A RELATION Of the Defeating 

carded. MAZARINE Design  
& OLIV. CROMWEL'S Design   To have Taken OSTEND BY Treachery, In the Year, 1658.  
WRITTEN In Spanish by a Person of Quality( who was a chief Actor in the preventing of it) by way of Letter to a friend of his presently after the business.  
SINCE Printed in that Language, and now Translated into English.  
Fallare falentem non est fraus.  
LONDON, Printed for Hen. Herringman, at the Anchor in the Lower Walk of the New Exchange, 1666.   

READER,  
LET me persuade thee to bestow two hours upon Ostend. What the Spaniards could not compass( with the vast expense both of Blood and Treasure) in a less space than three years, and odd months, thou shalt here find Taken and Retaken in so short a time, that thou mayst truly term it an Adventure of Five Hours. The Intrigue( which is now exposed to the public) was spun with so fine a thread, that it was not discernible by the piercing eyes of the quickest-sighted Statesman in christendom: However he was so far blinded, with zeal, and passion for the service of the Crown of France, that he stood in the Dark to many essential Circumstances, obvious to the meanest capacities. The English( although they had but slender parts, to Act in this Tragy-Comedy) are notwithstanding brought upon the Stage. Oliver cronwell, the late Tyrant( the Darling Confederate of France) upon notice given him of the Design, under the specious pretence of assisting an ally( but in reality upon solid motives of pure charity, which always begins at home) was very fairly setting up for himself; but wisely foreseing the fatal consequence of the loss of so Potent a Friend( whose countenance in that conjuncture of affairs was so absolutely necessary to him for the carrying on the Godly work of Reformation of our English Nation) he thought good to let his particular Pretensions fall to the ground; and to abandon the whole Booty to the French; who( upon confidence of the infallibility of their Minister of State, ponebat enim rumores ante salutem) were already dividing the spoil of the field; which, what that might amount to upon an improved value, I know not, but as matters were handled, it will appear by the ensuing Narrative, that the chief Adventurers drew Blanks; It being evident to all Europe, that his Eminence himself( notwithstanding his parturiunt montes, &c.) had at last caught a Tartar. Reader, to detain thee longer with these Marginal Notes, were to trespass too much upon thy patience, so that I am obliged, by the rules of common Civility, to conclude my Comment, and to refer thee to the Text itself; having nothing farther to add, but to tell thee, that I do here present thee with a piece of fine Spanish Cloath; how it will wear turned, ● know not. Figures revers●( however they may retain their proportions) lose much of their native Beauty,  
Farewell.   

A LETTER From a person of Worth, to his Friend, upon the Success of OSTEND, On the 14 of May, in the Year MDCLVIII.  
SIR,  
I SHOULD not deserve that particular and most inestimable Title of Friend, nor comply with the Laws of Friendship, much less with my Obligations,( owing you many) if I did not by this early account make you the first acquainted with the happy success, of one of the strangest and most extravagant Actions that ever was done in War: well may I term it so, since 'tis not to be paralleled either in ancient or Modern History. For although, properly speaking, it were in itself a Stratagem or Artifice of War, yet was it diversified with such various passages of Tragedy and farce, so gratefully mixed and pleasantly interwoven, that it might serve for a fit subject to some ingenious Pen, to compose an excellent Comedy. I doubt not but the thunderings of the Cannon, with the confused Relations of many stragglers, did much heighten the curiosity and admiration of all people, and make them swell big with expectation of the event of so sudden and unexpected an Accident. But there is no man can give a more faithful and exact Relation of all that passed, nor upon surer grounds than myself; it falling to my share to play one of the most principal Parts in this Comedy, a Part as dangerous in the Acting, as it was pleasant in the Conclusion. What motive his 
* Don John of Austria, then governor of Flanders, who is meant by his Highness in all this Relation.  Highness had to engage me( who can no ways pretend to that noble quality of soldier) in this Military employment, I cannot conceive; it seems they were pleased to believe that I was Master of more cunning than force, and thought I could piece out the Lion's skin with the Fox's tail. God he knows, I was altogether uncapable, of myself; however it was his blessed will to bring me off from this Engagement with Honour and Reputation, as he had done from many others, wherein, to their great satisfaction, I had served both his Majesty and his Highness. Give me leave, Sir, to tell you, 'tis worthy your reflection to consider, what a May-game Fortune makes of the successses of War, and how from slender and unexpected accidents there do frequently arise such prodigious disorders, as do threaten the immediate ruin of a State. You may likewise observe, how the profoundest Statesmen( notwithstanding their reservedness and precaution, on which they so much rely) do, by ill taking their measures, precipitate themselves into irreparable errors. But that you may the better come to the conclusion of this business, I shall draw it from the fountain-head.  
