at once. The four Hollanders followed them fair and softly, and being come near Gravelling about ten of the clock at night, Gerbrant jansz-sael of Horn, with his ship of four hundred tun, encountered one of the galleys called lafoy Lucera which with full fail he boarded on the larboard side, so as the poor slaves were in water up to the middle, crying out for mercy, not making any resistance: then the said Sael discharged two demie canon, carrying bullets of fourteen pound weight, with which he flew and hurt many. A French Pilot being in the galley, whose name was john Evout, borne at Niew-haven, did, unseen, get aboard the Hollander, and so saved his own life. In this encounter, the galley lost her sails and oars, and had her Helm broken in pieces, whereby she became unserviceable. Captain Sael used all means to clear himself from her, fearing to be over priest with the multitudes that were in her, and in the end came clearly off, having lost some of his sail. Then did Captain Hartmans ship board the said galley the second time, thinking that he was the first, and saved some forty of the men, and then fell off. After this, Captain Sael boarded her again, sending five of his men aboard, but perceiving, by the lamentable cries of those that were in her, that she sank, he took in his own men, and for fear of farther danger would save no more of them, this was about midnight, and they continued near the galley, till they could no longer see her mast above water.  
john Adriansz Cant the Vice-Admeral, did likewise encounter the Galley called Padilla, which he overran and drowned, and did great hurt to an other.  
Captain Gertsz Everts, and jacob Peter's Niele, with other ships that kept guard, hearing the report of the Canon, made up towards them likewise, and boarded this Galley and the rest: but fearing to be endangered by them, they only saved some few, to the number of two hundred and no more. The rest of the Galleys being near the shore, made no resistance but sought all means to escape. The admiral ran on ground near to the land of Schouwe, being pursued by a ship beyond West cappel, which gave her over thinking it would perish by foul weather. But General Spinola that was in her, behaved himself so courageously, flinging many things overboard, and promising freedom to the slaves, as at last he arrived with his Galley at Dunkirk, an other came safely to Calais, whose men ran away: two others that were fore bruised by the canon ran on ground on the coasts of Flaunders and there perished: Those two which were encountered by the admiral Cant and Sael perished. Cant made relation of what he had done in Holland: Gerbrant Sael of Enchuysen and Hartman did theirs in Zealand to Lord jaques Maldre who examined the French Pilot and others, sending them into Holland, where honour was already done to the Captain that first brought the news. The English Captains likewise were much discontented, for that they had no share in the honour, saying they were the first that had discovered, and endangered the Galleys, chase and bringing them up to the Hollanders. Of these eight galleys belonging to Spinola, wherewith he thought to have tormented these Countries, two of them were burnt in Portugal, two were drowned, and four ran on ground: Herein we may consider God's judgements, for these Galleys were the self same, to which divers mariners of the low Countries had been condemned. There is one thing among others worthy to be noted, how that in Captain Saels' ship who first boarded the Galley called Lucera, the French Pilot saved himself, who was a very honest man, and had been three years a slave in that Galley and others, in great misery and wretchedness, coming with his ship into Spain, which together with his goods were confiscate, and himself and men put into the Galleys, and shaven like Turkish slaves. This Pilot had here experience of God's vengeance for all the misery he had endured, seeing the galley wherein he had been a slave, to sink, and Captain Callido who had tyrannized over him, to have both his legs shot off, of which hurt he died in Captain Hartmans ship. This Pilot was a proper man, tall, and strong, and could not be set at liberty for any ransom, till the accord made with the admiral of Arragon, to exchange prisoners on each side, at which time he was freed in company of others. D. Frederico Spinola saved the greatest part of his treasure, which was thought to amount to two hundred thousand Ducats, which he presently caused to be coined at Antuerp with the Archdukes stamp, and with it, paid the remainder of his soldiers.   

¶ A rehearsal of what passed betwixt Spinolas Galleys and certain of the States men of war, on the 25 of May 1603.  
Don Frederick Spinola, General of the galleys having undertaken to chase away the States men of war which guarded the mouth of the Sluice, came forth with eight galleys, on the sixth and twentieth of May in the morning by day break, anno 1603, the wind being West, and sailed Eastward betwixt the sand shelves, called Pol Francis and the firm land, and from thence Westward of the said mouth. Certain of the States men of war did usually keep guard thereabouts, viz. the vice-Admerall of Zealand Ioost le More, who commanded under the admiral the Lord of Holtain, with his ship called the golden Lion, and Captain Logier Pieterzs, with his his ship named the Sea Dog; there was likewise the black galley of Holland commanded by jacob Machielz, together with the galley of Zealand, called the Arrow, commanded by Cornellis jans of Gordum. A little further off under the wind, lay an other ship, whose master was Crijn Henrick of Ziriczee called the old Sea Dog, commanding as Captain. In the vice-Admeralls ship, and Galley of Zealand, and in either of them were 18 English musketeers of Flushing, but in the 2 other ships & black galley of Holland were no musketeers, but only their ordinary men. Spinola in his 8 galleys and other Frigates, besides his ordinary men, had great numbers of musketeers, sent from the camp before Ostend.  
These ships of Zealand with the two Galleys, perceiving that Spinola came forth, did presently set sail, bearing up against the wind towards the West: Spinolas men had a westerly wind, and the sun for advantage, and passed on to the Northward athwart the Zelanders, coming to Wieling, where by five a clock in the morning both sides divide themselves, and so the Galleys in good order, and with great cries approached the Zealanders: two Galleys, in one of which Spinola was, boarded the vice-Admerall Ioost le More; four other Galleys did the like to Captain Logier Peter, and the Galley of Holland was set upon by the rest of the Galleys: Having thus for a while fought with their ordnance, two of the four Galleys which had boarded Captain Logier did likewise set upon the Galley of Zealand; then the other two forsook Legiers ship, and fought with the Galley of Holland: one of these two last forsook the black Galley, and came to the rescue of the two others, which boarded the vice-Admerall Ioost le More, piercing one an other with canon shot.  
The other ship wherein was Crijn Henrick could not come up to fight through want of wind, but did her best in shooting at the Galleys, which boarded the Vice-Admerall and the black galley. This fight of galleys continued a long time against ships not accustomed to such fight; there being eight galleys and four frigates of the enemies, against two ships and two galleys of ours. Yet Spinolas galleys fearing that the Zelanders might be seconded, and themselves having received much loss in their men, slaves, and oars, despairing of the victory, did in great disorder retreat to the Sluice mouth: Among their slain men was general Spinola having received many wounds: he was of the family of Spinola in Genoa, a man of great reach and means: There were slain in this fight eight hundred musketeers, soldiers, mariners, and slaves, and many were wounded: yet the certain number could not be known.  
Of the Zelanders thirty six were slain, and 60 hurt, their ships and galleys being of better proof than the enemies. Among the dead, was Captain jacob Michiels' of the black galley and his Lieutenant: of the thirty and six English musketeers, eight were slain and sixteen hurt: among the wounded was the Vice-Admerall Ioost le More having received three dangerous wounds, the like befell Captain Legier Peter, but both of them were afterwards healed.  
During the fight, the report of the Canon was heard to Flushing: the admiral of Zealand, the Lord of Haultain, presently manned four men of war and a Fregat, making all possible haste to the Sluice mouth, but the Spanish Galleys, ere they could arrive, were gotten in: Whereupon, our men gave public thanks to God, attributing all praise to him: For without all question, this was a valiant act, with so few vessels and men to beat eight Galleys, and four Frigates so well manned and provided: The Zelanders in memory hereof, stamped silver and brass coin, having on the one side two ships and two Galleys, with this circumspription: Laedunt triremes navibus 1603: and on the other side, the Spanish Galleys, with this circumscription, victae perempto Spinola 16 Maij. Our ships being well manned will no more fear Galleys, although the Sea be calm, as well appeareth by this Sea fight.   

¶ The taking of Cadzand and Ysendike, with the siege and yielding up of Sluice, in anno 1604.  
AT the beginning of the year 1604, the States of the united Provinces resolved to seek out the enemy in his own Country, and to enter Flaunders, hoping to raise the siege of Ostend: Hereupon, they commanded all Captains to make their companies complete, giving forth new commissions to levy 1500 Swisses, and 2000 other footmen.  
His Excellency of Nassau, espying a fit time and occasion, sent commandment to all his forces to meet him at Willem-Stat, on the twentieth of April with such number of boats as should be needful for such an attempt: Thither came Count William, Count Ernest Cazimir, and Count Lodowick Gunther, brethren, of the house of Nassau, together with Count Henry Frederick, general of the horse.  
The troops being shipped, departed on the day appointed from Willem-State towards Zealand, whither, on the four and twentieth of April, his Excellency likewise went, accompanied by the Prince of Anhalt, Count Adolph of Nassau, together with the Commissioner of the general States, and Council of State, who were there present to farther the enterprise.  
The five and twentieth of April, in the Morning, the whole fleet, consisting of infinite numbers of boats, sailed from Zealand to Flaunders, where at the passage or entry called Het Swartegat, they landed in Cadsand, where, in two days, they took all the Forts. And if at their first arrival they had entered the Sluice mouth, they might with little labour have taken the Town, and peradventure by such speed, raised the siege of Ostend; for at their landing, those of Bruges had no forces in their Town, but whilst his Excellency landed his men, and was busied in taking in the small forts of Cadzand, those of Bruges made such haste, as Spinola, from the camp before Ostend, sent one thousand footmen to a place called Swint, and from Wateruliet sent Triwlcio with five hundred horse, to stop the passage at the Sluice mouth, notwithstanding that on the six and twentieth and seven and twentieth days, we used a means to pass on, chase the galleys towards Sluice. So as his Excellency being out of hope to pass, and determining only to assure the Country of Cadzand, a Boor told him, that by fetching a compass towards the eastside of the Sluice, he might enter Flaunders, and showed him, the same night, a fit place to go to Oostburch, but there he met with the enemy's horse and foot troops, which made him think that there was some passage: whereupon, on the 29 day, he sent certain bands thither, which skirmished with the enemies, putting them to rout, who in the flight showed our men the way to pass; and on the thirtieth day, in the Morning, his Excellency went thither, and crossing the water, took a piece of the causey near to Coxie, where certain men of Sluice, who meant to have made a fort there, were beaten, & some 30 of them taken prisoners, & the rest put to flight: those of the fort of Coxie did likewise yield on composition, opening by this means, contrary to our expectation, away to enter into Flaunders, putting us in hope of good success, notwithstanding that the Country round about was much broken. Prince Maurice, on May day, marched with a great part of his army to Saint catherin's Fort, and sent for ordnance to batter it: but because there was a spring tie that day, and the waters were very high, it was afternoon ere the Canon was brought, so as all that day he remained in battle near the fort. In Saint Catherines fort, beside certain soldiers commanded by Count Trivulcio, were many burghers and boors surnamed Keurlingen; these are voluntary mercenaries levied about Gaunt: who having no quarter nor promise to be ransomed, if they were taken, his Excellency (to terrify them) commanded that none of them should be taken prisoners, but all slain, and though this did daunt many of them, yet they held out that day: and one of their Ensign bearers did pass too and fro on the Rampires, erecting his Ensign on the breach, to the great encouragement of his fellows: who were likewise heartened for that Count Trivulcio who had been at Wateruliet with certain troops of horse, came and encamped with them below the fort, where he entrenched himself, and planted two field pieces to play upon his Excellency's troops. But his Excellency having the same after noon received nine piece of ordnance, he played six hours long upon the said fort, and on Trivulcio his troops, more to show he had ordnance, than for any hope he had to win the fort, because the enemy grew wilful and obstinate, making show of defence: And therefore despairing to do any good there, he commanded his Gunners to shoot till the evening, and then to remove the ordnance, and carry it back again to Cad●and.  
