THE PRESENT STATE OF THE United Provinces OF THE LOW-COUNTRIES; AS TO THE Government, Laws, Forces, Riches, Manners, Customs, Revenue, and Territory, OF THE DUTCH.  
IN THREE BOOKS: Collected by W. A. Fellow of the Royal Society.  
LONDON, Printed for John Starkey, at the Mitre, betwixt the Middle Temple- Gate, and Temple-Bar, in Fleetstreet, 1669.   

THE PREFACE.  
THe Netherland-Provinces have rendered themselves so conspicuous and considerable amongst the other States of Europe, that the sole mentioning of them might suffice to awaken the attention, and invite the regards of all persons, whose more elevated Genius leads them to the contemplation of the rise, growth, and grandeur of States and Empires; which affording the greatest instances of humane wisdom and industry, as well as they are the most remarkable Theatres of divine providence, are certainly the most adequate objects for rational and considering men: For which reason possibly few Books less needed a Preface, than that which is now in the Readers hands; and The present State and Government of the Netherlands in the Title-page, may seem to carry invitation enough with it to render all other superfluous. Scarce any Subject occurs more frequent in the discourses of ingenious men, than that of the marvellous progress of this little State, which in the space of about one hundred years, (for 'tis no more since their first attempts to shake off the Spanish yoke) hath grown to a height, not only infinitely transcendnig all the ancient Republics of Greece, but not much inferior in some respects even to the greatest Monarchies of these latter Ages. Nor is the wonder inconsiderably augmented, in that the lesser Moiety hath far exceeded even the Whole itself, and seven Provinces are become greater than seventeen; with a manifest verification of that Enigmatical Aphorism, Dimidium plus Toto. To which it may likewise be added, that for above sixty years of that abovementioned hundred, they were continually engaged in a War against the greatest King of this Western World, besides what contests they have since had with other Neighbours: and nevertheless, that difficult exercise of their nonage not only promoted their growth, by necessarily exciting the industry natural to that Nation, but likewise contributed to rènder the Constitution of the State itself more robust and athletic.  
'Tis the Portraiture of this flourishing Commonwealth which is here presented to the Ingenious, drawn by the elegant Pen of a Virtuoso of the Royal Society; who the more to gratify the Reader, and complete his Work, hath collected out of several Authors a summary Account of the Lives of the Earls of Holland, down to the alteration of Government, which commenced about the year 1567. which Lives compose the first Book, order of time requiring the same to be prefixed before the Description of the Confederate Commonwealth, or Government of the State's General; whereunto is particularly annexed that of the States of Holland and Zeeland, as examples of the rest. The third and last Book exhibits the extent and nature of the Soil of Holland, the Manners, Customs, and Trade of the Inhabitants, together with particular Descriptions of all the considerable Cities and Towns of that Province, and an Appendage of divers Treaties of Alliance made between this and other neighbouring States. Besides all which the Reader will find variety of Politic Reflections and Discourses interspersed throughout the whole Work, which concur to the accomplishment of the same, in reference to the two principal ends of Books, Instruction and Divertisement.   

THE FIRST BOOK, Containing the HISTORY OF THE EARLS OF HOLLAND.  

CHAP. I.  
What passed before the Earls of Holland.  
THere is all the probability in the world that this fair Province of Holland has not always been as rich and as populous as we now see it; but quite contrary, it was a kind of a Desert once, and full of great Forests. The first People that inhabited it were a Colony of Germans, which came out of their Country some time before the Birth of our Saviour, and it is from thence that it has the name of Batavia, if we believe the Roman History, and particularly Tacitus, lib. de moribus Germanorum.  
There is no doubt but the Batavi are the chief in strength and valour among the Germans, and that this Nation which was formerly called Cats, and which upon a sedition at home invaded these Islands which the Rhine makes, and are now become Subjects of the Roman Empire, are the noblest portion of the Germane State, since History makes so much mention of them, and that it appears so in their humours, customs, and manners, of which the chiefest are these following. 1. That they pay no tributes. 2. That they are free from all contribution towards the War. 3. That they are always reserved for the War. 4. That they have the most honourable rank in the Army, as being esteemed the best Soldiers, and the best skilled in lancing their Javelots'. 'Tis by their help, says Tacitus, that the Romans have extended their Empire beyond the Rhine.  
The Romans in truth did think themselves happy to have them for friends and companions; not that I deny but that they were in some way conquered by the same Romans, whom they assisted much in their Wars against the Britain's, or English; witness the Britain Castle built by the same Romans; for as Tacitus says, it was only by the force of the Batavi and the Tongri that the Romans did overcome the Britain's: besides the Emperors were so convinced of their fidelity, that they used them as guards to their persons; but because the Romans did begin to oppress them, they revolted from them, as it is reported by Tacitus in the fourth Book of his History, in these words:  
The Batavi having been used in the Wars of Germany, did furnish the Empire with arms and men; their principal leaders were Julius Paulus and Claudius Civilis of the Royal Blood; Paulus being accused of rebellion was killed, and Claudius put in prison, but set at liberty by Galb 〈…〉 Civiiis, being a man of parts, took notice of the disorder the Empire was in, and observing the natural aversion the Bataves had for the Romans, because that in raising of Soldiers among them, they aimed more to satisfy their avarice and foul luxury, than to supply the legions; he fomented under hand at first their discontent, then appearing openly, exhorted them to recover their liberty, and cast off the yoke of slavery. We are not, said he, treated like companions, but like slaves; remember the glory of your Ancestors, and look upon the disorders of the Empire, and the Gauls your neighbours, who will join with you in the design of recovering your liberty. Thus it appears by this Writer that the Batavi were to have been the Romans companions, and that it was for the breach and non-performance of that promise that they revolted, and maintained a bloody War, in which were performed many noble actions.  
The end of this War was a peace, in which the Batavi were ca●l'd the brothers and friends of the Romans, the title of companions seeming not kind enough, since the Country was overrun by the Danes and Normans, who were long masters of it, but in the time of Pepin King of France they recovered their liberties.   

CHAP. II.  

Therry of Aquitain, the First Earl.  
THe most received opinion of the learned Antiquaries is, That Thyerry, or Childeric, Duke of Aquitain, was made Earl of Holland by Charles the balled, Emperor and King of France. He took possession of it in the year 863, and tamed the fury of the Frizelanders; his Subjects growing weary of the long peace which he did politicly keep with all his neighbours, conspired against him, and drive him out of Holland; but, by the assistance of the Emperor's Forces, he subdued them, and punished the authors of the rebellion. His Wife was Jane, daughter to King Pepin of Italy. Having reigned forty years in Holland, he died peaceably, leaving his State to his Son.   

Thyerry, the Second.  
Succeeding his Father, married Hulgard, Daughter to Lewis King of France. He overcame the Frizelanders in two pitched Battles, and rebuilt the Monastery of Egmont which they had burned. He died after he had governed eighty eight years, and lies buried at Egmont.   

Arnulph, or Arnout, the Third.  
This Earl maintained a long War against the Frizelanders, in which he was at last kil●'d, and buried at Egmont, having reigned five years.   

Thyerry, the Fourth.  
Thyerry the third was preferred to the dignity of Earl of Holland before his elder Brother, and married the Daughter of the Emperor Otho. In his time there appeared a Comet, which seemed to prognostic the War that happened with the Bishop of Utrect; after the loss of much Nobility, the said Bishop was taken and kept prisoner for a long time, because he did obstinately refuse all conditions of peace. This Duke to revenge his Father's death, overran and ruined most of East-Frizeland, and at last gave it to Florent his younger Son. After this he undertook a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, and died coming back.   

Thyerry, the Fifth.  
Thyerry the fourth of this name, and Earl of Holland, being gone to Liege to a public Tournament, and having in it killed the Bishop of Cullen, in revenge thereof was pursued to Dort, and there killed.   

Florent, the Sixth.  
Florent the first of this name succeeded in his Brother's place, who died without issue; he forsook Frizeland to come and govern Holland; he had W●r with the Archbishop of Cullen, the Bishop of Liege, and the Earl of Louvain, whom he defeated luckily by a stratagem invented by an old man, who advised him to cause deep Ditches to be made upon his enemy's way, and to cover them over with straw and hay; this design succeeded, and his enemies falling in great numbers, he charged them so smartly and at such an advantage, that he obtained a great victory: the Archbishop nevertheless having rallied his scattered Army, came again into Holland, and was again defeated. A little after the Earl Florent was treacherously killed.   

Gertrude of Saxony, the Seventh.  
This Princess took the reins of the Government in hand after the death of her Husband, and during the minority of her Son. She was married a second time to Robert of Frizeland, and died, having governed in great tranquillity. She left divers Children by both her Husbands.   

Robert of Frizeland, the Eighth.  
This Prince is reckoned amongst the Earls of Holland, though he were but Guardian to the young Thyerry; he acquitted himself with much integrity and honour of this his employment, but he was driven out of his State by Godfrey of Lorraine, who by the strength and assistance of the Bishop of Utrect, possessed himself of his Country.   

Godfrey, the Ninth.  
Godfrey being in possession of Holland, built the Town of Delft, subdued the Frizelanders, and after a happy Reign was at last treacherously murdered.   

Thyerry, the Tenth.  
This Prince, the true and lawful Heir, having at last recovered his own, made it his business to clear his Country of the Bishop of Utrect's Forces; which he did by making peace with him; after which he set upon the Frizelanders, and having passed his Army over the Ice, he encountered theirs, and killed four thousand upon the place: nevertheless they rallied, and coming up with new Forces, challenged the Earl and his Army; which he bore so impatiently, that immediately charging them with all fury, he routed them, and in pursuit of his victory spared neither man, woman, nor child. This bloody execution made them promise obedience. After which the Earl died in 1091. having reigned fifteen years: his W●fe was of the House of Saxony.   

Florent the Fat, the Eleventh.  
This Florent governed Holland for thirty one years, being a very tall corpulent man, his inclination was peace, and was very charitable. He left four Children by his Wife Petronella of Saxony, Sister to the Emperor Lotaire. He died in the flower of his age, and left the administration to his Wife, during the minority of his Children. All his Subjects had a great respect and veneration for his piety.   

Thyerry, the Twelfth.  
Thyerry the sixth of that name was married to Sophia, Daughter to Otho Count Palatine, by whom he had four Sons and three Daughters. He chastized the Friz●landers, but they rallying again fell stoutly upon North-Holland, and burned the Town of Alcmaer, being in a way to make their anger still more sensible to his State, if he had not resolutely opposed them. A little after hearing that his Brother-in-law was taken prisoner by them, and that his Forces were also defeated by the Bishop of Utrect, he immediately led his Army, and sat down before the Town with so much resolution, that he had undoubtedly taken it, had not the Bishop for a last shift put on his Pontifical habit, and come out with the rest of his Clergy to excommunicate the Count Thyerry then fell upon his knees, and to avoid the excommunication, asked pardon and raised his siege. He was at l●st killed by the Frizelanders, having reigned forty five years.   

Florent, the Thirteenth.  
Florent took place after Thyerry, and married with great transport of joy the Daughter of the King of Scotland, which Wibold Abbot of Egmond had brought to one of the Sea-Towns. He had by her four Sons and four Daughters. He chastized the Frizelanders, who had once again burnt Alcmaer, and died gloriously at Antioch, after he had seen the Sarrasins defeated and driven out of the holy Land.   

Thierry, the Fourteenth.  
Thierry succeeded, and had by his Wife Allied of Cleves two Daughters, whereof one was married to Henry of Gueldre, and the other to the Earl of Loen. He made War in Brabant, and took Boisteduc; but was at last taken prisoner by the Duke of Lorraine.   

Ada, the Fifteenth.  
Ada Countess of Holland, and Daughter to Thierry, did not govern long; for being married to the Earl of Loen, whom most of the neighbouring Princes did envy, there were many seditions fomented in her State, which at last broke out with great effusion of blood.   

William the Sixteenth.  
William the first of the name succeeded his Brother Thierry, and his Niece Ada. He had War with the Bishop of Utrect, and on both sides the Country was much ruined; but by agreement at last he was to pay to the Bishop a thousand Talents. Upon the news of the death of his Uncle the King of Scotland, he immediately rigged out a great Fleet, to put himself in possession of that Kingdom; which he thought was his right, and in pursuance of his design landed in Scotland, and took divers Towns; but hearing the Earl of Loen his Nephew was come into Holland with an Army, he forsook the uncertain for the certain. He had two Wives, Allied of Gueldres, (by whom he had three Sons and two Daughters;) and Mary, Daughter to the Duke of Lancaster, who had no Children. He died in the year 1223. having reigned nineteen years.   

Florent, the Seventeenth.  
Florent the fourth Son to William, was married to Matthild, Daughter of the Duke of Brabant; who had two Sons, William and Florent, and two Daughters, Allied Countess of Hainaut, and Matthild Countess of Heneberg, that had at one birth as many Children as there are days in the year. This Prince was extreme valiant, which was the cause of his death; for the Countess of Clermont having heard much of his valour, was so desirous to see him, that she entreated her Husband to publish a solemn Tournament; Florent failed not to be there, and by his noble carriage so charmed the Countess; that she could not hold praising of him before her Husband; who thereupon conceived so much jealousy, that he caused him to be barbarously murdered in the flower of his age. His Body was transported into Holland, and buried at Rinsburg.   

William, the Eighteenth.  
William the second, being yet under age, succeeded to his Father, under the Guardianship of his Uncle the Bishop; his Wife was Elizabeth of Brunswick, by whom he had Florent. This Prince was of a very warlike temper, and by reason of his valour was chosen King of the Romans, at the age of twenty years. He first held a Court at the Hague, to hear the complaints of the Hollanders and Zelanders; in the protection of whom, he sent his Brother with an Army against the Flemings, who were entered the Island of Walkerens in Zealand. There was so stout a rencontre between the two Armies, that the ground for a great space was all covered with the blood of the Flemings. The King upon the news ●astened into Zealand, and saved the lives of the rest of the Flemings, but sent them away stark naked. After this he went into Germany, where he was received with great honour and joy; coming back, he overcame the Frizelanders in one Battle, and a little before the second he was killed, having governed twenty one years. It was he that founded the College of the Heemrades, where a Diikgrave presides.   

Florent, the Nineteenth.  
This Prince was two years under the Guardianship of his Uncle and his Aunt, Allied Countess of Haina●t. To make up the difference between the Hollanders and Flemings, he married Beat●ix of Flanders, by whom he had five Sons and three Daughters, the youngest of which, Margaret, was Queen of England. To revenge his Father's death he fell upon the Frizelanders, whom he worsted, and recovered the dead Body of his Father, which he caused to be buried with royal obsequies. In his old age he corrupted the Wife of one Gerard de Velsen, a Gentleman of his Court, whom he had much lov●●; and it was rather to affront him, than out of a desire to satisfy his lusts; but Gerard and Herman de Vourd, his Father-in-law, resolved to be revenged, and by conspiracy seized the Earls person, and carried him to the Castle of Mude; where, hearing of the Preparations made in Holland against them, they made the Earl get on Horseback, thinking to convey him into England; but being too hotly pursued, Gerard gave him twenty two wounds with his Sword, and left him dead in a Ditch. This murder remained not unrevenged; for some Authors write that Gerard being taken, was put into a Hogshead full of sharp nails, and so rolled up and down the Streets at Leyden till he died.   

John, the Twentieth.  
John the first of that name, being in England at the time of his Father's death, there was some trouble in Holland, which was soon appeased by his presence. He married Elizabeth, Daughter to Edward King of England, by whom he had no Children. In his time there was a Giant in Holland, named Nicolas, to whom other men compared were but Dwarves; his Shoe was so wide that four men together could set all their feet in it. The said Earl John died at Harlem, having reigned three years, and made room for the House of Hainaut.    

CHAP. III.  
The House of Hainaut.  

John of Hainaut, the Twenty first.  
JOhn the second of this name, Son to Allied Countess of Hainaut, Sister to King William, succeeded his Cousin-german in 1299. and took in marriage Philippine, Daughter to the Duke of Luxemburg, by whom he had three Sons and four Daughters. He was five years' Earl of Holland, and did defend with much vigour his Brother, who was Bishop of Utrect, against those who endeavoured to deprive him of his Bishopric. It is said, that in those days there was seen in the Air an armed Knight, who with a loud voice animated the people to War, and that the Sea also was seen full of Ships, which vanished before the eyes of them that curiosity had brought upon the shore. These apparitions were taken as prognostics of the War, that a little after happened between the Hollanders and Flemings in Zealand; in which the Flemings were defeated by the valour of William, Son to the Earl John; but he outlived his victory a very small time, and lies buried at Valenciennes.   

William, surnamed the Good, the Twenty second.  
William the third, by reason of his good nature and virtuous disposition, was called the Good. He had divers Children by his Wife Jane of Valois, viz. William, Lewis, John, Margaret Duchess of Bavaria and Empress, Jane Countess of Juliers, Philippine Queen of England, and Elizabeth. In his time Holland was much afflicted with plague and famine. In the year 1328. Philip King of France gave a great overthrow to the Flemings, being assisted by the Forces of this Earl. He reigned thirty three years.   

William, the Twenty third.  
This young Prince led an Army into Spain, to assist that King against the Infidels, and got much honour in that War. Being come back into Holland, he besieged Utrect, and being ready to take and sack the Town, he was prevailed upon by the Gentry to give the Citizens their lives, upon condition that five hundred of the best qualified should come barefoot and barehead, and fall down upon their knees before him, and crave his pardon for their faults. After this he went against the Frizelanders, where fight too boldly, he was killed near Staveron. He left no Children by his Wife Jane of Brabant.   

Margaret August, Countess, the Twenty fourth.  
This Princess was Daughter of William the Good, and Wife to Lewis of Bavaria, Emperor. She came with a great retinue into Holland, and having took possession gave the Government to her Son William, reserving for herself a Pension every year. She sold all the Estates the Frizelanders had in Holland, to revenge her Brother's death. She died in the year 1355. and in her ended the House of Hainant.    

CHAP. IU.  
The House of Bavaria.  

William of Bavaria, the Twenty fifth.  
William the fifth, Duke of Bavaria, and Son to the Empress Margaret, governed three years, and had no Children by his Wife, who was of the House of Lancaster. He ran mad, and killed a Gentleman of great quality; whereupon his Subjects gave him a Guardian, who was   

Albert, the Twenty sixth.  
Albert, his Brother governed as Guardian for the space of thirty years; after which time the right fell to him, and he reigned sixteen more. He had by his first Wife, William, Albert, and John, afterwards Bishop of Liege, Katherine Duchess of Gueldres, Mary of Burgundy, Jane of Austria, and Jane Queen of Bohemia. In second marriage he took the Daughter of the Duke of Cleves. The Frizelanders felt the effects of his just anger.   

William, the Twenty seventh.  
William the sixth, Son to Albert, was twice married, first to the Daughter of Charles King of France, who died without issue; secondly to the Daughter of Philip the bold Duke of Brabant, by whom he had a Daughter called Jacqueline. He made War with the Duke of Gueldres; but after he made not only peace but friendship with him. A little before he died he made an assembly of the States, in which his Daughter was by common consent proclaimed his Heiress. He died in the same year, which was the thirteenth of his Reign.   

Jacqueline, the Twenty eighth.  
Jacqueline being sixteen years old, was married to the Dolphin of France, Son to Charles the sixth, who died the first year of their marriage, and left her at liberty to marry John Son to the Duke of Brabant; but this marriage being void, by reason of the proximity of blood, they being Cousin-germen, before the cause could be decided at Rome; she went into England, and there was married anew to Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, Brother to King Henry: but this marriage being likewise made void by the Pope, she married Francis de Borsales, who was taken prisoner by the Duke of Burgundy. In her time there were many civil Wars; and by her death her State fell to Philip of Burgundy, and in her ended the House of Bavaria.    

CHAP. V.  
The House of Burgundy.  

Philip the Good, the Twenty ninth.  
PHilip of Burgundy, Son to John of Burgundy, and Margaret Daughter of Albert, Duke of Bavaria, added this noble accession to his Duchy. He had three Wives, the first Michelle, Daughter to Charles the sixth King of France, who died without Children. His second was Claudina, Daughter to Robert Earl of Heu, who was also barren. His third was Isabelle of Portugal, by whom he had three Sons, who died young, and the fourth named Charles Earl of Charolo●● lived. He governed thirty four years; he was a virtuous witty Prince. One day some body telling him, that the inhabitants of G●●nt did much court his Son Charles; he answered that they were much given to love their Master's Son, but that they would hate him when he should be their Master. He received some injury from the King of England, and in revenge, besieged Calais with a prodigious Army; but the inhabitants of Ghent and Bruges forsaking his Army, because he did not act according to their hasty expectations, were the ruin of his design. This Prince was the first that instituted at the Hague the Order of the Golden Fleece, and it has been since transferred to the House of Austria. His ordinary stay was at Bruges in Flanders, where he died.   

Charles Earl of Charolois, the Thirtieth.  
Charles, surnamed the Warrior, succeeded to his Father. By his first Wife Katherine of France he had no Children; but by his second, Elizabeth of Bourbon, he had the Princess Mary. War was this Prince's inclination, which he begun against the King of France, Lewis the eleventh. He chastized the inhabitants of Liege, and caused the Town to be laid waste. He was still out-witted by Lewis, though he were assisted by the Constable de St. Paul, whom Lewis beheaded. He drove the Duke of Larrain out of his Country, who recovered it again by the assistance of the Swissers, against whom by his fault he lost a great Battle, and in the hopes of revenge, having engaged them with a new Army, he lost above sixteen thousand men. And at last (his ill fortune still pursuing him) he went to besiege Nancy, and was there betrayed by an Italian, whom he loved and trusted too much, his Army defeated, and himself killed upon the place. It is thought that his design was to have extended his Dominions as far as Italy, by Lorraine and the Swissers; and that he had often desired the Emperor, to erect his States into a Kingdom. Never Prince was more courted by foreign Powers than he; for he had one only Daughter, extreme handsome, and who was to inherit all his Dominions; he promised her to none, but gave fair words to all. His death was much resented by his Subjects, and hardly believed by the Hollanders. Lewis King of France was very glad of his death, for he stood much in awe of his power; and 'tis thought, that he prevailed with money upon this Italian, to betray him.   

Marry Countess of Charolois, Duchess of Burgundy, and Countess of Holland, the Thirty first.  
The loss of this great Warrior, brought a great consternation amongst his people, and made them assemble the general States at Louvain, to take care for the safety of those Provinces, and their Mistress. This young Lady was then about fourteen years old, when the tragic news of her Father's death, reached her ears. The Emperor Ferdinand did desire her for his Son Maximilian; and Lewis of France for his Dolphin Charles; and it seemed that the Lady's inclinations were more inclined o the French: but they too hasty to seize the prey, having entered Artois with an Army, the States gave her to Maximilian, the Emperor's Son; the Countess of Meguen her Governant having boldly said, that the Princess was of age to bear a man, and therefore they should not give her a child, such as the Dolphin of France was.  
The French upon this marriage were so incensed, that they laid waste all the Country of Artois; and from thence fell upon Hainaut. They tried also to annoy these Provinces by Sea, but were beaten by the Hollanders. This excellent Lady having lived some years in admirable union with her Husband, fell one day as she was a hunting, and broke two ribs; whereupon a Fever citing her, she died in the year 1482. She left a Son called Philip, and Margaret her Daughter.    

CHAP. VI  
The House of Austria.  

Maximilian, the Thirty second.  
THis Imperial Prince having married the Princess Mary at Ghent, was declared Earl of Holland. His first care was to invite all his Nobility, to be revenged of the French, for pillaging Mary's Territories: in effect he defeated them, and took the Town of Tournay; and a year after he constituted for his Lieutenant in Holland, Nun. de lalain seigneur de montigny, and Knight of the golden Fleece.  
After the death of Mary, the French pretended that the care of the Children did belong to them; but it was judged for the Father. He was at last chosen Emperor, and died in the year 1519. in January. Thus the Low Countries became annexed to the House of Austria; and by the marriage of Philip, Maximilians' Son, to Jane of Castille, was framed that great House, which has so long given subject of fears and jealousies to all Europe.   

Philip of Austria, the Thirty third.  
This Prince, firnamed the Delight of Mankind, for his beauty and goodness, was married to Jane, Daughter to Ferdinand of Castille. He brought her into the Low-countrieses, and there she was brought a-bed of Charles, who was afterwards Emperor; as also of another Son, named Ferdinand. Then he returned into Spain, and so won the hearts of all the Nobility there, that his Father-in-law Ferdinand became jealous of him, but durst not trust any body with his jealousy: nay such was his distrust, that he began to hate that great Captain, D●n Gonsaloe. But Philip freed him from his fears, by dying in Spain, which made many suspect poison. His Wife did love him so passionately, that she ran mad, and died not long after him.   

Charles the fifth, of Austria, Emperor, King of Spain, and Earl of Holland, the Thirty fourth.  
Charles was born at Gheat, in the year 1500. the twenty fourth of February. His Father died when he was but six years old; and at fifteen, he was received as Prince in the Low-countrieses; at eighteen he was acknowledged King of Spain; and proclaimed Emperor at nineteen. He was very well bred up by his Aunt Margaret, and his Tutor, Adrian of Utrect, whom he afterwards made Pope.  
He was solemnly crowned King of Spain at Valladolid; but while he was absent in the Low Countries, the Spaniards revolted from him.  
Francis the first, King of France, stood with him to be chosen Emperor, but failed of his pretensions: thence sprung an animosity between them, which caused many bloody Wars, wherein Charles his good fortune prevailed; for he took Francis prisoner, and for his ransom, made him yield all his right to Naples, Milan, and the Low-countrieses. In his time, and under his colours, Rome was taken, and sacked, and the Pope kept prisoner. He bought the Lordship of Utrect and Transilvania, and annexed them to the rest. Solyman the Emperor of the Turks, had besieged Vienna; but hearing of Charles his approach, raised his siege, and marched away. He overcame the Protestant Princes, took the Duke of Saxony, and the Landgrave of Hessen. He passed over into Africa, and took the Town of Tunis. These are courageous actions; but the boldest of all was, when he trusted his person in the hands of his mortal enemy, Francis the first; which was upon this occasion: The inhabitants of Ghent were revolted, and did desire the French to protect them; Charles then in Spain, demands passage through France; and safe conduct, which was ordered, and nobly observed by Francis, who caused him to be sumptuously entertained all along his journey. Being arrived in Brabant, he found his Rebels ready to submit; he received them to mercy, but with very infamous conditions for them, by the advice of one of his counsellors, who was afterwards banished Flanders, for being the author of so severe a proceeding. After this, having made peace with the other Protestant Princes, he came and laid siege to Mets, a Town in Lorraine, where he was worsted, and forced by the valour of the Duke of Guise, who was within the Town, to retire, having lost the greatest part of an Army of a hundred thousand men.  
This so much afflicted the Emperor, that he was divers days before he would be seen in public; and it is thought that from that time forward, he framed the design of resigning his Crown. In pursuance of this resolution, he called the States to Brussels, and there in the presence of his Son, having recited his actions, and given account of his Government, he desired to be eased of the burden in his old age, and so absolved them from their Oaths of Allegiance, and disposed of all, in favour of his Son Philip.  
I desire you, said he, to obey my Son, to keep peace and union amongst yourselves, to observe your old Religion, and to forgive me if I have offended you. Then turning to his Son, he desired him to confer the love he owed him as his Father, upon the people. His Speech ended with tears in his eyes, and drew showers from his spectators, and old Servants.  
Philip his Son having kissed his Father's hand, commanded Cardinal Granvell, because he could not speak French himself, to assure the States of his good favour, and of the desire he had to follow his Father's example and instructions.  
Two months after he resigned all his Kingdoms to Philip, and sent the Imperial Crown to his Brother Ferdinand. And then Charles who had been one of the greatest Monarches of the world, being become a private person, embarked for Spain in the year 1556. and arrived there in a few days, passing the rest of his life, which was just two years, in the solitude of St. Just. In this retired place he died in 1558. having enjoyed the Empire thirty six years.  
I have spoke a little more at large of the actions of this Prince, than our method bears, for two reasons; First, Because he is the author of many fine Laws and Constitutions, which are to this day observed in Holland. Secondly, Because his memory is yet in great veneration amongst these Nations.  
Some of the Citizens of Utrect, having carried themselves very insolently towards him, he patiently endured the affronts, that he might give an example to other Princes, how they are bound to observe themselves, the Laws they lay upon their people; though in this case it were not he, but one of his Officers that was in fault. It is said that he gave the Citizens of Utrect this privilege, that their estates should not be confiscated, though their persons were executed, and that for what crime soever, but that their heirs may enjoy it, in paying five pound fine.  
In all his Wars, he had no faithfuller Subjects than the Low-country people; witness his own words at Ingolstat, where he had like to have been quite oppressed by the Pretestant Army; he still cheered up himself and his Soldiers, by saying, Courage, my Low-country Subjects will be here shortly: And when he saw them arrive, he cried out with joy, We have now vanquished our enemies.  
In his life time, Martin Luther began his reformation, and had converted the greatest part of Germany, to whom the Emperor was forced to grant a toleration, in matters of Religion. John Calvin likewise writ against the Church of Rome, and his books met with as favourable a reception in Holland, as Luthe●s did in Germany. The Emperor endeavoured by strict Edicts, to stop the course of this change, and recommended to his Son Philip to do so likewise.   

Philip the second, King of Spain, and Earl of Holland, the Thirty fifth.  
In the year 1556. Philip took in hand the reins of Government in the Low-countrieses, and made Philibert, Duke of Savoy, a great and stout Prince, his Lieutenant and Governor in all the Low-countrieses. The truce that was between France and Spain, being broken, by reason of the succour which the French sent the Pope, Queen Mary of England declared War likewise against the French, at the instigation of her Husband, King Philip. The Duke of Savoy comes into Picardy, and defeats entirely the French Army upon St. Laurence day, with so great a slaughter of Nobility and Gentry, that it astonished the whole Kingdom. Paris itself being forsaken by its inhabitants, was in danger of being lost, had the conqueror followed his victory. But the Duke of Guise coming out of Italy, soon recruited, and set a new Army on foot; took Ca●ais in seven day's time, which had been so many hundred years in the power of the English.  
Fortune continuing still averse to the French, they received another overthrow in Flanders, where the Earl of Egmont behaved himself as nobly, as he had done in the first battle of St. Laurence, and was the cause of the winning of the day. 'Tis true that ten English men of War, which happened by chance to be near the shore, played with their great Guns upon the French Army, and much disordered it. After this, Queen Marry of England dying, left Philip a widower, and he took to his second Wife, Isabelle of France. Philip before he embarked for Spain, being desirous to provide for the peace and tranquillity of the Low-countrieses, made Margaret of Austria, Duchess of Parma, and bastard Daughter to Charles the Emperor, his Regent and Governess over all the Low-countrieses. The Earl of Egmont was made Governor of Flanders and Artois; the Duke Mansfield, of Luxemburg; the Earl William of Nassaw, Prince of Orange, was made Governor of Holland and Zealand.    

CHAP. VII.  
Containing the memorable Passages under the Government of Margaret of Parma.  
KIng Philip having installed and settled this Princess in the Government of the Low-countrieses, left her at Brussels with an ample power, and embarked at Flushing for Spain. After his departure, that peace and tranquillity which he left things in, lasted not long; for what with the discontent of great ones, who thought themselves neglected, and the jealousies of the people, who were afraid of being oppressed by the Inquisition, all men were ready and disposed for tumults. Add to this the non-performance of that promise, which the King had made at his going away, which was to recall all Spanish and foreign Forces out of the Low Countries.  
The first appearance of sedition, was a Petition presented to the Princess, by five hundred Gentlemen, dressed like beggars. To content them, the Spanish Forces were with-drawn; and not long after Cardinal Granvell, whom they much envied, was recalled. But still in every place there was execution done upon those, whom they called heretics; who by their constant sufferings, so animated the people, that at last they would no longer endure they should be put to death, but rescued them out of the hands of the hangmen, by force.  
The King having notice of all, ordered that the Council of Trent should be published in the Low-countrieses, the execution of which caused more troubles, and gave occasion to the Count Egmont, to take a journey into Spain, there he was very well received by the King, soon dispatched; and in his return home, he brought with him Alexander, Prince of Parma, Son to the Princess Regent. Prince Maurice of Nassaw was born in this year 1565. in which was framed the league or confederation of the Nobility, which was followed by the revolt and rising of the meaner sort, who broke down Images, and Altars, invaded Monasteries and Nunneries, and at last attaked Towns. But their fury was stopped by the Country people, called Walloons, who fell upon them, and routed them.  
The Confederates made a new Assembly at Liege, and there the Regent sent to them the Prince of Orange, and the Count Egmont, to desire them to forbear all new designs. They sent her another Petition, which she deferred to answer, till the general Assembly of the Knights of the Golden Fle●c● should be holden.  
In this very year, the Prince of Orange, the Count Egmond, Count Lewis of Nassaw and Horn, met at Dondermond, to consider whether it were safe for them, to let the King, who did threaten to appear with an Army, come peaceably in, or oppose his passage by main force. Upon this Consultation, the Gentry and the Merchants joined with them, and all resolved to maintain by force, that which they had obtained by Petition from the Princess.  
The Prince of Orange, his Brother, and Hogestract, met at Breda, and writ to Fgmont, to know whether he would join with them; but he refused it.  
In 1567. was struck the first stroke of War, between Beauvor for the Princess, and the Lord of Tholoze for the Confederates, who were routed, and their leader killed in the sight of the inhabitants of Antwerp, who stood upon their Walls, and looked on for a while; till at last seeing their party worsted, they ran to their Arms, but were appeased by the Prince of Orange. The Princess▪ taking heart at this, proposed a new Oath of Allegiance; but it was first refused by Brederode and Horn, and then by the Prince of Orange himself, who forsook all his employments and charges, and retired with his Brother into Germany. Before he went he had a meeting with the Count Egmont, and he told him in the presence of Count Mansfield; I foresee, said he, that thou wilt be the Bridge, over which the Spaniards will march into the Low-countrieses.  
This departure of the Prince of Orange, and his friends, did for a time so ●●artle most of the Towns, that they began to ask pardon and submit. The small Army which Brederode had gathered together, was routed and dispersed, and he forced to fly with his Family into Friezeland. This made Holland and Zealand receive Garrisons, and drive away the Protestant Ministers, insomuch that all was settled again, and obedience restored to the Prince. Hereupon the Princess writ to the King, to come in person, and by his presence heal up a wound, which else might open afresh; but Philip, glad (it may be) of this occasion, of diminishing the privileges of his Low-country Subjects, sent the Duke of Alva with an Army to execute his commands. The Princess soon perceived, that the severe proud nature of the Duke, would undo all that her mild temper had made up. In effect, as soon as he came, he clapped up the Earls of Horn and Egmont: whereupon the Princess desired leave to be gone for Italy. Before her departure, she took her leave by Letters of most of the Cities; and the Nobility showed their respects, in waiting upon her to the borders of Germany, where she left them, to their great sorrow, for the loss of so wise and moderate a Princess.   

CHAP. VIII.  
Containing the Government of the Duke of Alva.  
THe Duke D'alva having passed by Savoy and Lorraine, with an Army of 10000 Spaniards and Italians, all old Soldiers, he was sent by the King, to punish and chastise all those, that had any hand in pulling down Churches and Monasteries; or that had any way favoured the former Confederations. This he executed by a Court of twelve, who were to judge sovereignly, and without appeal, of all Delinquents. This was called the Council of blood, and so frighted the people, that thousands of them fled with their Families, into neighbouring Countries, to the great detriment of those Provinces, as the Princess Margaret had well fore-seen. The Prince of Orange, and they that were with him, had wisely avoided this storm, which they foresaw; but Henry of Erederode, the Earls of Hooghstract, Culemburg, and Bergue, were cited before this Council; but they ran into Germany, and implored the succour of the Princes there. In the mean time the Duke of Culemburghs house was razed to the ground, and Philip his Son taken from Louvain, and sent into Spain to be bred.  
By this time the Princes had got an Army; and Hooghstract fell upon Artois, and was there defeated by Davila.  
Lewis of Nassaw, with his brother Adolfe, invaded Friezeland, and routed the Earl of Aremberg, who opposed them: the Earl and Adolfe were both killed. D'alva hearing this, resolved to meet ●hem in person; but before he undertook his journey, he made nineteen Gentlemen be publicly executed; and a little after, caused the Earls of Horn and Egmont to be beheaded; no prayers nor entreaties made in favour of so great a Warrior, being able to prevail with his fierce temper. He valued as little the threats of vengeance, that were made after their deaths; but in pursuance of his design, went and fought the Army of Lewis, which he utterly ruined; and immediately turned head to the Prince of Orange, who was got into Brabant with another considerable Army: him he overcame by policy; for he refused to fight, knowing, that the Prince's Army for want of pay, would soon disband, which accordingly fallen out.  
After this, he demanded the tenth penny, through the whole Low-countrieses; and that was the apple of division, which separated and divided the Low-countrieses, and made two states of them, one part remaining under the Spanish domination, and the other making up that powerful body of the United Provinces, now acknowledged by Philip the fourth, to be Sovereigns. All the people were very much shaken in their affection to Spain, by the former causes; but this last did as it were, precipitate them into war and discord, which have at last by the exactness of their discipline, produced that incomparable fruit of peace and tranquillity.  
This tenth penny was a new tribute upon all merchandises; besides there was a twentieth upon immovables, and a hundredth part upon all for once. But the people concerned in this demand, chose rather to put hands to their swords, than to their purses; and yet by a strange, but necessary effect of their resolution, they have been forced to lay much heavier burdens upon themselves, to enable themselves to maintain the War: but the desire of liberty made them endure joyfully that, which they were so much afraid of from another's hand.  
In the mean time, the Council still proceeded to execution upon the guilty, and those that refused to pay this new imposition: and though the States did represent what damage would befall the Country, by the removal of Mark-lands, yet he being jealous of his Authority, made them go on. But there happened an accident, which much vexed the Duke, which was, that Queen Elizabeth of England, stopped in her harbours, divers Ships loaden with money, destined to pay his Army, and caused it to be transported into the Tower of London, where i● remained, never to be repaid.  
This disappointment cooled the Duke's heat a little, and made him publish a solemn pardon for the following year; but in vain, for by this time he was become so odious, that all the people forsook, and turned to the Prince of Orange, as it appeared not long after.  
About All-Saints day, there happened an unlucky presage of the following calamities, and which was indeed a great one itself; for the Sea having broken the dikes and sluices, over-flowed almost all Friezeland, with a great part of Holland and Zealand; they say, that above 20000. persons perished in Friezeland alone. This great misfortune made them represent to the Duke, the impossibility of paying the Tax he required; who little satisfied with their Remonstrances, was upon the point of dealing severely with some Citizens of Brussels, when the news came that the 
* The name of a Faction.  Gueux d'eau, or water Gueux, or Beggars, had surprised the Bril upon Palm-Sunday. The chief of this Faction was the Earl of Lumee; who being cast there with his Fleet by a storm, found occasion of surprising the place, and there discharged upon the Churchmen, the hatred he owed the Spaniards. The Count de Bossu hastening to its relief, was beaten off, and then seeking to secure Dort, he was refused entrance.  
Upon this news, all the Towns of Holland cast off the yoke, and joined with the Prince of Orange, except Amsterdam and Schorhof: Flushing in Zealand followed the example of the rest, being animated to it by a Priest.  
The Province of Overissel changed likewise: but nothing so much troubled the Duke, as the taking of Mons in Hainaut by the French, under the conduct of Lewis of Nassaw. For fearing lest Charles of France should take this occasion, of invading the Low-countrieses, he immediately turned all his Forces that way, which gave time to the Hollanders, to frame their small Commonwealth, and give it some foundation. He besieged Mons by his Son at first, and at last came himself, and took it, in spite of Lewis and his Army; who endeavouring to succour the place, were beaten, and forced to a retreat. Mons being recovered, many other Towns yielded; and Malines for having received a Garrison from the Prince, was sacked. The Duke's Son Frederick, following his Father's footsteps, recovered Overissel and Friezeland; from thence passed into Holland, and by the bloody action he committed at Naerden, he fastened an indelible hatred upon his Nation. Harlem also was taken; but Alcmaer stood out, and much fortified the Confederates.  
The year 1573. was famous, by the Duke of Alvaes' leaving the Low-countrieses. He was recalled by Philip, who thought his absence might bring a calm in this troubled Sea; but the agitation was too great to be so soon laid. He was a cruel proud man; a very good Soldier, but inexorable in his chastizings: if he had made a mixture of severity and mildness, he had without doubt better fitted the humour of the Nations, he had to do with. He is to this very day in great aversion among the Hollanders, who call all cruel men by his name. It is said of him, that he bragged he had brought above 18000. to their end, by the hand of justice: I know not whether it be true; but I know that the States have founded the justice of their pretensions, upon his cruelties. He governed six years, and left no body afflicted for his depart. It was said, and well said, that either King Philip should never have sent him, or never have recalled him.   