I doubt not, Sir, but that you have either known or heard of Colonel Spintelet, a Native of this Province, who obtained his Commission by his deserts: He was a person of known valour, and one that was no less able to contrive designs, than brisk in the execution of them. This Gentleman was forced to fly the Low-countries upon the death of an inferior Officer of Justice, whom he had killed; and being out of all hopes of obtaining his pardon, he was resolved to try his fortune in foreign Countries. When he took his leave of his friends( the last comfort of a banished man) he  told one Monsieur de Bocq, a counselor at Law, with whom he had a strict amity, That true it was he was going for France, but withall he protested upon the word of an honest man, that he would never draw his sword against his King and Liege Lord, notwithstanding he despaired of ever-returning to his own house. And with these or the like protestations he embarked for Zealand.  
About this same time began Cardinal Mazarini to hammer upon the anvil of h s brain some new design for the surprising of Ostend, having failed in a former attempt in June 1648, which had then been set on foot by Monsieur d' Estrades, Monsieur Servient, and one Gentilot who served under the States General of the Un●ted Provinces in the Regiment of Monsieur d' Estrades; a fair pretext and colour for him to pass to and fro betwixt Holland and France, taking his way by Ostend and other Maritine places down to Calais, where he had his house and friends. This Gentilot being skilful in Fortifications, had observed a notable defect in the Works of Ostend, near unto the place where they used to disembarque from the Boats of Bruges; and where he thought it most obnoxious to a surprise. There was a little Tavern built of Boards( for the harbouring of mariners and other Day-labourers) upon the Cay, at the point of a Bulwark that commanded all within the Haven. This house was so built upon piles, that it took up half the principal Ditch, from whence with a Ladder, or upon Planks, one might( without difficulty) pass dry-foot to the aforesaid Bulwark. This house was capable of lodging 200 men with ease, and in my opinion 'twas very feasible to have surprised us at unawares, by coming on shore as Hollanders, and sheltering themselves in the aforesaid house; we having been so remiss and negligent as not to take notice of it before. This Plot was chiefly managed by one William Ytersun a Native of Dunkirk, who made his escape out of the Town about three or four days before it was surrendered to us in the year, 1652.  
The Cardinal( with those of his Counsel) re-assuming this design, dispatched Gentilot to learn, whether there was any alteration made in the Fortifications since the year 1648. attributing their former ill success, either to the backwardness, or treachery, of the Count de Ransaw. Oh miserable condition of Envy, thus( upon the least miscarriage) to calumniate the most heroic actions, and to traduce the reputation of so great a soldier, in recompense of all his services done for the Crown of France!  
Being well informed that no alteration had been made in the Fortifications, and that the Spaniards( apprehending no danger from thence, were wholly attentive to the present motions of the French Army) they resolved to find out a fit person to carry on their design, and such an one as had correspondence and intelligence in the Town, that he might give such notice of the state of affairs, as should be necessary for their purpose.  
Gentilot met by chance with one Livine Ytersun( Brother to the above-named William) who was then in Paris, following his own business in quality of a Merchant. This honest man was banished hence, as being suspected to be privy to his Brother's practices, although in truth he was of other Principles, and did totally abhor them, however he did dissemble it, being in an enemy's country. Gentilot was confident this man would be glad of the occasion of doing some remarkable service for France, the better to establish and support the Credit his Brother had amongst them: wherefore being fully instructed in the business, he was ●rought into the presence of the Cardinal, and of others his most secret counsellors; where his Eminence did( with many persuasions, and large promises, wherein he shewed himself a Doctor of the Chair) so far prevail seemingly upon this Ytersun, as to engage him to use his best endeavours in finding out some person that might be fit to transact this business, with that secrecy, and caution as was requisite.  