By the way, one of the canons by chance sank into a bog: whereupon the mariners and those that had charge of it, did, with great noise and stir, their best to recover it, unwilling to receive such a disgrace as to lose a piece of ordnance. Those of S. Catherines fort were amazed, thinking that they went about to plant their ordnance some where else; and likewise the horse finding no fitter way to return, than under the forts trenches, made those within it to believe that his Excellency had received more men, with them to intercept their way to Philip's sconce: whereupon, Trivulcio with his troops and those Keurlingen or Boors, who were many, did all of them in amazement retire to Philip's sconce, and from thence to Isendike, abandoning S. Catherines fort, and by the way left some sixty soldiers in Philip's fort, who the next day perceiving the approach of his Excellency's troops, yielded it up on the second of May.  
From thence his Excellency went to Isendike, which he presently enclosed, whereinto, the enemy on the fourth of May thought to have put forces, but certain troops of horse and foot being sent to stop their passage, they fled to the sh' Tas, whereby the said place was the better fortified.  
The 6 of May, those of Sluice came with forces from the camp before Ostend, and made a sally with two thousand men, with certain shallops and Galleys, where with to enter into the Country of Cadzand, where they landed six hundred men, ere those that guarded the Island perceived it, who presently gave an alarm, and with two Scottish companies that lay in guard there, fell upon them, and drove them in disorder to their boats, some of which, being overloden, sunk, divers of them were slain, and forty were taken prisoners, and eight shallops were taken from them: If this enterprise of theirs had prospered, Prince Maurice had in an instant lost all his boats and munition, and his attempt would have been to no purpose.  
His Excellency in the mean time caused the fort of Isendike to be summoned, which is a very commodious place and well seated, but they within it answered that they would not yield, because they expected supplies: whereupon, his Excellency caused it to be battered, knowing well enough that they wanted all provisions, especially, drink and fresh water.  
The ninth of May, Prince Maurice sent his Trumpet to summon them the second time, who was shot into the head by some in the fort: this did so incense his Excellency, as he did his best to revenge himself on those that had showed so bad an example: whereupon, they were so daunted, as they presently craved parley, which his Excellency would not grant, till an Italian soldier that had slain his Trumpet was delivered unto him: which done, those of the fort capitulated; that the Governor and soldiers should depart with their arms, but without found of Drum or displayed Ensigns, to the s'Tas, with boats to carry their baggage, on condition not to serve in Flaunders against his Excellency for the space of four months: and so on the tenth of May six hundred of them went thence, most of whom were Italians. The Governor was afterwards called in question for delivering it up, but did with honour acquit himself; and Captain roll, was made Governor of the fort. After the taking of Isendike they resolved to pass on towards Ardenbourg, and on the 12 of May, his Excellency went thither by land and water. In the town were six companies of Almans, who might easily have defended it, if they could have made never so little resistance; but being amazed, they fled thence, so as his Excellency without any stroke at all took it: this town was very desolate, but excellently well seated to bridle the Sluice. Of the goodly Church that was in it in former time, nothing was to be seen, but the walls, certain Marble Pillars, and two Towers. His Excellency did forthwith put Count Ernest and his men into the town, and commanded one ravelin to be made before every gate, and then caused the army to march to another open & ruinous town, called Middelbourg in Flaunders, where there is a Castle from whence those that keep it fled, because it was not tenable. His Excellency, on the fourteenth, sent his cavalry to make a road towards Eclo, to defeat a foot regiment which was going from Gaunt to Bruges, but they came a little too late.  
The sixteenth of May, his Excellency sent certain horse and foot from Ardenbourg towards the Soute and Soete, which are two channels, the one of salt water, the other of fresh, coming from Dam and Bruges, and meet together near Sluice, they are both navigable. There they found D. Lewis de Velasco, who had fortified himself near to a little Sluice upon the river which comes down from Moerkerck and Lapschue●●, near Stampers point, where with advantage he waited, it being a narrow passage, for horsemen: whereupon, Velasco his cavalry, did on a sudden charge the Captains, Gent and Bacx, and presently overthrew many horse, divers were taken prisoners, and Bacx was hurt in the leg, but they were rescued by the infantry, who coming on, and charging in great, the Spaniards were beaten, and five hundred of them lay dead on the place, and three hundred prisoners were taken, among whom were eleven Captains, and in their company one of Spinolas kinsmen.  
The seventeenth of May, his Excellency's soldiers went towards the Soute, where the Spaniards lay with thirteen or fourteen ensigns betwixt that place and the Soete, where they were entrenched: his Excellency, caused the canon to be planted, making show as if he meant to pass there, but having espied another place somewhat lower, the eighteenth, before day, he passed over his horse and foot at a low water, and took some of their trenches: whereupon, the Spaniards forsaking their advantage, fled towards Dam, fearing to be enclosed: so as Prince Maurice made an other bridge over the Soete, and sent his horse on the West side of the haven of Sluice, where the Spaniards forsook all their forts (that of S. George except) seated at the mouth of the Haven, commanded by a Captain called Cordua of Burges, his Excellency presently environed it, and so soon as they within it saw the canon, they yielded, and went thence on the three and twentieth of May being in all one hundred and thirty men. The fort was well provided, and had in it nine piece of ordnance, and ten barrels of powder, to which they had tied a burning match, which, after their departure would have fired it, but this being discovered, no harm ensued thereof.  
Captain Cordua was accused for yielding up the fort so slightly; but he had favour shown him: Captain Ioost de Brucxsaulx was made governor there, but within a while after, the fort being found to be unnecessary, was razed.  
All these towns and forts thus surrendered, his Excellency encamped before Sluice: he caused the haven to be taken in, and fortified, and enclosed his camp with trenches and bridges, joining the quarters to one an other. In the haven, 〈◊〉 before the the town, they found no ships but only one French man laden with wines, which was spoiled by the ordnance.  
Those of Sluice did twice receive certain numbers of men, first, some seven hundred, next eight hundred: they likewise took in certain wagons laden with meal, ere the town could be wholly enclosed. Prince Maurice encamped on the West side of the haven: The Lord Ʋander Noot on the South side, the country and drowned lands were fur●●shed with boats and shalops strongly manned to shut up all passages.  
His Excellency, on the one and twentieth of May, caused a proclamation to be made by sound of drum that wednesday, over the whole camp, should be kept as a day of fasting and prayer, which is a rare matter in an army, prohibiting all victuallers on pain of forfeiting their goods, and banishment from the camp, from selling any victuals that day that they might be the apt to pray unto God to give them good success.  
The thirtieth of May, those of Sluice attempted again to take victuals and powder into the town, and in the night sent forth one thousand galley slaves over the drowned land, whom they constrained to this piece of service, in regard they could not use their galleys, and with these slaves a convoy of five hundred soldiers, to expect that which was to come from Dam: for Count Barlaymont with 4 thousand foot, and many wagons laden with meal was come for this purpose as far as the drowned lands. His Excellency having intelligence hereof, went with two thousand foot, and store of horse to Stampers point, where he found four hundred men which Barlaymont had left to guard that passsage: these did the Prince defeat and put to rout, and understanding by them that Barlaymont was already past, he caused him to be pursued, but he having notice thereof, went an other way, by which most of them escaped, leaving certain wagons laden with corn behind them, which his Excellency took. Those of the town perceiving that the Convoy came not, returned home, many slaves excepted, who hid themselves, and came and yielded to Prince Maurice. His Excellency's troops in pursuing Barlaymont, did in the night by mischance take a contrary way, and the next day returned to the Camp with many prisoners, and among them two Captains, the one an Italian, and the other a German. By these his Excellency understood that the town was well manned, but badly victualled, and therefore sought to enclose it on every side, causing his Camp to be strongly fenced and entrenched both by land and water, sending his cavalry far up into the Country to bring in contribution. The Camp being thus enclosed, the deputies of the General States, and Council of State, took their leave on the 29 of May, and returned to the Hague.  
This siege continuing for a time, Prince Maurice in the mean space made ready boats and preparatives to assault the town athwart the Haven, and to this end caused a strange bridge to be made, covered over in the midst, and of musket proof: but understanding daily by those that came to our side, that the Town was mightily oppressed with hunger, he wholly resolved to famish it, and thereby gave the Marquis Spinola an occasion to quite Ostend, and come to relieve Sluice, and his galleys Famine did daily so increase in the town, as they could no longer feed the slaves, but enforced them to run up & down the broken country, to seek an herb called Soutenell, which grows there in abundance, wherewith for a long time they nourished themselves: so as many of them a long while ere the town was yielded, knew not what bread meant.  
Famine increasing, and Ostend still holding out, those of Sluice manifested their want by fires in the night, which being known to the Archduke, he commanded General Spinola to relieve Sluice: who to this purpose, toward the later end of julie, levied forces from all parts, and now perceived their error in suffering his Excellency to pass over so easily. General Spinola together with Count Trivulcio departed from before Ostend with a sufficient Army, leaving the Camp well provided of all things: yet he went very unwillingly, and with small hope to do any good, as appeared by his letters which were intercepted. And so came and encamped near to Lapschuer on a causey, meaning with his ordnance to enforce his Excellency to dislodge, who caused counterbatteries to be made, so as in one night the canon slew many.  