CHAP. IX.  
The Government of Don Lewis, and the great Council of State.  
LEwis of Requesens, high Commander of the Kingdom of Castilia, was sent in the place of the Duke; and his famous Statue which he had caused to be set up in Antwerp, was pulled down by his order, to the great satisfaction of the States. His first care was to set out a Fleet, to succour Mondragonius, a brave Captain, who had defended Middleburgh almost two years; but he was ignorant that the Sea was the Throne, these Nations intended to settle their Empire in. The Earl Bossu had been beaten the year afore by the Hollanders; and now the Zelanders burned and destroyed this Fleet, in the presence of Don Lewis, and took Middleburgh.  
The Count Lewis of Nassaw had worse fortune; for having brought a brave Army out of Germany, he was met at Nimmiegue by Davila, and entirely defeated; himself and his Brother slain. This victory was followed by a sedition in the Spanish Army, which much weakened their power; but being appeased, were sent before Leyden, in hopes of having the pillaging of that Town; but being there shamefully repulsed, their indignation fell upon their General, whom they detained in prison, till they had received their full pay. After that they took Oudewater and Schoonhof. Many Propositions and Treaties were advanced; but none taking effect, Don Lewis framed that famous enterprise, by many thought impossible, of besieging Ziriczee. This Island was in the Confederates hands, and the Royalists waded through the Sea up to the neck, to go and besiege it: 'tis true, there was no hopes of a return, the Sea being increased by the flowing water. Ziriczee held out nine months, after which it yielded. Vitellio a great Captain died during that siege, and Don Lewis followed him shortly after.  
By his death, the Authority came into the hands of the Cou●cell of State; who for want of union, ruin'd the King's affairs, and gave occasion to a fourth sedition of the Spaniards. A little after followed the pacification of Gand, and the alliance of the Provinces, against the Spaniards; who seeing themselves generally hated, and that the inhabitants of Antwerp, were about to divide the Town from the Citadel, by a Trench, agreed at last with the Governor Davila, and sallying out, plundered the Town for three days together, which was a most barbarous and detestable action.   

CHAP. X.  
The Government of Don John of Austria, and of the Prince of Parma.  
Done John of Austria was received Governor, upon condition that he should subscribe to the pacification of Gand, which he did; but finding himself without Authority, he surprised Namur; whereupon the States proclaimed him as an enemy, and raised an Army. He was a Bastard of Charles the fifth, and had made himself famous, by that immortal Battle of Lepanto against the Turks, in which he was General. The States chose in the mean time the Archduke Mathias, Brother to the Emperor Rodolf, for their Governor. Then having assembled their Army at Gemblours, they faced Don John's Forces; who courageously engaging them, obtained the victory, but lived not long after it, declaring Alexander, Prince of Parma, for his successor. This was that famous Alexander, who by his valour and conduct, reduced all Artois, Hainaut, Flanders, and Brabant, to their obedience; who took Antwerp, Malines, Ipres, Brussels, and many other Cities; and at last he had brought the Confederates to the necessity of submitting to some foreign Prince for protection, if God had not raised up Prince Morris to defend them. In the mean time the Archduke Mathias, finding that the States had a mind to be rid of him, and were ready to call the Duke of Alencon, and make him Duke of Brabant, left the Low-countrieses. The Duke of Alencon went first into England, in hopes of being married to Queen Elizabeth; but the match being deferred, he went into Brabant, and took possession of the Duchy.  
In the year 1582. the Prince of Orange was shot in the face with a Pistol, which made the people take some jealousy of the French, and threaten to cut their throats, and their new Dukes. He on his side did complain, that all the Authority was in the Prince of Orange his hand; and thereupon framed a design upon Antwerp, but failed when it came to the execution, so that they were forced to leave the Town: and soon after Alexander made them quit the Country, in which he did still advance, having taken Tournay, Oudenard, and Breda, defeated Byron, and taken Dunkirk.  
All this while, William Prince of Orange, was seriously employed in framing, and giving Laws to this new Commonwealth; but being wakened by the progress of Alexander, Duke of Parma, he made a Remonstrance to the United Provinces, that now there was but two ways left, to provide for their safety; the one was, to submit, and patiently yield to the Spanish domination; the other, to declare the King of Spain to be fallen from, and to have lost his right to the said Provinces; and thereupon choose another Prince, mentioning the Duke of Alenson. The last of these was followed; and in a general Assembly at Antwerp, King Philip was deprived of his right and power in those Provinces, and the Duke of Alenson, as it has been said before, chosen in his place. It is to the great wit and prudence of this Prince of Orange, that Holland owes its liberty; but he lived not to enjoy the fruit of his labour, for he was assassinated at Delft, the same year and day that the Duke of Alenson died at Chastea● Thyerry.  
Alexander having reduced Ipres and Bergue, resolved, against the opinion of all, to besiege Antwerp; and though he met with inconceivable difficulties in the execution, yet he achieved his enterprise with great glory.  
But his noble actions, and the brave resistance of the United Provinces, with all the series of the long War they have maintained, for the defence of their liberties, have been eloquently written by divers good Authors, to whom we refer the Reader: our scope in this short Narration being only to instruct him, how Holland and the other Provinces were governed before their union; which having performed, we now come to our main design, which is, to give a particular Account of this Union, of the Conditions upon which it was concluded, and by which it yet stands, as it follows in the Second Part of this Book.    

THE SECOND BOOK, Containing the State and Government OF THE United Provinces OF THE LOW-COUNTRIES.  

CHAP. I.  
The League and Union of the Provinces.  
IT was in the Year 1579. that some of the 17. Provinces formerly under the Dominion of Philip King of Spain, began to be called the United Provinces, because of the League and Union which they made to defend themselves against the Spaniard their common Enemy; and though these Provinces be now in the number of seven, yet at first they were not so many, but those that are mentioned in the Annals are these following; Gueldre, Zutphen, Holland, Zeeland, the Diocese of Utrect, Friezland, or that Country which is called Omland, situated between the Rivers Ems and Larica, the Country about Nimmiegue and Arnhem, the greatest part of the grietmen of Friezland, Antwerp, Ypres, and Breda. The Provinces called Overyssel and Groningue followed their example, and were admitted into the Union in the Year 1594. Here follow the Articles of this Union.  
1. That all the aforesaid Provinces shall be as straightly and intimately united, as if they did all make up one entire Province and Politic body; and that they shall never be capable of being disunited by any will, codicil, gift, session, sale, contract, agreement, or marriage of any Prince, nor by any other means whatsoever.  
2. That every one of these Provinces shall inviolably keep and enjoy all their Immunities, Customs, Privileges, and Statutes of their Ancestors; that they shall help one another against all Enemies whatsoever; that if it should happen that any contentions should arise between the said Provinces, that the de-bate should be judged either by the ordinary Judges, or by Umpires friendly chosen, and in the mean time they shall forbear troubling and offending one another till sentence be pronounced.  
3. The said Provinces shall be bound to defend and protect each other mutually and freely, against all Princes and Lords either of their own Country or Foreigners, who shall offer to invade them, or commit any act of hostility whatsoever; and for this effect they shall raise such Forces, and such Money and Contribution as shall be thought fit, and judged necessary by the greatest and major part of the Confederates.  
4. To the end that the said Provinces be always in a readiness, and provided against all designs of their Enemies, the Frontier Towns shall be Fortified, and provided with Men and Ammunition at the Public charge, by the consent of all the Provinces; and that those whose Towns are already Fortified, shall nevertheless contribute as the rest; and if there be found necessity of building any new Forts, demolishing or changing the old ones, that it be done at a common charge.  
5. And to the end that the necessary means whereby to answer all these designs fail not, there shall be levied and raised every where alike, and by the same form and way, Taxes and Imposts upon all sorts of Wine, Beer, Wheat, Corn, Salt, clothes, Silks, Cattle, tilled and pasture Grounds, the weight of Merchandizes, weighed in public weights, etc. That those Regal Rights belonging heretofore to the King of Spain, shall still remain and be converted to the use aforesaid; that all the Money raised by these, or any other ways, shall not be destined nor employed for any other use than for the defence of the said Provinces; and the said Imposts shall be lessened or increased according to public emergencies.  
6. That the Frontier Towns shall be bound to receive or dismiss all Garrisons by the command of the States, as likewise to pay them their pay out of the public Money; and to the end the safety of the said Towns be the better preserved, it is agreed that the Officers of the Garrisons shall be sworn, not only to the State's General, but also to the Magistrates of the particular Towns they shall be in; that care be taken to make a Military Law, to the end the Soldiers be not trouble some to the Inhabitants; that the Soldiers themselves in Garrison be not freed from paying the Imposts, and there be a sum set apart by the States to pay the Citizens for the lodging and quartering of Soldiers.  
7. That a month after the publication of this Union, there be a general review made of all those that have attained the age of 18. years, and are under 60. and that their Names be registered and declared to the State's General, to be employed as they shall think fit.  
8. That there be made neither Peace, War, nor Truce, nor new Imposition without the consent of all the Provinces, not one resisting or standing out; and as for the other things, that concern the administration and execution of the said alliance, that they be undertaken and performed by those that shall be appointed by the greatest part of the Confederates; yet that all be called if there be either Peace or War, or some other important business to be decided; if the States cannot agree, than the business be put to the Arbitration of the Governors of the particular Provinces, and that all may follow their decision.  
9 That none of the said particular Provinces shall make League or Union with any Neighbouring Power, or strange and remote Prince or People, by their own private Authority, and without the consent of the rest; and likewise that if any Princes desire to come into the aforesaid alliance, that they shall be received by common consent.  
10. That all approve of, or reject the same coin, stamp, and money; and that as soon as can be, there come forth a rule or settlement for coining, which all shall follow.  
11. As for the public exercise of Religion, whether or no any other aught to be received besides the Protestant, let every Province dispose and ordain about it as they please; provided still that they be all bound to let every man have the liberty of his Conscience, without persecution for that subject.  
12. If there should happen any contests between any of the Provinces, that then those of them that shall not be concerned, shall have power to determine about the debate of the others; but if in these divisions all were concerned, then let the Governors of all the Provinces meet and decide the matter in a month's time, after which there shall be no appeal, exception, revision, or nullity to be pleaded.  
13. That the said Provinces and Members of this Union do take a special care, not to give any occasion to Foreign Princes to make War against them; and therefore that they carry themselves towards Strangers with the same equity, justice and moderation, as towards the Naturals; and if any of the Members do infringe and break this Article, it is the duty and power of the others to constrain them to observe it by all means whatsoever.  
14. The States and Governors of each Province shall not lay a heavier Imposition upon those of their Subjects that shall travel to and fro, than upon those that are found Inhabitants.  
15. That the Government and public administration be well settled, as it is agreed; that there be chosen in the Name of all the Confederates some Plenipotentiaries, and that these Plenipotentiaries do assign the day and place of the Assembly of the States of each Province; and that they send to them in due time the Grievances, and Heads of matters they are to treat about. Yet if there be such points as require secrecy, that then they reserve to declare them in the Assembly General of the States; that all the Provinces being thus advertized, do send their Deputies with their instructions and powers necessary to the place of the Assembly General; that the preference be given by the plurality of Votes, except in important affairs; that if some Provinces do neglect to send their Deputies, that those that shall meet do nevertheless debate and deliberate, and decree, as if all had been there; but if the things to be debated will endure a delay, than the Provinces that have not sent their Deputies shall be called upon two or three times, and those that have not convenience of sending their Deputies, let them send their advice by writing.  
16. If the States of the particular Provinces, have any knowledge of those things that deserve to be examined and passed in the Council of the State's General, let them give notice to the Plenipotentiaries, who shall assign and call together the Assembly of the Confederates.  
17. If there should be any difficulty about the interpretation of these Articles, or any doubt arise, let the sense of the major part of the Confederates be taken for the true meaning of all.  
18. If it be found necessary to abolish or change any Laws already made, or make any new ones, let it be done by the Votes and consent of all.  
19 Let all observe, and solemnly swear to keep inviolably these Laws; that if any thing be done either directly or indirectly contrary to them, let it be ipso facto void; and let it be lawful for the other Provinces to seize and take the Cities, Possessions, and Goods of those that shall infringe them, and persist so to do.  
In short, if in these Constitutions there be any thing against the Right of any particular Province now constituting, it shall not be sufficient to make a general renunciation to it, except it be preceded by a particular renunciation of each of the Confederates.  
These are the Laws that have been the foundation and basis of this Commonwealth, and are still exactly observed in all points, except in the 11th. Article concerning Religion, which was altered by the State's General in the Year 1583.  
And since by the Union of Utrect, it is free to amplify, change and shorten any of the said Articles, when the safety of the Provinces should require it; the States ordained, that no Religion should be henceforth received, but that which is publicly taught in the United Provinces, which is the Reformed; but that if any Members, Provinces, or Papish Towns would enter into this alliance, that then they should enjoy the liberty of their Religion, in subscribing to the rest of the Articles.   

CHAP. II.  
The rank and dependencies of the United Provinces towards one another.  
HAving made a slight draught of the Commonwealth of these U●ited Provinces, we must now consider what are these Provinces thus united; and to that end it is observable, that all those Towns that do depend on the administration and Government of the States, do send their Deputies to the Hague, and do share in the Government; but that those Cities and Towns that have been added, and subjected by the force of Arms, are as conquered Nations used to be with the Romans. 'Tis true, that those Towns that by the happy success of the States Arms have been with great cost and time conquered in Brabant, have often solicited their admission and reception into the Body of the Commonwealth; but because they have stood the State in so much blood and treasure, and that they are incapable of assisting and being a help against the Enemy, by reason of their long sufferings, and also because it is fit that they alone who first conspired to this alliance, should enjoy it, they have not yet obtained their request.  
But to know whether those Towns of Brabant, to the number of eight, viz. Bolduc, Breda, Berguenopsooun, Mastrect, Grave, Steenbergue, Heindove, and Helmont, do deserve the privilege that the Country of Drent now enjoys, viz. of having particular Treasurers not accountable to the State's General, is a point which deserves a greater discussion than is here to be expected. However within these few years the said Towns have a Court of Judicature, which does Sovereignly and without Appeal judge and decide all controversies arising in those parts. This Court sits at the Hague, and is made up of seven Counsellors, one Secretary, one Attorney of the Exchequer, and one Attorney General: The Towns likewise conquered in Flanders have a Court of Judicature at Middlebourg, determining all causes Sovereignly.  
The Country of Drent has many great Privileges, as the power to choose a Governor; to contribute to the public necessities as other Provinces do; and it has also an ambulatory Court of Justice, which goes from Town to Town to hear causes, and decree upon them without Appeal; besides it has the liberty of naming Commissaries for the Treasury; but it has not yet the privilege of sending Deputies called Pensionaries to the State's General, because they did not at first come into the League and Alliance made between the other Provinces; and also because since that time there has been no occasion of making any Articles with any of their Towns, except Couverde, which is disputed too; there being in this Country scarce any place which has ju● Civitatis, except the little Town of Mepp●l, which would sooner attain its desire of taking share in the Government, if by the consent of Drent it were united to some of the neighbouring Provinces.  
To Drent is ordinarily joined the Manor or Demean of Rhun, which is an ancient Lordship of the House of Munster.  
But Gueldres, Holland, Zeeland, Utrect, Friezland, Overyssel and Groningue, with Omlund, are of the first alliance, and have for Arms a Lion holding in his paw seven Arrows, the symbol of their Union, and the State's General do use it as their public Seal.  
This order which we have set down, though it were so at first, was nevertheless disputed between Friezland and U●rect, they both pretending to the precedency; but besides that Utrect is in possession, it has two strong reasons: The first is, that formerly all Friezland was subject to the Bishop of Utrect, as for the Spiritual Jurisdiction▪ ●ly. That a 〈…〉 Utrect had declared for the Union, when divers Towns of Friezland were yet in suspense.   

CHAP. III.  
What was the Form of the General Assemblies, till the time of the Earl of Leicester.  
FRom the first time that the Deputies met to make and ordain Laws, about the settling and firm establishing of the Commonwealth, it was agreed by the 17th. Article of the Union of Utrect, that as often as the Confederates should have occasion to deliberate about any thing in a set place, they should send thither their Deputies, and these Deputies were called the State's General of the United Provinces. But the States being not always in a capacity to meet, by reason of divers obstacles, and there being a great necessity of a perpetual Senate or Council, it was found requisite to establish a Council of State, (den Raed van Staten) which was made up of one Precedent, of the Deputies of the Provinces, of one Treasurer, and three Secretaries. There was in those days no set place for the meeting of this Council, because that then the settlement was not completed, and things were uncertain: but here are the Articles which this Council was bound to observe, and which were to guide them in their administration.  
First, That in the exercise of their charge they should not so much endeavour the benefit and advantage of those Provinces which they were Deputies for, as the good of the whole Commonwealth.  
2. That they should observe the Laws prescribed them by the Authority of the State's General.  
3. That they shall take care of the public Treasure, and pay the wages to all those to whom wages are due.  
4. That they shall take care that the affairs of the Confederates do not receive any disadvantage or trouble.  
5. That they shall send every three months to the States of each particular Province, a Compendium of all their Consultations, and the accounts of their expenses and receipts.  
6. That the State's General shall consult and deliberate with them in affairs of importance, and that they shall call them together, according to the 19th. Article of the Union.  
This last Article was to be understood of such affairs as could not be delayed For their importance.  
By succession of time, the Commonwealth continuing to prosper and advance, and the Earl of Leicester being expected in these parts from England, to govern as Lieutenant to Queen Elizabeth, there was reason to fear that which had already happened, viz. that he or others sitting for him, in the States, should endeavour to dive into the secret of deliberations; whereupon it was resolved, to settle, besides this Council of State, the Sovereign Council of the State's General, who should always sit at the Hague, leaving to this Council of State the care of smaller and less important business.   

CHAP. IU.  
In what consists the Superiority of the State's General, and what sort of affairs are determined by them, which cannot be determined by the States of the particular Provinces.  
SInce that time, that is, ever since the Year 1587. the Sovereign administration of business has been in the power of the State's General and their Sovereign Council; and in it is not only all Majesty and Sovereignty, by virtue of the Union, but they have also the power of deciding some business which the particular Provinces cannot.  
1. For in the first 〈…〉 loan that give Audience to the Ambassadors of Princes and Foreign States, and do also send in their own Name Ambassadors abroad for the good of all.  
2. This Assembly alone proclaims War, and has the management of it both by Sea and Land.  
3. It is to them that the Officers and Soldiers are first sworn, and then to the General that commands the Army.  
4. Some Deputies of this Assembly are always appointed to accompany the General in time of War, without whose advice he cannot lawfully begin any enterprise of importance.  
5. This Assembly has also its Envoys in the Meetings of the East and West India Companies, because there are often deliberations of War and Peace.  
6. It is this Assembly that has the power of choosing a General both by Sea and Land, and of obliging him to take the Oath of allegiance to them.  
7. They give Safeconduct and Passes to all Strangers that desire to pass through their Country.  
8. They can pardon and forgive Fugitives, and those that have turned to the Enemies.  
9 They make Orders about the transport and entries of Merchandises.  
10. They alone exercise the power of Sovereignty over the conquered Cities and Towns of Brabant, Flanders, and other places reduced by force.  
11. They ought to take care that all the Provinces remain in friendship and amity one with another; but they ought to comport themselves rather as Remonstrancers than as Commanders.  
And in short, they are to take care of all that is directed and addressed to them by Commissions; and whosoever shall well weigh these things, will not wonder if they are honoured with the title of Illustrious High and Mighty, though the States of Holland enjoy only the quality of Noble and Powerful:   

CHAP. V.  
How far the power of the State's General does extend.  
THe State's General are always upon the Guard, for the rest of the Provinces safety, and for all public advantages. If therefore the Governor General, or the Ambassadors and Envoys of other Princes, do make any Propositions, that are of concern and importance to the Commonwealth, it is ordered, that the Deputies do give account of it by Letters, to their respective Provinces; and according as their answer is, it is determined by the plurality of Votes, except in cases of contribution, for then there is required an unanimous consent of all the Provinces.  
From whence it appears, that the State's General being the representatives of those that send them, have no power beyond the extent of their Commission, and in such things only as are mentioned by it; but do stand in need of new Orders, when new business happens, and without them they cannot deliberate, nor give their Vote in the Assembly. So that it appears, that they have but a fiduciary and delegated power; their Decrees are of no force, if they are not agreed to by the particular Provinces: and to them these Decrees are directed to be published, rather in a precary and submissive way, the stile running; We pray and require our dear and beloved the States, Governors, Deputies, etc. of the respective Provinces, etc. Besides this, every Province makes Laws at home as they please.   

CHAP. VI  
Who are those that are ordinarily chosen for Deputies to the State's General; and of the order which is observed amongst the Deputies.  
THis high Council always sitting at the Hague, is composed of the Deputies of the seven Provinces, in the order abovementioned. They are sent in uncertain number; for some Provinces send two, some three, or one, or a greater number; but all the Deputies of one Province, though never so many, make but one Vote, or Suffrage. The Provinces that send them, furnish them for their expenses, and give them a considerable allowance. The time of their deputation is not limited neither; for some Provinces send them for two years, some for four, six, or more, some for all their life. Now all these Provinces are of equal Authority in the States, though Holland, which is the strongest of all, have the custom of drawing some others to its party, and particularly, when Zeeland joins with it.  
But that which is worth observation, and contrary to the opinion of some strangers, is, that though the Provinces be very unequal in strength and dignity, and that some contribute four times as much in peace and war, towards the public; yet have they all equal right in deliberations, and none has an authority over the other. Between the Deputies, they observe the order that is received in their respective Provinces, for their precedency. In Gu●ldres the Gentry goes before the Deputies of the Towns, and the Deputies of Nimegue precede all the others. In Holland the Deputies of Towns yield to the Deputies of the Nobles. In Zeeland the Deputy of the Marquis of Terveer, and of Flushing, precede all the others, as representing the Nobility. In the Diocese of Utrect, the Deputies of the chosen, or Eleu●, have precedency before the Nobility, and before the Deputies of the Town of Utrect itself. In Friezeland the Deputies of the Country, called (Goon end Wolden) do precede the Deputies of Towns. In Overissel the Nobles Deputies carry it, before the Deputy of the three great Towns; and the same precedency that Groeningue has upon Omland, its Deputy has upon the Deputy of the other.  
These things deserve to be taken notice of, because it is ordinarily the first Deputy that presides; and he being absent, the next takes his place: but the same does not preside always in this great Assembly; for the precedent is changed every week, and the Deputies of the Provinces take it by turns.  
Some strangers have been grossly mistaken, to write, that the Governor General was the perpetual Precedent of this Assembly; which is so far from being true, that he has not so much, as the liberty of giving his Vote. It cannot be denied indeed, that the States do often ask his advice, and hear his Propositions; and by a received custom, the Precedent does every day see him, to know whether he has any thing to propose.  
When the Precedent takes the Votes, he begins by Gueldres, and goes on to Holland, Zeeland, etc. and having the opinion of all, he concludes according to the plurality of Votes; except it be an affair of great consequence, and that the Deputies desire to have time, to advise with the States of their Provinces. The Clerk or Secretary does at the same time, draw up the resolution of the company, which the Precedent signs, and the Secretary after him.   

CHAP. VII.  
Of the Orders that the States of Holland and West-Friezeland give to their Deputies in the State's General; and of the Oath they take.  
SInce that the Government of Holland shall be hereafter proposed, as a pattern of the other Provinces; it will not be amiss to produce here the Orders, that the States of Holland and West-Friezeland gave upon the third of March, in 1643. to the Deputies they sent to the State's General.  
1. There shall be sent on the behalf of Holland and West-Friezeland, none but capable and sufficient men, that shall not be beforehand engaged in another employment, by Oath or Pension.  
2. It is not lawful for the Deputies to go beyond the terms of the Treaty of union at Utrect, and the Commands of their Provinces. They shall let pass nothing, that shall be contrary to the privileges, immunities, and customs, received by our Ancestors, without a special Order from their States.  
3. The said Deputies shall not, neither in this Assembly, nor out of it, treat of peace nor war, nor grant Patents or Privileges, that might be damageable to Holland or West-Friezeland; nor levy or cashier Soldiers; nor change the current Coin; nor forgive traitors: but whensoever things of that nature shall be afoot, they shall give notice to the States of Holland and West-Friezeland, or in their absence, to the Council of State.  
4. They shall neither sell, nor alienate the Dominions, Rights, and Privileges belonging to the public, by virtue of their public union, without a particular and special consent of the Provinces.  
5. All the revenues and prerogatives that belong to the public, by virtue of Treaties and Agreements made with foreign powers, shall be applied to the benefit of the public union, and shall be put in the hands of the Treasurer, and the Council of State, and the State's General shall not dispose of them.  
6. The Deputies shall not, neither by themselves, nor by others, exercise any sort of Judicature upon any cause; but shall send the parties either to the Council of State, or to the Admiralty, according as the affair is: but they may pronounce sentence upon such Law-Suits, as are subject to be re-viewed.  
7. They cannot by their Authority, hinder and suspend the execution of any sentence, given by any Court whatsoever, either in criminal or civil matters.  
8. As soon as the States of Holland and West-Frieze shall meet, they shall immediately send them all the Deliberations made in the State's General.  
9 They shall communicate the affairs and concerns of these Countries, to none but their States; or in their absence, to their Council of State: and if there fall out any thing that may concern North-Holland, they shall immediately give notice to the Deputies of that place.  
10. The Council of State, and the College of the 〈…〉 iralty, shall leave that very thing 〈◊〉 the order so prescribed; and shall not change, either by themselves, or others, any part of these Instructions.  
11. They shall not dispose of the pri 〈…〉 palls military, and pol 〈…〉 ck Offices, without the particular consent of the States of Holland; neither shall they make such presents, as might lessen the revenue of the public.  
12. They shall have six shillings a day allowed them for their wages.  
13. The Deputies shall swear to observe all these Articles; of which, the States of Holland and West-Friezeland, do reserve to themselves a more ample interpretation.  
This Order has been made and confirmed by the said States the ninth of March, in the year 1643. Here follows the Formulary of the Oath.  
I A. B. do promise and swear perpetual fidelity to the States of Holland, and West-Friezeland, as being the Sovereign Lords of the said Provinces; and that I will not assist neither by counsel, nor by deed, or any manner, in any thing that shall be prejudicial to the aforesaid Authority; and that if I perceive any such thing doing by others, I will immediately give notice of it to the States, or in their absence, to their Council: likewise that I will defend to my utmost, the prerogatives and honour of the said Countries; as likewise the Reformed Religion, as it is now taught in those Provinces. In a word; that I will further and advance, as much as in me lies, the interest of the said Provinces, both in the State's General, and abroad, as far as it stands with the benefit of the public union. I do likewise promise to keep secret all things, that shall require to be so kept; that I will receive no forbidden presents; and that I will do all things according to those Orders I have now or shall have hereafter.   

CHAP. VIII.  
Of the Great Assembly Extraordinary.  
BEsides the Assembly of the State's General, always residing at the Hague; there is besides a great Assembly, called in the language of the Country, De groote Vergaderinge; which is also convocated to meet at the Hague, for affairs of extraordinary importance. This Assembly never meets, till all the Provinces have first given their consent; who do not only prescribe the time and place, but do also examine beforehand, in their States, all the points that are to be put in deliberation, that so they may be able to give positive and certain Orders to their Deputies; and yet are these Deputies often obliged to write back, and have recourse to those that sent them. The Order of this Assembly, is the same with that of the State's General, and they have the same power.   

CHAP. IX.  
Of the Council of State, which is the greatest after the Council of the State's General.  
IT appears by what has been said before, that there is a Council of State of more ancient standing, than the State's General. But since the establishment of this last, the first takes cognizance of smaller affairs; as of those things that concern Taxes; or the Militia; or those that regard the Towns and Fortresses conquered, and the visit of the fortifications of them. This Council is composed of the Deputies of all the Provinces; and the General of the Army, (when there is one) is perpetual Precedent of it, and has his Vote. There are twelve Counsellors from the Provinces; two from Gueldres; three from Holland; two from Zeeland; two from Friezeland; and Utrect, Overissell, Groeningue, and Omland, each, one. And because the General is often absent, therefore they choose a Precedent, which ordinarily fall to them by turns. Hereof every man makes a Vote, and they reckon by Pole; and then the greatest number carries it. They sit as long, as it pleases the States that sent them. Friezeland having always had a Governor apart, he has had the privilege of appearing and sitting for them, and of appointing some body to do it in his absence. This Council being (in effect) as a help to the State's General, they treat much about affairs of the same nature, and often do give an account of what they do, to the State's General; who upon their information, do Decree: and then the Decree runs thus: By the Commandment of our Lords, the State's General of the United Provinces, upon the relation of the Council of State, of the same Provinces. And besides the Secretary, the Precedent (pro tempore) in the Council, signs it.  
This Council does ordinarily meet apart, and of its own accord; but sometimes extraordinarily it joins with the Assembly of the State's General. When that happens, if the General of the Army is there, he takes place among the Deputies of the State's General, and he takes the most honourable place, at the upper end of a long Table: and as it often happens, when the Counsellors of State are dismissed, he may keep his place, and assist at the other Deliberations of the States.  
Now every time that this Council meets alone, there are two Counsellors supernumerary, who have only deliberative voices, and not definitive Votes, that do assist at it. The one is the Superintendant of the Treasury; and the other is the Treasurer, or Receiver General himself. The first keeps account, and controls all public expenses, though he keep not the money; the other has in his hands all the public treasure, of which he gives good account. He is ordinarily heard after the Intendant, whose counsel they commonly ask first.   

CHAP. X.  
Of the Power of the States of every Province.  
EAch Province has a sovereign power within itself, and may exercise all supreme jurisdiction, except such as ought to be common to all by virtue of their union. For example, that can make Laws obligatory to their Subjects; choose Magistrates; punish Criminals; coin Money; set up Universities; make the Dividends of general Taxes; and impose such as are necessary for the States of the Province.  
Yet this is not to be so understood, as if this Sovereignty of the States, did exclude the sovereign jurisdiction, which many Towns do exercise within their Precinct: for the end of the State● being to preserve every one's liberties and privileges, it is not to be thought they will take away any, that shall be consistent with the Government. As for example, Dort, Nimmegue, Deventer, de Camp, de Zwoll, and Gr●eningue, have many privileges, which we shall elsewhere take notice of. Likewise the Country of Drent does exercise by its States, a royal and absolute Authority, and does commit the administration of it to its Deputies. Omland likewise has the power of imposing Taxes upon its inhabitants, though it make up one Province▪ with Groeningue. Now here are the particular acts of Sovereignty, of which every Province▪ in particular is barred, and which do only belong to them all united. For they cannot  
1. Undertake a new War. 2. Make Peace or Truce. 3. Lay Impositions, which concern the common Union. 4. M●ke alliance with Neighbours. 5. Set the value of Money, or make Laws concerning the public. All these things cannot be done but by common consent.   

CHAP. XI.  
Of the States of Holland and Zeeland.  
IN Holland and West-Friezeland the States are composed of two sorts of Members; viz. of the Nobles, and of the Deputies of Towns; the Nobles that are famous not only by their ancient extraction, but also by the Lordships and Castles which they possess, are the chiefest: they ordinarily meet to the number of twelve or thirteen, and have the first voice.  
The Towns which send their Deputies are these, Dort, Harlem, Leyden, Amsterdam, Tergou, Rotterdam, Gorchom, Schoonhove, la Brille, Al●maer, Enchuse, Edam, Monichdam, and Purmerent. If there be any difficulty about Tributes, or if it be to declare War, or make Peace, than these following Towns are likewise assembled by Deputies, Word, Geertrudenbergue, Naerde, Muden, O●de▪ water, Huesdam, Wesop, and Wourcom. The Deputies of Towns are ordinarily Bourgmasters, to whom is ordinarily joined an Alderman or Counsellor, who is called a Pensioner.  
The great Assembly, called (groot mogende) that is, Great and Mighty, is at the Hague, and is vulgarly called, The Assembly of the States of Holland and West-Friezeland.  
Besides this Assembly which is held but from time to time, there is another ordinary Assembly, which also sits at the Hague, and is a Representative of the States of the Province, and in their absence takes care of the Treasury, and all ordinary affairs; and, if there be occasion, it convocates the Great Assembly: one Nobleman and the Deputies of Towns sit in this, and is called, the Counsellors Deputies of the Lords of the States of Holland and West-Friezeland: The Advocate Pensioner of Holland is the Moderator of these two Assemblies, and it is he that gathers the Votes, and performs the Office of Speaker; and eight days after their separation, he is bound to send to the Nobles, and to the Deputies of Towns, the deliberations and resolves made in the Assembly.  
Zeeland being also governed by States, there are two sorts of Members, viz. the Nobles, and the Deputies of Towns; the Prince of Orange, as Marquis of Treveer and Flessingue, represents the Nobles by his Deputy in the Assemblies at Middlebourg, and has the first place.  
The Towns that send their Deputies are Middlebourg, Ziriczee, Tergoes, Tertole, Flessingue, and Treveer; these States meet as often as they think fit, and in the intervals seven Deputies supply their room; one in the Name of the Prince, who represents the Nobility, and in the Name of each Town one, to whom are added the Pensioner and the Secretary.  
Besides, Walachria, which is the principal Island of Zeeland, has the right of holding a particular Assembly at Middlebourg, which is ordinarily called, the Assembly of the States of the Isle of Walachria, and is composed of one Deputy in the Name of the Prince of Orange, and of six others; three for Middlebourg, Flessingue and Treveer, two for the rich Landowners' of the Island, called (de breed geerfde) to whom is adjoined a Secretary.   

CHAP. XII.  
Of the Governors of the United Provinces, until the Year 1650.  
WIlliam Prince of Orange was the first Governor General of the United Provinces; and since by the desert of this Family, this so great a charge has been continued in it, it will not be amiss to set down their Titles and Lordships here.  
They are Princes of Orange, Counts of Nassaw, Catinilibogue, viand, Diest, Lingue, Meurs, Bure, and Leerdam, etc. Marquess of Treveer and Flessingue, Lords Barons of Breda, Grave, Cuych, Diest, Grimbergue, Harental, Branendock, Warneston, Arlac, Noseroy, Saint Vite, Doesbourg, Polan, Wilemstad, Nieuward, Ysselstein, of the Fort Saint Martin Guertrude●bergue, Chasteanrenart of the two Swal●es of Naddwick, Viscount's hereditary of Antwerp and Besanson, Governors of Gueldres, Holland, Zeeland, West-Friezeland, Zutphen, Overyssel, and Generals by Sea and by Land.  
This first noble Prince having been wickedly assassinated in the year 1584. brought such a consternation upon the United Provinces, that many Towns, nay some Provinces, fell back under the Spanish domination. The Earl of Meurs was Governor of Gueldres and Utrect. The Hollanders and Zeelanders chose by provision the Prince Maurice, younger son to the deceased Prince William. William Lewis Earl of Nassaw had been received General in Friezeland not long before; the Earl of Hohenlo had the conduct of the Army, and the Council of State the management of affairs.  
But things were in so great a confusion, that the States mistrusting their own strength, offered themselves to the French; who having used them ill, they addressed themselves to ' Queen Elizabeth of England, with whom they prevailed at last to send them Robert Dudley Earl of Leicester.  
He came into Holland in 1585. with so absolute a power, that no Governor before him ever had the like; for he had power to name one half of the Council of State; and because he was a credulous easy man, he suffered himself to be led by the Nose by some Strangers about him, who little intended the advantage of the Low-Countries; and himself being a particular Enemy to Prince Maurice and the Earl of Hohenlo, at last the hatred against him became great, and all the affections of the people and Soldiers turned to Maurice: the treacherous actions of Stanley and York, English Commanders who had delivered Deventer and Zutphen to the Spaniard, had much exasperated the States; and now a general fear began to possess the Lovers of their Country, lest they should either be sold or oppressed: whereupon the States of Five Provinces gave all the charge of governing to Prince Maurice, who being settled, did soon quash all jealousies and suspicions which did already make people apt to sedition and tumults.  
But since our design is not to write Annals, we need not here recite all the glorious actions of Prince Maurice; it is only fit to observe, that William Lewis Earl of Nassaw, than Governor of Friezeland, and since 1550. Governor of Groningue and Omlande, was always in perfect intelligence with his Cousin Maurice; and so this famous couple of the Nassavian Family advanced the affairs of the United Provinces conjointly.  
Maurice died the 23. of April in the Year 1625. he was a very great Captain, and of incomparable conduct in War, and politic affairs.  
Maurice being dead, and Spinola the Spanish General having then besieged Breda, a Town of great importance for the States, they presently chose Henry Frederick of Nassaw, his Brother, for General in his room, and not long after Gueldres, Holland, Zeeland, Utrect and Overyssel accepted of him for their Governor; Groningue, Omlande, and Drent, submitted to Ernest Lasimir of Nassaw, Brother to William Lewis of Nassaw, who was also Governor of Friezeland.  
Prince Henry was a worthy successor to his Brother's deserts, as well as Honours, and carried himself with singular valour and prudence; his Cousin Ernest was no small help to him and the Provinces, being a most excellent Field Officer, and in that employment he died at the siege of Ruremonde in the Year 1632.  
His successor to his Governments of Friezeland, etc. was his son Prince Henry; the A●hilles of the Hollander; he was young, and by his beginnings did promise so much as might make all men wish him a longer life; but he was killed in the Year 1640. his very Enemies bearing witness of his noble valour; and the Friezelanders much afflicted chose his Brother William Frederick of Nassaw, who worthily supplied his Brother's loss. Groningue, Omlande, and Drent, coming back to Henry Frederick Prince of Orange, who died likewise at the Hague in 1647. the 14th. of March, having first forced the Spaniards to make Peace.  
His only son William took the Oath of Allegiance to the States the same day, as General of all their Forces both by Sea and Land.  
A little after, six of the Provi 〈…〉 s chose him for their Governor, as they had promised his Father; but Friezeland alone being already provided of Prince William Frederick, made no change, but engaged that in case he should die, they would then choose the Prince of Orange. But O unexpected misfortune! just as all the Provinces were in hopes of living in a flourishing condition under the protection of this William the second, he died at the Hague in the Year 1650. and that in so short a time, that the noise of his disease did scarce forerun the news of his death; he left the Princess his Lady with Child of a son, of whom she was brought a-bed eight days after the Prince's death, who is the now Prince of Orange, whom God keep and preserve, and give him his Ancestors spirit.   

CHAP. XIII.  
Of the charge of Governor.  
IT is a hard matter to reduce the charge of Governor under certain Heads, because hitherto the Provinces have given them such different instructions, that they have had a hand in every thing. The State's General have hitherto communicated all their designs and counsils with the three Princes of Orange, that have succeeded one another; as also the Precedent of the State's General has always used to wait upon his Highness before the sitting of the Company; besides, by reason of the great Estates they possess in Zeeland, and other Provinces, they enjoy peculiar Privileges, and have in that consideration and others, many advantages which the Provinces may either amplify or restrain at their pleasure.  
But leaving all this aside, and considering barely what belongs to the Office of a Governor, we may particularly stay upon these six points.  
1. The Governor General may pardon and forgive all capital crimes, that deserve death; this Prerogative is called (trech van pardonneren.)  
2. In those Provinces that have Courts of Judicature, he is always the Precedent of them, and his Name and Titles are in the front of all their Acts and Decrees.  
3. In certain places where that custom is received, he names the Magistrates, either out of a certain number proposed to him, or absolutely as he pleases. It is thus practised at Nimmegue; every where in Holland, except at Horn, Enchuse, Edam, and Monchenda●; in Zeeland every where, except at Tergoes; in Utrect every where; in Friezeland the Governor does the like. This Privilege is extended even to the nomination of (amptmen, or drostampen,) of the dignity of Patricians, or (rants heers-ampten) and many other which would be too long to name here.  
4. He may send Ambassadors to Foreign Princes for his own particular concerns, and give private Audience to the Ambassadors of Foreign States, that are sent to the State's General.  
5. It is his duty to see the States Order executed in those Provinces in which he is Governor.  
6. By the 9th. and 14th. Articles of the Union of Utrect, he is made Umpire of such contests as should arise between the Provinces, or between any Members of one Province, or even between the States and some of their Subjects; touching all which he alone can pronounce a Sovereign and definitive sentence; and if the affairs be of very great consequence, than he may join with him some Counsellors of State, without exception of persons; and it is expressly enjoined to all parties, to acquiesce and submit to his Arbitration. We shall speak elsewhere of the other attributes of Governor, that have belonged to him as General by Sea and Land; for these two great charges are not, as some Strangers do, to be confounded; and he that is Governor of the Provinces, is not always General of their Forces.   