I have already  told you that this Livine did detest the action his Brother was engaged in, of which he had not the least notice; and he did verily believe God Almighty had sent him this intelligence; as a means to do his King some service, by which he might merit his pardon, and return to his Family, the thing in the world he most desired; for by giving information of what he knew, he supposed he should be re-call'd from an exile, which he suffered for the crimes of another man; he likewise thought that by this occasion he might be serviceable to Colonel Spintelet, for whom he had a particular kindness.  
With this intention, and with his former dissimulation, he returned( being accompanied with Gentilot) to the Cardinal, promising him to present him with a person very proper for the execution of such a design; a man of courage and experience, one that, to purchase a reputation, and to make a fortune, would check at nothing. He added withal, that his Eminence might confided in him, in regard he was in despair of ever returning into his own Country, much less into the Kings Service, having committed murder on an Officer of Justice.  
Here began the Comedy, and this was the first Scene; for till now, Spintelet was never spoken of, nor so much as his name known in France. There was a large character given of his person, extoling to the Skies his wit and courage, and not omitting the cause, I have  told you of his banishment. They finding( by what had been said of him) that he was fit for their purpose, forthwith commanded Livine to seek him out with diligence, and with all possible speed, to bring him to Paris.  
Colonel Spintelet was at this present in Zealand, where Livine met with him, and having with great privacy conferred together of all that had passed with the Cardinal and the rest at Paris, they agreed at last( like honest men, laying hold on this occasion) to advertise his Highness of what had happened, hoping at the same time, both to gain his favour and discharge their own duties; but being resolved to put a cheat upon the Cardinal, whom they knew eagerly bent upon the surprising of Ostend, they deferred the giving his Highness intelligence, till they had been at Paris, and absolutely engaged his Eminence in this Chimera, and seen him lanch't forth into the Main, that they might give a more solid and exact account of all; and try if by making him greedy of that Bait, they might possibly decoy him into the Net, which within a few months after they brought to pass.  
They had not been three hours in Paris, when meeting with Gentilot, they were brought immediately to his Eminence, where, close shut up with Monsieur D' Estrades and Servient, they held a large conference upon the whole business; which debate being continued two or three several days, ended in a resolution of leaving the management, and modeling of the design wholly to Spintelet, who( pretending a necessity of speaking with some Confidents of his) alleged, it would be very convenient for him to go back into Zealand, & that having disposed businesses there, he would return and give his Eminence a farther account. The Cardinal made him an offer of money, passport, and Convoy; the money( to confirm his Eminence the more) he refused, but accepted both passport and Convoy. With these kind expressions and offers, the Cardinal thinking he had made all sure; he charged him to pass by London, giving him Credential-letters to the Protector, either, because he knew the need he should have of English Vessels, or not daring to make so great an attempt, without giving him notice, in regard of the strict League that was between them.  
These men found not such a Reception from the Protector as they imagined, for he shewed a great distrust of their discourse, either, because he did not desire the French should make such a progress in Flanders, or that he knew more than his Eminence, being more distrustful, and having been bread up in a different School. Spintelet, perceiving by his ambiguous and unsignificant Answers, that he did not swallow the Bait kindly, and that he could not gain upon him by his wil●ss( for his aim was to trepan them both) he resolved to return to Zealand, whence he wrote a Letter to the counsellor De Bocq, pressing him to meet him at sluice; for that he had a business to impart to him that did highly import his Majesties service.  