Spinola on the sixth of August, with three thousand men, and certain horse assailed Count William of nassau's quarter, thinking to surprise it in the night, carrying with him divers necessary preparations for that purpose, but all was in vain, for he was so roughly entertained, as with great loss he was enforced to retire, leaving his preparations behind him, carrying certain wagoners horse away with him, which were feeding in the pastures.  
Spinola doing no good there, departed speedily on the sixteenth of August in view of Ardenbourgh to the forts of S. Catherine, and S. Philip, which he easily took by force, because they were weakly manned. From thence he went on a causey, to Captain Imbyse his quarter, where he made a false alarm, that he might in the mean time pass his troops over the river of Oostbourgh: But his Excellency had kept store of men in Cadzand, under conduct of Count William of Nassau, who did presently set forward to make head against the enemy, he likewise sent the Lord of Simton thither with store of warlike munition, and himself remained at the passage of Cadzand, till the troops of Frizland, the English, French, and others were arrived, with which he marched on to encounter the enemy.  
The Marquis making haste with his forces, had caused his Excellency's men to quit the half moon near the water, betwixt Cadzand and Oostbourg, and made them give back as far as the causey near to the two sconces, where he was fiercely repulsed, first by the guard, and next by Count William who was come thither; but at a low water, he strived most of all to pass over, so as Count William could hardly stop him, till such time as Colonel Dorth came to second him, who bravely defended himself with a twohand sword, beating back the enemy for a pretty while, till himself was wounded in two places.  
Spinola in the mean time spared not his men, and was ready to have entered Cadzand, had not Prince Maurice come to his rescue with certain Frizland companies, under conduct of julius D' Essinga their Lieutenant general, and with him the Lord of Terms, and some forty French gentlemen, with divers English and French companies under Castillions command, who made such resistance, as Spinolas men were enforced to retire, some two hundred of them being slain, and of them, many men of note: among others, were, Count Feltri, the Marquis of Renty, son to Count Solre his wife, of the house of Lalayn, son to that renowned Lord, the Lord of Montigni, and the Marquis of Renty newly come from Italy, D. Alonso Borgia, young Mantenon a French man, beside a Colonel, and many others slain and wounded, whom they carried away in carts: this was done on the seventeenth of August, the enemy being reinforced with the squadron of the mutineers, who were newly reconciled to the Archduke, and did help to increase the number of the dead.  
The eighteenth of August, those of Sluice having intelligence of the defeat of their supplies, began to talk of an accord, and sent to crave cessation of arms, till they might know the Archdukes pleasure, which was not granted: then they craved leave to carry away the galleys, ordnance, and slaves: but they received this answer, that they should have three days respite, the first day, to depart with their arms and baggage, the second day, only with heir swords, and if they tarried till the third day they were then to expect all rigour: whereupon, the next day, they were content to depart on these conditions following.  

FIrst, That all Ecclesiastical persons might safely depart with the ornaments of their Church, goods and movables.  
2 That the governor Serrano, all Captains, officers, and soldiers, together with all Captains of Galleys, and mariners, should with their baggage, arms, and ensigns, drum heating and match in cock depart to Dam, and in giving hostages, should have boats and shalops.  
3 That the governor and Aurelio Spinola, shall deliver to his Excellency's commissioners, all the galleys, barks and Frigates, ordnance, powder, and munition, without any deceit.  
4 That all slaves, without exception, shall be set at liberty, and may go whether they please.  
5 That all prisoners, on both sides, shall ransomless be set free: the governor, and Aurelio Spinola, shall use means that Captain Say, and other mariners in prison at Sertoghenbusk, Captain john de Raet and his men, prisoners in Would Castle, & likewise three mariners of Breda prisoners at Gaunt, shall all of them be released in paying a months means; and for performance hereof, the said Spinola shall oblige his own person, to return again his prisoner.  
6 None shall be molested for debts which the governor or others owe to the Burghers, but the said governor shall promise to make full payment and satisfaction to them, at Bruges.  
7 That all officers and surveyors may likewise depart with their writings (the towns Registers excepted.)  
8 The Commissaries of victuals, and those of the Admeraltie etc. may do the like.  
9 The governor shall the same night deliver up the Castle, whither his Excellency will send two hundred men to keep it.  
10 That the garrison shall the next day leave the town.  
Given in the Camp before Sluice the nineteenth of August, Anno 1604.   
The twentieth of August, the Spaniards left Sluice, being in number three or four thousand men well armed, and one thousand four hundred slaves, most of them Turks, who were all set at liberty: some of them tarried with the Spaniards, many went into France and England, but such as returned from thence into Holland, were for the most part sent home in a Ship of Barbary; many of them had eaten no bread in Sluice of a long time, but fed on old shoes, boots, parchment, and on an herb called Soutenell, whereof we have heretofore spoken; dogs, cats, mice, and rats were good meat.  
There were found in the town threescore and ten great piece of ordnance both of brass and iron, beside those in the forts: also ten or eleven galleys, and all their furniture, which was no small victory.  
The General States and his Excellency made Count Henry of Nassau youngest son to the Prince of Orange of happy memory, Governor of all their conquests in Flaunders, and appointed the Lord Ʋander Noot for his Lieutenant, who went and remained in Sluice.  
The said States did presently give order, for the fortifying of their new conquests, as well at Sluice, as at other places near adjoining, some were razed, and other fortified: they resolved to make nine forts near to Coxie, S. Catherines, Oostbourgh, and Wield Castle, and before Sluice, an half moon, and three bulwarks before a channel which comes forth of the Sea. At Isendike they likewise caused five great bulwarks to be made, and there enclosed a great quantity of ground, which they meant to make impregnable, and as big as a town, or an other Ostend.  
Count Lodowick Gunther of Nassau, who had married the widow of the Earl of Valckensteyn and Broeck, fell sick at Sluice and died there, he was son to old Count john, and brother to the Earls William, and Ernest of Nassau, he was but a young Lord, and yet had done brave service to the united Provinces; he was much lamented. His Excellency and divers others fell sick there likewise.  
The united Provinces having won Sluice, and thereby gotten means to war in Flaunders, and to transport it into the enemy's Country, thought that the loss of Ostend would not be so hurtful as before, (and therein they were not deceived) for all the world knows how greatly the enemies have wronged themselves, and profited our country, by attempting to win that town by force: for now in steed of one entrance, the Lords States (thanks be to God) have gotten three.   

¶ The taking of the strong Castle of Would in anno 1605.  
HIs Excellency on the three and twentieth of May 1605, went with great numbers of horse and foot to Berghen-op-Zoom, and appointed Count Ernest of Nassau to come from Zealand by boat, with fourscore foot companies, and to sail up the Scheld, that both of them together might make an attempt upon Antuerp; but the Earl having a continual contrary wind could not land there where his Excellency had appointed him. If the Earl could have landed his men at Clapperdijke, he might happily have obtained his desire, but the wind was so contrary as it was impossible for him to do so: but he was enforced to land them near to Oosterweel, and so went forward towards his Excellency by land, who● lay with his army at Eeckeren, sending back the boats which had brought the soldiers, which at their return shot at the forts of Ordam and Peerle, and among others, shot the governor of Ordam. This enterprise having no good success, his Excellency resolved to go with his army and besiege the Castle of Would, and thereupon departed on the eight and twentieth of May from Eeckeren. Would Castle is strongly fortified with Bulwarks and seated within a mile of Berghen-op-Zoom in a fenny place, and therefore naturally strong. It is one of the chiefest Castles belonging to the Marquis of Berghen; but at that time a nest of thieves: for the garrison did continually molest boats that went from Holland and Zealand, being always upon the water to espy if any vessel were wind-bound or be-calmed: They had their shallops hidden in divers places on the water's side, with which they assailed such vessels, taking the merchants and mariners prisoners, enforcing them to ransom themselves and boats, thereby doing great damage to the Country. His Excellency on the eighteenth of May, did with wonderful celerity plant his canon, and battered the Castle; those within it slew certain of our gunner's, but fearing to be surprised, and doubting that the Archduke would not send forth an army to relieve them, they yielded the Castle up to his Excellency on the three and twentieth of May, wherein were eighty five men, among whom were certain rascals of the number of those that sold the town of Gertrudenberg to the enemy, who according to the proscription were all condemned to be hanged, but the Marquis of Brudenbourg interceded for them: Spinola likewise did execute some of those that had delivered up the Castle: and by this means those of Holland & Zealand were freed from this mischief.  
Marquis Spinola, in the mean time, had assembled all his forces near antwerp, and was quartered at Mercxens and Dam, his horsemen lay at Berchen and Wilrijcke, by which means antwerp was well guarded: He likewise made a bridge over the Scheld, even from the Key of antwerp into Flanders, on which he might pass over his forces from Brabant and Flanders at one time if need were.  
Prince Maurice having won Would Castle, did, on the second of julie, embark his army, and crossed the Scheld to go to Isendike in Flanders, leaving the forts upon the river well provided, especially Lillo: it seemed that he meant to besiege the s'Tas, or else the town of Bruges, and maintain war in the enemy country, but his Excellency could not attempt any siege, being still followed by General Spinola, by means of his bridge before antwerp. This did the Prince before then foresee would come to pass, being of a contrary opinion to the general States; for it was thought more profitable for them to have gone towards Rhyne: whereupon, his Excellency, the better to secure the Town of Sluice, Isendike, Ardenbourg, and other forts, encamped at Wateruliet, because it was reported that the Archduke, together with Spinola, would besiege Sluice, and with a second army which they expected, the town of Bercke, and would have beside, a running camp, to bring victuals from all parts, yet all this was but words.  
His Excellency strongly fortified himself at Wateruliet: Spinola with his forces encamped in a woody place, so that the two armies could not well come at one another by reason of banks, but fortified against each other still seeking some advantage, and yet did no great matter.   

¶ A true rehearsal of a fight at Sea, in the road before Gibraltar, betwixt the king of Spain's mighty Armada on the one side, and the States men of war, of the united netherlands Provinces on the other, done on the 25 of April 1607.  