CHAP. XIV.  
Whether or no the United Provinces can subsist without a Governor.  
SInce we have numbered up the Governors of the United Provinces, and declared freely what is their Authority and Power, it is now fit to consider whether they are so necessary to the States, as to make them incapable of subsisting without them. Many Strangers are of opinion, that these Provinces cannot be without a Governor General; and the same opinion has taken root in the hearts of many Natives, who are not able to discern those things in the Treaty of Utrect which are essential, from those that are mutable, and may be otherwise disposed of, as the circumstances of time do vary.  
But since the Sovereign Power has never been entirely resigned into the hand of any one Governor, though some have had very many of the Prorogatives belonging to it, it is evident, that they in whom the Sovereign Power remains, can perform by themselves those Offices which they are pleased to trust a Governor with: therefore if a Governor does nothing but by Commission, and that because of the absence of those who empower him to act for them; why shall not they, if they be present, take upon them the execution of those things that were before committed to another's care? And though Governors be often named and mentioned in the Treaty of Utrect, yet was it not intended for a Governor General, for even at that time Utrect had its particular Governor; and some years after it was governed by the same Governor that Holland and Zeeland was.  
'Tis to as little purpose that some pretend, that it is necessary that each Province should have its particular Governor, who may in fit season prevent and calm all occasions of Civil commotions, as the Dictator's did in Rome; but in vain, for who sees not but that as hitherto the way of determining those contests has been by referring them to the Governor, and some Deputies of another Province; so they may, if they please, leave out the Governor, and refer their debates to the Deputies of other Provinces alone: particularly considering, that it has been hitherto observed, that no Governor ever undertook the person of an Umpire, before he had consulted with the State's General; who being above any inferior Province, have the power of hindering the progress and increase of any dissension.   

CHAP. XV.  
Of the Riches, by which the United Provinces do maintain themselves.  
BY the Treaty of Union made at Utrect, it was ordained, that there should be raised an equal sum of Moneys in every Province: but experience hath taught us, that such an equality was very unjust. For, for example; is it fit that there should be no more laid upon an acre of Land in Holland, which is very rich, and yields twice as much as in any other place, than upon an acre in Gueldres, which is poor, and yields not half the revenue. The same difference is to be observed in all other things.  
It has therefore been judged by common consent, more just and profitable for each Province to make a new Order every year; in which each should be taxed according to the then abilities of the said Province, and according to the public exigencies. So for example; if there be necessity of raising 10000 pound, Holland alone shall furnish 4000 five hundred of it; Zeeland and Friezeland a 1000 a piece; Gueldres Utrect, and Groeningue, 3500. and Transisulania, or Overissell, the rest.  
This order being once agreed upon, it belongs to the States of each Province, to consider how it shall be levied: and this is the true reason why the Taxes and Imposts are so different in the Dominions of the State's General.  
These Levyes thus ordered, are not always received in money, and returned to the public Treasury of the State's General, but are distributed by Tallies in the Province itself, to those to whom the States do owe; which is a very wise caution; for it is certain, that money still lessens as it passes through the hands of many receivers.  
2. Among these Levyes, it was thought fit from the very beginning, to give leave to all to transport certain merchandise into the neighbouring Low-countrieses, still remaining under the Spanish jurisdiction; but there was and is an impost laid upon them; for the receipt of which there are Officers, and seachers upon the Frontier. But to the end this licence might be no ways prejudiciable to the affairs of this rising Commonwealth, they forbid the transport of Arms or Ammunition, under pain of death. Yet at last when victuals and necessaries for life grew dear among their enemies, and that there was an evident advantage for the Confederates to furnish them with those things, licence was granted, and they drove such a trade with their enemies, as made themselves grow rich and powerful.  
3. There is likewise a great sum of money raised upon the granting of Passports, to those in the Spanish Dominions, who desire to transport themselves into the Territories of the States; for every Passport costs fifty shillings of English money. And yet lest this also should prove prejudicial to the State, they seldom grant any to those amongst their enemies, who are either in military or politic employments: and to any others they scarce grant them for longer than the time of six months.  
4. The Contributions that are levied upon those Villages, and that part of the Country which lies between the enemy and them, make another part of their supplies; for these Bourghs pay as much to the States, as to the Spaniards; and there are Treasurers upon the Frontier for the receipt of it.  
5. The Imposts paid in the conquered Towns of Brabant and Flanders, make another part of their revenue; for there is excise upon Wine, and Beer, and Salt. A Tax upon Houses, and upon Lands.  
6. They receive a part of the plunder made by the Soldiers upon the enemy.  
7. They have hitherto had from the French and the English great sums of money, as long as they have had War with the Spaniards. The French to make diversion, did maintain in the service of the States, a body of 6000. Foot, and 2000 Horse at their own charges for many years. The serene State of Venice, in virtue of a Treaty made in 1622. did promise 4000 pound a month in time of War.  
8. They have money at use, (that is) they keep a bank of such moneys as are lent the State by particulars, and pay use for it; five in the hundred is the use the State pays. All these great sums of money are by the Order of the States, committed to the care of a particular Council, called, A General Directory for the Treasury, which is composed of the Deputies of each Province.   

CHAP. XVI.  
Of the principal Forces which do maintain the Commonwealth of the United Provinces.  
THe greatest internal or defensive strength of these Countries, does lie in their situation, which makes all their Towns easily to be fortified. As for the external, it consists in their Leagues and Alliances with Foreign Princes. Let us speak first of the situation.  
That situation which is advantageous for the defence of a Country, the exercising of commerce, and consequently growing rich, must needs proceed from the neighbourhood of the Sea, and the affluence of great Rivers and Channels; thence comes the Proverb, The Hollanders are born for the Sea, and the Sea for them: of which they are well convinced, and consequently spare no cost nor industry to be the masters upon this Element; having long ago graven upon their Coin this Motto, Imperator maris est terrae Dominus. If the Spaniards had been so wise, as to have spent that treasure in hindering the Hollanders trade and navigation, that he laid out upon attaking their Country, he had undoubtedly ruined them; and he now perceives it, and does endeavour by all means, though too late, to obstruct their commerce. Besides the Sea, there are the Rivers of Rhine, Meuse, and Jud, that do make the Country almost inaccessible. Besides, if any enemies be taken on this side these Rivers, there is a Law which is exactly observed, which commands to hang them up immediately.  
The strong Towns are upon the Borders, not only in Brabant, Flanders, Gueldres, and Friezeland, but also upon the Confines of Germany, as Rhinbergue, Wesel, and divers places bordering upon the Duchy of Cleves. The reason whereof is this: the War being kindled between the Spaniards and the United Provinces, the Spaniards did first begin to seize, and put themselves in possession of the Towns of the Duchy of Cleves, and of the elector of Cullen, that they might the better annoy the Hollanders; who foreseeing the mischief like to arise from thence, sent an Army, and seized as many of these Towns as they could, put Garrisons into them, and nevertheless still preserved the Inhabitants in all their propriety, liberty, and privileges. Hereupon arose great contests between the Emperor the Duke of Cleves, and the elector of Cullen on one side, and the Hollanders on the other; but the Hollanders kept possession.  
Besides the Garrisons they maintain in all Frontier Towns, they have also two Magazines in each, one with Ammunition for War, the other with provisions for life.  
A Governor commands the Garrison: they that command in small Frontier Towns, are called Commanders; and they that command in great strong Towns, are qualified Governors. And for the greater safety of the said Towns, the Keys are partly in the Governors, partly in the Bourgmasters hands. The Civil and Military powers are likewise so distinct, that the Governor has nothing to do with the Inhabitants, nor the Judges of the place any power over the Soldiers.  
As for the Land-Forces, they consist of Strangers and Naturals; but the Strangers do exceed the Naturals in number, who are more inclined to long Voyages and Trade, than to War. Neither is the State endangered, by putting the force and military power in Strangers hands; for they being of different Nations, as English, Scotch, French, etc. have different inclinations, and aversions, and so will hardly conspire to oppress their Masters, who do always mingle them in their strongest Towns.  
It is believed, that the number of Soldiers paid by the States, and sworn to them, does come very near one hundred thousand. The Companies are for the most part of a hundred men; some few excepted, who are either stronger or weaker, as necessity requires. The Regiments are of ten, twelve, fourteen, sixteen, eighteen Companies. Each Regiment is commanded by a Colonel.  
The Horse is much inferior in number to the Foot, because that in these Country's, the greatest employment for Soldiers is besieging and defending of Towns, in which the Horse are not so necessary, as in set Battles.  
There are two sort of Horsemen distinguished by their Arms, viz. Cuirasseers, that wear iron breast and back-pieces; and Arquebusiers, that carry short Guns on Horseback. Their Horses ought to be sixteen handful high, measuring from the hoof of the forefoot, to the top of the shoulder.  
The Infantry has about four shillings and six pence a week pay; and the Horse about fifty shillings a month. They that are paid by the State's money, are soon and exactly paid, but they whose payment is assigned upon the money that comes from France, wait a little longer for it.  
It is very observable in these Provinces, that though there be no Money in the Treasury, yet the Soldiers receive their pay every week or month; for every Regiment chooses an Agitatour, who resides near the States to solicit the payment of those he represents; and when there is no Money in the public Treasury, he may confidently, and does borrow and take up Money for the present necessity; and it is repaid him again with interest by the State's order.  
The hopes of the great profit there is to be made, engages these Solicitors to do thus; for when they advance their Money, it is at the rate of 10 per Cent. gains, which they t●●e upon the arrears which the State owes to the Officers. But this produces another inconvenience, which is, that the Officer being forced to give so much to the Solicitor out of his pay, endeavours to recover it again upon the States, and musters more men in his Company than he really pays. Besides their pay, the Soldiers have likewise their Lodging free, and the States do pay to the Inhabitants of all Towns upon that score, six pence a week for each Soldier they lodge, and this is called Service-Money.  
If the Enemies besiege a Town, and that the Money laid up in it for the paying of the Soldiery come to fail, they make Money of Tin, Brass, Leather, or Pasteboard; which the Magistrates set a price upon, and such a one as exceeds very much the price of the matter of which such Money is made. In the mean time the Soldiers take it freely; for the siege being raised, or the Town yielded up, there comes a Treasurer who gives them currant Money for their other.  
All sorts of Provisions that are brought to the Armies, are free from all Imposts and Tributes, in favour of the Soldiers. In the siege of Towns the Soldiers have likewise gratuity given them, some Provisions for their diet out of the public Magazines.  
The Soldiers and inferior Officers being made Prisoners, are at liberty in paying their ransom, which by agreement between the States and the Spaniards, is a months pay of the Prisoners. The Inhabitants or Citizens are not so mildly dealt withal, for they are constrained to pay whatsoever the Enemy demands, or to rot in Prison, till there be a general exchange made of Prisoners, which is once or twice a year. The Women and Children under twelve years old are not to be taken.  
So much for the Forces in ordinary; In extraordinary dangers there are extraordinary Forces raised, which they call Waertgelders; to encourage them the more the States do promise them Ten pence a day: but because that many, in hopes of so great a pay, do forsake the ordinary Companies, and take employment in these new ones, it has been often thought fit to command out, instead of these Waertgelders, the Train-bands of every Town, and to mingle with them some old Soldiers, and so make them fit for service.  
Every Soldier as well in the Army as in Garrison, is subject to the Jurisdiction of a Council of War; which is composed in the Field, of the General, and some high Officers; and in a Garrison, of the Governor and his Captains; they judge according to the Articles of the Formulary prescribed and printed by the State's order.  
The pay of Soldiers on Ship board is 12 s. and 6 d. a month, besides which they have their diet, which he that commands the Ship is bound to find them, and receives from the States 6 d. a day for each man.  
At Sea there is no such custom as the ransom at Land; nay at first all Prisoners were bound hand and feet, and thrown overboard; but because so great a cruelty displeased both Spaniards and Hollanders, they agreed there should be quarter given, but not at such easy rates as at Land. The Spaniards reason for this his so great a severity, was that he might deter the Hollanders from venturing to Sea; but it produced only this, that it made them defend their Ships with more courage and success than before. Ostend and Dunkirk were the places from whence they made most incursions upon the Hollanders, which made them every year put a Fleet to Sea, and come and besiege the Ports of these two Towns.   

CHAP. XVII.  
Of the Alliances of the United Provinces with Foreign Princes.  
THe external Forces of the United Provinces are their Alliances, which they maintain either by their Ambassadors, or by their Agents. They allow their Ambassadors ordinarily a thousand pound; only he that is in this quality at Constantinople is allowed more, that he may maintain the glory of his Nation to the eyes of that ambitious people. Let us consider these Alliances one after another.  
With the Emperor of Germany there is no Alliance, but only a Friendship, observed since these many years in appearance, though not in reality; for the Emperor has often sent great succours to the Spaniards underhand, and the Hollanders have done the same to the Princes of France and Germany. Yet the Emperor has by divers Embassies pressed the United Provinces to declare themselves Members of the Empire, as their Princes were formerly; writing to them in the stile of Faithful and Wellbeloved.  
But the States have been so far from consenting to such a Proposition, that they have often ordered that such Letters should be sent back again to the Emperor, without being opened; saying, that theirs was a free absolute State, which had never yielded to pay homage to any Prince. In the mean time, there passes between them all Commerce and offices of Friendship.  
There was likewise a League and Union made between the United Provinces, and the Princes of Germany, to protect them from the oppression which threatened them from the great Power the Emperor was got into; and in this they did nothing but what the care of their Liberty did force them to, for had those Princes been overpowered, the Low-Countries might have feared the same fate.  
Above two hundred years ago there was an Alliance between the Anseatic Towns, and the Low-Countries; and there happening to be amongst the United Provinces some of these Towns, as Amsterdam, Middlebourg, Dort, which now make a part of the Commonwealth, it was thought fit to renew the Alliance, which was accordingly done in 1614 by a new Treaty, in which the States oblige themselves to maintain the Rights and Privileges of the said Anseatic Towns. This the Emperor took so ill, that he endeavoured to make those Anseatic Towns that were in the Empire, liable to the crimes of Treason and Rebellion against his Imperial Majesty; but by their Ambassadors they proved, that time out of mind they had the right and privilege of making such Alliances.  
The Treaty of Alliance made formerly with the King of Denmark, concerns nothing but a reciprocal liberty for Traffic, and Commerce; and yet these States have often been forced to complain to their Ambassadors, of the excessive Rates and Customs they did pay in passing the Sound. But the necessity they stand in of venting their Commodities, makes them undergo this hardship, and has produced of late a more strict Alliance for the maintaining of Trade.  
They are likewise in Friendship with the King and Commonwealth of Poland, particularly for the great quantities of Corn that come from thence; though the Imposts be there likewise very high, and such as have often made the Hollanders think of changing their Market, and buying in Muscovy; which they would have compassed by this means: The Country people in Muscovy are such slaves, their Duke being the Proprietary of all their Lands, that they never trouble themselves to plough or sow more Land, than just as much as will make such a product, as can find them and their Family's food. Thence it happens, that huge Fields of good ground lie waste. Now the Hotlanders design was, to persuade the Duke of Muscovy to force his Subjects to Till more ground, and so he would be able to drive a great Trade; and to further this, they offered to leave Overseers that should direct the work. While this was a treating, the Poles fearing the consequence, bated their Imposts and Customs, and so things remain as they were.  
In the Year 1615. there was a Treaty made likewise with the King of Swedeland, and Traffic was the ground of it. A little before the said King fell upon Germany, the amity was renewed, and it was agreed, that the United Provinces should give the said King 400. pound a month as long as the War should last between him and the House of Austria; but since these few years, the succour that has been given to the Dan●●, and the interruption of Trade in that King's Dominions, have almost changed this Friendship into War.  
There has been likewise a very good Treaty for Trade, made with the Duke of Muscovy, where, mongst other things, liberty is granted to levy Soldiers here in his Name, and to transport Ammunition for War into his Dominions.  
Trade has also made the States make Treaties with the Emperor of the Turks, the Sophy of Persia, and the Pirates of Thunis and Algiers.  
In Italy the States have no Alliance, but with the Venetians; which is yet maintained for the Honour of these two Commonwealths, which are the only flourishing ones in Europe; and for certain reasons the Venetians do give five hundred pound a month to the Hollanders, towards the maintenance of the War with the Spaniards; as also the Hollanders have promised the like succour to Venice, if it should be attaqued by the Spaniard.  
In the first birth of the Commonwealth, there was a most advantageous Treaty made with the English, under the reign of Queen Elizabeth, who maintained this reeling State by the succours of Men, and great sums of Money, which she sent over to them; though in such a way, that the Hollanders were bound to respect her as if they had been her Subjects. Now that the Peace is made with the Spaniards, there remains nothing of this Alliance, but the liberty of Trade and Commerce, and the use of the English Ports.  
There has been likewise many Treaties with the King of France, and the States of the United Provinces have received from him great sums of Money towards the carrying on of the War.   

CHAP. XVIII.  
Of the Admiralty, and care that is taken to maintain a Sea-strength.  
SInce it is true, that a State is maintained by those means by which it is first acquired, the United Provinces ought not to neglect their Maritine affairs, because they have and do really get all their subsistence out of the Sea.  
This Sea-strength consists in a number of Men of War, par● whereof belong to the States, and part to particular men, and are called Privateers. The first are set out at the charges of the public; the other borrow only the State's Banner and Commission, though to encourage them the States have proposed to them a set price, according to the value of the thing they take from the Enemy.  
The Men of War of the States, serve to convoy Merchantmen to and fro, and preserve them from danger of Pirates and Enemies.  
The Privateers are most employed to give chase to, and take the rich India Ships of the Spaniards coming from the West-Indies.  
The High Admiral, who at present is the Governor General of the States, commands over all Ships of War, but he seldom goes in person, because his presence is necessary at home; his room is supplied by a Vice-Admiral.  
The Great Council, called the State's General, being as well obliged to look after the Maritine affairs, as the Land business; and yet finding themselves overburdened with business, they have discharged that care, by choosing some others to compose a Body or Council, which shall order all Sea-affairs in the Name of the States.  
There are divers of these Assemblies, and particularly in those three Provinces which are near the Sea, viz. in Holland, at Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Horn, this last is sometimes transported to Enchusen, which is a Town of North-Holland; in Zeeland, at Middlebourg; and in Friezeland, formerly at Do●cum, but is now transported to Harlingue.  
Each of these Assemblies consists of seven Counsellors or Senators, who being chosen by the Members of each Province, are delegated and impower'd by the State's General; they have a Secretary and a Treasurer.  
The Governor General is the head of all these Assemblies, as High Admiral; the Vice-Admiral represents him in his absence; these Deputies did formerly use to meet at the Hague twice a year, and do still meet there, when the affairs require a conjoynt deliberation with the States, about the necessary means of securing the Sea, and furthering Commerce.  
They have a Treasury particular to themselves, and the Money which is in it, is gathered from the Money that their own Merchants and Strangers pay for Convoys; and likewise from the Imposts laid upon Commodities, that are transported from one Harbour to another. There is likewise brought into this Treasury all the Money that is raised by giving licenses to transport Commodities to the Enemies.  
The Deputies of these Assemblies are bound to give an account every quarter, of all their expenses and receipts, to the Commissioners from the State's General.  
They have also the power of naming Captains to the Men of War, but then the Admiral chooses out of those that they have named. In a word, their charge is so to secure the Sea, as there be no interruption neither from Pirates nor Enemies of any other sort, in Trade and Navigation; to judge and determine all causes between Seamen and Officers, and that Sovereignly and without appeal; provided the sum in dispute exceed not fifty pounds; observing exactly all brevity and expedition, not suffering long harangues in any Cause, or giving leave to the parties to reply more than once or twice, and that because ordinarily Sea people have occasion of departing upon long Voyages, and cannot come again suddenly.  
Last of all, it belongs to them to see that the States be paid their proportion of what is taken. The fifth part of all prizes belongs to them; the tenth to the admiral; and the rest to those that have set out the Privateer; as also to the Captain and Seamen. This is only to be understood of Privateers.   

CHAP. XIX.  
Of the particular Government of the Towns in Holland.  
WE have seen hitherto what is the Government of the whole Body of the United Provinces: now we may descend to the particular Towns.  
The Towns are governed by a Bailif, a Senate, or Council, by Bourgmasters, or Consuls, and by Aldermen.  
There is but one Bailif in each Town, who to say true has no power of himself to pronounce judgement; but in criminal Causes he is as it were an Attourney-Generall, and manages accusations against offenders in the name of the States. This is done before the Aldermen, who have power to examine the heads of the accusation, and to pronounce sentence. The Bailiffs have no Salary, and all the profit of their places rises from the Fines that are laid upon the guilty.  
The Senate, and the greatest, is that which is called (Den breeden ra●d● or De Vroedschap) in most Towns, as at Leyden, it is composed of about forty persons, according to the number of the richest Citizens, more or less. The ancient Laws admit none to be of this Senate, but such as are of the richer sort. This Assembly seldom meets, but upon the occasion of choosing new Magistrates; as also when the States of the Province are to meet, than the heads of the Deliberations are examined in this Senate beforehand. They do also control and correct their Bourgmasters, and Aldermen, if in the Assembly of the States they chance to go beyond their Commission. And to the end they may do it without fear, it has been ordained by our wise Ancestors, that the charge of Senator should be perpetual, that so they may not fear to be persecuted, for what they shall do in the defence of the public liberty.  
The Bourgmasters and Aldermen are chosen from amongst these Senators, by the plurality of voices.  
In some places there are four Bourgmasters, and in some there are but two. Their Office is to determine all that concerns the good order of the Town; as also to inform themselves of all the fall out of the Citizens, and bring them either by themselves, or others, to an agreement: which if they cannot compass, than their duty is to cite them before the Aldermen. They meet in a common Chamber, and give audience to all Inhabitants without distinction.  
In some places there are seven Aldermen, in others nine; They are the Judges of the Town who meet three or four set times a week, and determine all civil Causes between the Inhabitants, and judge all crimes proposed by the Bailif. For the first cognizance of the Cause belongs to the Judge of the place, where he that is cited dwells. Except they be privileged Causes, the Towns judge of no greater sum than five pounds, and the Bourghs of thirty shillings; though in very great Cities they may judge as far as thirty pound. The appeal is first to the Court of the Province, and then to the great Council, where there is a double number of Judges; they that are cast are fined for having appealed without reason. In the Court of the Province the Fine is three pound ten shillings; in the great Council, of six pound; and when the Process is re-viewed, if the sentence be confirmed, the Fine is of twenty pound.  
As for criminal Causes, the Judges are absolute, and there is no appeal from them, neither in the Villages, nor in the Towns; except the Bailif require that the criminal should undergo a severer punishment, and then the accused has liberty to defend himself.  
There are two sort of Laws in Holland; the first sort is the Customs, Privileges, and Constitutions of the Country, and former Princes, and of the States. The second is the Roman Law, called the Civil Law.  
Moreover, that the course of justice be not retarded, nor the Judge's time taken up in petty businesses, there are chosen by the Aldermen, a certain number of the richer sort of Citizens, who are called Commissaries of small Causes. These take cognizance of all Causes that are not above five pound; as also of all Actions for reparation of Honour; and of the Differences between Masters and Servants, and such like. An Alderman presides ordinarily in this Assembly, and is ordinarily a good Civilian.  
There is also in the Senate, or Town-House, and in the College of the Bourgmasters, one who is called a Syndi●, or Pensioner, who ought to be eloquent and learned, as being the Speaker of the whole Town, or Corporation, in their most important affairs.   

CHAP. XX.  
Of the Tributes and Imposts; of how many sorts they are; and of the manner of levying them in Holland.  
SInce as Tacitus says, there is no War without pay, nor no pay without tributes, and that that is the particular case of the United Provinces, who have been long in War, to which they have all contributed their share; it is fit to consider of the ways they use to levy them.  
There are two sorts of Tributes; the ordinary, and the extraordinary. The ordinary, which being once granted, are always continued; the extraordinary, which are levied but for some certain time, and are then left off.  
There are three sorts of extraordinary Tributes; viz. the Tribute by Head, or Pole-money; the Chimney-money, and the Land Taxes.  
The Pole-money is so levied, that the State has twenty pence for every Head; they that are extreme poor are freed from this Tribute. To my remembrance this was never practised but once, and then too there was great murmuring, and many refused to pay.  
The Chimney-money is that Tribute, which is paid for every Chimney or Hearth, which is twenty pence; and in this the Hollanders have imitated the Spaniards in the Kingdom of Naples.  
The third Tribute, called a Land Tax, may be properly called the two hundredth penny, for out of two hundred pound a year, for example, is paid one pound to the States. So out of four hundred, two pounds, or forty shillings.  
To this may be objected, that it is a very hard thing, if not impossible, for the perfect knowledge of the true value of men's Estates to be had. It is answered, that the Magistrate does take his measure from the public voice, and the general report, that any man has to have such and such revenues. And because in this there is room for a mistake, the Law gives any man leave to complain of the greatness of his Tax; and if he will take his Oath he is not worth so much as the world values his Estate at, his Tax shall be moderated.  
As for the ordinary Tributes, the chief are these following.  
1. The Tribute from Salt, called in Dutch (Sonte geldt) it is levied after this manner: The Magistrate of the Town visits each Family, and reckons every head of it; then they guess at the quantity of Salt that they may reasonably be thought to spend in one year; and thereupon they exact from them a sum of money, proportionable to the quantity of Salt they are to have. And in some Towns they set a price upon the measure of Salt, high or low, as they please.  
2. The Excise upon Beer, which all the Citizens pay without distinction, comes to twenty pence a Barrel; except the small Beer, which is not worth above half a Crown a Barrel, pays nothing.  
3. Another Excise upon Beer, paid only by Brewers, which comes to twelve pence a Barrel. Besides, all Seamen, Mariners, and Merchants, pay Excise for all English and Germane Beer they bring in.  
4. The Victuallers, and those that sell Beer, pay other twenty pence for every Barrel.  
5. Every Hogshead of Vinegar pays nine shillings.  
6. The Impost upon French Wines mounts to six pence upon every Stoop. Rhenish and Spanish Wines pay twelve pence a Stoop. Brandyes of Wine pay ten pence. Of Beer, five pence.  
7. Butter pays six shillings a Barrel, which contains three hundred and twenty pound. And for the little Barrels, called (Kops tuchen) there is paid a Farthing a piece.  
8. A piece of Oil pays six shillings; if▪ Fish. Oil then four shillings and six pence.  
9 Candles of Wax, and Tallow, pay ten pence a hundred weight.  
10. The Impost of round measures, is that money which is paid for all those commodities that are measured in round measures, as Corn, Seeds, Salt, Lime, etc. And the Merchants that buy great quantities, do nevertheless pay this Impost.  
11. Turfs for fuel pay a penny halfpenny a Tun; and Coals from England and Scotland pay thirty shillings for every hundred Tun. The Coals burnt in the light Houses pay nothing.  
12. The Impost upon hard merchandizes, as five pence for every hundred of Lead; three halfpences for every thousand of Lime-Stones.  
13. For Wood to burn is paid the eight part of what it costs.  
14. Silk and gold Stuffs pay, of twelve pence, one, in every Yard or Ell.  
15. Woollen clothes pay thus; every piece of English Cloth not being yet died, pays three pound, if the said piece be worth sixteen Florins of Flanders, that is nine pound, or thereabouts. Every piece worth twelve pound pays four pound, etc. Hangings and other Householdstuff pay one penny in nine of what they are worth. The way of prising Merchandise is to ask the Merchant himself, what he values it at; if he undervalue it to save Custom, than the Master of the Custom-house may take it, and pay to the Merchant the price he values it at.  
16. The Impost upon all Corn that is ground in the Mills in Holland, which every body pays without exception, comes to five pound, one crown, and twelve pence for every quarter of Wheat; to half as much for the quarter of Rye; to five and thirty shillings for Barley and Oates.  
17. The Impost upon all Cattle, Sheep, or Hogs that are killed, comes to one penny in seven of the money they are sold for.  
18. There is also three pence a month paid for every Horned Beast above three years old; as also two pence a month for every Horse above three years old.  
19 The Imposts upon Herrings and Saltfish, brought to the Citizen's houses to sell, comes to twenty pence a Pannier.  
20. The retail Fishmonger pays for Sturgeons and Salmon the 9th. penny of what they cost.  
21. Tobacco pays 10 pence a pound; the Barrel of Soap 11 shillings; every Barrel of Pitch 16 pence.  
22. Every Chariot and little Bark pays 20 pence a year; every Coach pays 10 shillings a year.  
23. All Farms and Rack Rents pay the 16th. penny of the value they yield yearly; and those Lands that the Proprietary keeps in his own hand, are valued and estimated by the Magistrate.  
24. All Lands that are sowed with any sort of Grain whatsoever, or whatsoever Trees they are planted with, pay 4 pence halfpenny an acre, reckoning from the month they were sowed or planted, to the month that the recolt is made in.  
25. Every house pays about the 8th. part of the Rent it is let for; as if for 48 pound a year, it pays 6 pound to the States; but because the Rent of houses is subject to rise or fall, the Magistrate sets a constant price upon them, according to their bigness and conveniency.  
26. The Tribute for Servants and Maids comes to 20 pence a head, which every Master or Mistress is bound to pay for them.  
27. The Impost upon all Immovables that are sold, under which title great Ships are comprehended, comes to the 40th. penny, that is out of the price of the thing sold the State has the 40th. part, which is a very considerable tax, for there is no place in the World where Immovables alter their property so often as in Holland, it being a Proverb of Leyden, that every three year half of the Town is sold or alienated.  
28. The Tribute due for the Great and Little Seals, is a groat for every sheet of paper where the Great Seal is applied, to two pence where the Little. To understand the greatness of this Tribute, the Reader must know that the States of Holland have ordained, for no other end than for this, that no Wills, Contracts, or any sort of Writings that shall be produced before the Judges, shall be written in any other paper than that which is sealed by the States, else they shall be void; and hereupon they thought fit to have two Seals, one for businesses of small importance, and a great one for important affairs.  
There are many other sorts of Tributes, which it would be too long to relate; besides, they have all been published together by the State's order. Now let us consider the ways of levying these Tributes, which that we may the better do, let us consider those deliberations and opinions touching this matter, which were had when it was first debated.  
The Proposition of finding a way of raising these Revenues being made, some were of opinion to give Authority to the Magistrates of Towns, or to some persons whom the State should pay to gather these Taxes, and be accountable for them; thinking it neither safe nor profitable for the States to farm them out. And here are the Reasons they relied upon.  
1. Because public persons, and particularly Magistrates, have a greater Authority with them, and so are fitter to keep the people more in awe.  
2. Because many of these Revenues, as the Excise upon Beer for example, could not be fixed and certain; for sometimes one Town consumes more one year than another, so that there could be no measures taken with Farmers.  
3. They represented, that it was dangerous to trust in Subject's hands the public Revenue; for what if the Farmers should play the Knaves and break, and hereupon they concluded that Farmers were not fit men.  
Some of a quite contrary opinion did maintain, that there were certain Imposts which ought to be Farmed out for so much a year; adding, that the Impositions were laid upon two sorts of things, upon stable and constant ones, as Houses and Lands which remain, and whose number and value were easily known; and upon uncertain ones, as the consumption of Wine and Beer, etc. The first sort they allowed to be raised by Magistrates, the other they desired to Farm out, and that for divers Reasons.  
1. Because the people do by all arts and cheats endeavour to avoid the paying of these Excises; that the Farmers for their own concern would be very exact and quicksighted in the discovery of such frauds.  
2. These Farmers would have power enough, for they would be backed by the Civil power.  
3. That it was of consequence for a State to know precisely its Revenues; which could not be if they were not farmed and stated. That without this the State could not know how to frame designs, nor what to trust to in the execution of them. That thus doing, that is, by Farming, the State would come to a better knowledge of its true Revenue; for by enhancing of it every year, they would at last raise it to the utmost. That it would be expedient to Farm these Incomes to Citizens, only for one year, that so the condition of many Citizens would be bettered, and they enabled to offer more to the Commonwealth.  
4. Lastly, that there was no fear of their breaking, for they would require from the Farmer such security as should secure the public; besides, that they might be ordered to bring in every month a part of the money.  
This opinion was followed, and this way of proceeding is observed to this day; and this is the way they take of Farming them out.  
The States by Proclamation publish, that such a day such Revenues are to be Farmed, and that they will let those have them that shall bid highest. He that obtains it, giveth security immediately, and such as the State may lay hold on if he fail.  
There has been two things invented by the Farmers to hinder fraud, and stealing of Custom and Excise; the one is, that all Porters do take every year an Oath, to carry no Merchandise whatsoever into any Citizen's house, without giving notice to the Farmer, and taking a Pass from him. The second, that they that are once discovered to have cheated the Farmers, are sound fined, because that faults that may be easily committed, and which are very profitable to the offenders, cannot probably be hindered but by rigorous penalties.   

CHAP. XXI.  
Of the East and West-India Companies.  
THis methinks is a fit occasion to speak of these powerful Corporations; for they do make a great part of the strength of these Nations, and are a source of riches to them.  
These Companies are Assemblies of particular Merchants, established and confirmed by Authority in their Union. By which power they may, to the exclusion of all others, raise Soldiers at their own charges; make Leagues and Alliances with the Indian Princes; and to bring home certain Commodities from the Indies, which none other must vent but they.  
Two things particularly were the cause of this Enterprise, of sailing to the Indies: the one was the strict prohibitions of the King of Spain, forbidding the Hollanders all Trade and Commerce into Spain, the only place from which those Indian Merchandizes could be fetched. The other was the unreasonable Rates that the Spanish Merchants did then sell their Wares at; with the exorbitant Customs that Strangers who traded with them, were forced to pay. Insomuch that Spain was become the only Magazine and Bank of riches in Europe, having assembled all the treasures of the richest part of the world, whereby they might subdue the rest.  
There happened at this very time another accident, which much contributed to the framing of this design. One Cornelius Houtman a Hollander, having divers years faithfully served the Spaniards and Portuguesses, in their navigation to the Indies, was at last taken prisoner by the Negroes, and not like to come out of captivity, except he could pay a ransom far beyond his riches and power: he in this strait implored the help of some Merchants of Amsterdam, who redeemed him, upon condition that he should reveal to them all the secret and profit of the Spaniards navigation to the Indies. By this means it came to be known, that their gain was for every five or six pound, a hundred.  
One only thing did seem then most to oppose the Hollanders design, and that was, that it was with some regret, that they did see that the Venetians Trade would now fall to the ground. For whereas hitherto they had received the Merchandizes of the Indies by Persia, and so over-land to the Grand Cairo, and did then furnish the rest of Europe with them; it was easy to foresee, that the Hollanders would be able to perform this Voyage by Sea with less cost. But self-love, together with the desire of being revenged of the Spaniard, prevailed against this obstacle. But let us consider the first rise of this Company.  
The first Company or Association of Merchants, (for at first they were not authorized, as they now are by the States) chose for Curators or Directors, these following; Henry Hudd, Reynier Paw, Charles de Oude, Jean Poppey, Henry Duick, Theodore de Os, Silvard Petrisein, and Arnould ten Grooten Huyle.  
These considering that the way by the Glaciall Sea, though the shorter by 2000 leagues, and the safer from enemies, was nevertheless the more dangerous, because they were not sure of a passage; fitted out four Ships, and sent them by the ordinary way, under the conduct of Cornelius Houtman, in the year 1595. But being returned two years and four months after, with much less profit than was expected, that did not hinder them from setting out a new Fleet. And as they were busy about it, they had notice that some other Merchants of Amsterdam had the same design; whereupon they proposed to them to join their purses, which they did, and made up a Fleet of eight Ships, under the conduct of James van Neck.  
At the same time there was framed a company at Rotterdam, who undertook the way to the Indies by the Strait of Magellan, and the South-Sea; James Mahu undertook the Voyage.  
But before that the Fleet of eight Sail could be come back, the same Associates sent out three more; and a little after returned back four of the eight that had been sent first, with a very considerable lading, and much to the advantage of the Adventurers. The noise of the great gains to be made this way, made some other Merchants, for the most part Brabancons, compose another Company, called the Brabant Company, and in the year 1599 this Company sent four Ships, to which the first Company added four more.  
The Spaniards in the mean time considering the great progress of these new Erterprises, and foreseeing the ruin of their rich Trade by them, resolved to use all possible means to crush them while they were yet in their birth. Whereupon they fitted out a Fleet of thirteen strong men of War, who meeting with five Hollanders, engaged them, but were at last constrained to fly, and yield the Hollanders the victory. This check making the Spaniard sensible that strength and open force were not like to prevail, they went another way to work, and employed the Portuguesses, whose interest was very strong with most of the Indian peoples and Princes: they endeavoured by all means to make the Dutch so odious to those Nations, that they should abstain from all Trade and Commerce with them, representing them as Pirates and Rebels to their King. But the State's General being informed of this hard measure given them by the Portuguesses, gave order to all their Subjects, to assault and take all Ships that should any ways strive to oppose their navigation to the Indies.  
Thus they struggled pretty well with this great obstacle. But the Merchants themselves being divided into different Companies, and not acting all unanimously, did spoil one another's Trade; for either they would all come to one Port of the Indies, and so enhance the price of the Natives Commodity, and debase their own, or commit some other error, which made most of their Ships return with much less profit than might have been otherwise expected. The States considering these inconveniencies, resolved to make up one certain Company of all the different Adventurers that would come in, and to grant to them alone the privilege of trading to the Indies, under certain Conditions. This Order of the States being published, many out of hopes of gain, others out of love to their Country, put in different sums, which all together made up six hundred thousand pound, the first stock upon which this Company has built its prodigious Increase.  
All those that had conributed were called Partners, in Dutch (Participanten) because they had part in all the profit and loss of the Company.  
But all those that had contributed more than six hundred pound, were called head-Partners, (hooft-Participanten) and out of these alone were, and are to this day, chosen the Curators or Directors of the Company, with a very large power.  
All these head-Partners together, have the privilege of naming out of their own number, the Curators, and then in some places the States of the Province, in others the Magistrates of Towns are to choose them out of those that are named.  
The Curators are bound to give an account of all incomes and expenses, once a year to the head-Partners. They manage all the business of the Company, and are continued in their employment all their life-time, or at least for one and twenty years. They hold their Assemblies in the most convenient places of each Province, and their Assemblies are called Chambers.  
In each of these Chambers, there are a set number of Curators; at Amsterdam there are twenty; in Zeeland twelve; upon the Meuse fourteen; and fourteen in West-Friezeland.  
Besides these ordinary Assemblies, there are settled in each Province some extraordinary ones, upon occasion, to which the Chambers send their Deputies, and all the Chambers of that Province are bound to stand to the Deliberations of this that is made up of them all. This Chamber is settled at Amsterdam for Holland, and at Middlebourg for Zeeland.  
This extraordinary Assembly consists of seventeen Deputies, called (de Vergaderinge van Seventien.) Each Chamber knows the number of Deputies that it must send to this Assembly, some more and some less, proportionably still to the first money that they put in.  
This is the form of Government that this Company lives under within the State's Territories; and amongst all its Constitutions this is the principal, that the Curators shall employ with all care and speed the sums that shall be furnished to them, for the setting out of a strong Fleet well armed, to drive the Portuguesses and Spaniards out of those Forts and strong places which they hold; and in buying those Manufactures and Wares which we exchange with the Indians, giving a yearly account of their receipts and expenses; that out of the product something may still be laid aside, whereby to confirm and advance the Companies Trade and Settlement in those parts; that the rest shall be equally distributed to all the sharers, to every one according to the proportion of the money first put in by them. And this Distribution is commonly called Uytde●linge.  
This noble establishment thus begun, failed not of a very happy success; for now all interests being united as well as strengths, the work was carried on unanimously: and by the exchange of some things, (of small value with us) as Looking-Glasses, Feathers, Crystal, and Glass Rings, Bracelets, Babies, and other such babbles, made at Nurembergue in Germany, the Company received from the silly Indians, Silk, Stuffs, Pearls, all sorts of aromatic Drugs, of great value, and things of that nature. To this add, the taking of divers strong places and Forts from the Portuguesses and Spaniards, who at first little dreamt of being invaded so far off, by those whom they thought they did put so much to it at home.  
By these means, in six years' time, viz. from the year 1602. to the year 1608. the Company came to see their capital sum of six hundred thousand pound, increased to almost three millions of English money, besides all the gain that had been distributed among the partners. And besides, their Conquests are such, and their Dominions so enlarged in the Indies, that they have under their power or protection divers great Kingdoms and Countries; besides many others who have granted to them alone, exclusively to the Spaniards and Portuguesses, the liberty of Trade amongst them.  
Things being brought to this flourishing condition, it was thought fit to lay the foundation of a new Commonwealth; and for this purpose they chose a Town which they called Batavia, which is so well fortified and encompassed with a strong Wall of Bricks, that it was able these late years, to hold out before all the Forces of the great Emperor of Java, who besieged it with an Army of two hundred thousand men.  
It was ordered that the Governor General of the Indies for the Company, should here reside, and keep a Royal Court; where he enjoys the same power that the Governor General does in Holland; he keeps a greater equipage, and marches with more state than some Kings of Europe, that he may the more be respected by his own Subjects, and the barbarous Nations round about. At first this dignity was for life, but because it seemed dangerous to let so much power reside in one man so long, it was resolved to follow the Spaniards custom, and limit the time of their Government to three years.  
In this Town are likewise established two Sovereign Courts, in one whereof fits the Governor with his Associates, to treat of the public affairs of the Society, as Peace, War, Alliances, Trade, etc. the other is a Court of Justice, where causes are tried between particular men.  
Besides this, there are in all Provinces and Islands depending upon the Company, two Sovereign Magistrates; one of which commands the Militia, which is quartered in different places, to be in a readiness to keep the Natives down; and the other has the care of all that concerns Trade; and to the end that they may not behave themselves dishonestly, there are adjoined to them certain Officers called Censours, who keep a Register of all Occurrences, and give account of them every quarter to the Governor and his Council. Out of these Registers the Council picks the condition and posture of the Companies affairs, and having drawn it up, sends it into Holland; and the Curatours thereby know how to govern themselves in their supplies.  
At the same time there was some project made for the better multiplying of this Colony, that so at last they might equal the Indians in number, and not need to drain Europe every year for men. To further this, they built a public house, in which were maintained at the public charge great numbers of young Maids, brought from Holland; and the Soldiers and Seamen had liberty to make their addresses and marry them. But this did not succeed, for it was found by experience that the children born of Dutch Parents in the Indies, were not so lusty nor so long lived as those that were born of a Dutch Father and an Indian Mother.  
The Trade to the Indies is driven with ready money, or with Exchange; the Japponese take ready money; all the Indians exchange their Commodities for ours, which at first were of so small a value, and theirs so rich, that for every five pounds worth of ours, we had a hundred pounds worth of theirs. Some of these Nations have given to the Hollanders alone, the privilege of Trading with them; for example, they alone can buy Pepper, and by consequence set what price they please upon that Commodity.  
Every year in certain seasons the Fleets set sail for Holland, and every year new Fleets go from Holland for the Indies. The Merchandizes brought from India to Holland, are publicly exposed to sale, and the money produced, distributed among the Sharers; so for a hundred pound which a particular man▪ shall have put into the common stock, he shall have rarely twenty, sometimes thirty, and most commonly forty pound profit; so that the annual rent comes almost to half the Capital.  
This distribution is made either in Money, or Merchandise; the truth is, that heretofore they did seldom use to deliver out any Merchandise, but of late some Nations of Europe having gone about to set up the same Trade to the Indies, the Hollanders to discourage and break them at their first beginnings, did think fit to make a distribution of Merchandise. Whereupon there coming abroad at once so much, the price of all could not choose but fall, and so make these Strangers not able to afford them at such easy rates. 'Tis true, that this did the Company themselves much prejudice, but still it was a less loss to them, for the greatest mischief that can befall them, is that other Nations find the way to the Indies.  
There is besides, this considerable advantage, that all the Sharers do not only make a vast interest of their money, but their Capital increases every day, as the Companies stock increases. So if he that has put in at first 400 pound, will sell (which they seldom do) his right to another, he will without difficulty get 1800 pound for it; and it is to be hoped, that at last the very annual distributions will be worth the Capital every year.  
Some years ago the Company of the West-Indies was established after the same model; and a purpose to cross its settlement, the King of Spain demanded a Truce of twelve years from the States; one of the Articles of which was, that the Hollanders should undertake no Navigation to the West-Indies: he obtained it, and all that while the design was crushed; but shortly after the Truce expired, it was again set a foot with more eagerness.  
The Capital of this Company was seven hundred thousand pound, and the Curatours having set out a brave Fleet, the Town of St. Sauveur, otherwise called baia de todos los Santos, was carried and taken from the Spaniards; but shortly after it was unfortunately lost again. In the mean time, the booty made by taking and plundering the Spaniards and Portuguese Ships was so rich, that the Sharers of the Company received five and twenty per Cent. at the first distribution. A little after the Spaniards Silver Fleet, valued at twelve hundred thousand pound, having been taken, the Sharers had half their Capital refunded to them; but experience soon made appear, that in this the Curatours were rather prodigal than liberal, because that the Company having then no settled establishment in the West-Indies, it had been better to have employed that money towards a further confirmation of their affairs, particularly having undertaken so smart a War against the Spaniards and Portuguese.  
For this reason, their Capital being exhausted by following misfortunes, the Curatours were fain to exact a new Contribution from the Sharers, viz. the moiety of what they had given at first, which made up twelve hundred thousand pound, to which were added four hundred thousand pound more, and resolution was taken to pay interest of six per Cent. for all the money advanced to the Company. Their Treasury thus recruited, gave them courage to undertake a new Expedition, upon the great Town of Fernambove; after this they invaded some borders of Africa, from whence having driven the Portugueses, they got into possession of the Trade with the Africans, who sell their young Negroes. This is the sinew of the West-India Trade, for they being of a strong robust constitution, are able to endure those hardships in the Sugar Mills and Mines, that no Indians or Europeans are able to undergo.  
Though things have since succeeded pretty luckily, yet have not the Curatours made any dividends amongst the Sharers; not but that they have brought from thence twice or thrice every year vast quantities of rich Lading, which they have well sold; but because they have always been forced to maintain War, till the Portugueses revolted from the Spaniards.  
The Orders and Constitution of this Company, are conformable to those of the East-Indies, except that there are always some Deputies from the State's General, that do preside in their extraordinary Assemblies; and this because the States have contributed a great sum of money towards their first establishment.  
The Sovereign command both by Land and Sea, is in the hands of a Captain General, that resides in Brazeel; it is now Prince Maurice of Nassaw. There are added to him as his Council, two or three of the Curatours of the Company; there is also a Sovereign Court of Justice to hear and determine causes between particular men.  
This Company has other designs, and does not resolve to keep within the straight limits of Brazeel, but endeavours to open a passage to those rich M●nes of Silver which the Spaniards and Indians are at present in possession of; this enterprise seems likely enough to succeed, particularly since the Chilians, an Indian Nation that inhabits the Seaside, is in War with the Spaniard, and wants nothing but Arms and Discipline; which the Hollanders will be easily induced to furnish them with, it being so much their own advantage. The Soldiers of this Company and Officers, are sworn not only to the Curatours, but also to the State's General, and to the General of the Army; because it is not safe that private men should have an Army at their command.  
These two Companies have the privilege of Trading alone into both the Indies, not for ever, but for twenty or thirty year, more or less. And it was wisely ordered so for two reasons: First, because it may be the necessity of affairs might have been such, as to have obliged the States to make Peace or Truce with the Spaniards; which it may be would not have been obtained, without relinquishing the Trade to the Indies, which they could not do had they granted a perpetual privilege to these Companies. Secondly, that whensoever they demand the renewing of their Privileges, the Commonwealth may take occasion to demand a round sum of money in acknowledgement of the favour they receive.  
In a word, these two Companies are so well established, as to be upon all occasions a very great prop to the State; for they are a Nursery of Soldiers and Seamen, out of which in time of War the States may upon a sudden be provided with Ships, Arms, and some thousands of Men, and by which in time of Peace, many thousands got a very handsome livelihood.   