In this interim there came daily secret advices from France and England to his Highness, by which he was assured there was a great design hatching against some place upon the Sea cost; for some gave him notice that Colonel Spintelet had been seen to enter into the Cardinals Lodgings at very late hours; others, that he had been in England, and there had resorted, as late in the night, to the Protector's. And knowing that the Colonel had frequented no places so much as those near the Sea, they guessed his design must lie that way. There came several advices of the same nature to his Majesty of Great Britain, who residing at that time in Bruges, communicated them to me, that his Highness might be advertised of them; besides, it was made very evident by the intercepting of several English Letters, which came so thick, that the Governours of those places were thereupon particularly warned to stand upon their guard, and had three thousand men sent to re-inforce them. This was the cause that the 
* The Country Militia.  Courlings remained so long in Ostend, upon the Countries charge, of which there were lamentable complaints made to his Highness, and the marquis of Caracena; Whence you may learn that those who govern have always particular reasons to themselves for all their actions, which we ought not to prie into nor censure.  
counsellor de Bocq was in Bergen St. Winoxe( where he dwelled) when he received this Letter from Colonel Spintelet, which he did immediately communicate to the marquis of lead, General by Sea and governor of Dunkirk, the only person of Authority that was at hand; desiring to know, whether he did approve of his giving him a meeting; and informing the marquis withall of the discourse they two had had upon the Colonels going for France. The marquis presently commanded him, that without delay, he should go away to sluice, to hear what he had to propose; for there could be no harm in hearing any propositions, since amongst many that are alleged by such people, there often falls out somewhat of advantage, and 'tis always in the power of him that Governs to do what he thinks best.  
De Bocq being come to sluice, had a large relation made him by his friend, of all that had passed with the Cardinal and the rest at Paris touching the design on foot, all which the counsellor set down in writing; and the Colonel added to all the particulars, that, if his Highness would give him leave, and be pleased to assist( the Cardinal being already so eager upon it, by the hopes he had put him in) he would insensibly plunge him into so great a mischief, and the King should receive so considerable a service, as he hoped would incline his Majesty to grant him the grace he so passionately desired, which was to return to his own Country; for although 'tis an ordinary saying, Omne solum forti patria, yet is there no home so sweet as a man's own.  
De Bocq did very much commend them for proceeding with so much zeal and fidelity, assuring them, it was the only way they could pitch upon, both to return home with honour and reputation, and also to deserve a recompense( a great satisfaction to people in disgrace to be able to work themselves out of the briars by serving their Prince) and thereby to obtain not only favour and honour, but withall to gain preferment. They took leave the one of the other, with a resolution to meet again, exchanging Notes and cyphers for the carrying on a correspondency.  
De Bocq went away immediately to Brussels, where he gave an account at large of all that had passed to his Highness, who recommended to him in th● first place secrecy, in the second he gave him charge to feed his friends still with hopes, whilst he considered what was to be done for the future; for Princes( as wise men hold) ought not to be carried away with the first reports, but to weigh them thoroughly, if their time will permit: But above all his Highness commanded him to hasten to Ostend, and to inform the governor of what had passed, that he might be ready to prevent any inconveniency that might interfere, with the intelligence given him by de Bocq, a timely and necessary precaution. There was then governor of the Town Don Barnabe de Vargas Machuca, Knight of the Order of Saint Jago a Master of the Camp, and sergeant mayor General, who raised himself by his valour( having run through all the Offices of the Spanish Infantry) to this eminent charge; a person fit for higher employments.  
De Bocq was not long in going to Ostend, where he much surprised the governor with this Relation; who making reflections upon the Fortifications of the place, especially of that little Tavern formerly spoken of, found the business to be really of Concern, and that our Enemies had not ill observed that notorious defect. So he immediately caused the little house to be thrown down, which being done in half an hour, he planted new Palisadoes on the Counter-scarp, with Barriers; he likewise built a Redoubt of ston at the point of the Cay, capable of holding fifty musketeers with security. In fine, he did( according to his accustomend care and diligence) all that military experience could suggest to him, for the safety of the place; so that having a recruit of men sent him, he made all sure on that part.  