THe king of Spain having set forth a mighty fleet, of sundry great galleons and other warlike ships, well manned and provided, thereby, as much as in them lay, to annoy the inhabitants of the united Provinces, my Lords the general States, the better to daunt the Spanish pride, and especially to free their subjects from their cruel tyranny, did likewise set forth a fleet of 31 ships, viz. seven and twenty men of war, and four victuallers. Then they entreated Master jacob Heemskerck of Amsterdam, (a man whose experience, wisdom, courage, love, and loyalty to his Country, was well known to the world) to be admiral of the said fleet. In anno 1604, he had been the second time admiral of the East Indie fleet, where he had made proof what he was able to do; for meeting with a great Portugal carrack which came from China near to the straight of Syncapura, richly laden and well provided, having eight hundred men in her, though in comparison of her, he was but weak, having in all but two small ships, and in them no more but two hundred men. Yet by his wise conduct and invincible courage, he did in a short time take her, and brought her home to Amsterdam with all her treasure. Moreover, that voyage is worthy of perpetual remembrance, which was made in anno 1596, and 97. when the ships of Amsterdam went so far to the Northward, and Nova Semla, as never any till then had done, seeking a passage through the ice, to the rich kingdoms of Cathay and China; where he likewise was as Committee general, and showed no small desire to do good service to his country.  
The Lords States having motioned this matter unto him, his answer was, That if he might do any profitable service to his country, he was very ready and willing to do it, and so, accepted the charge, not for any hire, but for love and affection to his country.  
The fifteenth of March in anno 1607, he departed from Tassel with sixteen men of war, very well provided and rigged, of which, ten were of Amsterdam, videlicet, the admiral called Aeolus with her captain William Verhoof of Amsterdam: the second, the black Bear, and her captain Adrian Roest of Amsterdam: the third, the white Bear, whose captain was Cornellis Peter Madder, otherwise called Den Noyen Boor, or the fair contriman: the next the golden Lion with her captain Pan of Amsterdam: the Griffon and her captain Cleynsorgh of Tergou: the golden Star commanded by captain jacob jansz of Edam: Henry jansz, otherwise called long Henry, was captain of the seventh: of the eight, Simon jansz of Edam: the ninth, by captain Copdrayer: the tenth, by captain Herman: Beside these, there were four others, which carried victuals for the fleet, together with some soldiers.  
From Euchuysen there were three: from Hoorn as many: and from Harling came the Pinnace of Frizland commanded by captain Theunes Wouters, making up in all three and twenty ships. The seven and twentieth day, they came to Wight an Island on the coasts of England, where they found three ships more of Zealand, and 5 of Rotterdam, with captain Cleuter on an other Brigantine of Amsterdam.  
From Zealand came captain Laurence Jacob's Alteras the vice-Admerall, in a ship called the red Lion, of Zealand: captain Marinus Hellart of Flushing in a ship called the Sea Dog, and captain Cornellis Faes in an other. In the fourth ship of Zealand captain Peter Calis commanded, who as he entered, ran on ground, so as his men, victuals, and munition, were bestowed on the other ships.  
From Rotterdam came captain Lambert Henry the rear admiral, or night Scowte in a ship called the Tiger. Harpart Matsy was captain of the Leopard: and in the other two captain Sievert, and captain Schrevell commanded: so as in the whole fleet were twenty and seven men of war, and four victuallers.  
After that Admeral Heemskerck had taken order for all things necessary for the fleet, on the nine & twentieth day they departed all together from Wight: but the Admeral, with five ships, at his going forth, being carried away with the Tide, ran on ground, so as they were enforced to tarry there one Tide: the weather being fair, and Sea calm, the Vice-Admerall passed onward with the rest of the fleet, and told the admiral that he would tarry for him at Plymouth.  
At flood the admiral began to float and come off, being followed by the other ships, and two days after arrived in the Haven of Plymouth, where he would not stay, but shot off a warning piece to cause the rest to follow him, which was done. The whole fleet being together, they went with a westerly wind towards the coasts of Portugal and Spain, so as on the tenth of April, they came to the height of nine and thirty degrees, near to the river of Lisbon. The admiral assembled his Council of war, and concluded to carry the whole fleet into the River, to take and destroy all the Caracks and galleons that lay there.  
But the admiral having true intelligence by certain spies whom he had sent before, with a small English ship towards Lisbon, that most of the Caracks were already gone from thence, and those that were there, to the number of eight or nine, not ready, and all their ordnance on shore: understanding likewise, by certain French and English which came from S. Lucars & Cales, that 16 galleons were already gone thence for the West-Indies, and that ten of them were yet in the straight of Gybraltar with certain other men of war, waiting for the low-countrieships which were to come forth of the straight (for they knew that many of them were ready to come:) thereupon, the admiral changed his former determination, meaning to seek out the said fleet in the straight, and to that end bend his course to Seaward, to get the height of Cape S. Vincent; whither being come, he met with a ship of Flushing, which, on the 22 day, came forth of the straight: the master, told the Admeral, that in the night he had been among the Spanish fleet, but was cleared from it in the Morning, which (as he thought) directed it course towards Cales, for by a Westerly wind, they were constrained to come forth of the straight.  
The admiral receiving this intelligence, held on his course, and on the 24 of April, sailed near the river of S. Lucars and bay of Cales, but they could hear no news of any ships: for the admiral was resolved to fight with them, though they had been in the river of S. Lucars or bay of Cales: The evening of the same day, he received certain news of the Spanish fleet by a French man, who the same day came from the road of Gibraltar, who certified the admiral of the fleets being there, and of their number and order.  
The same Evening, because the wind was Easterly, he bent his course to the the Southward towards the coasts of Barbary, and from thence he turned towards the coasts of Spain. Coming into the straight, the admiral called his Captains aboard, and acquainted the Council of war with that which the Frenchman had told him, giving order for all things necessary, and at last, courageously resolved to assail and destroy the Spanish fleet, and thereupon, gave this direction, that himself with Captain Moye Lambert would board the Spanish admiral: the vice-Admerall Alteras and Captain Bras were appointed to board the vice-Admerall, and so the other ships, two together, should set upon the other galleons.  
The two Brigantines with the Bark, were commanded to pass up and down thorough the fleet, that if any galleons or ships would attempt to escape, they should stop their passage and fight with them, but the victuallers were to keep a loof off, and not to come near the fight.  
This done, he exhorted all the Captains to bear themselves valiantly, & to purchase honour, telling them that himself would be the first should lead them the way: whereupon, they all promised and swore to follow him, though it should cost them their lives, and then every man returned to his ship.  
About noon, they descried the enemy in the bay before the town of Gibraltar, lying in the road under covert of the Castle and towns ordnance, to the number of two and twenty vessels, videlicet, nine great and mighty galleons, and four men of war, beside a great ship of Lubeck of four hundred tun, called the spotted Cow that lay in the road tarrying for a wind, to go to Cales: there were moreover 4 French ships, and three which they had taken, viz. 2 of Enchuysen, and one of Rotterdam, whose Mr. called Gouert English, was prisoner aboard the Spanish Admeral. They had manned all these ships with soldiers against the coming of our fleet: For the Duke of Lucars having intelligence of our arrival and passage before S. Lucars and Cales, did presently dispatch a post to Gibraltar, to warn the Spaniards of our approach, the like he did to those of Calsi: whereupon, they had strengthened their fleet with three hundred soldiers, among whom were one hundred Cavallieroes that came voluntarily to do service to the admiral, who had seven hundred men in his ship, and the Vice-Admerall four hundred and fifty. The other galleons were well stored with ordnance, and in each of them two hundred and fifty men at least, beside the mariners: the first great gallion, was called S. Augustin, and in her was the admiral of the whole fleet, called D. ivan Alvares d'Avilas, borne at Est●rgas, an old and experienced Captain, who had a long time served the King of Spain at Sea, in the time of D. john of Austria: The admiral's son was Captain of that gallion. The second gallion wherein the Vice-Admerall commanded, was called our Lady de la vega. The third, being the Rere-Admerall, was termed The mother of God. The fourth, S. Anne. The fifth, o●r Lady of the rule. The sixth, our Lady of the conception. The seventh, Saint Christopher. The eighth, our Lady of sorrow. The ninth, Saint Nicholas. The tenth, our Lady of Rosaries. The eleventh, our Lady of O. The twelfth, S. Peter: In a word, they were well provided of Saints, but they did them small good. Our admiral having descried the Spanish fleet, given order for all matters, and prayed unto God for his aid and assistance, made directly towards them.  
He displayed and made fast his ensign with nails, because no man should take it down, and promised an hundred Reals to him that would bring him the ensign of the Spanish admiral, exhorting his soldiers to do their best, protesting, that whatsoever they could take from the enemy, should be their own: this did greatly animate them, but especially the courageous valour of their admiral, so as they desired nothing more than to fight.  
The Spanish admiral, descrying our fleet called for the Master of Rotterdam, whom he kept prisoner, showing him our ships, ask whether he thought they durst be so bold as to set upon him.  
The Master craving his pardon, answered that he thought they durst. But the Spanish admiral would not believe him, because he had the advantage of us, lying under defence of the town and castle, as also because he thought himself alone sufficient in his ship the S. Augustine to resist the whole fleet of Hollanders; but the success showed the contrary. Yet perceiving that our admiral made directly towards him, he cut his cable, (for he was foremost before all the ships) and fell down farther into the bay towards the town; so as then, the vice-Admerall, and three other galleons were before him.  
admiral Heemskerck perceiving this, did not for all that alter his course, but passed on directly before the vice-Admerall and the other galleons, which he left on his left hand; he prepared his anchor and gave commandment it should not be let slip, till he were aboard the admiral and had stemd him.  
So soon as he came near him, the Spaniard first of all discharged one of his pieces, which slew directly thorough one of our admiral's port holes, and did no hurt, but only took away one of the upper cross beams: whereupon, admiral Heemskerck presently answered him with two pieces, and then forthwith boarded him, and let slip his anchor. But the Spaniard making a second shot, the bullet carried away a young man that was ready to discharge his musket, and with all, that cursed shot took off admiral Heemskercks' left leg and thigh, whereupon, that excellent soldier fell down being armed from top to toe, and the same bullet, likewise carried away an other man's right hand, who was giving fire to a piece of ordnance.  
admiral Heemskerck perceiving his death grew nigh, encouraged and exhorted those that were near him, valiantly to pursue that which they had begun, and to elect another in his place, recommending his soul to God, which were the last words he spoke, and so like a gallant Captain died in his armour.  