CHAP. XXII.  
What Judgement may be made of the lasting or decay of this Commonwealth.  
CArdinal Bentivoglio, who was for some time the Pope's Nuncio in the Low-Countries, has writ the History of their Wars, and in his Book has given me occasion of adding here this Chapter. For he has propounded the same Question, and after he has brought some Reasons, which seem to conclude in favour of the perpetuity of this Commonwealth, he does produce some others to show that a contrary opinion is more likely.  
'Tis certainly a great vanity to go about to dispute about future's; yet the Form and Government, and present felicity of a State, may give us leave to give a guess at its future happiness.  
And first, if we consider the cause of the founding of this State, we cannot think that it will ever be dissolved: For that was the recovering of lost Liberties, and the preservation of them when recovered; two things mightily prized by all mankind, but particularly by the Northern Nations of the world. Besides, not only by this the Liberties of all its Subjects are secured, but none of the neighbouring Nations can stand in fear of losing theirs, by the increase of this; so that it will be no bodies Interest to procure a change; for the people cannot be more easy than they are already: add to this the mutual aversion between the Spaniards and the Hollanders, that it is natural to fear, and not to trust those that we have offended.  
Besides, let any body cast back their eyes upon the first change, and they shall find it such as no body is offended at. 'Tis most certain, that when in Government men pass from one extremity to the other, there are many whom a desire of the first Government does solicit and possess; but here it was not so, for except the change that was made of the person of the King of Spain, for the State's General, there was no change made in the Laws, Constitutions, and Customs of these Provinces. Since therefore that the ancient Laws, and Magistrates, and all other Privileges do remain, it is easily agreed, that the change was scarce sensible to the Inhabitants. And upon this we may found this maxim, that Those States that have suffered least in their change, are like to last longest.  
The inequality of strength and riches in these Provinces, is one of the ties of their perpetuity, though ordinarily it be the cause of ruptures and fall out in these cases.  
If we consider the riches of these Provinces, and the industry of the Inhabitants to acquire them, we may certainly conclude that they will not be wanting to themselves in their Government; besides, without doubt as long as the Spaniards power shall give occasion of jealousy to Europe, England and France will never forsake the protection of Holland.  
If we consider also the example of some Commonwealths of our time, as of the Swissers, who do not only maintain themselves free from neighbouring Princes, by the natural situation of their Country, but are a terror to many of them. These are our reasons, but Cardinal Bentivoglio brings some against them as follows.  
Liberty begets licence, that begets inequality, inequality begets Monarchy; so the Romans having driven out Kings, gave themselves up to the enjoyment of their Liberty; after that, they fell out by the inequality of Charges and Honours, and at last fell under the domination of Emperors.  
To this is answered, that it is in vain that this example is alleged, because the change proceeded from the oversight in the constitution of the Roman Government, in which it was not provided against inequality; but it is not so with the Hollanders.  
As for what he says, that the Authority of the Governor General is too great, we do confess it; yet the Authority of the States is above it, for in him lies only persuasion, in them the power of commanding.  
If it be objected, that the charges of a War are here incredible and excessive, and that the Treasury must needs be exhausted. I shall answer, that our Enemies are not in a better condition, but there is this difference between us, that our Enemies grow Beggars, and we grow rich under this oppression.  
If it be further urged, that one Province, Holland, is much superior to the others in strength and riches, and so may usurp the domination over the rest. I shall answer, that in this inequality of power, all the Provinces are equal in Authority, and do not meddle with one another's affairs.  
As for the diversity and plurality of Religions, it is so far from being an apple of discord, that it is a tye of union and concord, every one being pleased with the liberty he has to enjoy the freedom of his conscience.   

CHAP. XXIII.  
An Abridgement of the State of the United Provinces, by Paul Merle.  
GErmany which is one of the noblest parts of Europe, is divided into two parts, high and low. It is not our design to say any thing of the higher Germany.  
The lower, called the Eye of the North, by reason of its excellency, is composed of seventeen Provinces. Those of them that lie upon the banks of the River Rhin towards the North, were used to be reckoned among the Lordships of the upper Germany; and the others upon the banks of the same River, towards the East, were anciently esteemed dependences of Gallia Belgica. Each of them have been governed till within these few years, by their particular Princes and Princesses.  
The Provinces of Brabant, Limbourg, Luxembourg, and Gueldres, were governed by Dukes. Flanders, Artois, Hainaut, Zeeland, Holland, Namur, and Zutphen, by Earls. Antwerp which bears the title of the Marquessship of the holy Empire, by a Marquis. Friezeland, Utrect, Overyssell, Malines, and Groeningue, by Bishops and particular Lords.  
The Emperor Charles the fifth was the first Sovereign of all these rich Provinces; to the possession of which he attained, by being Heir to the Branch of Burgundy, and the Houses of Spain and Austria.  
Philip his Son was his Successor in his time. The exorbitant punishments inflicted on those that professed Protestant Religion, with the intolerable severity of the Inquisition; the breach of the people's privileges, made them revolt, and endeavour to maintain by force, that which tyranny would extort from them. Their Enterprise has been blessed with success; for seven of these Provinces have cast off the yoke of obedience due unto him, and have made an Union and League together for their defence, whence they are called the United Provinces, and are Gueldres, Zutphen, Holland, Zeeland, Frieze, Utrect, Overyssell, and Groeningue.  
These are the Provinces, for whose service that incomparable Hero, Morice of Nassaw, Son to William Prince of Orange, has waged and managed a War against the most powerful Prince in Europe, with a success worthy his prudence and courage. He was so accomplished a Prince, that it is better to be silent, than to go about to praise one, whose merits can never be equalled with words; but they are written in the hearts of all the Nations he so highly obliged by his singular valour and conduct.  
The Provinces abovementioned having occasion to treat of their public concerns, send their Deputies to the Hague, some one, some two or more, according as their rank and privilege is. They are ordinarily chosen among the most sufficient, able, and pious men, and such as deserve to be admired for their experience. They are commonly called the State's General, and have the power of treating and concluding the most important affairs of the Commonwealth, as Peace, War, etc. In a word; their duty is to answer all the ends of Government, that they may preserve the Commonwealth flourishing, and safe. But I have undertaken to give a particular account of the Government of the Hollanders, and I think fit to give the Reader notice, that whatsoever is said of them, may be applied to the other Provinces, only things are done in Holland with a greater apparatus, and more solidity.  
Thyerry of Aquitain was the first Earl of Holland; thirty Earls or Countesses have succeeded him in this dignity, all upon condition to preserve the privileges and immunities of the people; which having been exactly observed by them all, were first violated by Philip the second, King of Spain, for which he was deposed, and from that time forward the Sovereign Power devolved to the States. The States are a public Assembly of the Nobles and the Deputies of Towns. The Brederodes have the first rank among the Nobles; the Wassenars were more ancient; the Egmont's the powerfullest; the Scages follow the Brederodes; then the Assendelf; the Douses; the Warmonts; the Podgeests; the Matenesses, and others. The Reader must forgive me if I am mistaken in this account.  
Three Nobles and no less are used to sit in the States of Holland. The Towns that send Deputies, never send fewer than two. There are six principal Towns who have this right; Dort, Harlem, Delf, Leyden, Amsterdam, Tergou. There are also some others, as in South-Holland, Rotterdam, Gorchum, Schiedam, Schoonhoove, the Brill; in North-Holland, Alcmaer, Horn, Enchuse.  
It is likewise practised to call the Nobles to ordinary Assemblies; but when there is an extraordinary Deputation for making of Peace or War, etc. then the other smaller Towns may likewise send their Deputies.  
The States of Holland meet ordinarily every quarter once, and sometimes between while, and that at the Hague, as the States of Gueldres at Nimmegue, or Zutphen. The Provincial Advocate presides in these Assemblies, and takes care that they be held with order, and things managed with prudence. He resides ordinarily at the Hague, and does no other Office but this; he is to show himself impartial and just even to the least Borough or Corporation; he must take care that nothing pass that is contrary to the Customs and Privileges of the Province. The first day of the Assembly he is to perform the Office of Speaker, and to break the matters to the Deputies, to ask their advices, and take their Votes, and declare for those that are the major part. He is also to keep a Register of all that is done, and to send a Copy of it to all the Nobles and Towns, within eight days after the rising of the Assembly.  
The States being solemnly assembled, and having all taken an Oath of fidelity and secrecy, do deliberate about the Propositions made by the Advocate, which are ordinarily reduced to heads. Their ordinary matters are Subsidies, Contributions, etc. Changes in State and Government, Peace, War, Leagues; of alienating, giving, and otherwise disposing of things belonging to the Province; of granting Privileges, Patents, and many other things, which for brevity I omit.  
As for the order observed in giving their Votes; the Nobles begin, than the Towns follow in the order they are set down above; every one says his opinion and reasons with leisure, and quietly, no body interrupting him, and that which the major part carries, is the Law.  
The States as it has been said, meet but once every three months; therefore because there may be extraordinary business, they choose certain Deputies, who sit always to deliberate of such matters as happen between the Meeting times, and which cannot be deferred. By the care of these all Land and Sea-affairs are governed, and all ministered. The Deputies are called Colleagues, and they that take care of the Sea-affairs, Counsellors of the Admiralty.  
They are six in the College of Deputies, and are most commonly chosen for one year, out of the Nobles and Citizens of Towns, and are bound by Oath to observe carefully, and without interest, all that shall be commanded them, to take neither bribe, present, nor pension from any person or persons. They are to confer Notes with the Governor of the Province, and to give him good and faithful counsel.  
They are also to take great care, that the Resolves and Orders of the last Assemblies be put in execution; to deliberate of all such things as are not left to the Governors' care; to call together the States upon such occasions as will admit of no delay.  
They are also to provide, that the Towns and Villages of the Province do live in peace and union one with another; and that there be no violation of the States Orders, either by force or fraud; to solicit punishment against riotous Soldiers and Officers that commit Exactions and Extortions.  
They are also to keep a Register of the Arms that are in the Magazines; that the ordinary proportion of Ammunition be delivered to the Garrisons; that from time to time there be made Fortresses and Forts in Holland, and those kept in repair. It is not to be forgotten, that it is to them at last that comes all Exchequer Suits about the public revenue and receipt of Customs, etc.  
In the absence of the Governor General they determine all Causes concerning Prisoners of War, touching Plunder and Booty, etc.  
Here follows the method they use in all their affairs.  
1. They do the business that concerns the whole Province.  
2. Those affairs that regard Towns and Corporations.  
Last of all, They decide the Controversies between private persons.  
The Counsellors of the Admiralty who are six in number, aught to be very careful, and to act conjointly with the Admiral, the States, and their Deputies, to have always a convenient Fleet ready, to secure the Sea from Pirates, and that all Merchants and Passengers passing to and fro upon Rivers and Channels, be duly provided of Passports. They are also to find out the ablest Pilots and stoutest Captains, and when they have sworn them, give them their Orders. They are sovereign Judges of all abuses and frauds committed in falsifying and counterfeiting Passports; as also of all quarrels and suits between Seamen and Soldiers aboard the Ships. In a word; they have all the power that Admirals do enjoy in England, France, or any other Country.  
I have not time to show here by what Agents and Officers the States do administer justice to their Subjects; keep accounts of their treasure; give Livings and Fees to be held from them; and many other things, which would require a greater Volume.  
It remains to satisfy some Politicians curiosity, who would know it may be, whether our State be Monarchy, Aristocracy, or Democracie; or of which of these it participates most. To which I answer, that I think the Government of Holland to be a fit mixture of them all.  
In the person of the Governor General, who commands the Armies both at Land and Sea with an absolute Authority, is seen Monarchy; the States represent Aristocracy; and Democracie is seen in the Government of the Cities and Towns, for nothing is done without the consent of the meanest Inhabitant.   

CHAP. XXIV.  
The Proclamation of the States of Holland and West-Frieze, touching the ancient Right of the Commonwealth of Holland.  
THe Knights, Nobles, and Towns of Holland and West-Frieze, representing the States of the said Provinces, after a mature deliberation and communication of the business with the Nobles and Senates of Towns, and carefully weighed their advice and answer, have in discharge of their Oath and duties, thought fit to publish and make known to all the world by a public Edict, the State of Government of the said Provinces, being persuaded, that all Readers will be inclined to pity and favour the deplorable estate of our Country.  
It is most certain for that in past ages, for the time of 800. years, the Sovereign Administration of the Provinces of Holland, West-Frieze, or Zeeland, was committed to the care of Earls or Countesses, who had received this power from the States, and that upon certain Conditions.  
These Earls did govern with so much moderation and prudence, that they did never undertake either to declare War, or make Peace, or lay Imposts or Taxes, without ask the advice and consent of the Nobles, and of the Magistrates of Towns, though they had their own Privy Councillors, men of great capacity and abilities; but they did much yield to the Authority of the States, for any business that concerned these Nations.  
This Government thus founded upon equity and justice, could not choose but attract the blessings of Heaven upon its Lords; and indeed it did, for no Princes ever performed more glorious actions, or received more demonstrations of honour from their Neighbours, than they. William the second, Earl of Holland, was chosen Emperor in the year 1247. And that which is yet an addition of glory for these Princes, is, that they have maintained many bloody Wars, obtained many famous victories, and always so defended the very borders of their States, that their enemies have not been able to get any ground upon them.  
We may also protest with truth, that in the space of 800. years, Holland and Zeeland were never conquered nor subjected by any Strangers whatsoever; neither did they pass under the power of any Foreign Prince, which is an advantage that we believe no State in Europe, except it be the Republic of Venice, can brag of.  
We do ingeniously confess, that the firm Constitution of this our Government, does consist in the union and good intelligence which is between the States and the Prince; for the power of these Earls was very inconsiderable without the help of the States, they having nothing but their own Demean or Revenue to live upon, and uphold the splendour of their Court. We have also observed, by what means and Authority they have often made their Courts remember that duty, which some evil counsellors had persuaded them to forget, and that not only by Remonstrances and Petitions, but often by chastizing and personally punishing those, who wickedly abusing the Prince's Authority, did lead them so much out of the way of justice and moderation.  
We find likewise in our Histories, that the States have chosen Guardians for their Princes under age; and that William the Fifth being run mad, they created a Lieutenant-Governour in his room. In a word; 'tis a thing questioned by no body, that the Sovereign power was always in the States, whensoever their Princes came to die, or were otherwise disabled from performing the Functions of their Charge; and in those Cases they did appoint a Governor, whom they called Guardian, or (Ruwarde.)  
Under the Domination of the Dukes of Burgundy this Right was also maintained; for a little after the death of Charles their Duke, and his Daughter the Duchess Mary, Maximilian of Austria having undertaken to introduce some novelties, and oppress the Authority of the States, was so opposed, that had he continued he had without doubt undone himself.  
The Emperor Charles being yet minor received Guardians, and the Provinces received Governors from the said States; and though their liberties had suffered some diminution under the Dukes of Burgundy, yet did the said Emperor always respect and honour them, as being persuaded that without their assistance his power could not stand. Upon this Subject he gave many grave admonitions to his Son, wishing him to govern with all moderation; and not by any means to exasperate that power, whose consent he must have to enjoy his Prerogative.  
And indeed he now knows to his own and these Provinces great cost, the truth of what his Father did foretell; for there can be no other cause alleged of the troubles and revolutions of the Low-countrieses, than his going about to infringe their Privileges, and fasten the yoke of servitude about their necks. Though these things be as clear as day, yet we have thought it necessary to publish them to the world; because that many being yet in suspense and ill-informed, do think that the States are only a tumultuous Assembly of some Deputies, who being men concerned in the quarrel, do carry on things more according to their own ends, than to the public good. But they that will open their eyes, and consider the noble actions performed in Holland and Zeeland within these fifteen years, will easily see that they cannot be the effect of some few persons passion, but they must necessarily be seconded by the unanimous consent of whole Nations.  
Therefore that none may any longer have the least pretext for their doubts, we will give such evidences of our power, as shall show whence it is derived.  
The Princes that heretofore governed, were not only possessed at first of this honour, by the consent and agreement of the States, but have also been continued in this their dignity, by the same, means that all those bodies of which they were made heads, did remain in the same entire state of liberty; a thing which it may be we should not now be able to brag of, had not the States always had a vigilant eye upon the actions of ambitious Princes, and the malice of ill Counsellors, and applied present remedies upon all occasions, and so stopped up the way to tyranny, as to make it not worth their while to endeavour it.  
These States are divided into two bodies; the Nobility, and the Towns.  
The Nobility, by reason of their ancient extraction, their rich possessions, and their gallant actions, do justly compose the first body, and meet with the Deputies of Towns in public Assemblies, to provide for the Commonwealth.  
The Towns have almost all the same Government.  
The College of Senators of the Towns is chosen from among the Patricians, who in some places are forty, in others thirty four, twenty, more or less. Being once raised to this honour, they enjoy it as long as they live, or as long as they have Jus Civita●is: when they die or remove to other places, others are chosen in their place by the common consent of the Citizens.  
These Colleges alone have the power of deliberating and determining the affairs of the Towns, and that which is resolved upon in these Assemblies, is by the people received and obeyed.  
In this College are every year chosen the Magistrates, viz. four Bourgemasters, three, two, or seven Aldermen, (for so 'tis they call the Judges) to administer justice for one year. In some Provinces these Magistrates are chosen absolutely; and in others there is a double number chosen, and out of them the Governor chooses those that are to be Judges.  
The Bourgemasters duty is to take care to make good orders be kept throughout the City in all things, and to provide that the public be no ways dammaged. The Aldermen determine Causes, and punish Crimes. The Colleges have the superintendance over all these in Holland, Zeeland, and West-Frieze; insomuch that the Princes of these Provinces had not reserved to themselves any other power, than to create one to preside in these Assemblies. This is the true state of these Country's; whence may be inferred, that the Magistrates, the Senates, and the Nobility joined together, do represent the whole body of these Nations, and that their government is so equally tempered, as to subsist as long as it has done, and with as much if not more felicity.  
When public affairs require that these Colleges of the Nobility and Towns should meet, they are advertised of it by their Deputies, who do call them together by express Writs sent to them, in which the heads of the matters to be deliberated upon, are inserted. These having been discussed and weighed in the Assembly, Deputies are sent to the State's General, with power to consult and determine such things, as shall be found necessary for the good of all the Provinces.  
The Nobility is present in a competent number. The Towns send one Bourgemaster, with some Senators. Their duty in general is to treat and decide, concerning all that has any relation to the welfare of the State; and particularly they are bound to provide for the maintaining of the Immunities and Privileges.  
These assembled are called the States; not that they are, but because they represent a nobler and more powerful Assembly which sent them thither. Neither is it to be imagined, that one can easily by favour and faction attain to this degree of honour; for besides that naturally the common people are averse: for those that seem to desire the choice of such a one, is void of its self. Besides, who would be so mad in the age we live in, as to purchase ambitiously an employment, which carries with it nothing but cares and afflictions; and which, by the malice of those who study to defame and black the most unspotted reputation, is a place of danger, rather than a degree of elevation? Certainly they that are well acquainted with our Commonwealth, will witness how many artifices, nay what threats and constraints we are fain to use, to get the Deputies to accept of their charges.  
When these Assemblies are dissolved, the Deputies are bound to give an account of the Resolutions to those that sent them.  
This is that foundation upon the which our Commonwealth was first built, and has stood for this 700. years, as it appears by our Histories. 'Tis by this union that we have maintained a War for these many years, without the loss of any of our members; and that since our League, no Towns have revolted, nor none of our Armies divided into parties: for which no better reason can be given, than that we have proceeded in all things justly, according to the Constitution of our Government.  
For this reason that every one might share in the Government, we have granted to many small Towns, who formerly did not use to be called to the general Assemblies, the privilege of sending their Deputies, and taking part in the administration of all affairs, that so they may the more willingly support the paying of Taxes, which they themselves shall have thought fit to impose.  
Upon the same score the Nobility has the liberty of assisting at these public Assemblies, in such numbers as they please. Provided still they be of the body of the great Assembly, except those that are privileged.  
If any body can prove that any of the Nobles or Deputies of Towns has gone beyond his Commission, or has come short of it, or any ways failed in the trust put in him, he shall be bound to come in the presence of those that did depute him, and justify himself; and in case he refuse, he shall be punished according to the rigour of the Law; and we shall think ourselves obliged to those that shall accuse him, and bound to thank them, as true and faithful lovers of their Country.  
But as for those that do cast aspersions, and forge calumnies against the States, it is fit they should know that they are much mistaken, if they think to deal with the Nobility and Deputies of Towns, as with private men. For though they may be led away, and induced to deride their actions and resolutions, innocently, and only to make sport; yet do we here declare, that those we shall find doing so maliciously, and with a design of subverting our State, by vilifying the Governors thereof, we shall hold as enemies, and punish accordingly.  
Therefore be it known to all, that we that do here declare that the Sovereign power is in the States, do not mean that it is in the Deputies, but in those that sent them, whom they represent by virtue of their Commission.  
This is a truth which many Princes, and particularly her most Serene Majesty the Queen of England, as also his Excellency the Prince of Orange, when he was sworn Governor, did both acknowledge. Neither do we think that any body can dispute so constant a verity; for else it would follow, that the States have not, now they are free, so much power as they had before: and not only the contracts made with the English, and the creation of the Governor General, would be invalid, but all that the States have so nobly performed, since these fifteen years, would be unjust, which no body but our greatest enemies will, or dare say.  
From what has been said, it appears how great a necessity there is of keeping inviolable the Authority of the said States, as the foundation of all the safety of our Commonwealth, and of letting every body know, that the Sovereign power is no less in them now than it was under their former Princes. Decreed at the Hague, and ordered to be published by the common consent of the States. Made at Har●●m● the sixteenth of October, in the year 1587.    

THE THIRD BOOK Containing the DELIGHTS OF HOLLAND.  

CHAP. I.  
Of the Original of Holland.  
SOme Writers say, that the word Holland is derived from the G●rman word Holtlandt, which is as much as to say, a Country of Wood; and they found this their conjecture upon the names of many Villages, which have been named from their Woods. Our Annals likewise do say, that formerly this Province was full of Forests, and the Seaside all bordered with Trees.  
There was not above a hundred years ago a large Forest in the Island of Texel, (which does as it were make up the tail of the Lion, which the seventeen Provinces put together do represent.) And to this day there are bodies and stumps of Trees, which do often hurt Ships, and entangle their Cables about their roots, which in a storm is often the cause of the loss of divers Ships; for that reason the Fishermen never cast their Nets there, for fear of tearing them.  
Some others say, and that probably enough, that the word Holland does denote the property of the Earth, which in most places seems hollow, and quakes as if it swum upon the top of the Water. To this purpose Guicciardin tells a Story of a Cow, That passing in a Meadow half a mile from Harlem, fell into a Ditch, and was drowned, and ●●re● days after was found in a Lake hard by the Town, on the East-side of it, which had no communication with the Ditch.  
The third opinion, and that which is most likely to be true, is, that these Provinces having been conquered by the Normans, they gave them the name of the Provinces they came out of. And in effect, not only whole Provinces, but many Towns and Villages have the same names here, and in Denemark, as Zeeland, Oland, besides the Kingdom of Norway; the Towns, as Schagen, Bergen, Valkenburg, and many others, which it is needless to set down.  
In all antiquity it is observable, that when ever a Nation did enlarge by Conquests or Colonies, the same custom was put in use. So the French having entered Gallia drive out the Romans, and called the Country France. The Spaniards do the same in the West-Indies. And to go no further, the Dutch themselves have given the name of Batavia to that great Town in the Indies, which they have made the seat of their Trade and Empire in those parts.  
These Northern Nations, not content with their having deluge-like overrun these Country's, passed into Neustria, and called it Normandy; and to this day the people of that Province have an accent much resembling that of the Danes in their tongue, which is not a small conjecture that they are come originally out of the North. Our Authors do not agree about the time that these Nations did invade Holland, and whether they were again driven out by the French or no.   

CHAP. II.  
Of the length and breadth of Holland; the number of its Towns and Villages.  
UNder the name of the Low Country's are comprehended the seventeen Provinces, and before these troubles Flanders was esteemed the best of them; but now Holland may more justly claim that title, as being the richest Country in the world for its bigness.  
Holland is encompassed almost on three sides by the Ocean, viz. on the West, the East, and the North; it has Brabant, the River Meuse, and Utrect, to the South. It may be said of this Province as an Ancient said of France, that there is no desert, solitude, nor empty place in it; for there has been such an affluence and concourse of people by reason of the Wars, that it is almost too little to hold them. The Circuit of Holland is only a hundred and fourscore miles, and in this compass are comprehended great Lakes, and a part of the South Sea. Its length is taken from the Island Schelling, in the North, to the River Scheld, and Zeeland in the South. The breadth is not above twenty four miles, if we take it in a strait line in the middle, from Catwyck by the Seaside, to Woerden, a small Town upon the Frontiers of Utrect.  
The chief and principal Towns are six in number; Dort, Harlem, Delft, Leyden, Amsterdam, Goude. The others that are less Towns, but who do send their Deputies to the State's General, are these; Rotterdam, Gorcum, Schiedam, Schoonhove, Briel, Alcmaer, Horn, Enchuyse, Edam, Monnicken-dam, Medenblick, and Purmerend. The other Towns are not admitted to the same privileges, either because they are built upon the conquered Country of Brabant, as Gertrudenbergh, Heusden, Workum; or because they have particular Lords, that will not have them belong to the States, as Vianen is owned by the Brederodes, and Yselsteyn is claimed by the States of Utrect; or else because they are poor, and cannot bear the charges of Deputies, as Woerde, Audewater, Heukelom, Asperen, Leerdam, Naerden, W●sop, and Muyden, of which mention shall be made hereafter.  
The principal Burroughs which have the privileges of Towns, though they be not walled, are, the Hague, Vlaerding, Grav●sant, Delfs-haven, Beverwyck, Schagen, Nieuport.  
There are in Holland above two hundred Villages, which if you consider for their building, trade, and riches, they may take place of many Towns in other Country's; but the fairest of them are Nortwic, Reensburg, Worbury, Maeslant-s●●ys, Egmond, Ryswyck, Geeruliet, etc.  
Vlaerding Re●nsburg, and Bev●●wyck were in former ages reckoned amongst the strongest and fairest Towns of this Province; as also Geeruliet. But Holland is much changed since its troubles, and many Towns are risen by trade and their situation, which before were very inconsiderable. I have heard old Women say, how they could remember that Lootwyck was as big again as it is now, and that it has been by little and little eaten away by the Ocean, it's too powerful Neighbour.  
In the year 1574. at Schevelinge, near the Hague, the Sea broke in, and carried away 121. Houses, as any body may see it recorded upon a Picture in the Church. In a word, the ruin of the neighbouring Provinces, and the great a version of the people to slavery, has made them all resort to this, and there produce that plenty and abundance of all things, which commonly follows great numbers of people, particularly being so situated, as to take the advantage of three great Rivers, and the Sea.   

CHAP. III.  
Of the division of Holland, and the nature of the Soyl.  
HOlland is divided into the South or Meridional part, which reaches from Zeeland, Brabant, and Utrect, to the Dike at Sparendam, and that is above half Holland; and into North-Holland, or West-Frieze, which reaches from Amsterdam to the North Sea: and the people though penned up as it were in so small a compass, does nevertheless differ very much in manners, customs, and clothes, in these parts.  
The Kennemaers, which the Annals speak so much of, did live between Harlem, Alcmaer, Beverwy●k, and Purmerend. There is a little Mountain between these Towns, which carries the name of St. Albert, and there the Earls were installed Lords of the Kennemaers; and near that place they kept their Courts, as well because of the beauty of the Country, as for the convenience of many fair Castles that are built there, such as Cleves, Brederode, Velsen, Egmond.  
Waterland is so called, because of the abundance of waters, on the top of which it seems to swim. There are in it but three little Towns, viz. Edam, Monnicken-dam, and Purmerend.  
That part of Holland which is nearest the North, has a soft moorish Soil, not at all fit to be tilled. From the Downs to the Frontier of Brabant, 'tis nothing but Meadows, which towards the end of October begin to be covered with water, and which increases by continual rains and storms, and that lasts all Winter, insomuch that in most places you see nothing but some Steeples and Houses, which look as if they came out of the Sea; all these fine Meadows being then covered with Boats, and the Dikes with Passengers. This Water does mightily fatten the ground; and in the beginning of February, (provided the Frosts do not hinder it) begins to be emptied, by the admirable invention of those Windmills, which drive away these deluges of Water, and confine them to certain Channels. The Earth being dry begins about March to look green, and then the cattle come out to grazing.  
Now it is to be observed, that the favourable Wind for Holland is the Southeast, and the worst is the North-West.  
To prevent the dangerous effects of so much Water, this Country is full of Banks, raised by the industry of the Inhabitants, and which have cost vast sums of money to make, as they do still to maintain and keep in repair. The chief is the bank of the River Issel, that of the Meuse, of Sparendam, and of Medenblick. The care of them belongs to the Dyckgraves of each Hundred, and to the Heemrades, who are Gentlemen of the Country.  
In the year 1638. the Dike of Issel broke by the thawing of the River; for the Rhine carrying huge mountains of Ice, they eat into it, and made 〈◊〉 breach of many foot, not far from Utrect; whereupon almost all Holland was overflown with clear water, which did little hurt: the breach was soon made up, and the water drained by the help of the Windmills.  
The Earth produces all sorts of Fruits and good Corn about R●●nsbourg and Nortwyck, as also near Vooerschote and Warmont, but not enough for the vast multitudes of people that swarm in this Country, therefore the great supply is from Poland and Moscovy. There grows besides here Hemp and Flax, for fine Linen, and Sails, etc.  
There are incomparably more Meadows than arable grounds, which feed a world of Cattle; particularly a large sort of Cows, which give great store of Milk, of which is made excellent Butter, and rare Cheeses, which are sent all the world over. In some places there are Cows that yield three great Pales full of Milk a day.  
Every Spring there comes great store of ●ean Cows and Oxen from Dannemark, Jutland, and H●lstein, which are within three week's time fa●●ed upon these excellent pastures. In some places they ●owe the Grass twice a year; and the Hay is much better than in any other place; it is for that reason, that the Horses and Cows are bigger and taller than in any other place.  
The Earth of which the Turss are made is called Veens, which being cut out of the Ditches, and exposed to the Sunbeams, grows hard, and then being kept some time in a Barn or Garret, grows dry, and fit for fuel. The best are those that come from Friezeland, and they use them in Brewing and Baking. They have all much sulphur in them, and being mingled with Wood, make an excellent fire.  
The mountains of Sand called Downs, serve as a bar to the fury of the Ocean; and though they seem barren, yet have they an advantage, which is, that they are full of Rabbits, which are both a pleasant diversion, and a good provision for Passengers.  
The Seaside from the Meuse to the Texel is about a hundred miles in length; and there is so plain and smooth a way between the Mountains and the Sea, that it is a great pleasure to travel in it either afoot or on Horseback. When the Sea is calm, you may see the Ships under sail; and if there be a storm, it is with a kind of terrible delight, that you may perceive the threatening Sea come, and spend all its fury upon this even shore.  
There are some pleasant Forests standing yet, as that of the Hague and Harlem. There is likewise a Wood at Sevenhuyse, a fine Village five leagues from Leyden, where the Scholars go twice a year to take the sport of shaking the Trees, and making a great sort of Bird that builds in them fall at their feet.  
It is most certain that this Province was anciently full of Trees, which (according to the opinion of some Authors) were destroyed by that horrible storm, which happened in the year 860. and which shut up the mouth of the River Rhine near Lat●i●, made it take another course, and mingle with the Meuse, after a great devastation of Woods, Lands, and Houses. In proof whereof you see that the Channel that comes from U●rect, and passes through Leyden, retains yet the name of the Rhine. The Country people in digging do find to this day in the Veens, and other places, great bodies and branches of Trees, particularly towards the South. Nay they have found Nuts entire and well preserved in the bottom of the Water, though there has been no Trees to bear them since this hundred years.  
And indeed it is no wonder that a Country formerly overrun with Wood, should now be so empty of it, since we know that Germany which is now so full of Towns and Cities, was anciently one great Forest almost.  
The Air is pretty well tempered in Holland, though cold do a little predominate, there being continual winds and frequent rains; but the inconstancy of the Climate is such, that the seasons seem to be in a perpetual confusion. It reins ordinarily in the Dog-days; and sometimes in July it is as cold as in December. Likewise in Winter it is sometimes so warm and mild weather, that one can hardly endure a fire: but as the heat is never violent, so the cold is seldom lasting, according to the Proverb that says, that rigorous Masters do not govern long; yet is there no such general Rule but admits of an exception; for there has been long and hot Summers, and violent cold lasting Winters: the Annals speak of some, as of the year 1149.  
When the Channels are frozen, they slide upon them with a certain sort of Shoes called Skates, which have a long, shining, narrow, crooked Iron, that stands out before. They that are perfect in this exercise turn their Feet inwards, that the Iron may take the more hold of the Ice, upon which they fly like Birds in the air with that swiftness, that one can hardly follow them with the eye. The Women too use this as a diversion, and many do very pretty tricks upon the Ice; but most are content with a strait course, as much as needs to get heat and ground. Every Sunday after Sermon all the people of the Towns come out upon the Ice, some to slide and others to look on. I knew a young Clown of ten year old, who did brag that he had gone eighteen miles or six leagues in an hour upon his Skates. The same laid a Wager with a Peasant his neighbour, that he would sooner slide three leagues, than the other should ride one and a half with the best Horse he should get. It is ordinary for these sort of people to go from Leyden to Amsterdam in an hour and a quarter, if the Ice be even, and yet that is near eighteen miles.  
There are besides things called Traisneaur, like our Sledges, that are of two sorts, some that are drawn by Horses, and others that a man drives before him as he slides upon the Ice. There are also Boats, that having a great Iron under them, sail along, and go sometimes fifteen leagues an hour; but that is seldom practised, because there is danger in it, and because that often the Ice is not even.  
When it has snowed and frozen together, they use great Sledges to go across the Meadows, and not follow the ordinary way. Some wonder to see the Country people carry great Poles upon their Shoulders; but the reason of it is, that if the Ice should break, they might by the favour of their Poles, (both ends of which would lie upon the two extremities of the cracked Ice) get out again. The temerity of the Hollanders deserves to be blamed; for many will venture upon one night's Ice, and thence happen many sad accidents.  
Holland is so flat and even a Country, that you see not a Mountain nor a Hill, except those Sand-hills that keep out the Sea. It is almost all Meadows, cut into a thousand Channels, which in Summer by their delicate green, and their variety of Flowers, are a pleasant object to look on. 'Tis true, that in some places the Earth produces Corn, Beans, Pease, and all sorts of grains; the Mountains of Sand are full of Rabbits; the Waters of excellent Fishes; and the Air supplies them with Fowl from the Northern parts, viz. with Woodcocks, Snipes, Hernes, etc. insomuch that Holland may be called very justly, the Marrow of the Low Countries, as well for its fertility, as for the delights and pleasures that may be enjoyed in it. It seems a terrestrial Paradise for its Meadows and pleasant Fields, the Channels and Rivers so ingeniously contrived for Trade, and the noble magnificence of its Buildings. We must needs confess that there are very few plow'd grounds, considering the vast numbers of people that must be fed; and yet there are no where greater Storehouses, nor better furnished than here: nay Holland may with reason be called the Storehouse of Europe, considering the vast transportation of all sorts of grains that are made from hence into Italy, Spain, England, France, and Brabant, when their own Corn has failed them by any accident of War or Famine.  
That great Man Scaliger speaking of the Wonders of this Province, says, that here grows no Vines, and yet here is more Wine than in any one place in Europe. In effect, the Wines of the Rhine, the Mosella, and the Mouse, come to Dort, and from thence into all the other places of these Country's. The Wines of France, Spain, and Greece, come to Amsterdam and Rotterdam.  
There grows very little Wood, and yet there are no where to be found more Carpenters and Joiner's than here. And it may be there is not in the rest of Christendom, so many Ships and Boats as in this one Province: there is scarce a Peasant but has his Boat to bring his Commodities to the Towns. To be short; says he, we live amongst the waters, and yet we drink not of them. There are no Flocks of Sheep, and very little Flax; and yet where is made more Cloth and Linen than here? I add, that there are no Mines in Holland, and yet all sorts of Metals are more abundant here than in any part of the world, as it appears by the rich Furnitures and Ornaments of the Houses of our Citizens, whose Wives delight in that more than in any thing else.  
Strangers cannot easily conceive these wonders, or at least they alone amongst them that understand the secret of Trade, and what vast advantages the Hollanders have reaped from that War, which they so long and so generously maintained against Spain, and which at last ending in an honourable peace, has left them Masters of the Trade of the world, fetching by their Ships from the remotest parts of it all that's good and precious, and to be had for money.   