The news of the alteration of the Fortifications was quickly buzzed into the ears of the Mazarinites, who were all this while hatching of rotten eggs, treating with the Colonel of chimeras, and building Castles in the Air; yet notwithstanding they thought the business cock-sure. At this they were much startled, and upon the point o● desisting, when Spintelet( who had hi● arguments ready at his fingers ends) dissembling the business with a cheerful countenance, began to lay a new Trap for them; he wished them to be of good courage, and bad them not to doubt of seeing Ostend very suddenly in the hands of his most Christian Majesty; for that it was an usual thing with all Governours, upon their first coming to their Government, to be tampering, and to alter something in the Fortifications, every one according to his own Capricho, and skill. That although the taking of the Town by the way that had then been laid, was very practicable; yet since there was no remedy, there was a necessity of finding out some other expedient, which he had at hand, very easy and safe, without either charge or hazard of men; and he assured them, that as soon as he had received some Letters, which he pretended to expect from Brussels, he would then acquaint them both with the manner and method; and perceiving they began to give an ear to his discourse, he requested of them onely three or four days time, intending in the interim to learn his Highness pleasure what was to be done for the future.  
The Frenchmen all this while never suspected counselor de Bocq, who always kept them company, and passed as a Kins-man of the Colonels, by the name of Monsieur Stappin, and so make ●ing them believe that he sent him to Ostend to negotiate the business, de Bocq went directly to Brussels to receive instructions from his Highness. He made a quick return from thence, with private Orders from his Highness, that they should lay their heads together to agree betwixt themselves how( by amusing and cajolling them) to draw them into a snare. And the Colone● having assured them that this was ● person they might as safely rely upon, as upon himself, they did not in the least distrust him.  
The Colonel did declare to them, that he had two Kinsmen of his and his Wife's in Ostend, Captains of the Walloon Foot, and that there was another, who was within two or three days to enter into the Town with his Company, who although he were not allied to him, yet he was an intimate friend, in whom he did entirely conside; that these parties were very weary of the Spanish service, in regard their Arrears were kept back, and that many other affronts were put upon them by the governor, and that they desired nothing more( if occasion served) than to quit their employment, and to follow Fortune where ever she lead them; that for many months he had fed them with hopes, & he believed them very ripe for mutiny, as well to relieve their necessities( having spent themselves to their shirts in maintaining their Companies) as to revenge the injuries they had received. That they had above 400 men in their three Companies, all old Souldiers, being the remainder of his Regiment, who much coveted to return under his command. That in Ostend there were but few Spaniards, and those very feeble and heartless, yet they did so tyramnize over the poor neighbouring people, that many of them daily quitted their habitations; and if those that did remain could but meet with any reasonable conditions, one might infallibly dispose of the one and the other, and that if any party did but appear in the Haven, and present themselves before the Town, they would receive them in, and shake off the Spanish yoke. To this intent they were to make Capitulations with the Neighbours and Towns-men; and as to the Soldiers, that should be his care But that they might not think slightly of the design, he prepared them with a discourse of three or four conditions, which without doubt were such a● would soonest inveigle them. The firs● thing they were to promise to the Neighbours, was, that there should be no other than the Roman Catholic● Religion exercised in that place. Secondly, That they would maintain the ancient Privileges and Customs of the Town, that they would pay the Soldiers all the Arrears due to them from the King of Spain, as soon as they should be Masters of the Place, but not before. As for their own recompense and those that belonged to them, they would wholly rely upon his Christian Majesty, and his Eminence, with whom they would not capitulate as to their particular interest, alleging that so brave a King and so great a Minister could not but reward them according to the merits of their service.  
These discourses did relish so well with those who managed the Cardinal's business, that they presently road away to Paris to give an account of them; and returned very suddenly, ●oaden with instructions and promises, much larger than the first. Neither did ours sleep the while, but were as busy with his Highness; of whom they begged leave, that they might make use of two Captains names, Horns and Sney●rs, notwithstanding they themselves were wholly ignorant of the business: That, in case the French-men should make enquiry by any other means, whether there were such Captains in Ostend, they might find all things to agree in what Spintelet  told them.  
Having procured this permission from his Highness, de Bocq departed with Monsieur de Wi●ter( ●rother-in-●aw to Spintelet, one that had no slender part to act in this Farce) and with another of his acquaintance, who represented the two aforesaid Captains. There needed not much rhetoric to persuade these French-men, that there was no manner of doubt of ●ff●cting whatever the Colonel had proposed to them; with which they were so transported, that they dispatched away a Messenger of their own, with the news to the Cardinal, who was so tickled with the hopes of success, that his answer( mixed with new promises) seemed to be brought back with the Wind, it came so speedily.  