In the mean time all the ordnance on our Admerals broad side, played at once upon the Spanish admiral, who presently made a volley of small shot upon our men, and was by them answered with the like: the noise, fire, and smoke was so great as we could neither hear nor see, so as the loss of our admiral was not known in our fleet till we had obtained the victory.  
Captain Lambert according to the directions which were given him, followed his admiral, saluting the Spaniard with two pieces from his fore Castle, which bullets passed clean thorough the Spanish admiral, and made great slaughter among the multitude of his men, and with the rest of his ordnance made such havoc amongst them, as it is impossible to set down with what fury they fought on both sides: for though our men were not half so many in number as the enemy, yet were they as courageous as Lions, and used all means to be revenged on the Spaniards for their tyranny towards divers of them: this did so animate us, as we made no doubt of the victory. At what time admiral Heemskerck made toward the Spanish admiral, he was followed by the whole fleet: but Captain Adrian Roest, who came behind the admiral and Captain Lambert, perceiving that he was one of the foremost, and that the vice-Admerall Laurence Jacob's Alteras (who was appointed to board the vice-Admerall) was ten or twelve ships behind him, himself alone with a manly courage boarded the vice-Admerall of Spain.  
This being perceived by Captain Simon jansz of Edam, and Captain Cornellis Madder, surnamed the fair boor, they presently followed him, and all three of them so plied the Spanish vice-Admerall with great and small shot, as in less than half an hour, they set her on fire.  
Whilst our men fought with the vice-Admerall, Captain Pan likewise came up to them, one of whose men went aboard the vice-Admerall, and brought away her Flag that hung in her foremast, and in recompense thereof had fifty Rials given him after the fight.  
The Spanish vice-Apmerall being on fire, our men did their best to clear themselves from her, but not without danger, for fire had already taken hold on our ships, and in a manner burned all Captain Roest, Simon jansz, and Cornellis Madders sails, but at last with much to do, they quenched the fire.  
This could not be done in the Spanish vice-Admerall; where every man sought means to save himself, so as she was burnt down even with the water, her soldiers and mariners being some of them burnt, and others leaping into the Sea, many were drowned, and others slain with musket shot, and with the strokes of pikes and swords.  
Captain Long Henry, perceiving that these three Captains Roest, Madder, and Simon jansz fought so bravely with the vice-Admerall, assailed the next gallion which lay on the vice-Admerals right hand, and with his ordnance played furiously upon her: Captain jacob jansz of Edam, and Captain Gerart Everts seconded him, and boarded the said gallion.  
After some fight, Captain Long Henry being oppressed with heat, did put off his helmet to cool himself, and was presently shot into the head whereof he died. Those that were in this gallion perceiving the vice-Admerall to be on fire, and her flag to be taken down, did presently hang forth an other on the top of their mast as vice-Admerall, but it stayed not long there, for some of our men took it down: within a while after, this gallion was likewise fired, and burnt down even with the water.  
The third gallion was boarded by Captain Copdrayer, and the pinnace of Frizland, who in a short space sank her.  
Whilst we were thus busied with the galleons, the vice-Admerall Alteras came up likewise, and though he boarded none, yet he played fiercely upon them with his ordnance, which was not done without some loss to our men.  
The other Spanish ships which lay farther up in the bay than did the admiral, shot furiously at our men, and they at them: at last, one of those Spanish ships with often shooting, did fire her powder, and falling foul of one of her fellows, burned it likewise, which the other perceiving, did presently cut their cables, and fell down to land ward where they ran on ground, seeking all means to escape. Often shooting did likewise fire the other ships, and with them, that of Lubeck.  
Peter William Verhoofe, Captain of our admiral, together with Captain Lambert were still fight with the Spanish Admeral, who at last gave over shooting, and hung forth a flag of truce, but our men shot still.  
In the mean time, that gallion which Captain Cleynsorgh fought with, was likewise set on fire. The captains Trumpeter did presently climb up to the top and fetch down the flag, which had hung out longer than any of the rest, for which, according to the promise which admiral Heemskerck had made, he received 100 rials in recompense.  
The Spanish admiral being thus overcome with loss of many of her men, those which remained perceiving that our men made towards them, did ten, and twenty at a time leap into the Sea, thinking to escape by swimming, but our men in their fury slew most of them, so as the whole bay was full of dead carcases.  
The fight began about three of the clock in the afternoon, and in less than four hours, all was ended, and the victory by God's goodness fell to us. This brave exploit was chiefly begun by admiral Heemskerck, and was for the most part continued, and ended by ten or twelve ships only.  
The next day in the morning, the Spanish admiral was run on ground, but those of the town went and cut down her masts, and then fired her, thereby saving our men a labour, who meant to have done it. It was a fearful thing to behold the flame and burning of the galleons, especially when fire took the powder, for it made such a noise as though it had thundered from heaven, covering the land and sea with a thick smoke, which made an universal darkness for a time.  
Beside the admiral's gallion, five more were burnt, together with a great ship of war, an other ship which the Spaniards had taken, and the above mentioned vessel of Lubeck. An other of the galleons was sunk, the other two ran on ground, and were made unserviceable.  
A French man likewise ran on ground with two ships, the one of Rotterdam, and the other of Enchuysen: all the other Spanish men of war did the like, up and down the coast, and by God's assistance were destroyed. The prisoners confessed that there were four thousand men in the fleet, and that half of them had not escaped, among whom (as letters into Spain do testify) was the admiral with many other gentlemen and captains. Among the prisoners, was D. john Aluares the admiral's son, who was brought into Holland. We only lost the noble admiral Heemskerck who was lamented of all men, together with some hundred men, and threescore that were hurt.  
On the six and twentieth day, our fleet came to an anchor in the road of Gibraltar, the ordnance of the town and castle playing upon them, but did little or no hurt at all: there did they look to their sick and hurt men, as well as the time would give them leave; and during their abode there, they saw great numbers of horse and foot, upon the shore, going to the town of Gibraltar, for the Spaniard thought verily that our men would have assailed it, and there was such amazement and confusion in the town, as every man packed up all he had, intending to be gone: the like fear possessed those of Cales, who thought that our fleet would come and visit them.  
The seven and twentieth day our ships departed forth of the road of Gibraltar, those of the castle shooting after them, and because the shot did no hurt, our men reputed those peals of ordnance to be done in their honour, and so directed their course towards Barbary, going so near Senta which belongs to the Spaniards, as those of the town and other places of the Country shot at them: but our men passed on through the straight towards the coast of Barbary, & came into the road of Tetuan, which is a strong town within 5 miles of Senta to the Eastward, belonging to the Turks and Moors, & there trimmed their ships which had been spoiled by fire and the enemy's canon.  
When they came before Tetuan, they were kindly welcomed. The governors self, with many Turkish gallants came aboard our fleet, offering us all friendship and assistance both for our ships and men, bringing us all manner of refreshments, as oranges and other restorative fruits, seeming very joyful for the victory which God had given us over the proud Spaniards: our men likewise went ashore, and had great honour done unto them every where.  
The Governor made an offer unto our men, that if they would make any attempt on the town of Senta, he would aid them both with horse and foot; but we intending other designs, gave him many thanks for his courteous offer. All things being repaired, the vice-Admerall Alteras was made admiral, and Peter William Verhoof vice-Admerall: there they consulted what was best to be done, and what course to take, for better annoying the enemy: at last they resolved to send some towards the Islands of Flaunders to remain there, namely the vice-Admerall, Captain jacob jansz of Edam, Captain Harman, the pinnace of Frizland, and Captain Cleuter, to try if they could meet with any good adventure there.  
The rest, videlicet, admiral Alteras with the greatest part of the fleet, should keep along the coasts of Portugal not far from the river of Lisbon, others along the coasts of Barbary towards the Canaries, and round about the Cape of Finistere and Bayonne: two of the victuallers were to ●arry with the fleet, and the other two were appointed to carry home the body of admiral Heemskerck, which the Surgeon Major had embalmed, together with the hurt and sick men, and Harpert Marts Captain of the ba●ke was commanded to convoy them; these returned homeward, and on the fifth of june arrived at Amsterdam with the admiral's body.  
The eight day following, his funerals were solemnized according to his worthiness, and the body was carried to the old church after this manner: First before the body marched 2 companies of soldiers in mourning habit, trailing their arms, ensigns and drums covered with black according to the custom of war; after them, his helmet, armour, and scutcheon of arms were borne: his arms were a Lion argent in a field azure: Fourteen Captains carried the body which was on every side hung with scutcheons, and on the top of the coffin, his guilt sword was laid: After the body, his chief kinsfolk went, next them followed the commissioners of the Council of the Admeraltie, and after them, the Scout, Burgomasters, Sheriffs, and thirty six of the Council of Amsterdam: then followed the Colonels, the council of war, captains, all the officers, nobility, and arquebusiers of the town.  
After them, the governors & committees of the East Indie company followed in order, and after them, great numbers of citizens and merchants amounting in all to the number of 800 persons, beside soldiers, and infinite multitudes of people that filled the streets.  
The general States did (in memory of this worthy man) command an honourable monument of a kind of blue stone to be erected over him: towards the East, his arms were hung, and to the Westward over his head, a black stone was set up, on which, in golden letters, all his voyages and noble actions were engraven; this did they for a perpetual remembrance of this worthy person to after ages.  
And thus by the help of God was this mighty Spanish fleet destroyed and brought to nothing; unto whom we ascribe all honour.   

¶ Truce for twelve years, concluded and agreed upon betwixt the the deputies and commissioners of the high and excellent Princes, the Archdukes of Austria etc. And the commissioners of the illustrious Lords▪ the States of the united netherlands Provinces made in anno 1609.  
TO conclude the description of all the above mentioned victories which almighty God the author of all goodness hath granted to these united Provinces under the valorous conduct of his Excellency of Nassau, I have likewise thought it fit to add hereunto the articles of truce and cessation of arms, agreed upon, and concluded at Antuerp on the 9 of April 1609, for the term of twelve years: for if I should set down at large the beginning and progression of this treaty, viz. how the Archdukes themselves sued for it, by means of the Lord Ʋander Horst, Father Ney, and other deputies and commissioners, what propositions were made, and reasons alleged, both to my Lords the States, his Excellency, and others, to move and persuade them thereunto, and the States answers thereupon; and then afterward what was done on either part; the articles delivered on both sides, the reasons and difficulties which ensued, together with all the dependences thereof, it would be a labour long and tedious: and if any be desirous to see these things at large, we refer them to the Chronicles of Emanuel Demetrius and other books, and will only here set down the articles agreed upon and concluded by the commissioners on either side.  