CHAP. IU.  
Of the Manners and Dispositions of the Inhabitants.  
THe old Hollanders were formerly despised by their Neighbours, for the grossness of their temper, and the simplicity of their life. They were used to be called Blockheads, and eaters of Cheese and Milk: but as they formerly had the reputation of silly, so now they are esteemed as subtle and understanding a Nation as any is in Europe; as may be well evidenced from their Treaties and Alliances made with Strangers. This I think proceeds from that Commerce they drive through all the world, and from the mixture made amongst them by divers Strangers that have settled in these parts; for above half those that do inhabit the Towns are either Strangers, or descended from them.  
They all love their Liberties, even those that have made but a few years stay in the Province, as if the genius of it had a secret power over men's inclinations. It is not lawful to beat nor strike any body. Servants have as great privileges as their Masters, who dare not abuse them with blows. And if any body chance to be so far transported by their passion, as to 〈…〉 t their Man or Maidservant, and 〈◊〉 come to the hearing of the Magistrate, they are fined for it, and often forced to pay them their whole year of wages, though not due, and so turn them away.  
There are no Slaves in Holland, but any man in that condition is free as soon as he sets his foot on that ground. The Hollanders are very constant in their resolutions, and seldom desist till they have obtained their end.  
They are not so much upon the punctilio of honour, as the other Nations, but are rather given to Trade and getting, and they seem as if they had sucked in with their milk the insatiable desire of acquiring. They never complain of the pains they take, and go as merrily to the Indies, as if they went to their Country Houses. They are of a strong Constitution, tall proper men, and very capable of whatsoever they undertake.  
Those amongst them that prefer the study of Liberal Arts to the desire of growing rich, do succeed as prosperously; for without doubt or flattery, Holland has produced as many learned and ingenious persons as any Province in Europe. Others follow the Art of Painting, and transport themselves into Italy, where are the best Masters of the world; and by these means good Pictures are very common here, there being scarce an ordinary Tradesman, whose House is not adorned with them. If there be any body that has any new invention or discovery, he shall be sure to find money for it here, if it will yield any.  
Above all things the Hollander, hate all Quarrels and Duels; as likewise they abhor all treacherous actions, blasphemy, swearing, etc. They are no ways bloody-minded, but much more inclined to compassion than their Neighbours.  
I pass to their way of living. And first of their Winter-Provision.  
In the beginning of Autumn when the Turfs are dry, they lay in their provision of them. Towards November they buy an Ox, or half a one, according as their Family is, that they salt and smoke for Summer, eating it with Butter or Salad. Every Sunday they take out a great piece out of their salting-Tub, upon which they dine: this piece comes every day after upon the Table all the week long, with some other Dish of boiled Meat, or Milk. They do not love Pottage so much as the French; neither do they much esteem Leek, or Garlic, or Onion. They are not nice in their Diet, and none amongst them, but the very rich, do eat after the French fashion.  
They have that common custom of all Northern Nations, which is, that they delight much in drinking and feasting with their friends; if any chance to be quarrelsome in his drink, he is presently driven out of the Company. Here we must not omit a certain custom, which has for drift, peace, amity, and concord: All the Towns are divided into divers Quarters, called Neighbourhoods; every one of these has a Master, and he has his Counsellors; if there happen any quarrel, the parties appear before him, who endeavours to agree them; if he cannot, than they may go twice a week before the Commissioners for hearing of quarrels, and keeping peace amongst Neighbours; if they cannot bring them to take or give satisfaction, than they may go to Law.  
The Treasurer of each Neighbourhood receives the Fines, which are these following: If any one has not waited upon a dead body of the Neighbourhood going to be buried, he is fined three halfpences. The Heirs or Kindred of the dead person are bound to make a Present, according to their quality, though there be no set Tax. For a Child they give not so much as for a person of age. The gift that is made for a married person, is called in the language of the Country a fat Dish. When a Citizen purchases a House, he is bound to a Present proportionable to the value of his House.  
When there is a pretty round sum of money got together by six or seven years gathering, the Master and his Counsellors meet at the desire of the Neighbours, and appoint a day for a Treat, which lasts ordinarily three or four. 'Tis most commonly in Autumn, and there every one comes with his Wife, but without either Children or Dogs, under pain of being fined. Before they sit down, the Laws of the Feast are publicly read; amongst which the chiefest are, that you must not blaspheme, nor start any discourse about Religion, for fear of falling out. Then the Master sits down with his Wife, and the Counsellors next to him of each side; the others draw lots for their places. If any one press another to drink more than he is able, he pays a Fine; if he strike, he is banished the company, and not admitted the next day without ask pardon. At eight of the Clock every one goes out, and waits upon the Master to his Lodging, where they begin to drink afresh, till wine and sleep part them, and bring them to their own homes. All the time is passed merrily, and without Ceremony, as if they were all equal. The four days being ended, they sum up what they have spent; and if the public purse cannot pay the charges, they supply it by an equal contribution. I have recited this custom at large, that from it may be deduced some knowledge of their humour. They are very patient, and not so hasty as other Nations, and have a Proverb amongst them, which says, that Rich people do not use to fight. They ha●e going to Law; and as for affronts and injurious words they are made amends for, by the recantation and confession of him that is in the wrong; then they shake hands, and are made friends.  
The married Women and Maids are very fair and chaste. They have a great care of their House, and keep all their Cupboards, Cabinets, even the Floors, extreme neat: some of them are so curious, as not to let you come into their rubbed Rooms, without putting on a pair of Slippers, or making your own Shoes very clean. The Women do enjoy as much liberty as their Husbands; and it is an unpardonable fault to beat them. I have often heard them say, that if a Husband does beat his Wife, he is bound to give his Neighbours a Gammon of Bacon; and if she beat him, she is bound to give two. Every day they rub and wash the lower Floors, and straw them with fine Sand, and make them so neat, that Strangers often make a scruple of spitting in them. If the Citizen's Wives are thus neat, the Country people are no ways inferior to them in that point; for they keep all even to their Stables very clean. The Householdstuff of the better sort is very rich, of gold and silver, and carved work; good Hangings; excellent Pictures; rare Cabinets, filled with China, etc.  
I have observed one thing of the Hollanders by living long amongst them, which is, that they do not easily give credit to such as tell strange Stories and wonderful accidents, happened a great way off; and when, by their silence and postures, they seem to admire it, 'tis then that they believe least of all what you say, but they do not take pleasure in contradicting. They are not given to swearing, nor robbing; but are tenderhearted, and inclined to pity, and will not willingly see any body wronged in their presence.  
They are a little too indulgent to their Children, and are punished for it; for many of them rebel against their Parents, and at last go away to the Indies, the ordinary vent of these Provinces. When any body tells them of their fondness to their Children, they presently say, Does any body spoil their own Face, or cut off their own Nose?  
They are very laborious and industrious, and in the name of liberty and profit undertake any thing. They love familiarity, and are much taken with people that being of great quality do not refuse to eat and drink with them. Prince William the first, Prince of Orange, won their hearts with that popular way, and did the King of Spain more mischief by it, than if he had been at the head of an Army against him. They despise and undervalue proud people; and to please them, you must conform to their humour. They are very free, and open apparently, but are indeed always upon their guard. They hate cheats, and are seldom deceived twice.  
Those amongst them that are descended from Strangers, do retain something of their first origine, and are a good while before they become right Hollanders.  
We have spoke already of their Diet; but this is only to be added, that Trade having brought riches, sumptuosity has followed: so that the Hague may be called a compendium of the most glorious Courts in Christendom, and Amsterdam the magazine of all that's precious in Europe.   

CHAP. V.  
Of the Trade of the Hollanders; and the ways of getting a Livelihood.  
IT is an ordinary saying in Holland, that He that will work can never want, and it is a very true one; for there are so many Trades kept going by their great commerce, that no body can want work. All Arts are here exercised; and experience shows, that Manufactures are better made here than in the other Provinces. All turns to account here; and even they that make clean the Kennals with an Iron, and Nets at the end of it to bring up the ordure, may earn half a Crown a day, if they will work hard. Children, as so on as they are bound Apprentice, get their own bread. Amongst the Country people, some make Butter and Cheese; others cut up Turfs; every Market-day they bring their Milk, and Butter, and Whey to Town, which the Tradesmen and Journeymen live most upon.  
Among the Citizens, some put out their Money, and live upon the interest; others trade with it, and are called Merchants. Their chief Commodities are Butter, and Cheese, and Cloth, and many other Manufactures, as we shall see in the Description of Leyden.  
The situation of this noble Province is such, as if Nature intended it for the general Mart of Europe; for it has the neighbourhood of the Sea, and is itself full of navigable Lakes, Rivers, Channels, all which are night and day loaded with Boats and Passengers. Many Channels have been made since the publication of the peace with Spain, as that from Leyden to Harlem, and from Amsterdam to Goude, which is called (Trech-Sch●ite●) because there the Boats are drawn by Horses, that so they may come in at set-times. The said Channels are made with the greatest ease that can be; for as soon as you have digged three or four foot, you meet with the water.  
The Herring-Fishing is properly the golden Mines of this Country, by the great revenue it brings yearly to it. It is a hard matter to say how many thousands of men are kept by it; for besides those that go to Sea, who are a great number, there are employed as many more in making of Boats and Barrels to pickle them up in.  
Every Summer in June there sets out a Fleet of Fishermen from the Meuse; they call them Busses. They cast their Nets near the English Coast upon Midsummer-Eve, according to the ancient custom; they pickle them up in Barrels, and serve all the rest of the world with them: the last Fishing is most valued, and the Herrings of that Fishing are all carried abroad. Ten days after Midsummer they may sell them publicly, but not before; then many go up and down, crying, Fresh Herring, which are esteemed as a dainty by every body. The name of the man that first invented the way of pickleing them, deserves to be known; it was William Bueckeld, and he died at Bieverliet, in the year 1347. Charles the fifth Emperor went one day to see his Tomb, in acknowledgement of the service he had done his Country.  
The Merchants do every day increase their Trade by making Societies and Companies, and setting out men of War at their own charges to protect their Ships home. They never want Seamen, for the Hollanders do delight in going to Sea; nay I have heard many of them say, that they could never enjoy their health but at Sea. There are many of these Companies; as that of Moscovy, for Furs, Skins, and Rye; that of Island and Groenland, for the fishing of Whales: but the chiefest of all, and who with Force and Arms drive a prodigious Trade, are the East and West-India Companies, who have a Patent from the States.  
The West-India Company had made great profit by the taking of the Baia de ●odos l●s sanctos, and of the Silver Fleet which Jason Peter Hain brought into Holland, in the year 1629. which also was the cause of the taking of Bosleduke from the Spaniards. The taking of Fernambuco did likewise give hopes of conquering the rest of Brasil; but after the depart of the noble Count Morris of Nassaw, the Negroes and Portugueses joining together, revolted, and reduced the Company to great extremities; since it has suffered another defeat, which has almost made an end of ruining it. It has often been proposed to unite it with the East-India Company; but all in vain, for the one is too high and rich, and the other too poor.  
The East-India Company has its principal Seat at Amsterdam. 'Tis this Company that has Kings and Kingdoms tributary to it, and depending upon it. 'Tis this Company that makes the Hollanders name famous in the remotest parts of the Earth, and triumphs over the riches of the Orient, bringing home Pearls, Diamonds, Gold, all sorts of Aromatic Drugs, etc. Besides Batavia, the principal Town, the Company has a great number of strong Forts well in order, to protect their Merchants, terrify Strangers, and keep the Indians in awe. 'Tis thought that the Company pays above 10000 men; the places and employments are much valued, and not to be come by but by the intercession of some great friend.  
Every Summer about August there comes in an East-India Fleet of ten or twelve Ships, which is esteemed to bring in the value of above a million of gold. The prohibitions that Philip King of Spain made to the Hollanders from trading in his Country, were the cause of this Enterprise. 'Tis said that the Venetians did counsel and further it for a design, which succeeded otherwise than they expected, and to their own loss. The Ships that go for the Indies are of extraordinary bulk. Every one that has put in a thousand pounds may be a Director; and every one that has a hundred pounds there, may have three hundred for it; and every hundred yields forty and forty five, sometimes more, sometimes less. The riches of this Company are inestimable; and to go about to describe them, were to desire credit to a thing which to most people would seem fabulous, though they are very real in themselves.  
All the Channels render themselves into Lakes, and they into the Sea. There are two chief overtures to the Ocean; the first is the mouth of the River Meuse, which is at the Brill, and G●ree; the other from Amsterdam, and the Towns of North-Holland, to the Texel.   

CHAP. VI  
Of the Imposts and Customs.  
THough Holland be both naturally, and by the greatness of its commerce, abundant in all things; yet every thing is extreme dear, and that for two reasons; first, because of the greatness of the Consumption, caused by the affluence of people from all parts; the other, because of the Excise which is upon every thing almost, and which is easily supported by the Inhabitants, by reason of the great gains every one is able to make in his profession. These Imposts are so laid and gathered, that they are willingly paid, though there be nothing free from them. The Money that is thus raised, comes to a vast sum, which added to the situation of the Country, has made all the King of Spain's endeavours vain. But to show the greatness of this Tribute, I will give only this example: A Cow of nine years old, if it be sold for five pound, will have paid above six pound to the States. There is never a Dish comes to Table, but has paid excise above twenty times. The States seeing the necessity of having money to defend their liberties, did by little and little, and not all at once, settle these Excises, so that the people bear it cheerfully enough. In the time of the War, every one paid the two hundredth penny of their Estates; they only that were not worth two hundred pound principal, were exempted from this contribution. There are many other Imposts, which may be all seen in the Second Part of this Book, in the Chapter of Imposts. All that is wonderful, is to consider that that very thing for the fear of which these Nations revolted from the Spaniards, has been put in execution in a higher manner upon themselves, by their own consent, and proved the means of their preservation.  
Let us now come to the description of particular Towns; and let us begin by Leyden, which is to the rest, as the Spring is to the other seasons of the year, the gayest, and most pleasant. Towns in other Countries are subject to the injuries of time and revolutions, but here they spring up, increase, and grow bigger every day. This Town amongst the rest, has had the good fortune to be one of the most flourishing of the Low Countries. The Ocean is on the Westside of it, and within twelve miles; Harlem on the North, within fifteen; and Amsterdam within one and twenty; Utrect within thirty, towards the East; Delft and the Hague on the South and South-West, and within nine miles' distance.   

CHAP. VII.  
Of Leyden, in Latin Lugdunum Batavorum.  
THis Town, the greatest and most pleasant that is in Europe, (if we consider the magnificence of its Buildings, the breadth of its Streets, the conveniencies of its Channels, and the pleasing shade of the Trees planted on each side the Channels) is situated upon the ancient River of Rhine, which goes through it, makes many Islands, and then joins in one bed at the white Gate. It is almost in the Centre of Holland, and from it we will draw lines to the rest of the Cities, which are as it were the circumference. It is a very ancient City, as appears by the Burg, built either by the Romans or Saxons; whence many derive the word Leyden from Legio, there being there a Roman Legion in quarters. The opinion of some is that it was built by an English man, in the year 1050. Plutarch and Ptolemy mention it; and Antonine calls it the Capital of the Germans.  
The Burg-graves of Leyden have taken their name from this Burg, which is round and high, and from it one may discover all the adjacent Meadows, the sandy Downs, and the Sea of Harlem. The ascent to it is by steps, and round about it as well as within are Fruit-Trees in abundance. It has about a hundred and fifty foot in compass; and within these few years there has been bred up Hedges all trimmed, and cut into Labyrinths, which in a short time will make it a very recreative place.  
In the year 1121. the great Church was consecrated to St. Peter; 'tis one of the finest Churches in Holland, having three ranks of Pillars on each side without the Quire. It is said that there was a high Tower, which served as a Light-House to those that were at Sea, and passed before Catvic, but it fell down in the year 1509.  
In the year 1344. the Church dedicated to St. Pancratius, was blessed; it is a stately Building, so much of it as is done. It is now the Church of the French and Walloons; the great Scaliger lies buried in it.  
In the year 1573. the Spaniards having taken Harlem after a long and tedious siege, went and sat down before Alcmaer; but being forced to raise the siege of that place, they came before Leyden; but hearing of Count Frederick de Nassaw his coming, they retired. A little after having recruited their Army, they came again under the conduct of their General Baldese, who judging that it would be a hard matter to take the Town by force, resolved to starve them to a surrender. The Inhabitants endured all the extremities of famine, and at last the banks that kept in the River's Meuse and Issel, being broke on purpose by the Hollanders, the Spaniards were forced to forsake their Trenches. The first relief came into the Town the third of October, which is still made an anniversary day of Thanksgiving. Every year there is a Play made in representation of this siege, which draws great numbers of people to see it, and the money gathered is given to poor Orphans. In the middle of the famine a troop of Citizens being come to the door of one Peter Adrian de Verf, cried out aloud, that they must either surrender, or perish with hunger; but he answered them with an immortal constancy, Friends, kill me if you will, and divide me between you; for it is the same thing to me to die by your hands, or by the hands of my enemies. They made Paper-money, with this Inscription, H●c libertatis ergo pugno pro patria, etc. which is to say, We endure all these miseries for our liberty and our Country. I will add, that as Leyden has been the second Town that sustained valiantly the Spaniards attacks, so the Sas of Gand was the last place but one which fell into the State's hands, and that by the fault of the Governor, who was not able to make use of his Sluices, against those who by water had driven the Spaniards from their Walls.  
A year after this painful siege, was established the famous University of Leyden, to recompense the Inhabitants for their constant sufferings. But many other reasons might invite the States to choose this Town before any other; for it is neat, finely built, delicate Walks, and a pleasant Country about the Town, the Sea near it. The University was inaugurated the eighth of February, in the year 1574. and every year upon the same day is declared Rector, he whom his Highness the Prince of Orange is pleased to choose, out of three that are named to him.  
Here has always been very famous professors in all faculties; but particularly the Civil Law and Physic have always flourished, by the particular care of his Highness the Prince of Orange. The great Scaliger, and the incomparable Salmazius, have been as the two great Lights among the other Stars of this learned Firmament. There are besides Lectures of Divinity, Mathematics; in all which the professors do excel, as being chosen with care, and well recompensed for their labours. When any one dies, the three Curators provide another of the same faculty; so the University is always supplied.  
Those Students that are written in the University-Book do enjoy great privileges. They that are above twenty year old, may have fourscore quarts of Wine in a year, which pay no excise, and half a barrel of Beer every month free likewise. They give a groat to the Servants of the University every quarter.  
The Rector or Chancellor has his Counsellors, before whom are brought all quarrels, and they endeavour to make the parties agree; if they will not, than they may go to a trial before the University- Counsel, where the Rector presides, and decides without appeal in civil matters. If any of the Students have committed a crime that deserves death or otherwise, the Officers of justice cannot take him before they have the Rectors consent; and then too they may not carry him to a loathsome prison, but into the Town-House Hall.  
Duels are severely prohibited, ever since a Danish Student was killed in one. Besides they are forbid to commit any riot in the night time, or break the Citizen's Windows, under pain of a considerable Fine, and often of being banished.  
There is a Watch goes on purpose to hinder such disorders, which takes away Scholars Swords if they be insolent, and carries them to prison, where next day they are produced before the University- Counsel. There are also as good Masters for all Exercises, as Riding, Dancing, etc. as any where, and the Italian, French, and Spanish Tongues are taught excellently well. Here are Students of all Nations of Europe, most of them Gentlemen of good Families; and often Princes, and great Lords Sons, have been seen to come hither for their education. They all have a dependence upon the Rector; and to this day never any Member of the University was put to death, except a servant to a Prince, who confessed himself to be the author of a murder that had been committed.  
The University has Schools for the different Lectures; and on the North-side of the great Court, is the famous Printing Press of John Elzevier, so well known for his fair Characters. It is placed upon the Rapembourg, the fairest Street of all the Town; for in the middle of it runs a large Channel, and of each side is a row of tall Trees from one end to the other. The Pavy has a little fall towards the Channel, so that it can never be dirty let there fall never so much rain. There are five fair Bridges over this Channel, and abundance of delicate Houses on each side. 'Tis not only this Street that is thus shaded, but all the Town; so that he was in the right that desired to know, whether Leyden was in a Wood, or a Wood in Leyden. We should never have done if I would particularise all the singularities of Leyden: the great and most frequented Street begins at the Gate of the Hague, and ends at Utrect Gate; it is the broadest and highest Street of the Town. The most considerable next is Harlem Street, which has a Channel called the old Rhine, into which all the other Channels do fa●l, and which ends itself at Catvic. It is adorned with four stone Bridges, one of which is the largest and fairest of all the Town: it is called the Corn-Bridge, because that on every Market-day the Country people take up their stations upon it with their Corn. There is another likewise called the Fish-Bridge, because the Fishermen do there expose their Sea-Fish to sale. The best Fish comes from Catvic; that of Maeslantsluys is not valued, as being ordinarily stale.  
If this City had but running Water, a great Marketplace, and some fountains of clear Water for drink, it would be the pleasantest in all Europe; but nothing can be ex omni parte beatum, accomplished in all points. There has been lately built a Church in a circular figure, admired by all Strangers for its incomparable Architecture both within and without. The first Sermon was preached in it some weeks before Easter, in the year 1650.  
The Town is so populous, by reason that poor people of the neighbouring Countries do seek a refuge here in time of War, that it is a hard matter to get a Chamber in the new Town. Here is the great manufacture of that excellent clothes which are transported all the world over; they cannot make any such any where else. The fine Wool comes from Spain, and the course from England, and Pom●rania. All sorts of Nations work in the manufacture, where many other Stuffs are made.  
In Summer during the hot weather, these Channels do send forth a noisome smell, particularly when the weather inclines to rain; the reason of it is, the drying up of the Lake of Soetermeer, which did use to cleanse the Town by flowing into it. To prevent this, the Magistrates have caused two large Channels to be made, and two Mills to be set upon them, to drive the Water into the Town at one end, and two other that drive or carry it out at the other end; so that by this invention the City is freed from that noisome and infectious smell, though often it fail too in the great heat of Summer, when there is a great calm, and no wind stirring.  
We must not omit to speak of the Anatomy-House; it being the place that ought most to attract Strangers eyes, for the singular curiosities that are in it. There you shall see Egyptian Mummiaes, Pagan Idols, Birds and Beasts brought from China, and remoter places, whole Skeletons, and an infinite number of other things, which cannot be here set down, no more than viewed, in a short time. In the forepart of this Church, above the Fencing-School that was, and is now the English Church, there is a fine Library full of all sorts of Books in all Tongues; besides the Legacy of great Scaliger, which is a number of Hebrew Books; all the Manuscripts of the Library of Bonaventure, Vulcan, and the Books that Goliath brought out of the Levant. There are other private Libraries, which the civility of the owners makes public: and it is not only the Professors, but even the Citizens that are curious in Libraries; insomuch that if Authors were lost elsewhere, they would soon be restored by the Hollanders.  
There are often Libraries publicly sold to them that give most for them; and this way of exposing all sorts of Goods to public sale, is very ordinary in Holland, and they that buy them have credit for some months.  
The City has eight Gates all new, with their Bridges. The Galleries beyond the Town-Ditch are set with Trees, having on one side the Rampart, and on the other are the Gardens and Meadows near the Town.  
The City was very un-inhabited for a great while after the siege; the Grass did grow in the Streets, and most of the Houses were thatched: but now they are all covered with Tile, or blue Slate; and since the year 1636. this Town is embellished, and grown better by half in half.  
There is an Hospital for poor Passengers, and decayed old people; as also a Bedlam or place for mad folks; all being very neatly kept, and the sick well served. The Orphan's Hospital is a noble Building, and of a great extent. In it are ordinarily about 500 Children, who are taught to read and write, and bound Apprentices as they grow up. Besides this, there are great numbers of Almshouses for poor people; they call them Hoffies in Dutch: the fairest of these is the Papegraft.  
The care that is taken in Holland of such Families as cannot get their living, is very remarkable, and deserves praise. In the Winter time there are delivered to them at the public charge, so many Blankets, Sheets, so much Bread, etc. to keep them from dying either by cold or hunger. They that are either over-burdened with Children, or otherwise undone by any accident, go to the Masters of the poor, and receive relief according to their necessities. But this charity is not extended to the poor Catholics, though the gatherings be made generally, and from all Religions. The number of those that have a share in this charity mounts ordinarily to above 20000. in this City.  
Every quarter the Magistrate goes through the Town, having beforehand given notice to the Citizens, and makes a collection of what every one is pleased to bestow. And thus all the poor are so supplied, that in any extremity they cannot want Bread, and so cannot from their necessity take an occasion of rising. This is practised through all Holland; but no where so exactly as at Leyden.  
In the year 1629. the King of Swedeland having landed an Army in Borussia, stopped all the Rivers, and hindered the coming of Corn from Poland; whereupon Bread grew so dear of a sudden, that the common people not being able to go to the price, began to mutiny, and some of them broke in upon a Baker. But immediately the Citizens appearing in Arms, dissipated this tumultuous rabble, and having whipped two or three of them, made the rest go quietly home. Then the Magistrates gave out Rye to the Bakers, to distribute to such poor as should bring such a mark in testimony of their poverty.  
Every year in April the Magistrates go through all the Town, and every one must set forth before his door his Fire-Ladder, Buckets, and Sail, to the end that if Fire should happen any where, it might be readily extinguished. This is a very laudable custom, and observed over all Holland. All night long in Winter, from nine of the clock to four in the morning, there are men that go through every Street with a Bell, singing the hours and half-hours. They are bound to convey to their Lodgings all drunken people, and such as have lost their way. They take care against Fires; give warning to those that have not shut their doors.  
In Summer they begin at ten of the clock, and retire at four in the morning. They that set upon them or affront them, are severely punished; as was seen lately at the Hague, where a great Lord having in drink killed one of them, was notwithstanding all powerful intercessions, beheaded, to be an example to every one else.  
The Magistrates that administer justice are chosen out of the forty Notables, all Protestants, and rich Citizens. Out of these are chosen every year four Bourgemasters at St. Martin's Feast in November, and seven Aldermen on St. James day in July.  
There is besides another Assembly, called the Masters of the Pupils and Orphans; before whom such Men or Women that have Children, but desire to marry again, must appear, and take their Oath that they have concealed no part of their Estate, but that their Inventory is good and true; and then the Parents are bound to breed them according to their quality, and to assign them a sum of Money upon an immovable, proportionable to the principal.  
The Towns has besides, its Overseers and Surveyors for Building; that when any thing, as Bridges or Gates, etc. requires repair, it may be speedily done.  
Every year there are two great Fairs at Leyden, during which time no man can be arrested for Debt. The chiefest is held on Ascension day, and lasts eight days. Upon the Monday the Citizens meet in the Dozles, a place full of Trees, where every one may exercise in shooting with Crossbows, and Bows and Arrows. It is a very pleasant place, by reason of the shady Walks, and of two good Taverns that are in it; in the Windows of one of which are represented all the Earls of Holland, down to Philip King of Spain. In most of the Towns of Holland there are of these Dozles, which shows the warlike temper of these Nations, so far as to be able to preserve their liberties.  
In this place the six Companies of Citizens, which make near 2000 men, do use to train. The most ancient Captain has the Van. They appear with great glory, and perform their Exercises very well.  
The other Fair is that which used to be held in memory of the deliverance of Leyden, and was wont to last ten days; but it is now put down, and the Story only represented in a Tragedy, to which there is great flocking.  
Now let us say something about their way of selling Houses, Gardens, etc.  
'Tis ordinarily about the end of November till February, that Houses are to be sold. There is a note set up declaring the situation of the House, the Owner, the Neighbours, the name of him that lives in it, and his Trade; and lastly, the House where the Bargain is to be driven on a set day. The day being come, all those that have a mind to it come to the House appointed, which is ordinarily a Tavern. And thus the business is managed:  
An Attorney with a Crier goes through all the Chambers, where there is Company, reads the Conditions upon which it is to be sold, and declares whether there be any Rent charged upon it or no. The Crier asks them if they have all heard, and observed well what has been read, and who amongst them will se●● a price upon the House. For example, a House shall be worth 600. pound; and in the first Chamber there will be offered 320. then the Crier goes to the second Chamber, and tells them that the House has been already valued at 320. thereupon it may be some body offers 20. more. Then he goes to the third, and so to all; and it may be the House is raised to 400. pounds. Then he comes back to the first, and tells them, gentlemans, the House is valued at 400. then it may be some body adds 20. more. The Crier goes back to all the Chambers, and if no body offer more, he goes to the seller, and tells him what is offered for his House; if ●he does not like the price, he bids the Crier 〈◊〉, that if there be any body that will speak to the seller, he may come to him. And if he be very desirous to be rid of his House, than he sends a Duccatoon or two, with this condition, that he that will raise 50. pound in the price, shall have the money. The Crier goes back and tells the company; then he that says first (to me) has the money. Then the Crier goes back, and his Master gives him more money: for example, if the first were two Ducatoons for 50. pounds, the second money shall be two Ducatoons, and two Angels in gold, for him that shall bid 30. pound more. If that be taken, than he brings a greater sum still, till there be no body left that will take any more money; and all those that do take any are obliged to declare their names. This being done, it may be does not yet make up above 500 pound; then the Crier tells them, gentlemans, my Master would fain make 600. pound of his House. I will bate the other 100 pound by degrees; then he begins, 90. 80. 70. 60. 50. 40. 30. 20. 10. till there be some body that speaks; and then the House is sold for 500 pound, and so much odd money as hath been taken. If he bate all, and no body speak, than he that took the last money is the buyer, and must give in security the same night. If it happen that some body has drawn money, under hopes of being outbid, with intention to keep the money, if unluckily for him no body does outbid him, he must take the House; if he can give no security, he is carried to prison, and publicly whipped, to give example to the rest. The House thus sold, and security given, the buyer is to pay all the charges, which come to 10. pounds at least, so that they that have been there, are scot-free.  
The Gardens and Tombs are sold ordinarily after the same manner; the money to be laid down in three payments, and of every 40. Crowns, the City is to have one, which is a great revenue to it. Thus I have described at length the way of selling, because it is almost the same thing in all the other Towns of Holland.  
In the year 1635. and 36. it pleased God to visit Holland, and particularly Leyden, with a great Plague, insomuch that the Churchyards could not hold the dead, but the Bastions were taken to bury them in.  
At the same time, or a little after, the Plague being somewhat over, War was proclaimed between the two Crowns of France and Spain, that made many people who before lived upon the Frontiers, come and seek refuge at Leyden; they filled up the empty Houses. Seven years after by the command of the Magistrates, the Churchyards were levelled, the dead bones transported elsewhere, and Trees planted, which now do begin to grow.  
There are many other particularities; as the Prison where the Count William was born. The Count Florent was also born at Leyden.  
In the Chamber of the Bourgemasters, there is a Picture of Luke of Leyden's making, which was so valued by the Emperor Rodolf, that he offered to give as many pieces of gold for it, as would cover it. It represents the day of Judgement.  
John of Leyden, a Tailor, was in the first change of the Roman Religion, made King of the Anabaptists; and having seized Munster, he made himself be treated as a King, wearing a Crown of gold; and when he did go abroad, had always two Boys before him, one of which carried a Sword, and the other the Bible. All that did not fall down and worship him were immediately condemned to die, and executed. He kept 14. Wives, and caused one to be killed, because she despised his inspirations. The Bishop laid siege to the place, and John made the people endure as much as ever Saguntum or Jerusalem endured, assuring them still of a sudden deliverance. But at last the Town was taken, and the King with his accessaries taken and punished as they deserved. They keep yet at Leyden the Table upon which this Tailor did use to sit and work. May all those that disobey their Magistrates come to as bad an end.   

CHAP. VIII.  
Of the Territory about Leyden.  
THe Territory about Leyden is called Rhinlant, where is made the best Butter of all Holland. It is full of many fine Villages, which for the nobleness of their Buildings might be reckoned small Towns.  
I will begin with Rinsbourg, which was anciently a well fortified Town. About a league from it, Petronella, Sister to the Emperor Lotair, founded an Abbey for Nuns of quality; and by its ruins it ap 〈…〉 have been a fine structure. The 〈…〉 many ancient Epitaphs; one I have seen of a Nun in the year 1218. It did depend for the spiritual on the Bishopric of Utrect, and so did all Holland, there being in it never a Bishops See; but not for the temporal, as some have writ. The Earls of Holland and their Ladies did use to be buried here.  
A league further is Nortvic, within a mile of the Sea. Because of the pleasantness of the place many Gentlemen live in it. Valkenbourg next is a famous place for the Horse-Fair held there every month of September; I have been told, that before the War there did come to it Merchants from all parts of the world. It is a very pleasant place, as well as Catvic, where live many rich men that live of their revenues. The Rhine did anciently enter the Sea here; and there was a square Castle built at the mouth of the River, but it is now buried under water. We find it written, that there were the Romans Magazines and Storehouses against the English. Of late when the Sea has been very 〈◊〉 ●y a constant Southwind, the 〈…〉 ndations have been seen.  
In Summer the Scholars and Citizens go to wash there, and eat fresh Fish; as also to breathe the salt Air of the Sea, which is held very wholesome. They that hire Horses may go all along the shore by the two Catvicks, and Walckembourg, and return by Nortvic, Rinsbourg, and Oestgeest. Wassenaer is situated just by the sandy Downs; it did formerly belong to the Prince de Lime, but now it belongs to the honourable Family of the Wassenaers.  
Warmout is a league and half from the Town on Harlem-side. By the way are two or three very fine Farms; and particularly one near the Channel: when you have passed the Bridge, you leave upon your right hand Lochorst, and then you come into the most delicious Village in the world; the Lord of it is Mr. James Wassenaer, whose Father was Admiral, and has eminently served the public in military and civil employments. The Arminians have a Church here; the Church is on the outside of the Village; as also the Lords House, which is a fair Castle, with a Moat round about it.  
Oestgeest is a Village in the Sands, which belongs to the Corporation of the City of Leyden. I myself have seen the Sand taken away three foot deep, carried to the Town and there sold; and an Acre of that ground which before was not worth 20. pound, made worth fourscore. Soutervoude is to the South, at a leagues distance from the Town; the way to it lies through Lam, leaving on your left hand the Castle of Cronestien, a fine House, and Gardens. This Village is little, but it is in a fine Soil, and has the best pasture grounds about Leyden.  
The Magistrates have bought the Lordship of it; as also that of Leyderdorp, a Village that has more Palaces than Country people's Houses. 'Tis here where we must admire the magnificence of the Citizens; for one would think that there were an emulation between them, who should show most marks of riches by their expenses. It is built on both sides the Rhine, that goes through it; and behind the Houses in the Meadows is a Church, behind which there was formerly a Monastery. Between Leyden and Ferry there was another Nunnery, which was built upon a clayish ground, out of which Bricks are made now. In the year 1616. the Workmen found in digging two Medals of gold, representing the Emperor Nero to the life; I have seen them both. Woorschoten is another fine Village, belonging to Monsieur de Duvenvoord, whose Father was Keeper of the Great Seal. Hereabouts the Country is so delicious, that it is a kind of Paradise upon earth; as well because of the diversity of Fields, Meadows, and Woods, as of the prospect of so many stately Edifices, and neat Gardens.  
The Country people wear very good clothes, ordinarily of black, but without Cloaks. Their Wives have gold Rings on their fingers. It is not very rare to meet with Peasants here worth 10000 pound; they enjoy as great a liberty as any Citizen. Every Village has its Bailif, Secretary, Bourgemaster, and Judges; and besides a certain sort of Countrymen that they call Welboremans', that is, men of a good Family, and well descended.  
Alphen is half way to Word, and takes its name from a Roman Knight. There are very few Antiquities to be seen in Holland, because that all the Country has been changed and new peopled, and the Towns and Villages new built; so that there are no footsteps of what it was, it is so increased in riches and beauty. I come now to Caudekerk, where there is a fair Castle belonging to Monsi●ur de Podgeest. All these Villages have their Fairs once a year, which anciently were never kept without some skirmish at Backsword. The stoutest did use to hang up a Backsword, and he that did come and touch it, was engaged in a combat, which was to be performed after this manner: First the parties break off the points of their Swords; then they take their Hats in their left hands to defend their faces, and nevertheless they often pair off a Cheek, or a Nose, or so. But these Duels are strictly forbidden, and severely punished, if attempted.  
This Country is so finely diversified, that it wants nothing for a perfect prospect. For though Vines do not naturally grow in it, yet by the industry of the Inhabitants, there are many which produce Grapes enough for their eating. And as for Wine, they are sufficiently furnished by Sea.  
Now I come back to the Town, and observe, that it is the Garden of all the adjacent Province for Lettuce, Parsley, Carrots, Pease, Beans, Parshley, etc. which are transported to Zeeland and Utrect. At Amsterdam you shall hear them cry, Leyden Parsnips. And indeed the Gardiner's industry is most admirable, for they have five or six crops in a year upon the same ground. I was desirous to know how much an Acre of ground might be worth to be sold; and it was answered, that Meadow was about sevenscore pound an Acre; Corn grounds about 200. but Gardenage about 250. and sometimes 300. pound an Acre.  
Every day at six of the clock goes off the first Boat for Amsterdam, and at twelve a clock the last; at eight and at eleven for Harlem; at twelve for Utrect. There are eight Barks for the Hague, and as many for 〈◊〉 elft. And so from these two Towns for Leyden; from the Spring to October they go out at five a clock; and after, at half an hour past five. The Arms of the Town are the Cross Keys.  
The Citizens are governed with so much moderation by the Magistrates, that since the beginning of the Commonwealth to this day, there has been no tumult nor rising by reason of Taxes, Impositions, or the coming of Strangers, or for any other cause.  
But now let us come to that powerful City, from which Neptune seems to take his Orders; I mean Amsterdam.   