They did with an unanimous consent agree, that from thence forward only de Bocq( or, to speak more properly, Stappin, for that was the name they knew him by) should writ all the Letters of those Captains and Confederates to the Colonel, and from the Colonel to them; and that he should be the sole director of the Conspiracy, as being the best Scholar, the read●est at his pen, and one that was the least to be suspected in regard his busin●s● lay in several places. Having thus disp●sed their affairs, and having procured a passport for Monsieur de winter and Captain Sprui●( who went by the names of Horns and Sneyers) they partend for that time, each man pretending to follow his own occasions.  
About this time, marshal Turene having newly taken Saint Venant, and Montmedy, came with his Victorious Army to Watten, from whence he wrote letters to the ●ardinal, to sign●fie to him that great Crisis; and to let him know, that he was then upon the point of making himself Master of all Flanders, in case the Confederates, whom they had mentioned to him, were prepared to perform their part. The Cardinal hereupon gave speedy notice of this to his Creatures, that they might be in a readiness, with the Colonel and the r●st of the Cabal, to put their d●sign in execution. Upon this, Spi●telet desired some time to acquaint his Camarades with it, and in the inter●m dispatches a Messenger of his own to counsellor de Bocq, to inform his Highness how things were, and to know what answer he would please they should make. His Highness's Will being known, de Bocq wrote( as from the Confederates) that it was impossible to do the work at present, in regard there were 2, or 3000. Boors that were fled for shelter into Ostend, for fear of the French Army; so they humbly besought his Eminence, that he would in no sort permit the Army to advance upon any expedition into that Province; for so long as the P●santry were refug'd in those Garrisons, they kept double Guards, and we being not Masters of the Field, should be forced to draw our men into them, which would absolutely ruin the design that was so well contrived. Upon this, marshal Turene had orders, not to attempt Linque, Mardique, nor Berghen, those places being thought of small importance, that the Army might consume itself upon them, and this fair opportunity be slipped; and that if once Ostend were taken, those other places with Dunkirk and Newport would fall in of themselves, since 'twas certain the Spaniards would be forced to abandon them. It was likewise urged, that the Army might have strict Orders to demean themselves fairly, and to use the Country people civilly, so that they might be encouraged to return home to their own houses, by which means Ostend would be cleared of them, and all lets removed that could retard their design. There was a Gentleman dispatched away to the Cardinal, with a particular relation of what posture their business was in. Th●se reasons before mentioned, with what the Messenger added of his own head, concerning the great confidence he left them in of compassing their ends; did so far prevail with his Eminence, that he sent away two Posts, one at the heels of the other, with express orders to marshal Turene not to dislodge the Army from their present station, nor to engage upon any design, till they saw what this Treaty would come to. 'Twas as clear as day, that the Cardinal had swallowed the Bait, and that his orders were punctually observed by the marshal; for in six week, after, he permitted not a man to stir out of his Quarters, notwithstanding the great hardship they suffered, but kept them in as close as if they apprehended the beating up of their Quarters. At this all France and Flanders stood amazed, except only such who were privy to the Intrigue.  
In the mean time the Cardinal did by letters urge those that were in Zealand to expedite the business; they likew●se earnestly pressed Spintelet, who was now put to his trumps, being destitute of further excuses for delay: At last having failed of an answer to two or three letters, which he wrote to de Bocq concerning the business, and finding the date of the passport, he had from his Highness, ready to expire; he resolved to go towards Bruges to inform himself where de Bocq was, and to find out a conveniency of sending letters to him, and to learn from him his Highness pleasure for the future. Whereupon, under pretence of going to confer with his Associates( and to give them notice of the hast his Eminence desired them to make) he took leave of the French-men for four or five days, with a firm resolution of returning within that time; and so he came to the Suburbs of Bruges, which they call Schipstael.  