THe illustrious Princes, Archduke Albert, and Isabel Clara Eugenia, having on the 24 of April in a●no 1607 made truce, and cessation of arms for 8 months with the noble Lords States of the united netherlands Provinces, in quality, and reputing them for States, Provinces, and free countries, to which they pretend no claim; this truce was to be ratified with like declaration, by the Catholic King's Majesty so far forth as it might concern him, and the said ratification and declaration, was to be delivered to my Lords the States within three months after the said Truce, which was done, by letters patents, of the eighteenth of September, in the same year; and special procuration was moerover granted to the said Archdukes the tenth of januarie 1608, as well in his majesties name as theirs, to do whatsoever they should think fit for procuring a firm peace, or truce for many years. By virtue of the said procuration, the Archdukes by their letters of Commission bearing date the seven and twentieth of the said month, had named and appointed deputies and Commissioners, to treat in name, and quality as abovesaid, consenting and agreeing that the said Truce should be prolonged and continued at sundry times; as namely, on the twentieth of May, till the end of the year 1608. And having often met with the Commissioners of my Lords the States, who had also Commission and Procuration from them, dated on the fifth of February, the same year; yet, for sundry great difficulties which arose, they could not agree on peace. Hereupon, the Ambassadors of the most Christian Kings of France and great Britain, of the Princes and Palatines of Brandenbourg, Marquis of Ausbach, and Landsgrave of Hesse, sent into these parts from the said Kings and Princes, to further so holy a work, perceiving that they were ready to depart and dissolve the treaty, had, on certain conditions, propounded a peace for many years, which conditions were set down in writing, and given from them to either party, requesting and admonishing them to conform themselves thereunto. And as other difficulties arose hereupon, in that regard, the Lords, whose names hereafter follow, did, on the 9 of April 1609, meet together: The Lord Ambrose Spinola, Marquis of Benaffro, knight of the order of the Golden fleece, Councillor of State and war to his Catholic Majesty, camp-master, and General of his armies etc. The Lord john Richardot, knight, Lord of Barli, Councillor of State, and first Precedent of his Highness' privy Council etc. john Mancicidor, Councillor of war, and Secretary to his Catholic Majesty: The reverend Father, Friar john Ney, General Commissarie of the order of Saint Francis in the Netherlands, and the Lord Lodowick Verreycken knight, Audiencer, and chief Secretary to their Highnesses, by virtue of Letters Procuratories from the said Lords Archdukes on the one side, to treat aswell in their own names, as in that of his Catholic majesty, with William Lodowick, Earl of Nassau, Catzenellenboghe, Vianden, Dietz, etc. Lord of Bilsteyn, governor and captain general of Frizland, of the town of Groninghen, the Ommelands and Drenth etc. The Lord Walrauen, lord of Brederode, Vianen, Castellain of V●recht, lord of Ameyde, Cloetinge etc. The lord Cornellis de Gent, lord of Loenen & Meynerwick, Castellain and justicer of the Empire, and town of Nimmeghen: The lord john Oldenbarneuelt, Knight, lord of Temple, Rondentijs etc. Advocate and keeper of the great seal, charters, and registers of Holland and East Frizland: The lord james Maldere, knight, lord of Heyes etc. the chief man representing the Nobility in the States and Council of the County of Zealand. The lord Gerard de Renesse, lord Ʋander Aa, Streefkerck, Nieuleckerland etc. Gellius Hillama Doctor of the laws, ordinary Councillor in the council of Frizland: john Sloeth lord of Sallick, Drossart of the Country of Vallenho, and Castellain of the lordship of Cuynder: and Abel Coenders of Helpen, lord in Faen and Cantes, in names of the said lords States, in virtue likewise of their letters of commission, on the other part. These by the mediation and advice of Peter jeannin knight, Baron of Chagni, and Months, Councillor to the most Christian King in his Council of State, and his extraordinary Ambassador with the said lords States, and the lord Elie de la Place, knight, lord of Russy, Castellain of Machault, Councillor likewise in the said Council of State, and ordinary gentleman of the king's chamber, bailie and captain of Vitrie le Francois, and his ordinary Ambassador, resident with the said lords States: Sir Richard Spencer knight, ordinary gentleman of the king of England's privy chamber, and his extraordinary Ambassador with the said lords States, and Sir Ralph Winwood knight, the same kings ordinary Ambassador, and Councillor of State to the said united Provinces: all these made an agreement in manner and form following.  

I FIrst, the said Lords Archdukes do declare, as well in their own names as in that of the king of Spain, that they are content to treat with the said Lords general States of the united Provinces in quality, and reputing them for free Countries, Provinces and States, to which they pretend no claim, and to make with them, in the names and qualities above said (as by these presents they do) truce on these conditions hereafter mentioned.  
II. Namely, that the said truce shall be of force, firm, and inviolable for the term of twelve years, during which time there shall be a cessation from all hostile actions, in what manner soever, betwixt the said Lords King, Archdukes, and general States, both by Sea and land, and fresh rivers, in all their kingdoms, countries, territories and dominions, and for all their subjects of what quality or condition soever, without exception of place or persons.  
III. Each of them shall continue seized of, and s●all effectually enjoy, those countries, towns, places, territories, and lordships which he now holdeth and possesseth, without any molestation whatsoever, during the said truce; in which is to be comprehended, the boroughs, villages, hamlets, and champain country which depend thereon.  
FOUR The subjects of the said Lords King, Archdukes, and States shall in friendly sort have good correspondence with one an other during the said Truce, without resenting forepast injuries▪ They may likewise frequent, and reside in the countries and dominions of each other, & there in all safety use traffic, and commerce, both by land, sea, and fresh rivers. This nevertheless, the said Lord King understands to be restrained and limited to the Realms, countries, territories and lordships, which he possesseth in Europe, & other seas and places, whither the subjects of hi●●eighbor Kings and Princes, do trade upon sufferance: And for those places, towns, ports, and havens which he possesseth forth of the abovesaid limits, the said Lords States, and their subjects, shall not trade thither without express permission of the said Catholic king: Yet, if it seem good unto them, they may trade in the countries of all other Princes, Potentates, and common wealths, which will permit them so to do, namely, forth of the said limits, without any let, molestation, or impediment from the said Lord King, or his officers and subjects.  
5 V. And because a longer tim●s required, for giving warning unto those that are abroad at sea with forces to desist from all hostile actions, it is concluded that the truce shall not begin till within a year next ensuing: Always provided, that if advertisement of the said truce may be given sooner, that then hostility shall cease from that time forward: but if after the said term of an whole year any hostile actions shall be used, the loss and harm shall be restored without delay.  
VI The subjects of the said Lords King, Archdukes, and States, trading into one an others countries, shall not be tied to pay greater duties and impositions than their own subjects, and those of friends and allies which are least charged.  
VII. And the subjects of the said Lords States, shall likewise have the same assurance and liberty, in the dominions of the said Lords King, and Archdukes as hath been granted to the King of great Britain's subjects, by the last treaty of peace, and secret articles made with the constable of Castille.  
VIII. Neither shall merchants, masters of ships, pilots, mariners, their ships, wares, and goods, belonging unto them be seized upon and stayed, by virtue of any general or particular mandate, or for any ot●er cause whatsoever, nor yet under colour to make use of them for the preservation and defence of the country: yet it is not meant that goods seized upon by ordinary way of justice, in regard of debts, bonds, and contracts of theirs, on whom the said seizure hath been made, and wherein it hath been proceeded according to right and reason, shallbe herein comprehended.  
Ix. And as for the trade and commerce of the low countries, and taxes and impositions which shall be raised upon merchandise: if it be afterwards found that any excess is used therein, upon first suit made thereupon by either party, commissioners shall be appointed to order and moderate the matter, and though the business cannot be agreed upon, yet shall not the truce therefore be broken.  
X. If any sentences or judgements have been given betwixt persons of sundry sides, either for civil or criminal causes, they shall not be executed upon the parties condemned, nor on their goods, so long as the said truce lasteth.  
XI. Letters of mark and reprisal shall not be granted during the said time, unless upon just cause, and in cases which are permitted by the imperial laws and constitutions, and according to the order by them established.  
XII. None may arrive, enter, nor continue in the Ports, Havens, and Roads of each others Country, with any number of ships and soldiers, which may give cause of suspicion, to him unto whom the said Ports, Havens, and Roads do belong, unless they be cast in by tempest, or enforced to do it upon necessity, and for avoiding danger at Sea.  
XIII. Those whose goods have been seized and confiscate by reason of the war, or their heirs, shall enjoy the same goods during the truce, and of their own private authority shall take possession of them, by virtue of this present treaty, without being enforced to have recourse to justice; notwithstanding all incorporations fiscal, engagements, gifts, treaties, agreements and transacts, or whatsoever renouncing hath been made in the said transacts to exclude part of the said goods, from those unto whom they are to belong: on condition nevertheless not to dispose of, nor diminish them, during the said time, unless they be permitted so to do, by the said Lords, Archdukes, or States.  
XIIII. This likewise shall take place to the profit and advantage of the heirs of the late Prince of Orange, concerning their right to the Salt pits in the County of Burgundy, which shallbe restored unto them together with the woods thereon depending. And concerning the suit of Castelbelin, commenced in the life time of the late Lord Prince of Orange in the Court of Malines, against the Catholic King's Attorney general, the said Lords Archdukes do sincerely promise, therein to do them justice within a year, without any delay, according to right and equity.  
XV. If the public treasury hath sold any part of goods confiscate, those to whom they are to belong by virtue of this present treaty, shall tie themselves to be satisfied, with the interest of the price, and to be paid it every year during the truce, by those that possess the said goods, otherwise, it shall be lawful for them to resort to the land or inheritance that is sold.  
XVI. But of the said Sales have been made by order of law, for good and lawful debts of theirs unto whom the said goods did belong before the confiscation, it shall be lawful for them or their heirs, upon cause, to redeem them, in paying the price within a year, accounting from the day of this present treaty, after which time they shall be no more received: and the said repurchase being made by them, they may dispose thereof as they shall think good without further permission.  