CHAP. IX.  
Of Amsterdam.  
THis Town which has not its like in the whole world, if we consider its Commerce, the conveniency of its Harbour, and the means it has of setting out powerful Fleets, takes its name from a Castle built upon Ye, belonging to the Lords of Amstel. It is seven leagues distant from Leyden, and you may go to it four different ways; the most ordinary is that of the great Lake; the next by Harlem, and by the Channel made lately; the third in a Wagon, or on Horseback, by the Veenes; and the fourth by the night-Boat, that you meet at Leyderdorp. Since the late Wars, this Town is increased above two thirds; and therefore we shall inquire into its Antiquities.  
Many think that at first it was but a little Village for Fishermen, which has increased by little and little. In the year 1296. the Lord of Amstel was one of the Confederates of Gerrard de Velsen, who killed the Count Florent.  
1470. the Town was walled with a brick Wall, to resist the invasions of those of U●rect, who had often brought the Town into great danger. Not long after it was almost all consumed by fire; then built again, and according as Trade increased, it grew bigger still, and richer. The Emperor Maximilian in acknowledgement of the good services they had done him, and as a testimony of their industry and Trade, added an Imperial Crown over their Coat of Arms, which are three Crosses, almost like St. Andrews.  
There was formerly in it three Monasteries for men, and thirteen Nunneries, which are all now employed to other uses.  
The Factions of the Houcs and the Cabelians have often afflicted this noble City, like those of the Guelphs and Gibelins in Italy. But that which brought it nearest its ruin, was the attempt made by the Anabaptists.  
In the year 1525. that wicked King of Munster desiring to strengthen his party, by the addition of some considerable place, sent one of his Emissaries, named Golen; who passing through Friezeland raised great tumults and seditions there: which being quashed, he fled to Amsterdam, and there lurking for a while, struck in at last with a man of his own principles, called Groet Belite, and they two together resolved to make a party, and set upon the Town at some unexpected hour. They got together the chief of their Sect, and made a resolution to fall on at midnight by the sound of a Bell; but this wicked plot was discovered just upon its execution, and with much ado hindered: for a young man of their side went and told the Magistrates, that the Anabaptists to the number of 600. were marching to seize the Town. While they were yet in deliberation, they heard the sound of Drums, and found that the Anabaptists had already gotten into the Marketplace, and invaded the Townhouse. In this confusion a Citizen had the foresight to carry away the Rope of the Bell, which the seditious did intend to ring, as a signal to all theirs to unite, and a terror to the sleepy Citizens, that did luckily contribute much to the saving of the City. For by this time, the Magistrates having sent about, and got many Housekeepers under Arms, resolved to stop up all the Avenues to the Marketplace with Hop-sacks, and make a strong Barricado behind them. The morning come, gave the Townsmen leave to see the greatness of the wickedness intended, and the inconsiderable number of the seditious; who seeing themselves exposed to be pelted in that wide place, took sanctuary in the Townhouse, but thither they were pursued and cut in pieces, some few scaping by the favour of the night that came on. This conjuration thus quelled, the Magistrates forbid the Citizens under great penalties, to lodge any Stranger that should be infected with such dangerous principles. Yet in the year 1515. there were more of these fanatics, both men and women, that running naked through the Streets with horrible cries, had like to have surprised the Townhouse, but they were suppressed and punished. The Anabaptists of this age do renounce them, for they do not hold it lawful to fight at all.  
All this great Town is built upon Pilotis, which are great Trees driven by main force into the ground, which is all moorish, to be as a foundation to build upon; and ordinarily it costs as much laying, as all the rest of the Fabric does building up. The Town is like a Crescent, or half Moon, which ere it be long will fill up its round. In the Port there are so many Vessels, that we may say that he that has not seen Amsterdam, has not seen a Harbour: for in the Spring, from one end to the other of it, there is such a forest of Masts, that Strangers are struck with wonder, and do believe, with reason, that all the Harbours of the world together cannot make so many Sayl.  
Every year in April there goes out a great Fleet for the Baltic Sea; I have heard many say, that in that Fleet in the time of War do go above 1500. Sail of Ships: then reckon all those that go for France, and elsewhere, and all the Barks that are upon the Channels in the Town.  
The finest Streets are the Fosses, the Imperial, the Royal, the Cingel, the Street of Harlem, which is all newly built There are also three prodigious Sluices; and all the Bridges that were formerly of wood, are now of stone, with iron Vails and Balasters.  
The Town house which is now a building, the foundations of which have cost many hundred thousands of pounds, is to be a Masterpiece, and a miracle beyond the seven that Antiquity bragged so much of.  
In the year 1595. the Monastery of Sancta Clara was changed into a House of correction, called the Touched Huyse, for those Children that will not be obedient to their Parents. At the coming in, there are two Lions upon the door, bridled, as an emblem to the wild youth of the Town. They make them work; some saw Brasil-wood, others do harder things, according to their faults and dispositions. If they refuse to work, they are put into a low Cellar, and water is let in upon them; if they will stand still and be drowned, they may; if they will pump and deliver themselves, than they are helped out again.  
Some are put in for their life, others for a certain time. As lately there is a Law, that whosoever draws his Knife to strike another, shall either pay 10. pound fine, or work three months in the House of correction. Some are put in by their rich Parents, not to work, but only to put a stop to their extravagant expenses, and they come out when they give testimonies of their repentance, and desire to mend.  
The same year there was a like House set up for young Maids, that should live in a licentious way. Every year in August it is free for all people to go in, and see the miserable condition of these offenders.  
The great Hospital has above 4000 pound a year; besides, it is thought that every year there are distributed many thousands of pounds to poor Families.  
The East-India Company has a noble House, full of rich treasure; as also the Bank-Generall, in which are always many millions. This Company is grown so powerful, that they can set out a Fleet of men of War if need be; and in the Indies they make nothing of waging War with Kings, as lately with the King of Java, and yet drove on their Trade too.  
There are here many fair Churches; but I shall mention only that of St. Katherine, burned down in 1645. and is now built again better than before. Hard by the said Church are laid the foundations of a Tower, which is to be exceeding high; 6000, 300, and odd great Trees have been driven into a piece of ground of about a 100 foot square, to be Pilotis for the foundation of the Tower. In the Church the Minister's Pulpit is contrived with great art, with the four Evangelists, and a Tower above it. In the Glass-windows is the good Emperor Maximilian his Picture.  
There are two great Suburbs or Fauxbonrgs, one upon the way to Utrect, and the other that goes to Overtom, a Village where the Boats that come from Leyden pass upon Rulers. There is built a fair Pest-house.  
'Tis commonly said that this City is very like Venice; for my part I believe Amsterdam to be much superior in riches: though the most serene State of Venice can brag of having maintained a War for this twenty year, against the whole force of the Turks, without assistance from any but the Pope. This Town is exceedingly well governed; every one's liberty preserved, and safety provided for all: and even in the nighttime you may go any where, without fear of being robbed or killed.  
The Air is not quite so good as at Leyden, by reason that it is environed with Marshes, which make it in accessible; but it is better seated for Trade, which is its life. Let us go to Harlem.   

CHAP. X.  
Of Harlem, and some Villages round about it.  
I Shall speak very little of the Antiquity of this pleasant Town; for in the darkness of past times it is so hard to distinguish fables from truth, that it will make any wise person forbear from obtruding old Stories upon an ingenuous Reader.  
The first time we find any mention made of the valour of its Inhabitants, is in the year 1245. when Pope Innocent at the Council of Lions made St. Lewis King of France, and William Earl of Holland undertook the relief of the holy Land. For the Army being come before Damietta, a great Chain did hinder the approach of the Navy: this the Harlem-men undertook to break, and did execute their design, giving entry to the whole Fleet; in memory of which the Town has for Arms, a Sword with four Stars, and a Cross at the end of it.  
William King of the Romans gave the Inhabitants many great privileges. But if the victory carried in Palestina made them famous, the Art of Printing here invented has made them as remarkable: though Me●ts an Electoral Town does claim the same honour, but not so justly; for it was by a Apprentice who upon Christmas-Eve run away from Harlem, with the Letters and Instruments serving to the Art of Printing, taking his time when all the people were at Church. Laurent Coster was the name of the man that invented this Art.  
In the year 1292. the Faction of the Casembrots seized upon the Town, and plundered the Houses of most of the considerable Citizens; but it was crushed by Albert Duke of Saxony, and the Town condemned to a Fine of 27000. Crowns, and to the loss of its privileges.  
In the year 1574. the Spaniards under the conduct of Frederick, Son to the Duke of Alba, having taken Sutphenen, and cruelly cut the throats of all the Townsmen of Naerden, came and laid siege to Harlem: the Garrison was 4000 strong, and refusing all conditions of a surrender, made brave sallies upon them, hanging the Spanish prisoners upon the Walls; and in derision of the tenth penny which the Spaniard would levy, throwing over to them eleven Heads of their prisoners. But the Spaniards were sufficiently revenged, for they forced them to yield at discretion, though the very Women fought valiantly for their liberty.  
This Town is rather long than square, and is washed by the River Sparen.  
In the Marketplace is the Townhouse, a stately Building; and over against it is the great Church, dedicated to St. Bavon: it is looked upon as the finest Church in all Holland.  
There are many Meadows about the Town; and on the Seaside mountains of Sand; and there is a Wood towards Leyden, about half a mile from the Town, which is a great diversion to the Citizens, not only of Harlem, but of Amsterdam. Towards the North there are Suburbs and great Gardens. Harlem is pretty populous, and holds a perpetual communication with Amsterdam and Leyden by Boats, which go and come at all hours. In the year 1657. was made a Channel between Leyden and the said Town.  
The greatest Trade of Harlem is in Linen; for there is the finest and whitest Holland. There are likewise many Weavers: I remember I was told that once all these Weavers forsook their Trade, and turned Tulip-Merchants, at the time when the fancy for Tulips did reign over all the Low-Countries and France. Besides, they do brew excellent Beer in this Town, which being transported into Friezeland grows better there than in Harlem itself.  
The Villages round about are Hemstede, Sparenvow, Tetrode, etc. There are also the Castles of Brederode, Harlee, and Velsen; of which there remains little but the ruins. Monsieur Adrian Paw, Lord of Hemstede, etc. has compiled there a fair Library of Books, of all Languages and Sciences, and such a one as will hardly be matched by any private person. He is a very eminent man, employed as Plenipotentiary in the Treaty at Munster; though some do endeavour to cast aspersions upon him, as if he had had a hand in the troubles of England.  
Between Harlem and Leyden there are many fair Villages; amongst which Helegon, Lys, and Tassum, are three of the best, not above a league distant from one another. Not far from them is the House of Feiling, now belonging to his Highness the Prince of Orange; and a noble Castle that Monsieur Dalmade has caused to be built of late. In coming from Harlem to Leyden, you have the Downs or sandy Hills on the right hand, and on the left the great Lake of Harlem which is always covered with Boats, going and coming with Merchandizes.   

CHAP. XI.  
Of Delft, and its Villages.  
THis Town is situated in a Plain amongst pleasant Meadows, and was built by Godfrey the Crooked, Duke of Lorraine, who had conquered Holland by the assistance of the Bishop of Utrect. I find nothing in our Annals concerning this place that is memorable, except that after a siege of six weeks, the Town was taken by Albert of Bavaria, because they had received the Faction of the Hoves: the Town was dis-mantled, the Castle pulled down, and the Inhabitants fined 10000 Crowns to the Duke.  
In the year 1536. in the month of May, the Town was burnt down by accident; and it was observed that a— not being able to save her young ones, because they were not fledged, flew herself into the flame, and died with them: but out of the ashes of this rose a much more noble Town.  
1584. The Prince William of Orange was traitorously killed by a Bourguignon, and there lies buried in a pompous Monument, in acknowledgement of the great actions he performed for the public liberty.  
There are two fair Churches, which have each a very high Steeple; and a Townhouse at the end of the Marketplace, with an Inscription in Latin upon it, to this purpose:  

This House hates, loves, punishes, conserveses, and honours,  
Wickedness, Peace, Crimes, Laws, good men.  
Haec Domus odit, amat, punit, conservat, honorat,  
Nequitiam, Pacem, Crimina, Jura, bonos.   
They have here a great Trade of Beer, which they brew very well. The Town is not so big as Leyden, but it has a fairer Marketplace; and though there be not so much Trade, nor the Houses so richly adorned on the inside, yet are there very rich Citizens. The Country about lies lower than about Leyden; therefore in certain seasons, as when the Wind is North-East, if they should open their Sluices, all the Meadows about Delft would be overflown. Delft is but four leagues from Leyden, and you have the convenience of a Wagon. Between these two Towns lies Lordsendam, a great and fair Village, which grows rich since the Channel of Leyden was made. There are two great Sluices to preserve the Country about Delft.  
Voorburg is a little on one side the Channel, and is the ancientest Village in Holland. There are yet to be seen some foundations of a strong Castle built by the Romans, as it appears by the Inscriptions of the Stones that are every day taken from among the ruins. It being so near the Hague, and upon the passage of so many people, seems rather a Town than a Village. It is but two leagues and a half from Leyden, and one league from the Hague.  
Losdun is a Village near the Hague, in which was a Nunnery for Gentlemen, and Nobleman's Daughters, and no others; founded by Margaret, Countess of Holland, whose Daughter Machtilde was brought a-bed of 365. Children at once, as many as there are days in the year; who were all baptised by Otho, Bishop of Utrect: the name of John was given to the males, and that of Elizabeth to the females, who all died the same day with their Mother. The Story says that this Princess refused Alms to a poor Woman, that had Twins in her Arms, saying, that they were not of one man's getting; whereupon the poor Woman finding herself unjustly suspected, wished her as many at a time as there were days in the year. In memory of this History there is a Picture hung up in the Church, with an Inscription to this purpose; Here is a monstrous and memorable thing, which has not had its like since the beginning of the world: Reader, having perused this Story, go away and admire it.  
Near the Meuse there is a Castle with 365. Windows, which are the names of the said Children; and yet there are many people that do not believe this Story at all. This Village has a sandy ground on one side of it, and on the other a fertile Corn-Countrey, called Vestland.   

CHAP. XII.  
Of Dort.  
THis Town is very ancient, and rich, by reason of the great abundance of all sorts of Merchandizes that come down the Rhine. It's situation is incomparable; for it is environed with the Waters of the Rhine and Meuse, which make it a place of great Trade. It is called the Maiden Town, because it was never taken, though often besieged, and once particularly by the Duke of Brabant, in the year 1304. For he having conquered a great part of Holland, and committed all sorts of inhumanities' upon that Nation, sat down at last before Dort; but the Citizens unexpectedly sallying out upon him, routed his whole Army, and pursued him to Bosleduke; and in their way home, obtained a victory over the Flemings at Isselmond.  
In the year 1421. upon St. Katherine's day, the Banks broke near Dort, and about threescore and ten fair Villages were swallowed up by this unmerciful Element of Water; and above a 100000. men died miserably with their Wives and Children. It is said, that a wicked Countrey-Boor being envious of his Neighbour's prosperity, made one night a Hole in the Bank, that he might drown him and all his Family in their Beds, with a design of stopping it again: but the Tide coming in with a strong Wind, broke quite through; first drowned this perfidious Rogue, and then overwhelmed all that stood in its way. Since the Water having by little and little been driven away by the industry of the infatigable Inhabitants, they have drained most part of that which lay under Water, and discovered some Villages. There is hopes of getting all, during this peace; but it can only be done in the great heat of Summer.  
As it happens often, that when we are ignorant of the cause of a thing, we are apt to attribute it to some invisible supernatural power, or to our sins, that provoke God's anger; so some have said, that these Villages were drowned, because they did make ill use of their great riches; that they would not wear any other than golden Spurs, and lived in a great magnificence.  
But let us return to the Town, which by an unlucky accident of Fire had like to have been quite destroyed; there were burned above 2000 Houses, with the Townhouse, and Cathedral-Church.  
1618. the National Synod was held in the same Town, under the Authority of the high and mighty Lords the State's General, to decide those Controversies that were risen concerning Predestination. There were present many learned men both from France and other parts; amongst others, the most Reverend Father in God the Archbishop of Canterbury, who since was beheaded in the troubles in England.  
Dort was the place where was born that factious Preacher, Brother Cornelius Adrian, of whom the people to this day tell so many pleasant Stories. For my part, I have heard worthy persons say, that he was really a very eloquent person, who did ravish his hearers with admiration; but that he did handle some points, that were a little too free in those days; but he feared no body. He died at Bruges.  
It is to be observed, that when the Earls of Holland were to be inaugurated, that is, acknowledged for lawful Princes, they did first come into Dort, and there did swear to the States to observe all their liberties and privileges, from whom consequently they did receive an Oath of Allegiance. In the Assembly of the States of Holland, the Dort-Deputies have the first place, and speak first.  
Before the Town are taken great quantities of all sorts of Fish, and particularly of Salmon; for in one year there were sold in the said Town 892. Salmon: and it is commonly said, that Servants put it in their bargain, that they shall not eat Salmon above twice a Week.  
There is a very convenient Port for ●ll Merchandizes coming down the ●hene; and it is in this City that all the Rhenish Wine is first unloaden. But this is enough of the first Town of Holland in dignity; which besides the beauty of its Edifices, is placed in a fruitful Soil, and a temperate Air. Leyden is distant ten leagues from Dort, and the ordinary way is by Water.   

CHAP. XIII.  
Of Goude.  
THis is the sixth and last of the great Towns, five leagues from Leyden. It lies upon the River Yss●l, upon the conjunction of two Rivers, of which the Waters are clear, and full of Fish. There are many delicious Gardens for the Citizen's diversion; and the Air is exceeding good.  
In the year 1272. it was built by the Count Florent, and adorned with many privileges; a 100 years after it was burnt down to the ground; as likewise in the year 1420. in the War between Jacqueline of Bavaria, and Philip of Burgundy.  
There is a fine Marketplace, in the middle of which is the Townhouse; and near it is the great Church, which has been twice burnt. Before the Wars it used to be much admired for its Bells; as also for the Glass-Windows, which are very curiously enamelled.  
The Air is so good here that the Plague is never in the City; there being no standing Waters near it; and yet the situation of the Town is such, that there is no bringing any Artillery to beat it, for the Inhabitants can by their Sluices drown all the Country round about. Besides, it is environed with so deep a Ditch, that it strikes terror into a beholder. The Citizens are most of them people that search a retreat from the World, and love quiet and peace. After Leyden, 'tis the prettiest and wholesomest Town in Holland.   

CHAP. XIV.  
Of Rotterdam.  
THis Town which is now one of the greatest and most Trading-Towns of Holland, is nevertheless but the first of the small Towns.  
In 1270. it was first walled; and 27. years after it was taken by the Flemings.  
In 1418. Brederode, head of the Faction of the Hoves, surprised it. It is a place that does every day augment, and grow bigger, by reason of the great resort of Shipping to its Harbour. There is made the best Beer in all Holland. When the Prince of Orange was in the Field, he did use to drink no other than Rotterdam-Beer. Some years ago there was an English man of War cast away in the Harbour; and since there has been spent a great deal of Money to get it up again, but all in vain.  
The great Erasmus, so well known, 〈…〉 his Learning and Books, was born 〈…〉 in 1467, and died at Fryburg in Alsatia; there is his Statue in Copper, upon the Bridge, with his Book in his hand. This Town is the next to Amsterdam for Trade; and here are to be met with, Ships for England, Scotland, France, Spain, and the Indies.   

CHAP. XV.  
Of the small Towns of Holland.  
WIthin half a league of Rotterdam, there is a pretty Burrough, called Delfs-haven; so named, because that the Duke Albert of Bavaria, in acknowledgement of the services he had received from those of Delft, granted them the liberty of making a Port from Overschia, a Village that is about half way between Delft and Rotterdam. The Inhabitants are most of them Seamen, and send o 〈…〉 very year great numbers of B 〈…〉 for the fishing of Herring. It's 〈◊〉 on is such, that with small cost it might be so fortified, as to be made impregnable. Upon the same River, a league off, is Schiedam, a famous Town for Fishing. Vlarding is hard by, a small Village, but formerly a strong Town; the Meuse being a little too near it, has devoured a great part of it. Masanluys is a fair Burrough, two leagues lower; the Inhabitants whereof are most Fishermen. They that take shipping at the Bril, go through this Burrow.  
Having crossed the Meuse, which is above a league broad in this place, you come to the Briel, which is at the mouth of the River, and all Ships that come from Rotterdam, pass before it. This Town was taken by onset by the Count of Lumay, in 1572. and it was the first place that the Water- Gueux took from the Spaniards; and here were laid the first foundations of that Commonwealth, which now flourishes in the Netherlands. The Town is populous, and the Territory fruitful in Wheat; but the Air is thick, and thence proceeds the extreme rudeness of its Inhabitants, a vice common to all Sea-Towns.  
But let us cross the Meuse again to go to the Hague; and in our way see St. Grave-sant, a place where formerly the Earls of Holland did use to keep their Court. The Country round about is very fruitful in Corn and Pasture-grounds. Here are made those green Cheeses which the Hollanders do so much value.  
Not far off is Hontslardick, where the last Prince of Orange of glorious memory built a most stately House, adorned with Walks and Galleries, and much visited by Strangers.  
Riisvick is another fair Village, where the said Prince has another House, in a very pleasant situation among the Meadows, and being full in the eyes of those that come from Delft. It is full of excellent Pictures of the best Masters of Europe. And now let us enter the Hague, the delicatest Burrow in the whole World, as all those that have seen any thing abroad, do willingly confess.   

CHAP. XVI.  
Of the Hague.  
THis place, which by the breadth of its Streets, the nobleness of its Buildings, the pleasant shade of its Trees, and the civility of its Inhabitants, may justly claim the title of the most pleasant place in the World, and make all men envy the happiness of those that live in it, has on Delft-side an extent of lovely Meadows; and on the other side over against them the sandy Hills, that keep in the Sea, which is but half a league distant from the Town. And upon the shore is Scheveling, which furnishes the Citizens' with fresh Fish.  
That side which is towards Leyden, is a great Wood of Oaks, where there is a Park full of Deer; the Earls of Holland did formerly reside here, and now the Prince of Orange does keep in it a most splendid Court. On one side o● this Wood is a great Pond, round about which of late are built many noble Houses. The Dozles make the corner; Prince William laid the first Stone of them himself. Behind the Court, over against the other corner, is a House built by Prince Maurice of Nassaw, in which are the Pictures of most of the Kings of Europe, with many rarities from America.  
The Voorhout, with the House towards the Prince's Palace, on the Ponds, make the finest part of the Hague. Here every evening are seen many Lords and Ladies taking the Air, some in their Coaches, and some afoot.  
The Jacobins Cloister is still called the Cloister-Church. There is another Church lately built in a round figure, and there is not a fairer outside in all the 17. Provinces; within there is never a Pillar, insomuch that the Minister in his Pulpit may be seen and heard by all those that are in the Church. The Chapel of the Earls of Holland is now the Fr●nch Church.  
There are two very fine Piazzaes', one before and the other behind the Prince's Palace, where all the Houses are like so many Palaces themselves; there live the Deputies of the State's General. The Towns have each of them built Houses for their Deputies; and that which is for Leyden, is to my liking the best, and most advantageously situated. The Ambassadors of Princes have also their Houses here.  
The Marketplace is before the great Church, which has a very high square Steeple, and may be seen a great way off. There is another fine Street, though not finished, called Le fosse du Prince; here live many Strangers, some for business, and others for their advantage. There are many French; they have a Quarter to themselves. Besides, there are many people of quality that keep their Coaches, and contribute much, to make the Court at the Hague one of the gloriousest Courts of the World.  
Now let us return to Leyden by the Wood, on the right hand of which is a very fair Castle, belonging to the Princess Dowager. From this Wood to a league within the Town 'tis all Sand, full of Rabbits and Coneys. And here we may admire the Hollanders industry, that digs and carries away the Sand, and makes a good arable ground.  
From Leyden to Werden there are six leagues, either upon a Bank, or by the Channel; and beyond the Sluice of Goude are Suamerdam and Bodegrave, the latter of which is one of the fairest Villages in all Holland.   

CHAP. XVII.  
Of Voerden.  
THis Town was built in 1374. by the Bishop of Utrect, to keep the Citizens of Utrect in awe. It has been the occasion of great Wars between these two Provinces; but at last by the conspiracy of Heman de Voerden with de Velsen, it was reduced under the Hollanders obedience. The Rhine goes through it, and in its Fauxbourgs are made great quantities of Bricks. There is a Castle formerly held impregnable, in which the Admiral of Arragon was kept prisoner a great while, after the Battle of Flanders.  
From Voerden we will turn our backs to Utrect, and our side to Montfort, and come to Undevater, and so follow the borders of the Province. This Town is upon Issel, within a league of Montfort; it is but little, but very pleasant. In 1579. it was taken and sacked by the Spaniards, to revenge the affront they had received before Leyden, and in payment of their arrears. From this place you may go to Goude, and by the Meuse to Rotterdam. All along the said River are nothing but fair Villages, and pleasant Country-houses.  
Now let us cross the River Lec, and see the Towns lying upon it. It is properly one of the Branches of the Rhine, upon which are situated Aulembourg, and Viane, a small Town which belongs to the Brederodes, and is not reckoned among the Towns of Holland. In it every thing is cheap, for there is little or no Excise paid, and all those that do break in Holland, may sow themselves here, and have a protection from the Lord of the place.  
There is in it a fair Castle, in which ordinarily Monsieur Brederode resides.  
Four leagues lower is Schoon-hoven, which takes its name from the beauty of its Gardens; for Schoon signifies fair, and Hoff Garden, or Court. Some by reason of its Harbour have called it Schoon-haff.  
The River is here very broad, and there are many Salmon and other delicate Fish taken in it. The Town is small, but very pleasant, and there are fine Walks about it.  
An Earl of Holland caused a Bank to be raised from Ameron to the said Town, in favour of the Bishop Otho.  
In the year 1424. the said Town was delivered to Jaequeline, Countess of Holland, by the treachery of the Citizens; but the Castle held out, though there were but a Garrison of 50. stout men in it: at last they yielded, and had all quarter and their liberties, except one Albert Beiling, whose virtue and loyalty is as much to be prized, as that of the Roman Regulus; for having obtained leave to go home and settle his Estate, and having given no other security than his Parole, he failed not upon the day appointed to come and render himself prisoner.  
Between L●c and Vahal there is another little River, called Lingue, upon which are three small Towns, which the curious will do well to see before they come to Gorcum.  
Asperen, a small Town upon the same River, which was anciently a Fee of the noble House of Arkel, as well as Heukelom. There was a very ancient Castle.  
Leerdam is in the middle of these two little Towns, and belonging to the same Family: it is almost square, and there are many Gardens. Frederick, Count Egmond, having married Mary, Daughter to the Lord of Arkel, was the first Earl of Leerdam. It belongs now to the Prince of Orange, for the Prince Philip, great Uncle to this Prince, had it from his Mother, Anna of Egmond.  
Gorcum is now one of the strongest places of the Low-countrieses, being regularly fortified according to the modern way. It is upon the Meuse, about five leagues above Dort. It was first built by a Gentleman of the House of Arkel, who had a fair Castle here. The River Lingue runs through it, and brings in all Commodities to the Inhabitants. This Town is one of the Keys of Holland, together with the strong Castle of Louvestein, situated a little higher, upon the confluence of the two Rivers. It is famous for having been the prison of many Arminian Ministers; and amongst others of that learned Hugo Grotius, who was since Ambassador from the King of Sweden to the King of France. He got out by a very witty stratagem, fled into Brabant, and from thence passed into France. He endeavoured at last to reconcile all minds about Religion; but the Politicians on one side, and the Churchmen on the other, frustrated his good intentions. He died at Rostoc in Ruckelbnrg, coming home, and his body lies buried at Delft.  
To go to Heusden you must go out of the limits, and pass by Bommel, though it be not altogether necessary, for there is another way. Bommel is an Island which defends Holland, and is about two leagues from Bosleduke, most admirably fortified.  
But let us come to Heusden, which is below Bosleduke, upon the Meuse, and let us consider it, not for the controversy, that is, whether it be of the Duchy of Brabant, or of Holland; but for its admirable Fortifications. It is environed with seven or eight Bastions, and some half Moons. This with the breadth of the River secures it from all danger, and Holland from all fear on that side.  
There is likewise a Fort in the Island of Hemert, upon the Vahal, which defends Heusden; a thing to be seen before you go down the River, and follow the borders of Brabant, upon which lies Voroum, a small Town, with four Bastions between Louvestein and Gorcum.  
This little place, with the Lordship of Altena, was sold to the States for 10000 pound, and is now a Rampart to the whole Province. All the Towns fronting upon Gueldres are very well fortified, and in a better Air than the Towns of Holland, as having better Waters; but they are much inferior in beauty, neatness, and riches.  
Iselstein is a small Town situated upon Yssel, which they of Utrect have often laid claim to, and there has been War between the Bishops of Utrect and the Earls of Holland for it; the place standing in a fruitful pleasant Soyl. It is rather long than square, and adorned with fine Gardens; the Prince of Orange is Lord of it. Now let us follow the Frontier of Brabant, to the West.  
As soon as you come out of the Lordship of Altena, you meet with the strong Town of Gertrudenbergue, divided from Holland by a great Lake that the Rhine and the Meuse make before Dort. It is almost a half Moon, of which two thirds are bathed with the Water of the Lake, and has excellent Bastions. Besides, there are Forts with Sluices, which can drown the rest of the ground which lies low.  
In the year 1321. the Castle was built; and a 100 year after both the Town and the Cathedral Church were both burnt down by those of Dort, who took it after a long siege. It belongs now to the Prince of Orange, having often changed Masters by the chance of War. There is taken before it great quantities of Salmon; but I have heard a Citizen relate, that in the time of the War their Fishing failed, because of the great noise of the Canonadoes, that frighted all the Fish away.  
To go from Gertrudenbergue by land to Clundert, you must leave Breda on the left hand, and pass by Sevenberg, a Lordship which depends on Brabant. Clundert has eight Bastions, and some Ravelins, and was first walled by Prince William the first, whose it was, and since fortified. It has a fine Church, and good Bells.  
Willemstradt is hard by, a Town which bears the name of its founder. It has seven Bastions, a double Ditch, and a fair Harbour. It has Brabant on the South, and Zeeland on the North, which seems to communicate to it something of the courseness of its Air; for here are bred Fevers, very hard to be cured, insomuch as those that have them seem as if they were bewitched. The Citizens of Leyden can testify it to their cost; for many of them were in Garrison there in the War time, and when they came home, some died, some lingered a great while, and in all, I know not above three that scaped being very sick.  
I have spoke of these little Towns, only for their Fortifications; let us now see the Islands that are over against Zeeland. The first is Overslac; you must land at Ol●rens Placed, a Village where the Fleet of Shallops was to have landed, 1631. In the said Island which is very fertile in Corn, is a fair Village, called Sommerdi●ke, the Lord of which was Governor of Nimmegue.  
At the end of this Island is another, in which is the Town of Gouree, the Harbour of which is now stopped up with Sand.  
Between Gouree and Helwetsluys there is a great depth of Water, where the greatest Ships may ride. Now we are come to the Island of Vorne, the chiefest place of which is the Briel, than Geeruliet, where there was a College of Canons; and Hueruliet, a fine place belonging to Mr. de Kerchove, high Huntsman of Holland. The rest of this Island which ends at Dort, is called Beyerland, and the other part Stryac, where there are many rich Villages, the best of which is Isselmond.   

CHAP. XVIII.  
Of the Towns that are in Goylant, near the South-Sea.  
WE have seen the borders of this Province towards Gueldres, Utrect, Brabant, and Zealand; we have now a journey to take Southeast, before we go directly North, to see three small Towns. From Amsterdam you go by Sea to Naerden, the chief Town of Goylant. It has been destroyed, and then built up again; the old foundations are yet to be seen in the South-Sea, when a certain Wind blows and drives out the Sea.  
The Citizens of this place acquired great reputation, by taking that Traitor Gerrard de Velsen, who was carrying the Earl Florent prisoner into England.  
In the year 1355. the second Town was built, and adorned with privileges by the Duke William of Bavaria.  
In 1481. they of Utrect having given the Hollanders a great overthrow, surprised the Town of Naerden by an ingenious stratagem; for they dressed a good number of young Soldiers like Countreywomen going to Market, who being let in, seized a Gate of the Town, and gave entrance to the enemies: the Citizens redeemed themselves from fire and sword by a great sum of money. But a little after they were revenged; for falling upon the Bishopric, they killed 1500. of their enemies upon the spot, and in memory of that advantage, built a high Tower, with this Inscription, Utrect hold thy peace.  
In 1486. the said Town was almost all burnt down; and this misfortune seemed to be a forerunner of that which befell them about a 100 years after: for Frederick, Son to the Duke of Alva, having taken Zutpheen, fell upon Naerden. The Citizens not expecting so sudden an alarm, were not so provident as to send Ambassadors to mediate for them; but seeing the Army at their Gates, surrendered their Town into the victor's hands, and trusted to his discretion and mercy: but he participating much of the cruel humour of his Father, commanded all the Inhabitants to be assembled in the public Marketplace, and there sent them Monks to confess them, and pronounce to them their sentence of death. The poor creatures who thought to have heard their pardon proclaimed, were immediately set upon by some Regiments, and cruelly slaughtered. This barbarous execution brought so great an odium upon the Spaniards, that it made the people of Leyden rather resolve to starve, than yield to the mercy of so cruel a Nation. That which is most remarkable too, is, that they were most of them Catholics; and I think it is from thence that comes that deriding Proverb in Holland, Art thou a Catholic, that is good for thy soul.  
Mude is hard by Naerden, upon the River Veckt, and at the mouth of the South-Sea. It is a little Town, which has a very ancient Castle, in which was kept prisoner the Count Florent.  
Hard by is Wesop upon the same River, famous for its good Beer, whereof much is brought to Leyden, where it is called, for its excellency, the Flemings Physic.  
All the Country from Amsterdam, taking by Voerden to Leyden, shut in by the Sea of Harlem, is very low; it is all Meadow, or Turf-ground; as also between Leyden, Goude, and Rotterdam, there are digged great quantities of Turfs: nay the Earth is so cut in many places, that it is inaccessible otherwise than by Boat, which is a Subject of great admiration to Strangers.  
The Boats that go in the nighttime from Leyderdorp to Amsterdam, pass through the Lake of Brassmermeere, and stay about two hours at a Village called Bilderdam; then in the morning they arrive at another called Ouderkerk, which is a league from Amsterdam. There are Wagons that go by land; and it is particularly the Earth of this Country that is observed to tremble and quake. When it has reigned, the ways are all drowned, and become like a Marsh.   

CHAP. XIX.  
Of the Lakes and Rivers.  
OF all the Rivers that come from Germany and Water-Holland, the chiefest is the Rhine, which divides into two branches; one retains the name of Rhine, and the other is called Vahal, and that receives the Meuse, which comes from Lorraine, and goes through the Town of Liege. These Rivers meet all before Gorcum, and flow gently into the Sea, near Dort and Rotterdam, making all the Islands we have spoke of. The Country lying low, there are abundance of Lakes, into which enter a great many Channels, made by Art. The greatest of these Lakes is Harlem-Lake, which begins to extend itself between Leyden and the Village of Kague, which stand in at Island at the mouth of the said Lake, into which the Boats enter here. Those Boats that go to Harlem, keep on the left hand, and they that go to Amsterdam, on the right, and pass by Alsemeer. This Lake is very broad, but not deep; between Harlem and Amsterdam it grows narrower, and is called Sprin●smeere: there is a Dike or Bank with prodigious Sluices, which are opened according as the Wind ●its, to let out some of the Water into the River Ye. Here the Harlem Boats stay, and the Passengers land, and see a fair House, built by the noble College of the Heemrades.  
On Amsterdam-side it grows still narrower, till you come to Overtom, a fair Village of the Jurisdiction of Harlem, which keeps the passage shut by a Dike, over which the Boats which go from Leyden to Amsterdam must pass, by the means of certain wooden Rulers, and other Instruments. This obstacle is to force the great Boats full of Merchandizes, to go by Harlem, to the profit of the said Town.  
This Lake before the Wars was not half so big; and I have heard old men say, that from their remembrance it had increased the compass of above four miles. Every year it eats away some of the Land that borders upon it, insomuch that the neighbouring Corporations have often met to consult about the draining of it, but as yet without effect. It would require above 500 miles, and the cost would amount to above 200000. pound; but the bottom being partly Veenes, and partly good Land, would sell well, and defray a good part of the expense.  
This Lake is very full of Fish, and breeds Eels of a prodigious bigness, as all ●●imy Waters do. But I shall not speak any more of this nor other Lakes, nor of the holes which the Country people make every day by digging up Turfs, which if at last by some rupture they should meet, would go near to drown all this lower Region, and swallow up these fine Meadows. Now let us go to North-Holland.   

CHAP. XX.  
North-Holland, commonly called West-Frieze.  
THis part is so called, because it has Holland on the South, and Friezeland on the East, from which it is divided by the South-Sea, which some Authors affirm to have been formerly so narrow, that it might have been passed over with a plank. This Country is likewise called Waterland, by reason of the many Lakes that it abounds with; some of them have been drained, viz. Beemster, Ziip, and Schermer, which are now rich grounds, where the chief Citizens of Amsterdam have Houses and Gardens. Every where here there are Dikes; that of Mede●bliike is made of a certain matter which the Sea casts up, this Element preparing thus a bridle to its own fury.  
This Country has on the North the Ocean and the Texel, and on the South the River Ye, and is joined to the South-part of Holland, by a small neck of Land on Harlem-side.  
This people drives a great Trade, by means of the Water they are environed with, which at the same time does so fortify them, as to secure them from all acts of hostility. They keep their old fashions and customs; and yet they are not so simple as they appear, but are indeed very sincere, and more to be believed upon their simple affirmative, than other Nations upon their oaths and blasphemies. The Women are equally chaste and fair, and often a young man shall sit a whole night by his Mistress, and never hold any discourse any ways offensive to her honour. They have most of them red Hair, and their locks guilded upon their foreheads. They wear not Handkerchiefs, but a velvet Whisk, with a golden Hook and Clasp. That which I think very undecent, is, that they wear their Petticoats so short, that they scarce come below their knees. The men wear plain Bands, square Beards, have a grave behaviour, and are of a strong complexion, and tall stature. All their business is Commerce, which they have with all the Northern Countries; and particularly Herrings are their great Commodity.  
Between Harlem and Alcmaer there is a pleasant Village, whither anciently people did use to go in pilgrimage. It is situated upon the Sea of Wiie; the bank that begins there is called St. Agaths' bank; and the other which goes to Sardam is called Assendelftdike. At Sardam are continually built great Ships for the Indies. But let us take our way to Alcmaer.   

CHAP. XXI.  
Of Alcmaer and Medenbliic.  
ALcmaer is not only one of the finest Towns of Holland, but also of all the Low-Countries, for the beautiousness of its Buildings, and the neatness of its Streets. The Wars that it maintained against the Friezelanders, bear witness of its antiquity.  
It is very rich, and has a great Trade. Many of its Inhabitants live pleasantly, having very fine Gardens, and a fine Country.  
In 1328. it was burnt; the Friezelanders have often besieged it: and in the year 1517. it was taken and plundered for eight days by those of Gueldres.  
The Earl Florent the fifth made a Dike to the very extremities of the Country, to hinder the Friezelanders incursions. There are fair marks to shoot at, for the exercise and diversion of the Citizens; and next to Leyden, it has the reputation of being the cleanliest Town in Holland. The Spaniards after the taking of Harlem laid siege to it, but in wain; they were forced to quit the Town, partly by reason of the ill Airs and partly because of the stout resist, ance made by the Townsmen. Thy Town is near the Schermer, the greatest Lake of this Septentrional part.  
At some leagues from Alcmaer upon the North-Sea-side, is the Hontbos, where there are monstrous Dikes, made in a most singular manner, to resist the fury of the Ocean, which here does most desperately threaten the ruin of all Holland. Therefore there is a double bank, that so in case one should break, the other might give the people time to repair the first. From thence you may go to the Texel, or take your way to Seay n by the Ziipe.  
Seayen is a great Village, situated in a fat Country, where Land is as dear again as in any part of Holland. There has been Trees, the Fruits of which have been sold for 10. pound in one year. It has a very large Marketplace. The Lords of Seayen are descended from the House of Bavaria. It is the midway between Alcmaer and Medenbliick.  
Medenbliick is an ancient Town; all Authors agree that it was formerly the Metropolis, before Horn and Enchusen were built. Some derive its name from the River Medem●lack, of which there remains no marks; neither is it probable that the famous Prince R●●lbold did live here.  
It was taken by the Kenemars in the year 1426. and in 1514. they of Gueldres burned it down to the ground. It has high and strong Dikes to keep out the South-Sea, for the Land lies a great deal lower than the Water. When there is a great storm, and that the Sea beats with that violence, that it does threaten the utter ruin of all that opposes it, the Inhabitants clap Sails all along between the Dike and the Water, and so hinder it from piercing into the body of the bank: a pretty invention, and to which they owe the safety of their whole Country. There is an old Castle which some suspect to have been the Palace of the Princes of Friezeland. Here live most of your Wood-Merchants, that drive a great Trade to Norway, and in the North. Let us follow the Seaside, and come to Enchusen.   