It so happened( to his misfortune) that there was no Field-officer of the Army then there; wher●fore Spintelet, knowing me to be well acquainted with counsellor de Bocq, though t I could inform him where he was, as likewise that by my interest at Court, I could either get his passport renewed, or at leastwise know what it was his Highness would have to be done. To this ●nd he( knowing that I dw●lt there) sent a Towns-man to me, a friend of his, to desire me to come privately to him to confer about some matters of great importance.  
I( who looked upon him as a notorious rebel, engaged in the highest Treason imaginable, and found that he was of a turbulent spirit, by the letters which were intercepted by the King of England's Ministers, who did then reside there; as likewise by the Spies which I maintained in sluice to prie into his designs, of which I had already advertised his Highness, and the marquis of Caracena; who without d●sabusing me, or acquainting me with any thing of what had passed between them, did highly commend my care and zeal, commanding me to continue all possible vigilancy, and to give them notice of what I could discover of his Plots, and to inform the Governours of the Maritine Towns) I could not, I say, think it safe for me to communicate alone with so suspected a person, whom I knew to be employed about some dangerous design; wherefore, to comply with my duty, I desired both the assistance of the Magistrates of Bruges, under whose jurisdiction I was; and likewise leave from the chief of the Franc to apprehended him, supposing I should do his Majesty an especial piece of Service, in securing such a person, and giving his Highness notice of it.  
It was thought fit that the Scout of the Town, together with the chief Burgomaster, the sergeant mayor of the Count de Megem, and some other Captains, should bring him in a Coach to the house of the Franc, which was done in less than half an hours space. Consider, Sir upon how weak a Basis human designs are built: for whilst Spintelet on his part, and I on m●ne( both with an equal zeal) thought to do for the best, we were in a moment like to have destroyed so great a Business.  
The Colonel, foreseing that if his being clapped up were divulged( otherwise he valued not his being in hold) it would be the cause of the miscarriage of the Plot, which he conceived so well laid; he resolved to disclose to me the bottom of the Secret, supposing that I, receiving it from his own mouth, would give credit to it, and thereupon dismiss him; whereby his imprisonment, not being further noised, would not come to the knowledge of those in Zealand. But thanks be to ●od I was not ignorant, that it was neither convenient, nor safe, to hear singly the secrets of any suspected person, wherefore I refused it, unless there were present some sufficient witness, that could at any time attest our d scourse; and both of us agreeing upon Monsieur de Blend, the 
* Or Register.  Greffier, and chief Pensioner of the Town, who was near at hand; we passed our words each to other to observe secrecy, upon which he laid open to me the whole Stratagem at large.  
The news of the imprisonment of the traitor Spintelet, being in an instant spread all over the Country, did very much trouble those in Zealand, who waited his return with great impatience. They failed not to advertise the Count de Charau, governor of Calais, who immediately dispatched one to marshal Turene with the ill news.  
But to return to our Prisoner: Upon our questioning him what papers he had about him, we found one passport from the French King, with the names of the aforesaid Captains, and another from Don John, which heightened our distrust, to see the Dispatches of two opposite Princes directed to one person; so 'twas agreed, that I should writ to the marquis of Caracena( in my accustomend cipher to his Excellence) all that had been related to us by the Colonel; and that the Gr●ffier should set down, in a particular paper, what had been said by me; and that in the interim while we expected an answer, we should lodge the Colonel in the Town-prison, for fear of the worst, not daring upon our own score, to trust him in any private house.  
His Highness, and his Excellence, who were then at Dunkirk, were highly dissatisfied with this news which was brought them by a pass from the Prison. But seeing that on our part we acted with integrity, and that what was done, could not be undone( I believe they now repented their not acquainting me with their transactions, considering the daily advices I gave them of the private meetings that their Enemies had with the Colonel in Zealand, and knowing that I had pitched my Net● to catch him, being encouraged to it by them;) at last they resolved, with all diligence, to sand counsellor de Bocq to me, with an Order to deliver him up the Prisoner, with some pretext of his having broken prison.  