XVII. Yet is not this repurchase to be in force, for houses seated in towns, and sold upon this occasion, in regard of the great discommodity and notable loss which the purchasers should sustain, by reason of change and reparations which may be made in the said houses, the examination whereof would be too long and difficult.  
XVIII. As for reparations and improvements bestowed upon other goods that are sold, whose repurchase is permitted, if they be sued for, the ordinary judges shall therein do justice upon knowledge of the cause, the inheritance remaining engaged for the sum which hath been bestowed on reparations: and yet, it shall not be lawful for the said buyers to claim the law of retention, thereby to be paid and satisfied for them.  
XIX. If any fortifications and public works have been made on either side, with leave and authority of superiors, in places which are to be restored by this present treaty, the owners of them shall be bound to satisfy themselves with the estimat which the ordinary judges shall make, residing as well in the said places, as in the jurisdiction thereof, unless the parties do willingly agree among themselves.  
XX. Concerning goods belonging to Churches, colleges, and other holy places in the united Provinces, which have been members depending on Churches, benefices and colleges under the Archdukes obedience; that which hath not been sold before the first of januarie 1607, shall be restored and surrendered unto them, and they shall make re-entry into them by their own private authority without any minister of justice, and shall enjoy them during the truce, but shall not dispose of them, as it is heretofore mentioned. And for those which have been sold before the said time, or given in payment by the States of any of the Provinces, the revenue of the price shall be paid unto them every year, by the Province which hath made the said sale, or given and assigned the said goods. The like shall be done and observed by the said lords Archdukes.  
XXI. Those unto whom their goods confiscate are to be restored, shall not be tied to pay the arrearages of the rents, for the time they have not enjoyed them; and if they be sued or molessed for it, they shall be sent away acquitted.  
XXII. No man shall likewise sue for goods sold, or granted to have them ordered according to the debts whereunto the possessors are bound, by treaties made thereupon, with the interests of moneys for entrance, if any have been given.  
XXIII. judgements given for goods confiscate, together with such parties as have acknowledged the judges, and have been lawfully defended, shall hold good, and those that are condemned shall not be suffered to contradict them, unless by ordinary means.  
XXIIII. The said Lords Archdukes and States, shall each of them for their parts appoint officers and magistrates for administration of justice and government, in towns and strong places, which by the present treaty ought to be restored to the owners, to enjoy them during the truce.  
XXV. Movable goods confiscate before the conclusion of this present treaty, shall not be subject to restitution.  
XXVI. Movable actions which have been set over by the said Lords Archdukes or States to the profit of particular debtors before the first of januarie 1607 shall be of no force on either side.  
XXVII. The time which hath run on during the war, beginning since the year 1567., till this present, shall not be reckoned to bring in prescription, betwixt those which be of sundry sides.  
XXVIII. Those who during the war are retired into neutral countries, shall likewise enjoy the fruit of this truce, and may reside where they shall think good, and return home to their ancient dwellings, there to remain in all safety, observing the laws of the country; and not upon occasion of residing in any place whatsoever, shall they be endamaged in their goods, or themselves deprived of enjoying them.  
XXIX. No new forts shall be built in the Netherlands on either side during the truce.  
thirty. The Lords of the house of Nassan shall not during the said truce, be pursued or molested in their persons or goods, either for debts owing by the late Prince of Orange, since the year 1567., till the day of his death, or for arrearages fallen during the seizure of goods therewith charged.  
XXXI. If any particular persons shall do aught against the truce, by commandment of the said Lords King, Archdukes, or States, the harm shall be recompensed in the same place where the breach was made, if they be taken there, or else, where they dwell, and shall not be pursued elsewhere either in body or goods, in any sort whatsoever: neither shall it be lawful for them to take arms and break the truce upon this occasion, yet they may (upon manifest denial of justice) use ordinary means, by letters of mark and reprisal.  
XXXII. All disingheritings made by occasion of the late hostility, are declared void and of none effect.  
XXXIII. The subjects and such as dwell in the dominions of the said Lords, Archdukes, and States of what estate and condition soever they be, are declared capable of succeeding one an other, as well by the testament, as ab intestato, according to the custom of the places: And if any successions have heretofore fallen to any of them, they shall therein be defended and maintained.  
XXXIIII. All prisoners taken in war shall be delivered on either side without ransom.  
XXXV. And that this present treaty may be better observed, the said Lords King, Archdukes, and States do interchangeably promise to employ all their force● and means to secure all passages, seas, and navigable rivers, from the incursions of Pirates, thieves, and robbers, and if they shall apprehend any such, then, sharply to chastise them.  
XXXVI. They do moreover promise to attempt or do nothing, nor suffer any thing to be done, to the hurt of this preseut treaty, directly or indirectly, and if any be done, to amend it without any difficulty or delay: And for observing of all this above mentioned, they do mutually oblige themselves, namely, the said Lords King, and Archdukes, their successors, and for validity of the said obligation, do renounce all laws, customs, and whatsoever is contrary thereunto.  
XXXVII. This present treaty shall be ratified, and approved by the said Lords King, Archdukes, and States, and their Letters of ratification delivered to one another in due manner and form, within four days. And concerning the Catholic King's ratification, the said Lords Archdukes have promised, and shall be bound, to deliver it within 3 months in due manner and form also, to the end the said Lords States, their subjects, and people, may effectually and in all safety reap the fruit of this present treaty.  
XXXVIII. The said Treaty shall be published in all places where it shall concern, presently after the ratification made by the said Lords Archdukes, and States; and from this time forth, all hostility shall cease.  
This made and concluded in the City of antwerp, the ninth of April 1609, and signed by my Lords the Ambassadors of the most Christian Kings of France and ●●at Britain as mediators, and by the Commissioners of my Lords the Archdukes and States it was signed underneath by P, jeannin, Elie de la Pluce, Ric. Spencer, Rafe Winwood, Ambrose Spinola, the Precedent Richardot, Iu. de Mancicidor, Friar john Ney, L. Verreyckin, William Lodowick Earl of Nassau, W. Brodero de Cornellis de Gent, john de Ordenbarnevelt, I. de Malderee, G. de Renesse, G. de Hillama, john Sloet, Ab. Coenders.   
And because within a while after, certain obscure difficulties were found in the precedent Articles, the Commissioners of the Archdukes, and my Lords the States, did afterwards make this declaration and augmentation following, as it is here set down word for word.  

The general States of the united netherlands Provinces, to all those unto whom these presents shall come, greeting: We give ye to understand, that having seen the points and articles, agreed upon on the seventh day of this month of januarie, here at the Hague, betwixt the commissioners of the most illustrious Archdukes of Austria, Albert and Isabel Clara Eugenia, together with ours, by virtue of procurations mutually given to the said commissioners concerning certain difficulties and ambiguities, proceeding from the treaty of truce, concluded on the ninth of April 1609, in the city of Antuerp, betwixt the said Archdukes and us on the one part, and on the other side propounded by the officers ' and subjects enter changeably, for better consideration of the increase and more ample declaration of the points and articles, whose contents do hereafter follow word for word. For as much as in the treaty of truce, made the 9 of April 1609 in the city of Antuerp, betwixt the commissioners of my Lords the Archdukes of Austria etc. and them of the general States of the united netherlands Provinces, certain difficulties and ambiguities have been propounded on either side, by their officers and subjects; for the more exact looking to of the increase and more ample declaration of the said articles, it was in the end thought fit, that the commissioners on either side, should consider of these difficulties and reconcile them. After that the said commissioners did often meet to confer together according to their procuration and commission on both sides, they did at last agree upon these points and articles following. And for effecting hereof, on the seventh of januarie 1610 were assembled at the Hague in Holland, Balthasar de Robiano, treasurer general of the domains and receipts of the said Lords Archdukes, Lodowick Verreycken knight, the Lord of ham, Councillor of war, audiencer and chief secretary to their Highnesses, and john Baptist Maes Councillor and advocate fiscal in the council of Brabant, on the part of the said Lords Archdukes: The Lord Henry of Brieven the elder, Lord in Sinderen: the Lord john Oldenbarneuelt knight, lord of Temple, Rodenrijs etc. advocate and keeper of the great seal, charters and registers of Holland and East Frizland, the Lord james of Malderee knight, Lord of Heyes etc. chief man representing the nobility in the Estates and Council of the County of Zealand, the Lord justus of Rysenbourg, chief Burgomaster of the City of Vtrecht, Truco de Oennama justice of Shooterland, the Lord Earnest of Ittersum, Drossard of Twent, and Abel Coenders of Helpen, Lord of Faenand Cantes, on the part of the said Lords general States.  
FIrst, that the inhabitants of the united netherlands Provinces coming into the territories and Provinces under the Archdukes obedience, shall have and enjoy (governing themselves according to the above mentioned treaty) the same liberty as the king of great Britain's subjects have; and to this end, the articles which dispose thereof, shall be sent by their Highnesses to all governors, magistrates, and officers of therespective Provinces, with commandment to govern themselves according thereunto: and the said inhabitants and subjects of the united netherlands Provinces, may in all places under their Highness' government, use such advocates, attorneys, notaries, and solicitors, as shall seem good unto themselves, who likewise shall be appointed thereunto by ordinary judges.  
2 Their Highnesses shall give order for and appoint fit and honourable places to bury such as from the State's side shall happen to die in places under their Highness' government.  
3 The said Lords Archdukes, and States may not receive from either part forth of their limits, goods passing up and down by land or water.  
4 The subjects of the said Lords Archdukes, and States shall in either's Countries reciprocally enjoy their ancient franchises and rights of customs, which they have peaceably enjoyed before the wars.  
5 Frequentation, conversation, and commerce, betwixt the subjects mutually, shall not be hindered, and all impediments to that purpose shall be taken away.  
6 All goods which according to the treaty have been or are to be restored to the ancient owners, their heirs, or others that may lay claim thereunto, may be sold by the same owners, without any other particular consent, notwithstanding the thirteenth article of the above mentioned treaty, where it is otherwise said: the property of rents excepted, which shall be acknowledged by the public treasury, in steed of the sold goods.  