CHAP. XXII.  
Of Enchusen.  
THis Town is environed on three parts by the Sea. It is like a halfmoon, and makes a point or neck of Land, which advances into the Zuyderzee. It is said that in 1394. Albert, Earl of Holland, set sail from hence with a Fleet of 300. Boats, to transport his Army into Friezeland; an argument that then it was a famous Port. 'Tis true, that as time changes all things, so has it done this Harbour; for now the Sands that are got into the mouth of it, do much hinder the entrance of great Ships; yet are there often built here great Ships for the Indies, and great Fleets do sail from hence to the Baltic Seas.  
It was not yet walled when it was burnt by John of Arkel, and Nicholas Putene in 1279. In 1426. it was assaulted by the Kenemars; and the same year, some Soldiers of the Countess Jacqueline, coming in upon a sudden, surprised about a 100 of the principal Citizens at dinner, and cut off all their Heads; a barbarous action, which does come near the cruelty of our Age.  
In 1514. a part of the Rampart, and many Houses, were destroyed by an Inundation.  
1537. the Gueldrese having denounced War to Holland, had like to have surprised the said Town; but the Water being low, they failed of their design.  
This was the first Town that revolted from the Spaniards in North-Holland. In the year 1591. the Town was enlarged, and it now drives a great Trade in Herrring and Saltfish. It has strong Dikes, and it needs them, being built upon the Sea; which is the reason why it has no good Water to drink, the Country lying so low. By the complaints of its Inhabitants we perceive that it decays in Trade, and has formerly had a greater Commerce, which appears by many empty Houses.  
There is a very good Alms-house; and the Steeple is considerable for its height, being built in so moorish a soft ground. These three Towns, Enchusen, Horn, and Medenbliick, have equally, but successively, the privilege of coining Money, each for the space of seven years, and then they begin again. Horn now calls upon us to admire its beauty and Trade, with the convenience of its Harbour.   

CHAP. XXIII.  
Of Horn, and the small Towns of North-Holland.  
THis Town is the second of North-Holland. It is built upon the South-Sea, and has the best Harbour of all that Coast. There was in this Town a famous Faction of the Kennemars; but they were routed by the Citizens after a long combat. They took likewise the Fleet of the Osserlins, by the help of those of Enchuse, and so ended that troublesome War in 1441.  
In 1557. the Dikes being broke, so much Water got into the Town, as had like to have drowned it; but by the industry of the Inhabitants, the banks were soon repaired again.  
There is but a little arm of the Sea to be passed to come to Edam, two leagues from Horn. It is a small Town, built triangular-wise upon the River of Ye, in the fattest part of Holland. Here is made the best Holland Cheese with red Rind, so much sought after by all Nations; and indeed it yields not to the Parmesan.  
In the year 1430. we find in our Annals, that the D●kes being broke, and having overflowed the Meadows, some Maids of Edam were in a Boat, going to milk the Cows at Purmerend, and it being low Water, they perceived a Sea-Nymph in the Mud; they were at first frighted, but at last taking courage, drew nearer, got her into their Boat, and brought her to Edam, where she was washed and clothed; she did eat our diet, and had learned to spin; but still her instinct did carry her to her natural Element, the Water, in which she did much delight: they could never teach her to speak. She was transported to Harlem, where she lived many years. A certain Author says, that they had infused some knowledge of God into her, and that she did use to bow before the Crucifix.  
Monickendam is hard by Edam, upon the River Monic, which signifies Monk, and it has for Arms, a Monk. The Town is very little, and situated upon the Seaside. In 1426. it was taken by the Kenemars. It has been twice burnt down all, except the Church, and the Carmelites Monastery.  
Purmerend was walled in the Wars, 1573. There is a C 〈…〉 e which did belong to the House of ●gmond; but it has been bought by the States in 1590.  
North-Holland is almost quite environed with Water, and joined to the rest of Holland by a neck of Land, from Bevervic to Vic, about a league broad. This small Province which is not in all above 20. leagues in compass, deserves that Strangers should take the pains to come to it, if it be but to see those prodigious Dikes and Banks, which preserve the Country from an infallible Inundation.  
There are three or four little Islands in the South-Sea, besides the Texel, the Ulic, and some others, that are towards Friezeland, and do break the first fury of the North-Sea. But we will leave them, to return to Leyden by the Honsbos; and having once again admired the Dikes, go afoot by that lovely sandy shore, which is from the Honsbos to Beeve, a sandy mountain at the mouth of the Meuse, for the space of 24. leagues. It is the finest way in the world; for on one side are the high sandy Hills, and on the other the Sea, which is not deep near the sh●re; insomuch that in calm Wether one may go in a great way without being ●ut to swim: and it is upon this s 〈…〉 re that most Ships are forced to run, when they cannot in a storm get out to Sea; particularly in Winter, when the nights are dark and long.  
When a Ship is thus cast away, and some body escapes, the Goods aboard here are preserved for the owners; but if all be drowned, than what the Sea casts up belongs to the Country. It happens often likewise that after a great storm, a sort of Whales called by the Inhabitants, Potwisch, are found sticking upon these Sands; these likewise belong to the County: and I saw one that was sold for 50. pounds; they make Oil of the Flesh, and use the Bones for other uses. The Sea likewise does cast up great quantities of Cockle shells, which are gathered to make a sort of Quicklime, much whiter than that of France, but not so good to make Mortar with. Sometimes there are some very fine sorts of Shells, but seldom; for those which are kept as rarities, come most from the Indies.  
You may see in your way Egmond, a Village, from which came the noble Family of Egmond. All these sandy Hills, from the Honsbos to Beer, are full of Rabbits, which you may see in thousands; it is forbidden to kill or take any of them, under a certain Fine; and to hunt them, you must have leave from the high Huntsman of Holland, or be one of the Nobles of the Country. There you may see Eagles, that endeavour to prey upon the Coneys.  
The Peasants hard by have a pretty way of catching them undiscovered, which is, that in Winter the poor Beasts finding no green thing upon the ground to eat, all being covered with Snow, draw near the Houses, in most of which there is a little hole that goes into the Cellar, in which are green Cabbage-leaves; the Rabbits emboldened by hunger, creep in by a board set there on purpose, and no sooner are they entered, but the Peasant pulls away the board, and the Rabbit falls into the Cellar. But the Peasant does not brag of his good fortune, nor invite his Neighbours to the good cheer.  
These Du●es, or sandy Mountains, are full of physical Herbs, which the Students of Leyden do much seek after, particularly in the Springtime, in the company of their Professors; and such Plants as cannot endure the cold, are transplanted into a Gallery which looks to the South, in which are three Stoves, for their conservation all Winter long. This Academy has also another Gallery, in which are many curiosities, as Pagan's Idols, Indian Serpents skins, little Chips, and clothes and Shoes of the Indians. The Gardener gives to the curious a little Paper, in which is contained the explication of all these; and the Bookbinders sell a little Book, in which are all the names of the Plants that are in the said Garden.  
This Academy was formerly a Nunnery, out of which the Nuns being driven by the great revolution of Europe for Religion, had each of them a small Prebendary for their life assigned to them; and I remember two that did use to come from Boyslednke to Leyden, to receive their Salary.  
In the Divinity-School are kept all public acts, and all Degrees are taken. They that take them publicly are honoured with the Magistrates Presents, who ordinarily send them in some Presents of Wine, after the custom of Germany; then they make a Feast to the Professors, and are very merry. They that cannot afford to be at so much charge, are received privately, and under the Chimney, as the Proverb says. The Commencements are ordinarily in Summer, about the Dog-days.  
Upon the said Academy is built a high Tower, on purpose for Astronomers to make observations. There are likewise many rare Instruments of a new invention, serving to the same end; here being excellent Professors in all the parts of the Mathematics.  
The Prince's House is upon the Rappe●bourg, and has a fine square Court, with a Garden. It was a religious House for Women, who 'tis said had purchased the place the House stands on with spinning. The lower part of the Church is a magazine for Ammunition, and the upper a Storehouse for Corn. This I have added, as omitted in the first Description of Leyden, with which I have perfected my intended Account of the Cities, Towns, and Villages in Holland. Now I will say something of their Religion.   

CHAP. XXIV.  
Of the different Religions in Holland.  
I Will not here undertake to dispute, which is the best of all those Religions that are here tolerated, knowing that it is too ticklish a matter to be handled, without giving offence to some body. I shall only relate barely, how many sorts of Religions there are within the limits of the United Provinces.  
They being at their first revolt opposite to Spain in all things: resolved to give as much liberty as that King would deny, and to tolerate all Religions, because he would suffer but one. In order to this, the State thriving in their Wars, took upon them to drive out the Priests, Monks, and Nuns, as so many Emissaries of Rome, and stiff maintainers of one only Religion. The chief Model and Reformation was made according to the Churches of Geneva, and the high Palatinate; and to this day they that pretend to any Charge or Office, must be of this Religion, if they desire to be admitted.  
They that follow the Doctrine of Martin Luther, have all freedom in Holland, and liberty to build Churches among the Houses, to distinguish them from the other Reformed. The Anabaptists have likewise theirs, and are divided into divers Sects. They that have the great Assembly are called Drec Wagens. And I will say this to their praise, that in their Meetings they expound Scripture, without making any invectives, or railing upon any body else.  
In the beginning those of the Reformed Religion in Holland, were called Geux, or Beggars; as in France, Huguenots, a name which the vulgar yet retain with joy, bragging, that they were neither Papists nor Martinists, but Geux. This was the occasion of their being thus named: In the beginning of the troubles, 500 Gentlemen being come to Brussels, to present a Petition to the Princess of Parma, then Governant, came of a sudden into her Palace; she being at the Window, talking with the Earl of Varlemont, was frighted with so sudden and so great an appearance, and asked him if he knew what it meant; who answered, Madam, Do not trouble yourself, they are but Beggars; Ce ne sout que des Geux. This being told these Gentlemen at Supper, they all agreed to dress themselves in Beggars Cloaks, and take wooden Dishes in their Hands, with this Motto, We are all the Kings faithful Servants, even to Beggary.  
We must not forget the Arminians, who have made a Schism among the Reformed about Predestination. The Gomarists or Counter-Remonstrants opposed the said Articles of Predestination; they were thus named from their two Heads, who were both professors of Divinity in Leyden, Arminius and Gomarius. Their Division had such influence among the people, that the Towns did already beg●n to take in Garrisons, to maintain each their opinion by force. Prince Maurice by the Order of the States applied a remedy to these Disorders. Barnevelt was taken and beheaded, some Magistrates of Towns deposed, and many Ministers of the Arminians imprisoned, their Doctrine being condemned by the Synod of Dort.  
But the Arminians have never been at quiet, till they have obtained a free exercise through most Towns of Holland, as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and the Hague itself, but not at Harlem, nor Leyden; in the last of which places, they have often met in the open Streets, sung their Psalms, and preached, but have still been disturbed by the Magistrate. At last seeing they could not gain a Church in the Town, they have been glad to obtain leave to meet at Warmont, a Village hard by it, which the Lord of the place has willingly granted, for the benefit that arises to his Village by it.  
The Jews are publicly tolerated, and have their Synagogues in Amsterdam.  
The Catholics are the only excluded from this liberty, though they be in great numbers, and most of them natural Hollanders, whose Ancestors have contributed both their bloods and money, to the driving out of the Spaniards; but all that is forgotten, and they enjoy nothing but a liberty of conscience, in which they rest quietly. Many Politicians of our Age have thought, that the reason why they are thus kept under, was, because the King of Spain, the professed enemy of the States, was of their Religion; and that if peace were once concluded, there would be more indulgence showed. But I think our Politicians mistaken in their conjecture, and do rather look upon the Hollanders, as people that have imitated the Romans; who having once driven out the Tarquins, and tasted the sweetness of liberty, did not spare Collatine himself, who had been one of the great opposers of tyranny, not because there was cause, but because he was of the Royal Race. So I do not dispute, whether the Papists have given Subject to distrust them; but I say, they have given occasion to fear them, because they are of our enemy's Religion. 'Tis true, that in some Towns, where the memory of the actions performed by the Catholics, in order to the public liberty, is yet preserved, they have the freedom of meeting in private Houses. The Country people do persevere very constantly in the said Religion, and are not so constrained as in the Towns, though they are derided by all Sects whatsoever.  
Their Ceremonies in Burying are the same all over Holland; and since 'ta Religious Worship, we shall here describe the form of it.  
The Catholics and Lutherans suffer not their Dead to be buried any where, but in Churches and Churchyards. The Reformed are not so scrupulous, and say, that one Earth is not holier than another, neither do they use much Ceremony.  
As soon as the person is dead, the Neighbours sew the Body up in a Winding-sheet, and they are treated with a Collation, and a Cup of Sack; then they make a Note of the names of those they intent to invite. The day appointed being come, they meet about Two of the Clock in the Afternoon, in the House of the deceased; there their names are called over, and they go out two by two, the Kindred next the Body, and the Friends after them, every one according to his quality. The Body being buried, they come back to the House, where he that goes first invites the company in; then they are presented with Wine, and every one drinks as much as he pleases, and goes away when he thinks fit. The richer sort are buried in the Church, and the company has Rhenish Wine given them. The poor give Beer.  
The young Men and Maids are carried by young people. The Body is all covered with Flowers, and the Bearers have a branch of Laurel or Rosemary in their Hand. If it be a person of quality, all the Bearers are presented with a sum of Money, which they go and spend in a treating-House. There is always a certain sum to be given to the purse of the Neighbourhood. And such as have not a burying place in the Church, must pay very dear for it, if they intent to have one. They for whom the biggest Bell rings, pay ●0. shillings at least. The Papists are very observant of that Ceremony; but the Reformed laugh at it, as a piece of Superstition, and instituted for the Church's profit. However these Bury without Prayers or Ceremony, cost as much as the Obsequies of the Catholics in France. After the burying of a Professor, there is a Speech made in honour of him. If the Body be not in the Church at half an hour past two, there is a Fine of 20. shillings to be paid; if it be not there till after three, then there is the double due.  
Some are so ill-bred, as to drink themselves drunk at these Bury; and when they go home in their long Cloaks, you shall find them in the mire; but the people of quality come not to that extremity, but after two or three Glasses of Wine, return quietly.  
Besides all these Religions, there is a certain Assembly held at Rinsbourg, ten or twelve times a year, where every one that will has the liberty of making an Exhortation; it is called the Assembly of the free-minded. There are many others that sit at home reading the Scripture, and never come to any Church, except it be out of curiosity. The Arianism has those that profess it. In a word, any body may follow his own opinion, but not profess it with a public Worship. There are Atheists enough too.   

CHAP. XXV.  
Of the Nobility.  
HOlland has for Arms a— with this Motto, for Liberty. It is observable, that almost all the Provinces of the Low-Countries have a Lion for their Arms; which made Charles their Duke desirous to make one Kingdom of them, called the Kingdom of the Lion; but while he was adding to it Lorraine and the Swissers, he died, and left the title of Duke only to his Successors.  
The Emperor Charl●s the fifth had the same design; but he met with so much opposition in the privileges, and the diversity of humours and tongues in the different Provinces, that he was fain to give over the design of it; he being besides busied with continual Wars.  
There are also many Gentlemen in the Low-Countries, that bear a Lion in their Coat. But since my design is only to speak of Holland, I shall mention no other than the Nobility of that Province, as well to publish their antiquity, as to stop the mouths of some Strangers, who either by an absurd ignorance, or maliciously, do publish that there are no Gentlemen in Holland. 'Tis true, that the length of the Civil Wars has been the death of many of that courageous Nobility, who seeking Honour have died in the bed of it, and so some Families of ancient extract are quite extinguished. But there are yet many remaining, who may contend for antiquity and splendour with most Families in Europe.  
'Tis commonly said, that the Italian Nobility do not scruple to trade. The French indeed are nicer, and think it a degenerating from their birth; yet do they not make any difficulty of marrying a Citizen's Daughter, if she be rich, and can by her means repair the lustre of their decayed Nobility.  
But the Germans do not only abhor Traffic, but think it a greater baseness, to mingle their blood with one meanly born.  
The Hollanders seem to be in the middle between these extremes.  
For first, The Dutch Nobility does not trade. They love War, for the defence of their Country; are not Duelists, nor quarrelsome, like the French; love Learning, particularly the Mathematics; live pleasantly in their Country-houses; and may without degenerating marry whom they please.  
The Gentlemen in Holland have always enjoyed great privileges; for the ancient Earls did never undertake any thing without their advice, as it is now observed in Denmark and Poland.  
The three principal Families are the Brederodes, the Wassenaers, and the Egmonds; of whom the Proverb is,  

The Noble Brederodes.  
The Ancient Wassenaers.  
The Rich Egmonds.   
The Brederodes are descended from the Earls of Holland; and the Story is, that Sitfrid, the youngest Son of Arnold of Ghent, and Grandson to Didier, second Earl of Holland, being fallen under his Father's indignation and hatred, was afterwards pardoned; and ●he Earl to show his kindness and reconciliation, caused Land to be measured out to him with larger Roods: thence he was called Brederode; and from him is descended this Family, by his eldest Son Didier; and from his younger, Simon, Lord of Teling, are descended the Lords of Toll and Lecke.  
The Wassenaers fetch their origine from a Village between Leyden and the Hague; and their name is derived from the right they had in former Ages to the Waters, Ponds, and Lakes, in Holland. They pretend to be descended from that famous Captain, Claudius Civilis, of whom Tacitus makes honourable mention. They have been Burg-graves of Leyden, and are yet highly esteemed. From them are descended the Duvenvords, the Warmonts, the Bouchorts, the Polanes, the Matenesses, all the Flower of the Dutch Nobility.  
They that represent the Nobility of Holland in the State's General, are these following; whereof some are dead:  
John Wolfard, Lord of Brederode and Viane.  
John de Wassenaer, Lord of Duvenvord, etc.  
Vesele de Boteselaer, Lord of Asperen, etc.  
James of Wingarde, Lord of Benthuise, Soctemeer, etc.  
Albert de Scagen, Baron of Scagen, Harengbuisen, etc.  
James of Wassenaer, and Duvenvord, Lord of Warmont.  
Henry de Raphorst, Lord of Raphorst, etc.  
James de Mateness, Lord of Mateness, Rivier, Opmeer, etc.  
Francis Arsen, Knight, Lord of Sommersdiick.  
Besides these, there are divers other Families, as those of Arquel, Kenembourg, Haserson, Alquemade, Opdam, Gaudriaen, Sevenhuysen, Vanderlaen, Benthuse, Asmal, etc. who are all by Alphabetical order, in the Book entitled, The Theatre of the Towns and County of Holland, by the Learned Monsieur Boxhorne; together with the noble actions of their Ancestors.   

CHAP. XXVI.  
Of Liberty.  
THere is no Province in the World, where the Inhabitants enjoy more liberty, than in Holland. Nay, as soon as any Slave coming from a foreign Country, sets his foot upon the Dutch shore, he is free. The Gentlemen are Princes and Fathers of their Families. The Country people when they have paid their Rents, are as free as the Citizens. If a Gentleman abuse or kill any of them, he is in great danger of losing his life, if the crime deserve it. Here is no partiality; and let every one know, that the Laws are here in their force.  
The Magistrates are bound to maintain the Citizen's Privileges, and preserve them from all Oppression. The Masters may not beat their Servants, nor the Mistresses their Maids. But above all, every one is Master at home; and it is a capital offence to offer violence to a man in his own House.  
One may travel freely through all Holland, by day and by night, without fear of being robbed. Highway men are never pardoned; Thiefs are sometimes, but not those among them that break into Houses, or steal Sheep in the Pasture-grounds.  
No body is forced to stay here any longer than he thinks fit. Here is liberty of Conscience, and no body is forced to go to the Protestant Churches. The liberty of speaking freely, even of Magistrates themselves, is too great; and that which elsewhere would be a crime, is here laughed at.  
The Germane Students, I remember, were once about to set up a custom, which is in use in most of the Germane Universities, by which the new comers are very ill treated for the first year; but the Magistrates opposed it, and threatened all those that should go about to introduce such a slavery, in a free Country.  
Here are never made any Rules about what people ought to wear; every one wears what he pleases. Nay any body may transport as much Gold and Silver as he pleases, and no body shall hinder him, as they do in England, and France. In a word, all that is reasonable, is lawful.  
They that say that the Nobility are not respected in Holland, are very much mistaken. For those amongst them that do govern themselves with moderation, and are familiar with their Inferiors, are infinitely beloved; but the proud and haughty are despised and hated.  
Here is the greatest Equality in the World. It is ordinary to hear a mean Fellow in a dispute with a Citizen, say, I am as much as you; if you be richer than I, 'tis well for you. But the wiser sort avoid such quarrels, as it is easy to do, by keeping a fit distance between them and the common people.  
Certainly when I do reflect upon the miserable condition of some Christians in Europe; as of the Peasants in Lytuania, and almost all over Poland, where the Lords have the power of hanging them, when they run away from their tyranny; in Bohemia, and some other places of Germany; in Denmark, and Sweden, where the Gentlemen do ●ighly abuse the Commons; I cannot choose but cry out, O happy Holland, that hast preserved that precious jewel of Liberty; preserve it well, for with its loss, goes that of thy happiness!   

CHAP. XXVII.  
Of some Voyages undertaken under the Banner of Holland.  
I Do not intend to speak here of the ordinary Trade that is driven by Shipping, to the Northern parts of the World; nor of that which is carried on in England, France, Spain, Italy, Germany, etc.  
My design is to speak of those Voyages undertaken within these threescore years to the Indies, which were undertaken upon this occasion:  
The King of Spain having seized upon, and confiscated some Ships belonging to the Hollanders, that did trade in his Ports, which were then the Mart of Europe, for the East-India Merchandizes, made some Merchants resolve to set out a Fleet of eight Sail for the Indies; whereof four were to go the long way, and four others to go by the North, and endeavour to find out a passage to China, by the North-Sea; it being the shorter way to the Indies by half in half.  
These four last set sail from the Texel the fifth of June, 1594. and the eighteenth they came to Kildus in Lapland; and some time after they discovered the Island of Nova Zembla, between mountains of Ice.  
In this journey they met no Pirates nor enemies, but great white fierce Bears, which would follow them upon the land, and in the Sea; as one particularly did, for leaping into the Sea, to follow their long Boat which they had ma●●d out, they shot him, and hurt him; but he nevertheless following still, they threw a Rope about his neck, thinking to carry him away alive after them to Austerdam; nevertheless this furious Beast had the force to leap with his two fore-feets upon the Boat, and so frighted the Seamen, that they were all ready to leap into the Sea, had not the Rope by good luck entangled itself about the Rudder; whereupon one run him through with a Pike, and killed him.  
They met besides with a sort of great Fish, as big as Oxen, called Valres; their Head is like an Ox's, and they have two Teeth that come out like Boars Tusks.  
At last seeing the season of the year far spent, they went back, and some days after met with the other Ships which had left them, and learned from them that they had been in the Tartarian Ocean, which they had found full of Whales. That they had landed, and discovered a Cross upon a Mountain, near which they had found some Sacks of Meal, and something written upon the Cross in Russian Characters. At last they all arrived at Amsterdam in September, having been hindered by the Ice to go any further.  
The chief of these was one William Barenson, who having made the recital of their journey, there was a second Voyage resolved of, under the conduct of the said William; but they met with the same obstacles again, though it were in August. They met with a Shallop laden with Barks of Trees, and Geese, and such other Merchandizes, which waited for the Russian Fleet, which every year goes that way. They that were in the Bark did say, that within a few days the Sea would be so frozen, as that one might go over the Ice into Tartary. The Hollanders invited them aboard, and presented them with Butter and Cheese, which they refused, saying, it was fasting-day, but took some Herrings. Having left them, and seen the Country of the Samoctes, which they found to be a barbarous people, wearing Buff-skins, they steered their course to the State's Island, a place which they found full of Hares, whereof they made provision. Some passed into the Continent, not far from the Island, and there a furious Bear killed two, and routed all the rest of the company, though twenty in number, and well armed with Pikes; at last with succour from the Ship, the Bear was killed. After which they set sail for Holland, running much hazard in the Ice, but arrived without any other loss than of those two men.  
The small success of this Voyage, could not discourage the undertakers from venturing once more, under the conduct of the same William Barenson, to whose Ship James Heemskerke was aded, as Commissary. Two Ships set sail the eighteenth of May, and met with the first Ice the fifth of June. They sailed up and down till the eighteenth, without being able to meet with any passage. Wherefore one returned into Holland; Barenson having steered to Nova Zembla, and endeavouring to leave it behind him, was surprised by the Ice, and his Ship frozen up. In this extremity, some having landed, found abundance of Timber, about a league within the shore; with that they built a little House, which they covered with the Board's of their Ship, and had Wood enough left to make fire with. The Sun forsook them quite from the fourth of November, to the twenty fourth of January. Till the Sun forsook them, the Bears tormented them; but they had great relief by a sort of Foxes which they did use to catch and roast, and make warm Caps of their Skins. Their Beer and their Sack being frozen, they were fain to break them with an Axe, and thaw them upon the fire; and when their Beer was spent, they were fain to melt the Snow, and drink it. At last the Sun came again, but with him the Bears, who did persecute so as they were not able to stir out; of them they killed many, and used their fat in stead of Oil to burn in Lamps. Twelfth-day being come, they resolved to be merry, and choose King and Queen, making their King, King of Nova Zembla, and the Islands about it. After some time they begun to think of returning home, not in their Ship, for that they could not stir; but in their Boat, which with much ado they fitted up, and set sail the fifteenth of June, among shoals of Ice, the Bears still following them upon the Ice, and into the Sea. The f 〈…〉 h of July they came to the Cross Island, and the eighteenth they met with two Russian Boats, who gave them some refreshments, and at last they came to Amsterdam, in October, 1597. having lost Barenson, and four more.   

CHAP. XXVIII.  
Containing divers Curiosities.  
IN the general recital of so many delicious Wonders, we have it may be omitted some, which we here add by way of Supplement.  
North-Holland had formerly a great Lake, near Purmerend, which has been drained with great pains and charges; it is now a most fertile spot of ground, about 20. mile in compass. The Cattle there is the biggest and fattest of all the Low-Countries.  
It is confidently reported, that in the general contribution of the Provinces towards the War, Holland gives 57 in a 100 and Amsterdam alone gives above 27. of the 57 from whence may be inferred, what are the riches of that Town. The revenue of the said City comes to above 4000 pound a day, according to the Treatise that has been Printed of it. This year, 1650. the Excise of Beer, Meat, and Corn, being farmed out to them that bid most, was let at a 150000. pounds. Besides these, there is the Wine-Excise, the Taxes upon Houses, the eighth penny, and a thousand others.  
There is a Square-house before the Townhouse, where all things are weighed; it yields above 10000 pound a year.  
There is a Glass-house, in which Chrystall-Glasses are made, not inferior to Venice-Glasses; as also excellent Looking Glasses, which do attract all men's admiration.  
The Rhetoricians or Po●ts-house deserves to be remembered, it being a laudable custom, practised almost all over the Low Countries; which is, that people given to Poetry have a House at Amsterdam, where they may represent Plays. They are distinguished into different Chambers, and make Aenigmes, which if unridled carry a prize with them for the Oedipus.  
I shall end by the public Library, to show that our Merchants have not forgot Learning, amongst the hurry and noise of their Trade.  
It is hard by the South Church, and very well stored with all sorts of curious Books. The Epigram that is at the Door gives people warning how they are to behave themselves, when they are within.  
There is added to it a Physick-Garden, which increases every day, by the care that the Magistrates take to furnish it with rare Plants, at great charges.  
But let us leave Amsterdam, for fear we lose ourselves in the confusion of so many remarkable things; and come and rest ourselves at Leyden, the Garden of Holland. Our nearest way will be by the Lake of Harlem, for with a fair Wind we may arrive in four hours; but if the Wind be contrary, we may go by Harlem in two hours by the Channel, and then take a Chariot for six and twenty pence, which will carry us in two hours more to Leyden. When the Wind is strong, and contrary, the way by the Sea of Harlem is troublesome, for it makes those sick that have often been upon the Sea without inconvenience; and though in many places it has not above six foot Water, yet not long ago a Boat with Passengers was overturned, and they drowned.  
Though there be many tempests and storms upon it, yet within this 25 years I do not remember any ill accident but this I have now mentioned; and that great misfortune which befell the unfortunate Queen of Bohemia, when she received the terrible news, how the King her Husband had saved himself with swimming, but that her eldest Son was drowned in this unmerciful Element.  
The King had left Harlem in November, 1629. towards the evening; the night proved very dark and tempestuous, and the Lake much agitated by great Winds, when unfortunately in the obscurity, another Boat fell foul of his, and sunk it immediately. The poor young Prince was heard to cry out, Ab Sir, dear Father, pray save me! but all in vain, for the darkness of the night hindering the distinguishing of objects, it was impossible to relieve him, and so he perished in the flower of his youth, to the unspeakable affliction of all that were acquainted with his forwardness in all Arts and Sciences.  
The two famous Cities of Holland are Leyden and Amsterdam; one is the Market of all foreign Commodities, and the other of Manufactures of all sorts. Neither is there any City that has so great a Revenue, next to Amsterdam, as Leyden, as it appears by the last years Excise only upon Beer, Corn, and Cattle, which came to 50000. pound.  
There is wanting to Leyden a good Harbour to the Sea, without passing by other Towns, and it has been proposed to make one at Caetvic, which is but two leagues from it. Nay, the Mathematicians and Engineers having been advised with, do say the thing is feasible; others say that it cannot be, and that either the Sea would choke up the Harbour with Sand, or it may be if let in, drown all the Country. To which it is answered, that the securest way would be to go by Wass●naer, and make the overture between two Mountains: but this design is now buried in oblivion. Being one day in the company of a Mathematician at Catvic, he told me, that the Sea being calm is about half a foot higher than the Meadows about Leyden; so that if in the Springtides, or a storm, the Sea should make way through those Mountains of Sand, infallibly the Country would be all lost.  
The most dangerous Wind for Holland is a North-West-Winde, towards the Equinox, with a storm; but God Almighty by his providence hinders these three so dangerous enemies, from assailing us all at one time.  
Holland is so populous, that you can hardly go a stones cast without meeting with Houses or Villages.  
The Hollanders Diversions are these: In Summer a Citizen shall hire a Boat for himself and his Family, to go and eat freshwater Fish. In Winter he shall hire a Sledge upon the Ice. They are not given to gaming at Dice or Cards, but will play at Bowls and Tables. They are not quarrelsome, nor apt to strike, but will scold and call one another all to naught, before they come to blows.  
Towards Autumn, and in Winter, the Students pastime is to go and shoot at the wilde-Ducks and Geese; and if they shoot at the Countrey-peoples', as they will often out of roguery, then follows a scuffle, in which the weakest goes to the Wall.  
Their industry is most admirable for inventing, and improving other people's inventions, witness Printing, and Telescope-Glasses. The Art of Navigation is better understood here than in any place of the World: so is Fortification, and all military Discipline; in so much that a Low-country Soldier, when he comes to another Kingdom is presently made much of, and advanced. The Hollanders are the best in the World at Draining, witness what they have done in England and France, at Bourdeaux, and in Brittany.  
But their Fishing is a thing which in ●ll manners deserves admiration. But they have one odd diverting way of it, which I shall here relate.  
There are three Islands which serve as a bar to the Ocean: The first is the Texel, where are made excellent Cheeses. The second is the Ulic, where are taken great quantities of Muscles. The third is Schelling, the Inhabitants of which last are much given to Fishing, and the way that they use to catch the Fish, which they call a Sea-Dog, is very pleasant. They disguise themselves like Beasts, and at certain hours that these Fishes are used to come out upon the shore, they leap and dance before them, and by a thousand antic tricks make them follow them, and leave the shore: in the mean time those that are in Ambushcade set their Nets; then the dancers throw off their Masks, and taking their humane shape upon them, come upon the poor Seadogs, who endeavouring to regain the Sea are entangled in the Nets, and made a prey to those that had diverted them.  
The Hollanders transport saltfish all the World over.  
There is not any season in the year that does not produce some particular pleasure. For what is more pleasant, than to see the Meadows covered with Flowers all the Spring and Summer. Autumn produces an abundance of Fruits. The Winter is more pleasant here than any where else; for in so sad a season, the diversion of the frozen Channels, full of people, sliding upon them, is no small one. Wood is not dear here; and you shall have more for 10. pound at Amsterdam, than at Paris for 15. If the Water be not to be drunk, in recompense there is very good ●eer to be had. 'Tis true, that the Winds and the Rain are very frequent, by reason of the Neighbourhood of the Sea; but the inconvenience is recompensed by the convenience of travelling; for if the ways be broke and bad, you may go by Water. A Merchant never misses of an opportunity of transporting himself and his Goods, the Channels being loaded night and day with an infinite number of Boats.  
But as there is nothing absolutely perfect, Holland has its Clouds, its north-winds, its Rains, and its foggy Mists, which do much bate of the beauty and pleasantness of this famed and renowned Province.   

The Treaty of Peace Concluded the thirtieth of January, of the present year, 1648. in the Town of Munster in Westphalia, between the most Illustrious and most Potent Prince, Philip the fourth, King of Spain, etc. on one side, and the High and Mighty Lords, the State's General, of the United Provinces of the Low-Countries, on the other.  
IN the Name of God. Be it known to all, that after the bloody Wars, that have for so many years afflicted the people, and Subjects, of the obedience of the King of Spain, and the State's General; they the said King and States being moved with Christian compassion, and being desirous to put an end to all the calamities, and deplorable consequences, which the farther continuance of the Wars of the said Low-Countries might produce, and to change them into the rest and tranquillity of a firm peace, have, to compass so good an end, Deputed and Commissioned fit persons on both sides, viz. on the side of the said Don Philip the fourth, King of Spain, Don Gaspar de Bracamonte, Y de Guzman, Count of Pigneranda, Lord of Aldea seca de la Frontera, Knight of the Order of Alcantara, perpetual Administrator of the Commandery of Damyel, of the Order of Calatrava, Gentleman of his Majesty's Bedchamber, of his privy Counsel, and his Ambassador Extraordinary towards his Imperial Majesty, as also first Plenipotentiary for his Majesty in the Treaty of the general Peace. Monsieur A●tony Brnn, Knight and Counsellor for his Majesty, in his supreme Counsel of State for the Low-Countries, and his Plenipotentiary in the general Peace.  
On the sides of the State's General, Bartold de Gent, Lord of Looven and Meynerswicke, Senechal and Diikgrave of Bommel, Fieler, and Brommelerweerden, deputed by the Nobility of Gueldres, in the Assembly of the State's General. Jean de Mateness, Lord of Mateness, Riviere, Opmeer, Souteveen, and Deputy in the ordinary Counsel of Holland and West-Frieze; as also Deputy in the State's General, from the Nobles of the said Province; Councillor and Heemrade of Shieland Adrian Paw, Knight, Lord of Heemsteed, Hogersmilde, and first Precedent, Counsellor, and Master of the Accounts of Holland and West-Frieze; as also Deputy in the Assembly of the State's General, by the said Provinces. Jean de Knu●t, Knight, Lord of Old and New Vosmar, representing the Nobility in the States in Counsel of Zeeland, as in the Admiralty; first Counsellor of his Highness the Prince of Orange, Deputy in the Assembly of the States. G●dart de R●●de, Lord of Nederhorst, Uredelant, Cortcho●f, Over-meer, Horstwaert, etc. Precedent in the Assembly of the Nobles of the Province of Utrect, and by them Deputy in the Assembly of the State's General. Francis de Doma, Lord of Hinn●ma, Hiclsum, Deputy in the Assembly of the State's General, by the Province of Frizeland. William Riperda, Lord of Hengeloo, Boxbergen, Boculoo, and Sussenbergh, Deputy by the Nobility of Overyssel, in the Assembly of the State's General. All Extraordinary Ambassadors in Germany, and Plenipotentiaries of the said States, for the Treaty of the general Peace. All being sufficiently empowered and assembled in the Town of Munster in Westphalia; have by common consent, and in virtue of their respective powers received from the said King, and the Lords, the State's General, Concluded and Agreed upon these following Articles.  
1. The said King does Declare and Acknowledge, that the said Lords, the State's General, of the United Provinces, and their Provinces, Countrey-Towns, Lands, and Appurtenances, are free and Sovereign States, Provinces, and Countries: upon which, nor upon their Towns, etc. the said King neither doth, nor shall henceforth, or his Heirs and Successors, pretend any thing. And that in consequence of this his Declaration, he is content to treat with the said States, as he does by these, and conclude a perpetuated peace with them, upon the Conditions here following.  
2. To wit, that the said peace shall be firm and inviolable; and that all acts of hostility, of what kind soever, shall cease both by Sea and by Land, in all the Kingdoms and Countries of the obedience of the said King, and the said States; as also between all their Subjects, of what quality soever they be, without exception of places or persons.  
3. Each shall remain in peaceable possession, and shall keep and enjoy all the Countrey-Towns, Lands, Places, and Lordships, that he now enjoys, and that without being any ways molested directly or indirectly. And in this is comprehended the Burroughs, Villages, and Country, appertaining and belonging to that which each shall possess; and by consequence all the Mayorship of Bosleduke; as also all the Lordships, Towns, Castles, Burroughs, Villages, and Champain, thereunto belonging; the Town and Marqueship of Bergues upon Zoom; the Town and Barony of Breda; the Town of Maestrict, and the extent of its jurisdiction; the County of Groonhoff; the Town of Grave; and the Country of Luychuist; and the Bayliship of Hulst, and Hulster-Ambact, and Ambact: as also the Forts which the said Lords the States do possess now in the Country of Waes'; and all other Towns and places which the said States do hold in Brabant, Flanders, or any where else, shall remain in the power of the said States, with all the Right of Sovereignty, in the same manner as they hold the United Provinces: but all the rest of the said Country of Waes', except the said Forts, shall remain unto the said King of Spain. As concerning the three places on the other side the Meuse, viz. Falquimont, Dalem, and Rodeleduc, they shall remain in the condition they are now in; and in case of dispute, the business shall be decided in the (Chambre mipartic) to be mentioned in the following Articles.  
4. The Subjects and Inhabitants of the Countries of the said King and States, shall live in good union and correspondency together, without any resentment for past injuries; and they shall have liberty to go and stay in the Territories of each other, and to exercise their Trade and Commerce in all surety, both by Sea and Land.  
5. The Navigation and Trade to the East and West-Indies shall be maintained, in conformity to those Grants or Patents given or to give by the States: for surety whereof shall serve this present Treaty, and the ratification of it; and under this Treaty shall be comprehended all Potentates, Nations, and Peoples, with whom the said States, or the East and West-India Companies in their name, within the limits of their Patent, are in amity or alliance. And the said King and States shall respectively remain in possession of all those Lordships, Towns, Castles, Fortresses, Commerce and Trade, in the East and West-Indies; as also upon the Coasts of Brasil, Asia, Africa, and America, that the said King and States do now hold. And in this Article are particularly comprised all those places and Forts, that the Portugueses ever since 1641. have taken from the States; as also are comprehended all those places, that the said States shall hereafter take, conquer, and possess, without infraction of the present Treaty. And the Curators or Directors of the East and West-India Companies of the United Provinces; as also the Officers, Agents, Soldiers, Mariners, being at prefen● at the service of the said Companies, o● having been formerly employed by them; and all such as being now out of their service, do live within the jurisdiction of the said Companies, shall remain free and unmolested, in all places under the obedience of the said King in Europe, and may travel, trade, and frequent in all places, as all other Inhabitants of the States. Besides, it has been Stipulated and Agreed, that the Spaniards retain their Navigation to the East-Indies, in such manner as it is now for this present time, without the liberty of extending themselves any further. As also the Inhabitants of these Provinces shall abstain from frequenting the places that the Castilians do possess in the East-Indies.  
6. And as for the West-Indies, the Subjects and Inhabitants of the Kingdoms and Countries of the said King and States, shall respectively abstain from Navigation and Trade in all the Harbours, places, Forts, Castles, possessed by either: to wit, that the Subjects of the said King shall not navigate nor trade in those that belong to the States, nor the Subjects of the States in those that belong to the said King. And in the places of the States, shall be comprehended all those that the Portugueses since 1641. have taken in Brasil, upon the said States, and all those that they now possess, as long as they shall remain in the possession of the said States. In all which there is nothing contrary to the precedent Article.  
7. And because a long space of time is necessary, for the giving notice to those that are now abroad with Ships and Forces, that they may defist from all acts of hostility; it hath been Agreed, that within the limits of the Patent granted, or to be granted, by continuation, to the Company of the East-Indies of the United Provinces, the peace shall begin no sooner than a year after the date of the present Treaty. And as for the limits of the Patent, granted heretofore by the State's General, or to be granted by continuation, unto the Company of the West-Indies, the peace shall not there begin till six months after the date of the present Treaty. Provided still, that if the notice of the said peace be arrived by public Order of each side to the said limits, before the said time be expired, that then immediately all acts of hostility shall cease. And that if after the term be expired, there be yet committed some acts of hostility, the damages shall be repaired without delay.  
8. The Subjects and Inhabitants of the Countries of the said King and States, trafficking in one another's Country, shall not be forced to pay any greater Impositions or Customs, than their own Subjects respectively; so that thereby the Subjects of the said States shall be freed and exempted from the Imposition of 20. per cent. or any other whatsoever, which the said King did levy during the truce of 12. years, or would hereafter raise directly or indirectly upon the Inhabitants of the said States, or any ways charge them further than his own proper Subjects.  
9 The said King and States shall not raise any Contributions or Imposts out of their limits respectively, upon any Merchandise, passing either by Land or Water.  
10. The Subjects of each shall respectively enjoy all freedom of 
Peages is a word that signifies the right of levying such sums upon Merchants, in such and such places or passages.  Peages, that they were in possession of before the beginning of the War.  
11. The Trade, Commerce, and Frequentation, shal● not be hindered, between the Subjects of the said King and States; and if it should chance to be obstructed any ways, the obstacle shall immediately be taken away.  
12. And after the day of the conclusion and ratification of this peace, the said King shall no longer enjoy, upon the Rivers of Rhine and Mouse, those Customs or Peages, which before the War were under the jurisdiction of any of the United Provinces; particularly, the Peage of Zeeland, which shall not be levied for his Majesty, neither in the Town of Antwerp, nor any where else: upon condition that from that day forwards, the States of Zeeland shall take upon them to pay the annual Rents, to those to whom the said Peage was mortgaged, before the year 1572. which also shall do the Proprietors of all other Peages, if they be charged with annual Rents.  
13. The white boiled Salt coming from the United Provinces into those of his Catholic Majesty, shall be received and admitted without any higher Impost, than upon Bay-Salt: and likewise the Salt coming from his Majesty's Countries shall be admitted in those of the States, upon the same conditions.  
14. The Rivers of Scheld, as also the Channels of Zas and Zwin, and other entries into the Sea thereabouts, shall be shut up by the State's General on their side.  
15. The Ships and Goods coming in and going out of the Harbours of Flanders, shall be taxed at the same rate as the Ships and Goods going upon the Scheld, and the Channels named in the abovewritten Article; and it shall be agreed of the proportion between the parties hereafter.  
16. The Anseatick-Towns, with all their Citizens and Inhabitants, shall enjoy as to Navigation and Trade in Spain, and all the Kingdoms and States thereof, all the Privileges and Immunities granted at present, or that shall be hereafter given to the Subjects of the United Provinces. And reciprocally all the Subjects of the said Provinces shall enjoy the same Rights, Franchises, Immunities, Privileges, and Capitulations, as well for the establishing of Consuls in the capital Towns or Seaports of Spain, as for their Merchants, Factors, Masters of Ships, Mariners, or others; and that in the same manner, that the said Anseatick-Towns in general, or in particular, have heretofore practised or obtained, and shall hereafter obtain, for the safety and advantage of Navigation and Trade of their Towns, Merchants, etc.  
17. Likewise the Inhabitants of the Countries of the said States, shall have the same liberty in the said King's Dominions, that the Subjects of his Majesty of Great Britain do enjoy, by the Articles in the last Treaty of peace made in secret, with the High Constable of Castille.  
18. The said King shall as soon as possible assign a place for the honourable burying of the bodies of such of the States Subjects, as shall die in his Dominions.  
19 The Subjects and Inhabitants of the said King's Dominions, coming into the Territories of the States, shall as to the public exercise of Religion, comport themselves with all modesty, without giving any scandal, or proffering any blasphemy, and the same shall be observed by the Subjects of the United Provinces.  
20. The Merchants, Masters of Ships, Pilots, Mariners, their Ships, Goods, and other things belonging to them, shall not be arrested nor detained, by virtue of any Order, either general or special, nor for any cause of War, or otherwise; nor under the pretext of using them for the preservation of the Country. Hereby nevertheless are not meant all seising and arrests of Ships, by the ordinary proceedings of justice, by reason of Debts, Obligations, and Contracts, of those whose Goods are seized, who shall be left to the course of the Law.  
21. There shall be framed a Court of equal number of Commissioners on both sides, who shall sit in such places in the Low-Countries as shall be thought fit; sometimes under the obedience of one, and sometimes under the obedience of the other State, as it shall be agreed by common consent; and according to their Commission (which they shall be sworn to observe) they shall take care to maintain a good correspondency on both sides; shall also have a regard to the Taxes and Impositions laid on both sides upon Merchandise; and if they perceive that on either side there be excess committed, they shall immediately redress it. Besides, the said Judges shall examine all questions touching the non-observancce of this Treaty of peace; as also the contraventions or failings against it, not only here, but in distant Provinces and Kingdoms of Europe, and shall decide them by a short way. The Sentences and Decrees of which Judges shall be put in execution by all under-Officers, living upon the places, against the person of the transgressors, as necessity shall require; and the said subordinate Officers may by no means fail in this at their peril.  
22. If any Judgement or Decree should pass between persons of different parties, either in civil or criminal matters, they shall not be put in execution, neither against the Goods nor against the persons of the said parties; and no Letters of Reprisal shall be granted, but with cognizance of cause, and according to the Imperial Constitutions, and the Order by them established.  
23. It shall not be free to enter or stay in the Harbours, Ports, Bays, and Rhodes, of each other, with men of War, or armed Ships, in such numbers as may give occasion of jealousy to any, without the leave and permission of that State to whom the said Ports, etc. do belong; except in case of a storm, or that there were some other necessity of avoiding danger at Sea.  
24. They whose Estates have been seized upon, and confiscated, by reason of the War, or their Heirs, Executors, etc. shall enjoy the said Estates, and may enter into possession of them by their own authority, by virtue of this present Treaty, notwithstanding all Alienations, Incorporations, into the public Treasury, Gifts, Treaties, Agreements, and Transactions whatsoever, though they contain Renunciations of the parties to whom the said Estates do belong. And all such Estates once restored, may be sold by the Proprietors, their Heirs, etc. without a necessity of a further or more particular leave. And in consequence of this, the Proprietaries of such Rents as shall be constituted by the Treasury, in lieu of the said Estates thus sold, may dispose of the propriety they have in them by Sale, or otherwise, as of any part of their Estate.  
25. This shall take place to the profit of the Heirs of the deceased Illustrious Prince, William, Prince of Orange; even for the right they have in the salt-Wells of the County of Burgundy, which shall be restored to them; as also the Woods that do depend on them, that is, so much as shall not be found to have been bought and paid for by his Catholic Majesty.  
26. In which are also comprised the Estate and Lands lying in the Counties of Burgundy and Charolois; and all which has not been restored as it ought to have been, by the Treaties of the ninth of April, 1609. and the seventh of January, 1610. These I say shall be restored to the Proprietaries, their Heirs, etc.  
27. As also are hereby understood such Lands and Rights, as after the expiration of the Truce of 12. years, were by sentence of the Council of Malines, judged in favour of the Count John de Nassaw; which Sentence by virtue of this Treaty is made void, and any other acquisition of possession is also annulled.  
28. And as for the Suit in Law about Castle- Beliu, begun in the life of the late Prince of Orange, against the Attorney-general of the King of Spain. Since the said Cause has not been determined in the time of a year, as it was promised by the fourteenth Article of the Truce for 12. years; it has been agreed, that immediately after the conclusion and ratification of the present Treaty, the Treasury shall desist from all demands touching the said Suit in Law; and that the Prince of Orange, and his Heirs, shall freely enjoy without molestation, the Lands and Chattels in question, as his own for ever: upon condition likewise, that the Treasury shall not be forced to refund for the past possession of them.  
29. If in any place there arise difficulties touching the restitution of Land and Rights, the Judge of the place shall without delay cause the execution, and in this shall proceed the shortest way work.  
30. The Subjects of the said King and States, may reciprocally in the Dominions of each, use such Lawyers, Attorneys, Solicitors, etc. as they shall think fit.  
31. If the Treasury has caused any confiscated Estates to be sold, those persons to whom they belong shall be content to receive the payment of them at 16. years' purchase, to be paid them every year; or else they shall have liberty to distrain upon the Land, in what hands soever they find it. Provided, they have Patents from the 〈◊〉 to serve them for a title, with the Assignation of the annual payment, upon some receiver of the King's Revenue, in that Province in which the thing shall have been sold; which receiver shall also be named in the Patent, and the price of the thing sold calculated, and summed up, according to the first public sale of it: the first year of which payment shall end a year after the ratification of this present Treaty.  
32. But if the sale was made for good and lawful Debts, of those to whom the said Estates did belong, before the confiscation, it shall be lawful for them or their Heirs to redeem the said Estates, paying the price of them in a year; after which time they shall be excluded from this privilege: but having once redeemed, they may sell and dispose of such Estates as they please.  
33. Yet under this are not understood such Houses as have been sold in Towns; for by reason of the many changes and reparations made in them, it would be too hard a matter to settle and determine their just value.  
34. And as for all reparations and improvements made in all other redeemed Estates, the Judges shall examine them, and have a regard to them; yet shall it not be lawful for the possessors to retain those Estates till they be reimbursed, but such Estates shall be bound and mortgaged for their payment.  
35. All Estates, Claims, Rights, etc. that have been kept hidden; all Movables, Immovables, Rents, Actions, Debts, etc. which shall not have been seized upon by the Treasury, with good cognizance of cause, before the day of the ratification of this Treaty, shall remain in the free disposition of the Proprietaries, their Heirs, etc. with all the Fruits, Revenues, Rents, and Profits of them. And those that have so hid the said Estates, Rights, etc. shall not be any ways molested by the Treasury, but shall enjoy and dispose of them as of their own.  
36. The Trees cut down after the day of the conclusion of this Treaty, or such as shall be cut down the day of the conclusion; and those not being cut down, are nevertheless bargained for, shall remain to the Proprietary, notwithstanding the sale of them.  
37. The Fruits, Farms, Rents, Leases, Tenths, Fishing-Houses, etc. of such Estates, as according to this Treaty, shall be restored to the right owners; if they fall after the conclusion of this Treaty, shall remain for the whole year to the Proprietaries, and their Heirs, etc.  
38. All Farms and Leases of confiscated Estates, though made for many years, shall nevertheless expire and be at an end, in the year of the conclusion of this Treaty; and the Farms or Leases falling after the day of the conclusion of this Treaty, shall belong to the Proprietaries; with this caution, that if the Farmer of the said Estates, has employed any of his stock towards the said years crop, he shall be repaid by the Proprietary, as the Judges of the place shall value the said disbursement.  
39 All sale of confiscated Estates made after the conclusion of this Treaty, is void; as also the sale made before the conclusion, if it be against the Capitulations and Agreements made particularly with certain Towns.  
40. The Houses of particular persons that are or shall be restored, shall not be made Garrisons on neither side; neither shall they pay any higher Tax or Contribution, than the Houses of other Inhabitants.  
41. None on either side shall be hindered directly or indirectly, from changing the place of his abode, so he pay the ordinary Taxes.  
42. If any Fortifications or Works have been made on either side by Authority, in such places as are to be restored, the Proprietaries shall be content to value them at the rate the Judges of the place shall put upon them; as also the Proprietaries shall receive satisfaction, for so much of their Estates as shall have been made use of, either in Fortifications, public Works, or pious uses.  
43. As for Church-Revenues, Colleges, and other pious places, situated in the United Provinces, which were members and dependences of the Benefices, Colleges, etc. now under the obedience of the King of Spain; so much of them as has not been sold before the conclusion of the present Treaty, shall be restored, and the owners may take possession of it by their own Authority; but for those that have been sold, or otherwise disposed of, they shall receive a yearly Rent to the value of them, after the rate of 8. in the 100 The same shall be observed on the side of the said King.  
44. As for the pretensions and interest that the Prince of Orange may have in such things which he is not in possession of, there shall be made a Treaty by itself, to the satisfaction of the said Prince. But as for the Lands, Goods, etc. that the said Prince is in possession of, by the gift of the said States, in Bay 〈…〉 f ship of Hulster-Ambacth, and elsewhere, they shall all remain in his free possession as his own, excluding hereby all pretensions to the contrary by this Treaty, or any other.  
45. Touching certain other 'points, which besides the contents of the preceding Article, have been agreed upon, and signed in two different Writings, one of the 8th of January, the other of the 27th of December, 1647. in the name of the said Prince of Orange; the said Writings shall be observed, accomplished, and executed, according to their contents, just as if all the said points in particular were all inserted into this present Treaty; and this notwithstanding all Clauses or Articles of this Treaty, any ways contrary; for if there be any such, they are declared void in that point, by this present Article.  
46 Those to whom confiscated Estates are to be restored, shall not be bound to pay any Arrearages, Rents, Charges, etc. specially assigned upon the said Estates, for the time they did not enjoy them; and if any pursuit or molestation do befall them, they shall immediately be relieved.  
47. Judgements given upon confiscated Estates, between parties that did acknowledge the power of the Judges, shall hold; only the condemned parties may seek relief by the ordinary course of justice.  
48. The said King does quit and renounce all pretensions of Redemption, or other, upon the Town of Grave, the Country of Luych, its Appurtenances, Dependences, and the ancient Barony of Brabant, engaged heretofore to the Prince of Orange, and which has been since converted as propriety to the use of Prince Maurice of Nassaw, in December, 1611. by the State's General, as Sovereigns of the said Town of Grave, and Country of Luych. In virtue of which concession, the Prince of Orange that now is, his Heirs, etc. shall enjoy for ever the propriety of the said Town of Grave, etc. with all its Dependences, etc.  
49. The said King does also renounce to all Right, Claims, etc. either of propriety, or session, etc. to the Town, County, and Lordship of Lingen, and the four Villages, and other its Dependences; as also to the Towns and Lordships of Bev●rgarde, Cloppenberge, that they may remain for ever to the said Prince of Orange, his Heirs, etc. confirming by this Treaty all the said Princes other Titles to them.  
50. The said King and States shall each of them separately, and for themselves, place Judges and Officers in such Towns and strong places, as by this Treaty are to be restored to the Proprietaries.  
51. The high part of Gueldres shall be changed for an Equivalence; which if it cannot be agreed upon in this Treaty, shall be decided by the Chamber of equal number of Judges on both sides, and that in the time of six months after the ratification of the Treaty.  
52. The said King does oblige himself to procure effectively, the continuation of the neutrality, friendship, and good neighbourhood, of his Imperial Majesty, and the Empire, with the States; to the observation of which, the States do likewise oblige themselves: and the confirmation of the said neutrality shall be made in the space of two months, by his Imperial Majesty, and in the time of a year by the Empire, after the ratification of this Treaty.  
53. The Fruits, Movables, confiscated and received before the conclusion of this Treaty, shall not be subject to be restored.  
54. They that during the War were retired into Countries that did stand neuters, shall enjoy the benefit of this Treaty, and may stay where they please, or return to their ancient homes, there to live in all quiet and tranquillity, in the observation of the Laws of their Country, without danger of having their Estates or Chattels seized on, by reason of the stay they make in any place whatsoever.  
55. There shall be no new Forts made in the Low-Countries of neither side; neither shall there be made any new Channels, or Trenches, by which any of the parties may be dammageed.  
56. The Lords of the House of Nassaw, as also the Count John Albert of Solms, Governor of Maestric, shall not be pursued nor molested neither in their persons nor Estates, for any Debts contracted by the late William, Prince of Orange, 1667. to his death, nor for any Arrears due during the confiscation of such Lands as were charged with the said Debts.  
57 If there be any infraction made in the Treaty by private persons, without the Authority of the said King or States, the damage shall be immediately repaired in the place where the offence was committed, if the persons be there taken, or in their Domicile; but it shall not be lawful to pursue them elsewhere either in their persons, or Estates, or to take Arms, and break the peace; but in case of denial of justice, to proceed by Letters of reprisal.  
58. All Exheredations made by reason of the War, and aversion of parties, are made void; and in this are comprehended all Exheredations made for such causes as were causes of the War.  
59 All prisoners of War shall be delivered on both sides, without distinction of persons, and that without ransom.  
60. The payment of the Arrears of Contributions on both sides, shall be decided by the Supervisors of the said Contributions.  
61. All that during this Negotiation shall be said or alleged either by word of mouth, or by writing, shall not be a prejudice to the Authors; but the said King and States, and all the Princes, Counts, Barons, Gentlemen, Citizens, and all Inhabitants, shall enjoy the benefit of this Treaty.  
62. The Subjects of the said King and States respectively, shall enjoy the benefit of the 15th Article of the Truce of 12. years, and of the 10th Article of the Agreement that followed the 7th of January, 1610. and that because that during the time of the said Truce, the parties did not enjoy the effect of those Articles.  
63. The limits in Flanders and other places shall be set out so, that the parties may exactly know under what jurisdiction they are.  
64. On the side of the said King of Spain, shall be demolished near the Sluice these following places and Forts, viz. the Fort of St. Job, St. Donas, the Star-Fort, the Fort St. Terese, St. Frederick, St. Isabel, St. Paul, the redoute Papem●ts. And on the side of the State's General, shall be demolished the following Forts; the two Forts in the Island of Lasant, called Orange and Frederick; the two Forts de Pas, both upon the River of Scheld, on the East-side (except Lill●) and the Fort a Kieldrect, called Spinola, touching which Demolition, it shall be agreed between the parties to set out an Equivalence.  
65. All Registers, Charters, Letters, and Papers, concerning Law-Suits, or otherwise, that do any ways regard or concern any of the United Provinces, their Towns and Members, being in the Courts and Chambers of the obedience of the King of Spain, shall be delivered bonâfide, to such as shall have commission from the Provinces to receive them. And the same shall be done by the States, for the Provinces and Towns that are under the said King's obedience.  
66. The jurisdiction of the Water shall be left to the Town of Sluice, as it has of right belonged to it.  
67. The Digue traversing and stopping up the River Zout, near the Fort Donas, shall be taken away, by making a Zas, touching the Guard, of which Zas it shall be agreed upon, as touching the Demolition of the Forts.  
68 In this present Treaty of peace shall be comprehended such as before the exchange of ratifications, or three months after, shall be named on both sides; in which time the said King shall name those that he shall think fit: but by the States are named these following; the Prince Landgrave of Hesse-Cassel, with his Countrey-Towns, etc. the Count of Oostfrieze, the Town of Embden, the County and Country of Oostfrieze, the Anseatick Towns, and particularly Lubec, Bremen, Hambourg. And the said States do reserve to themselves, to name such others as they shall think fit in the time prescribed.  
69. As for the pretention of Count of Flodrof, touching the restitution made to him of the Castle of Let, and its Dependences, and all other Villages that may depend on it, and were seized by the said King; the said restitution is confirmed to him, with this reserve, that it shall be resolved between this and the conclusion of the Treaty, about the entertaining of a Garrison for the said King, or demolishing the Fortifications made since that the Castle was taken.  
70. As for all that was agreed upon the 8th of December, 1646. between the Plenipotentiaries of the said King and States, touching Roger Huygens, in the name of his Wife, Anna Margarita de Stralem, it shall have its effect, and be of force, as if it were here set down word for word.  
71. And to the end that this present Treaty be the better observed, the said King and States do promise to employ all their power and force, to make all passages free, and all Seas and Rivers navigable and safe, against the inroads of Pirates and Thiefs, and to punish them severely if they can take them.  
72. They do promise besides to do nothing contrary to this present Treaty, nor to suffer that any thing should be done either directly or indirectly; and if any thing be done, to repair the offence and damage without delay. To the observation of all which, they do here bind themselves; and the more to strengthen the Obligation, do renounce all Laws and Customs contrary to this promise.  
73. This present Treaty shall be ratified and approved by the said King and States, and the Letters of ratification shall be delivered and exchanged on each side, within the term of two months; and if the said ratification do come beforehand, than all acts of hostility shall cease, without staying for the end of the two months. Still it is meant, that after the conclusion and signing of this Treaty, hostility shall not cease, till the ratification of the said King of Spain be delivered in good form, and exchanged with the ratification of the States.  
74. So that affairs on both sides shall remain in the same posture and condition, as at the conclusion of this Treaty they are, and this till the ratifications be exchanged.  
75. This Treaty shall be published in all places that shall require it, incontinent after the exchange of the ratifications, and then all acts of hostility shall cease.   

The Treaty of Navigation and Commerce, Concluded at the Hague in Holland, the 17th of December, 1650. between Messire Antony Brun, Extraordinary Ambassador for the King of Spain on one side, and the Deputies of the Lords, the State's General of the United Provinces, on the other side.  
WHereas since the conclusion of the peaee at Munster, between the King of Spain, and the State's General, there has happened some disputes about the true sense of the separate Article, concluded the 4th of February, 1648. in the said Town, touching Navigation and Commerce; the said King and States have thought fit, for the more sincere and perfect observation of the said Treaty of peace, to give a better explanation of their meaning: to which end the said King has on his side Deputed and Commissioned Messire Antony Prun, Counsellor in his High Council of State for the Low-Countries, near his person, and his Plenipotentiary at the Treaty of Munster, as his Ordinary Ambassador to the said States; who on their side have likewise Commissioned these following, Rugzer Huygens, Knight; Banninck Cock, Knight, Lord of Purmerlant and Apendam, Bourgemaster and Counsellor of the Town of Amsterdam; Cornelius Ripera, Bourgemaster, Regent of the Town of Horn; James V●th, Counsellor and Pensioner of the Town of Middlebourg in Zeeland; Giisbert de Hoolk, old Bourgemaster of the Town of Utrect; Joachim Andree, first ancient Counsellor in the Provincial Court of Fri●zeland; John de la Beech, of Dorvick and Crystenburgh, Bourgemaster of the Town of Deventer; Adrian Dant a Stedum, Lord of Nittersum, all Deputies of the body of their Assembly.  
The said Ambassador and Deputies having held many Assemblies and Conferences, have at last in the name of the said King and States, agreed upon and concluded this present Treaty, all its Articles and Conditions.  
1. The Subjects and Inhabitants of the United Provinces may with safety and liberty trade with all those Kingdoms, States, and Countries, that are or shall be in peace, amity, or neutrality, with the said States of the United Provinces.  
2. And they may not be molested or troubled in this freedom, by the Ships or Subjects of the King of Spain, by reason of the hostilities that are or may be hereafter between the said King, and the said Kingdoms, States, etc. that are in peace, etc. with the said States.  
3. This shall extend itself as to France, for all sorts of Commodities that were used to be transported, before the said Kingdom was in War with Spain.  
4. Yet shall not the Subjects of the United Provinces furnish France with such Merchandizes as come from the States of the said King of Spain, and may serve the French against him and his States.  
5. And as for other Kingdoms, States, etc. that may be in War with the said King of Spain, and are in neutrality or friendship with the States, their Subjects shall not carry to those Kingdoms, etc. any forbidden Goods, or Merchandizes of Counterband; which to hinder, the said States shall forbid it by express prohibitions.  
6. Besides, to prevent the dispute that might arise concerning the Merchandizes that are of Counterband, and those that are not; it is agreed, that under that name and quality are understood these following, all fire-Arms, and things belonging to them, as Canons, Muskets, Mortar-Peeces, Petards, Bombes, Grenadoes, Cereles, Squibs, Carriages, Forks, Powder, Match, Salt-Peter, Bullets. All other Arms likewise, offensive and defensive, as Pikes, Swords, Casques, Helmets, Back and Breast-pieces, Halberds, Pertuiscens, and other such. Besides, under the same name are understood the transport of Soldiers, Horses, Harness, Metal, Pistols, Belts, and all other Implements of War.  
7. Further to avoid all dispute, it is agreed, that under that name of forbidden Merchandise, are not comprehended Wheat, and all sorts of Grains, Salt, Oil, Wine, nor in general any thing that is nourishment and sustentation to men's bodies, which shall be free, as all other Goods and Merchandizes, not specified in the foregoing Articles, and may be carried to all Towns, except to such as are besieged and blocked up.  
8. And the better to hinder that the said forbidden Merchandizes do not pass into the hands of the enemies of the said King; and that under pretext of hindering the said transportation, the safety and liberty of Trade and Navigation be not hindered, it is agreed, that the Ships belonging to the Subjects of the United Provinces, being entered in any Port of the said King's Dominions, and being from thence bound for the Ports of his enemies, shall be obliged only to produce and show to the Officers of the said King, their Passports, containing the particulars of their lading, sealed and signed by the Officers of the Admiralty of such places as they come from, with declaration of the places they are bound for, the whole in ordinary form; after which they shall not be molested, searched, nor detained, under any pretext whatsoever.  
9 Likewise the Ships of the States Subjects being at Sea, or coming into some Bay without entering the Harbour, or coming in without unlading, shall not be bound to give an account of their lading, except they be suspected to carry Merchandizes of Counterband.  
10. And in case of a violent suspicion, they shall only be forced to show their Passports, as has been said.  
11. If they are met at Sea, or near the Shore, by any Ships or Privateers of the said King, then to avoid disorder and plunder, the said men to War may send their Boat with two or three men in it, aboard the Ship of the States, to which men shall be showed by the Master, the Passport abovementioned, with a particular Letter, showing the quality and place of residence of the owner of the Ship, and Master in the said United Provinces, and to these shall be given credit without further enquiry; but that there be no counterfeit Letters, the said King and States shall agree of particular marks, not easily to be imitated.  
12. And in case there should be found in the Ships belonging to the States Subjects, by the foresaid means, some of those Merchandizes, called of Counterband, they shall be seized upon, and confiscated before the Judges of the Admiralty, or other competent ones; but the said Ship and the rest of the lading shall no ways be detained, or seized upon.  
13. It has been agreed besides, that all Goods whatsoever that the Subjects of the States shall lad in the bottoms of the said King's enemies, shall be confiscated without reserve or exception.  
14. But also all that shall be found in the bottoms of the Subjects of the said States, though part or all of it do belong to the enemies of the said King, yet it shall all be free, and not seized upon, except they be Merchandizes of Counterband.  
15. The Subjects of the said King shall enjoy all the same liberties in Trade and Navigation, as is by this Treaty accorded to the Subjects of the United Provinces, with the same equality: and though some Kingdoms or States should have friendship or neutrality with the said King, though they were enemies of the States, yet shall his Subjects enjoy all the benefit granted in the like case to the Subjects of the United Provinces.  
16. This present Treaty shall be as an explanation to the particular Article concluded at Munster, the 4th day of February, 1648.  
17. This present Treaty shall have the same force, as if it had been inserted into the original Treaty at Munster; with this reserve, that if for the time to come any frauds or hindrances of Navigation be discovered, for which this Treaty has not provided a remedy, it shall be lawful to add to it such Cautions as both parties shall agree upon: till than it shall remain in force.   
FINIS.   

A Table of the Chapters.  

The First Book.  
CHap. 1. What passed before the Earls of Holland. page 1.  
Chap. 2. Thyerry of Aquitain, the first Earl. p. 5.  
Chap. 3. The House of Hainaut. p. 18.  
Chap. 4. The House of Bavaria. p. 21.  
Chap. 5. The House of Burgundy. p. 24.  
Chap. 6. The House of Austria. p. 29.  
Chap. 7. Containing the memorable passages under the Government of Margaret of Parma. p. 39  
Chap. 8. The Government of the Duke of Alva. p. 44.  
Chap. 9 The Government of Don Lewis, and the great Council of State. p. 52.  
Chap. 10. The Government of Don John of Austria, and of the Prince of Parma. p. 55.   

The Second Book.  
Chap. 1. The League and Union of the Provinces. p. 60.  
Chap. 2. The Rank and Dependencies of the United Provinces towards one another. p. 70.  
Chap. 3. What was the form of the general Assemblies, till the time of the Earl of Leicester. p. 74.  
Chap. 4. In what consists the Superiority of the State's General, and what sort of affairs are determined by them, which cannot be determined by the States of the particular Provinces. p. 77.  
Chap. 5. How far the power of the State's General does extend. p. 80.  
Chap. 6. Who are those that are ordinarily chosen for Deputies to the State's General, and of the order which is observed amongst the Deputies. p. 82.  
Chap. 7. Of the Orders that the States of Holland and West-Friezeland give to their Deputies in the State's General, and the Oath they take. p. 86.  
Chap. 8. Of the great Assembly Extraordinary. p. 91.  
Chap. 9 Of the Council of State, which is the greatest after the Council of the State's General. p. 92.  
Chap. 10. Of the Power of the States of every Province. p. 95.  
Chap. 11. Of the States of Holland and Zeeland. p. 97.  
Chap. 12. Of the Governors of the United Provinces until the year 1650. p. 100  
Chap. 13. Of the charge of a Governor. p. 106.  
Chap. 14. Whether or no the United Provinces can subsist without a Governor. p. 109.  
Chap. 15. Of the Riches by which the United Provinces do maintain themselves. p. 111.  
Chap. 16. Of the principal Forces which do maintain the Commonwealth of the United Provinces. p. 116.  
Chap. 17. Of the Alliances of the United Provinces with foreign Princes. p. 125.  
Chap. 18. Of the Admiralty, and care that is taken to maintain a Sea-strength. p. 131.  
Chap. 19 Of the particular Government of the Towns of Holland. p. 136  
Chap. 20. Of the Tributes and Imposts; of how many sorts they are; and of the manner of levying them in Holland. p. 141.  
Chap. 21. Of the East and West-India Companies. p. 153.  
Chap. 22. What judgement may be made of the lasting or decay of this Commonwealth. p. 173.  
Chap. 23. An Abridgement of the State of the United Provinces, by Paul Merle. p. 178.  
Chap. 24. The Proclamation of the States of Holland and West-Frieze, touching the ancient Right of the Commonwealth of Holland. p. 189.   

The Third Book.  
Chap. 1. Of the Original of Holland. p. 203.  
Chap. 2. Of the length and breadth of Holland; the number of its Towns and Villages. p. 206.  
Chap. 3. Of the Division of Holland; and the nature of the Soyl. p. 210.  
Chap. 4. Of the Manners and Dispositions of the Inhabitants. p. 222.  
Chap. 5. Of the Trade of the Hollanders, and the ways of getting a livelihood. p. 232.  
Chap. 6. Of the Imposts and Customs. p. 238.  
Chap. 7. Of Leyden, in Latin Lugdunum Batavorum. p. 241.  
Chap. 8. Of the Territories about Leyden. p. 263.  
Chap. 9 Of Amsterdam. p. 271.  
Chap. 10. Of Harlem, and some Villages round about it. p. 280.  
Chap. 11. Of Delft, and its Villages. p. 285.  
Chap. 12. Of Dort. p. 289.  
Chap. 13. Of Goude. p. 293.  
Chap. 14. Of Rotterdam. p. 295.  
Chap. 15. Of the small Towns of Holland. p. 296.  
Chap. 16. Of the Hague. p. 299.  
Chap. 17. Of Voerden. p. 303.  
Chap. 18. Of the Towns that are in Goylant, near the South-Sea. p. 312.  
Chap. 19 Of the Lakes and Rivers. p. 316.  
Chap. 20. Of North- Holland, commonly called West-Frieze. p. 319.  
Chap. 21. Of Alcmaer and Medenbliick. p. 322.  
Chap. 22. Of Enchusen. p. 325.  
Chap. 23. Of Horn, and the small Towns of North- Holland. p. 328.  
Chap. 24. Of the different Religions in Holland. p. 336.  
Chap. 25. Of the Nobility. p. 345.  
Chap. 26. Of Liberty. p. 350.  
Chap. 27. Of some Voyages undertaken under the Banner of Holland. p. 354.  
Chap. 28. Containing divers Curiosities. p. 360.  
The Articles of Peace between the King of Spain, and the Dutch, in 1648. p. 379.    

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8. Bentivolio and Urania, a Religious Romance, in Six Books; Written by Nathaniel Ingelo, D. D. The second Edition: To which is added, the Interpretation of the hard Names Imprinted in the Margin, throughout the Book. Price Bound 12. Shillings.  
9 I Ragguagli Di Parnassus, or Advertisements from Parnassus, in Two Centuries, With the Politic Touchstone; Written originally in Italian, by Trajano Bocalini: and Englished by the Earl of Monmouth. The Second Edition corrected. Price Bound 8. Shillings.  
10. An Abridgement of divers Cases and Resolutions of the Common Law, Alphabetically digested under several Titles, by Henry Rolls, Sergeant at Law; Published by the Lord Chief Baron Hales, and approved by all the Judges. Price Bound 40. Shillings.  
11. The Reports of Sr. George Croke Knight; In Three Volumes, in English: Allowed of by all the Judges. The Second Edition, carefully corrected by the Original. Price Bound 45. Shillings.  
12. The Second Part of the Institutes of the Laws of England; containing the Exposition of Magna Charta, and many ancient and other Statutes: Written by the Lord Chief Justice Coke. The Third Edition; with an Alphabetical Table added. Price Bound 14. Shillings.  
13. The Third Part of the Institutes of the Laws of England, concerning High Treason, and other Pleas of the Crown and Criminal Causes. The Fourth Edition; Written by the Lord Chief Justice Coke. Price Bound 6. Shillings.  
14. The Fourth Part of the Institutes of the Laws of England, concerning the Jurisdiction of Courts: Written by the Lord Chief Justice Cok●. The fourth Edition; with an Alphabetical Table, not heretofore Printed. Price Bound 9 Shillings.  
15. Brief Animadversions on, Amendments of, and Additional Explanatory Records to, the Fourth Part of the Institutes of the Laws of England, concerning the Jurisdiction of Courts. By William Prynne Esquire. Price Bound 12. Shillings.  
16. Action upon the Case for Slander; Or a Methodical Collection of thousands of Cases in the Law, of what words are Actionable, and what not. By William Sheppard Esquire. Price Bound 6. Shillings.  
17. Brevia Judicialia, or an Exact Collection of approved Forms of all sorts of Judicial Writs in the Common-Bench; together with their Returns. By Rich. Brownlow. Price Bound 10. Shillings.  
18. Thesaurus Brevium, or a Collection of approved Forms of Original and Judicial Writs in the King's Bench; with their special Directions. By J. C. Price Bound 6. Shillings.   

Quarto's.  
19 The History of Gavel-kind, with the Etymology thereof, containing a Vindication of the Laws of England; together with a short History of William the Conqueror. By Sylas Taylor. Price Bound 3. Shillings.  
20. Andronicus Comnenius, a Tragedy. By John Wilson. Price Stitched 1. Shilling.  
21. Heraclius Emperor of the East, Tragedy. By Lodowick Carlel, Esq Price Stitched 1. Shilling.  
22. A brief Account of Mr. Valentine Greatrak's, the famous Stroker, and divers of the strange Cures by him lately performed. Written by himself to the Honourable Robert Boyl. Price Stitched 1. Shilling.   

Octavos.  
23. The History of Algiers, and its Slavery; with an account of that City, and many remarkable particularities of afric: Written by Sieur d' Aranda, sometime a Slave there. Englished by J. Davies. Price Bound 3. Shillings.  
24. La Picara, or the Triumphs of Female Subtlety, originally a Spanish Relation, enriched with Three pleasant Novels. Englished by J. Davies. Price Bound 3. Shillings.  
25. An Historical and Geographical Description of the great Country, and River of the Amazons in America; with an exact Map thereof. Translated out of French. Price Bound 1. Shilling 6. pence.  
26. The Shepherd's Paradise, a Pastoral. By Walter Montague Esq Price Bound 1. Shilling 6. pence.  
27. Aminta, the famous Italian Pastoral. Translated into English. Price Bound 1. Shilling 6. pence.  
28. The Works of the famous Mr. Francis Rabelais, treating of the Lives of Gargantua, and his Son Pantagruel; to which is newly added the Life of the Author. Translated out of French into English, by Sr. Thomas Urchard Knight. Price Bound 5. Shillings.  
29. The Art of Chemistry, as it is now practised. Written in French by P. Thybault, Chemist to the French King, and rendered into English by W. A. Fellow of the Royal Society. Price Bound 3. Shillings.  
30. A Relation of Three Embassies from his Sacred Majesty Charles the Second, to the Great Duke of Moscovy, the King of Sweden, and the King of Denmark, performed by the Right Honourable the Earl of Carlisle, in the years 1663., 1664. Written by an Attendant on the Embassies. Price Bound 4. Shillings.  
31. Il Nipotismo di Roma, or the History of the Pope's Nephews, from the time of Sixtus the Fourth, 1471. to the death of the last Pope Alexander the Seventh, 1667. Englished by W. A. Price Bound 3. Shillings.  
32. An Exact Abridgement in English of the Cases reported by Sr. Francis Moor Knight; with the Resolution of the Points of Law therein by the Judges: by W. Hughes. Price Bound 2. Shillings 6. pence.  
33. Plowden's Queries, or a Moot-Book of choice Cases in the Common Law, Englished, Methodised, and Enlarged; by H. B. Price Bound 2. Shillings 6. pence.  
34. An Exact Abridgement of all the Statutes in Force and Use, made in the 16th, 17th, and 18, of King Charles the First, and in the 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, and 16th, of King Charles the Second: by William Hugh's Esq Price Bound 2. Shillings 6. pence.  
35. Tho. Hall Apologia pro Ministerio Evangelico. Lat. Price Bound 2. Shillings.  
36.— Translation of the Second Book of Ovid's Metamorph. Price Bound 1. Shilling.  
37.— Treatise against the Millenaries. Price Bound 1. Shilling.  
38. Medicina Instaurata, or a brief Account of the true Grounds and Principles of the Art of Physic; with the insufficiency of the Vulgar Way of preparing Medicines, and the excellency of such as are made by Chemical Operation; by Edward Bolnest, Med. Lond. Price Bound 1. Shilling.   

Twelve.  
39 The present State of the Princes and Republics of Italy; Written originally in English, by J. Gailhard, Gent. Price bound 1. Shilling.  
40. The present State of the Republic of Venice; with a Relation of the present War in Candia: by John Gailhard Gent. Price bound 1. Shilling 6. pence.  
41. A Guide for Constables, Churchwardens, Overseers of the Poor, Surveyors of the Highways, Treasurers of the County-stock, Masters of the House of Correction, Bailiffs of Manors, Toll-takers in Fai●s, etc. showing the extent and power of the several Offices; Collected by George Meriton. Price bound 1. Shilling. 6. pence.  
42. Accidence Commenced Grammar, and supplied with sufficient Rules; or a new and easy Method for the learning the Latin Tongue; the Author, John Milton. Price bound 8. pence.  
43. The present State of the United Provinces of the Low-Countries, as to the Government, Laws, Forces, Riches, Manners, Customs, Revenue, and Territory of the Dutch. Collected out of divers Authors; by W. A. Fellow of the Royal Society. Price bound 2. Shillings 6. pence.   

Books in the Press this 24th of August, 1669.  
Il Cardinalismo di Santa Chiesa, or the History of the Cardinals of the Roman Church in three Parts; Written in Italian by the Author of the Nipotismo dj Roma, or History of the Pope's Nephews; and faithfully Englished by G. H. in Folio. This Book will be published in Michaelmas- Term next.  
Two Chemical Treatises, viz. Praxis Chymiatrica, or Practical Chemistry; Written in Latin by John Hartman. And Basilica Chymica, or Royal Chemistry; Written in Latin by Oswald Crollius. Both faithfully translated into English, in Folio. This will be published in Michaelmas- Term next.  
The Jesuits Morals; faithfully extracted from their own Books which are Printed by the permission and approbation of the Superiors of their Society. Written by a Sorbon Doctor. In Folio. This Book will be published in Hilary- Term next.   
FINIS.