7 All concealed goods, movables and immovable, rents, actions, debts, and other things not seized on by the public treasury, before the ninth of April 1609, the owners, their heirs or those which lay claim thereunto, may enjoy all the fruits, rents, revenues, and commodities, freely and at their own dispose, and the concealers, themselves, and heirs shall not upon that occasion be called in question by the public treasury on either party, but the owners their heirs or such as lay claim thereunto, shall therein have right done them against all men, as if it were their own goods.  
8 Those trees which have been cut down since the last of januarie 1609, and which at the day of the conclusion of the said treaty, are uncut, and those which have been sold on the very same day, shall be granted to the owners, notwithstanding the sale thereof, nor shall they be tied to pay any thing for them.  
9 The fruits, farming, and revenues of lordships, territories, tenths, fishings, houses, rents, and other revenues of lands, which according to the treaty have been or are to be restored, fallen since the ninth of April 1609, shall be granted for the whole year, to the owners, their heirs or such as lay claim to them.  
10 For goods sold by the public treasuries on either side, letters shall be given to the owners, their heirs, or those that lay claim to them, which shall serve them for a declaratory proof, conformable to the treaty, with assignation of yearly payment to a Receiver in the Provinces where they have been sold or bought, which shall be there appointed after the first public sale or otherwise, together with the first years rend, which shall arise and be paid on the 9 of April 1610.  
11 The farming of lands confiscate (though for many years) shall end with the year 1609, according to the custom of places where the lands lie, and the said farming fallen after the ninth of April (as hath been said) shall be paid to the owners: but on this condition, that if he which did enjoy the said lands, hath been at any costs and charge for harvest next ensuing, that the said expense according to the custom or discretion of the judge of the place where the said lands lie, shall be paid by the owner to him who hath had the profit thereof.  
12 Sale made of lands or goods confiscate, since the conclusion of the said treaty, shall be of no validity, and likewise such as have been made before, contrary to the agreement made with certain towns in particular.  
13 The owners shall be satisfied for goods employed in fortifications, public works, or hospitals, according to the 19 article of the treaty.  
14 Houses of particular persons which have been or are to be restored according to the said treaty, cannot be reciprocally burdened with garrisons or otherwise more than those of other subjects of like condition.  
15 If, in any place, difficulty be made of restoring goods which are to be restored, the judge of the said place shall presently see it to be effectually performed, and shall therein take the shortest course, and the restitution shall not be delayed under colour that the tax hath not been paid, or otherwise, contrary to the contents of the 13 article of the treaty.  
16 In those places where it shall be found that all the goods of any one of either side have been confiscate, so as he hath had no means left to pay the interest of his debts, owing before the confiscation, he shall not only be free from all charges and rents according to the said treaty, but likewise from the general and personal charge of rents and interests befallen in the said times.  
17 It is meant that under disinheritings made by occasion of the war, are likewise comprehended, exhereditations made in regard of any thing proceeding from war, and which do depend thereon.  
18 None shall be molested on either side, directly or indirectly, for changing his dwelling, in paying such duties as are to be paid; and all impediments since the concluding of the treaty, shall be really and in deed removed.  
19 It is likewise meant, that under restitution of goods and lands granted by the treaty, lands lying in the Counties of Burgundy and Charrolois, shall be likewise comprehended; and that which according to the Treaty hath not yet been restored, shall every where on either side be faithfully and speedily performed, by the owners, their heirs, or such as lay claim to them.  
20 The said Lords Archdukes and States do promise faithfully to accomplish and cause to be accomplished, all and every of the above mentioned points; to which they bind themselves according to the obligation contained in the principal Treaty, and in the manner, as if these points were therein likewise mentioned.  
21 Lastly, it is concluded, that all and every of the points and articles of the above mentioned Treaty of the ninth of April past, which have not been expressly altered, nor more amply explained, shall every of them continue in full force, without being prejudiced, and nothing of that which hath been propounded in this treaty by writing or word of mouth, shall tend or in any sort be interpreted to the profit or disadvantage of any one, and that either directly or indirectly: But, aswell the said Lords Archdukes, the general and particular States, as also, all Princes, Earls, Barons, Towns, Colleges, Lords, Gentlemen, Burghers, and other inhabitants of the Provinces on both sides, of what quality or condition soever, shall continue in their rights and privileges, according to the contents of the said Treaty, and the said Lords Archdukes and States, shall agree together within a month next ensuing this treaty, and shall deliver up to each other their letters of agreement in due form.  
Thus agreed and concluded at the Hague in Holland, the day, month, and year above mentioned. In witness whereof, these presents have been confirmed by the signature of the Commissioners on either side, and was signed by B. de Robiano, Verreicken, I.B. Masuis, Hen. Van Brienen the elder, john Oldenbarn●velt, I. de Malderee, justus de Rysenbourg, T. v. Oennama, Ernst of Ittersum, Ab. Coenders.  
After mature deliberation, we have accepted, approved, confirmed and ratified, and by these presents do accept, approve, confirm and ratify, the same points and articles; promising sincerely to observe, and cause them to be observed in every point as if ourselves had made and promised them, and will never do, or suffer any thing to be done to the contrary in any sort whatsoever either directly or indirectly: and for performance hereof, we bind all our own goods and lands, with those of our successors. In witness whereof, we have caused these presents to be sealed with our great seal, and signed by our Register in our assembly at the Hague, the nine and twentieth of januarie 1610. Paragraphed by I. Magnus Vt. And a little lower, by appointment of my Lords the general States, signed, C. Aerssens.   
FINIS.    

¶ A Table of the most memorable exploits contained in this book.  
SAint Andrew's fort yielded up to the States. 
253  The admiral ship of antwerp and seven other taken by the Black galley of Holland. 
283  Armada of Spain an. 1588. 50● Portugal galleons there, 51. Fleet of Biscay 52. Pinnaces 52. Fleet of Castille 53. Ships of Andeluzia 54. Fleet of Guipuscoa 55. Fleet of Levantiscas 56. Fleet of Vrcas 57 Pinnaces and Zabras 58. Galliass of Naples 59 Galleys of Portugal 59 The general account of the whole fleet 59 The Colonel Regiments, and number of men under every Regiment 61. Victuals 62. 
 Axle taken. 
26  BErgen-op-Zoom besieged by Parma in vain 
81  Bommell besieged & the siege raised by his Excellency. 
219  The captains du Bois and Bacx defeat certain bands of the enemy's men. 
351  The general State's army in Brabant. 
334  Breda taken. 
111  The town and castle Brevoort besieged and taken. 
211  Cadzand taken. 
359  Cales-Males in Andeluzia in Spain taken. 
185  The Canaries invaded by the Netherlanders. 
233  Coevoerden taken. 
142  Coevoerden freed from siege. 
157  The Court of Holland described. 
12  Cracow castle won. 
285  Crevecoeur taken. 
122  DElfziel sconce taken. 
128  Deventer besieged and taken. 
126  Deuticum taken. 
249  ELshout taken. 
123  Enschede besieged and taken. 
213  THe army of his Excellency in Flanders, and their exploits there. 
260  THe black Galley of Holland takes the Admeral ship of Antuerp and seven other ships. 
283  Geertrudenb●rg besieged and taken. 
149  Genealogy of the Prince of Orange. 
14  A sea-fight in the road of Gibraltar between the King of Spain's armada and the States men of war. 
372  Grave in the Land of Cuyck besieged and taken. 
343  Sundry forts in the land of Groeninguen besieged and taken. 
126  The siege and taking of the town and country of Groeninguen. 
161  The ag● 〈…〉 ●on there. 
172  Groll and Goor besieged and taken. 
209  THe Hague described. 
12  Heel and Homert taken. 
122  The Court of Holland described. 
12  The admiral of Holland puts the Galleys of Sluice to flight. 
281  The Hollanders vanquish the Portugals in a sea fight at the East Indies. 
294  Hulst besieged and taken. 
13●  Hue taken. 
182  THe fort of Imitill won. 
128  KNodsenbourg besieged by Parma in vain 
130  Earl of Leicest●r leaves the Low countries 
27  The town and castle of Lingen taken. 
215  The Netherlanders in Luxembourg with an army. 
351  MAnsfelt beaten from the fort of Nordam. 
119  Medenblick yeeded to his Excellency. 
27  Meurs, and the Castle there taken. 
207  Meurs, again taken. 
293  WIlliam of Nassau Prince of Orange his genealogy, death and funerals. 
14.15.16 etc.  Prince Maurice of Nassau receiveth the government of the Netherlands. 
25. & 27  Netherlands described. 
1  The Netherlands set forth ships towards Nova Zemla and the East Indies. 
174  The enterprises of the Netherlanders on Spain and the Canaries. 
233  The Netherlanders in Luxembourg with an army. 
351  The Netherlanders at truce with the Archduke for 1● years. 
383  The battle of Niewport won by his Excelle●c●e. 
270  Nimmeguen besieged and taken. 
134  Nordam fort battered and assaulted in vain by Mansfelt. 
119  OAtmaersen taken. 
142  The same taken again. 
213  Oldenbourg burnt and sacked. 
122  Oldenzeel besieged and taken. 
213  The fort of Opslach won. 
128  The prince of Orange 〈◊〉 genealogy, death, and funerals. 
14.15. etc.  Ostend besieged by the Archduke Albert, to his great loss. 
302  The same fiercely assaulted 7. januar. 1602. 
317  The same again assaulted 13. of April 1603 
327  PArma defeated in the Betuwe. 
129  RHinberg besieged and taken. 
201  Rhinberg a second time besieged and taken. 
265  Rosendall taken. 
122  A Sea fight between the State's men of war and the Spanish galleys. 
353  A Sea fight between the king of Spain's armada, and the States men of war. 
372  General Senoy his articles presented to the council of State. 
45  The galleys of Sluice put to flight by the admiral of Holland. 
281  Sluice besieged and yielded up. 
359  Spain invaded by the Netherlanders. 
233  Spinolas galleys fought with by the State's men of war. 
357  Steenberghen taken. 
122  Steenwijke besieged and taken. 
137  TErheyden taken. 
122  Tilemont taken and sacked. 
110  Turnholt taken. 
123  Truce for 12. years between the Archduke of Austria, and the States. 
383  Victory got by his Excellency on Tielsche-Heyde plain. 
197  THe town and castle of Wachtendonck taken. 
250  Westerloo taken. 
123  The strong castle of Would taken. 
370  YSendike taken. 
359  ZVtphen besieged and taken. 
123   
FINIS.