There happened an accident to de Bocq in this journey, which was like to put a period both to the business and to his life: For coming into Newport( and passing at a late hour through the Town to save his Tide, that he might get with speed to Ostend) he unhappi●y met with the round of the Guards of some of the Country-people, who upon these alarms were lodged all along the Sea cost, with order to take or kill whoever should he found to be walking late upon the Downs, or on the Sands, without the Watch-word; so that he escaped narrowly of being kno●kt on the head by these Boors. But he giving them to understand, that he knew several of the Officers under whose Command they were( having p llaged and dry-basted him) they dragged him about half a league to Monsieur de bloom 
* sheriff.  Eschevind of the Franc, who knowing him rescued him out of their unm●rcifull hands, and so half dead with their ill usage, he made a shift to reach Ostend; where causing himself to be let blood, after a short conference with the governor, he got out of Town about four of the clock, and came to my house early; where, according to my Orders, we consulted of some means to free Spintelet from prison, without giving any ground of jealousy that we understood one another.  
There was a waggon provided to wait them at the shutting of the gates, that they might go together to Dunkirk, but it was a hard task to find any pretext that would take with the City, to make them credit the escape of so notorious a person; wherefore to disguise the business the more, it was noised abroad, that there had been a drinking-frollick amongst the prisoners, and that in a drunken humour they had forced the Keeper and his domestics; and that the Colonel, with several prisoners for debt, had made their escape. The gaoler going three or four days about the Town with his head bound up, as if he had really been wounded, and soliciting of friends to mediate with the Magistrates for him, that he might not for this neglect lose his place( which the more to amuse the world was threatened) it seemed all was done that possibly could in such a case.  
Here it was that I first began to unriddle the mystery, and to dive unto the bottom of the design, which none of this Town, nor of those Magistrates knew, till many months after they found by the succ●ss, with what dexterity and cunning the business had been carried on.  
As soon as ever the news came to marshal ●urene, that Spintelet was taken prisoner, he gave the design of surprising Oslend for lost; and without waiting for further orders from Court, he advanced with his Army to Mardike, of which he became Master in a few days. At the same time Colonel Spintelet returned to Zealand, disguised with a false beard, and a strange habit; and, with many smooth and quaint discourses, related to them the particulars of his miraculous Escape, convincing them with evident circumstances, showing them letters of greater assurances than ever they had of compassing their design, and arguing that it was apparent that God Almighty permitted it should come to pass, and co-operated with them, since he had so wonderfully delivered him out of the clutches of his enemies: Moreover, that during the time that he lay secretly in Bruges( where likewise were many malcontents) he had been visited by some of his Confederates, who had given him such hopes of good success, that it was infallible, in case marshal Turene would withdraw his Army, and not advance upon any other design, or continue in those parts; for that would give such jealousy to his Highness and the Generals, that to secure those places they would certainly draw the body of the Army into them, not being strong enough to keep the Field▪ and then it would be impossible to effect their design. To confirm them the more, he shewed them letters from counsellor de Bocq, who( as I  told you before) went under the name of Stappin, and chief of the conspirators, alleging the same reasons on their part, which he constantly received from his Highness to spin out time, and to delude the French with expectation.  
His Highness commanded me at the same time( going to Dunkirk about some business) that upon my return to Bruges, I should, if it were possible, see the Colonel, without giving any suspicion, or being seen at sluice, whither I was to go. Being come thither, by a private m●ssage I sent to him, I easily contrived our meeting out of the Town, to know of him how the French stood affencted, and what they thought of his escape, and whether they persisted in what they had begun. His Highness's chiefest care being how to make his advantage by prolonging the execution of the Plot they were so fond of.  
The Colonel know so well to cajole them, and his arguments were so ●fficacious, that they were more confident than ever of their designs, and so prevalent were the letters which were shown them from de Bocq, that they sent away a Messenger of their own with them to the Cardinal, in whom they made no less impression; for he immediately dispatched away an Express to the marshal, that whether Mardike were taken or not taken, he should suddenly without losing time retire on this side the River A. The marshal punctually obeied his orders, without stoping at any inconveniency, though the ways in those parts were so spoiled by the continual reins, and the waters so deep, that the passages were inaccessible. Some of his Cannon, with above a thousand Carts and Carriages, were left in the mire; besides there mouldered away more than three thousand of his men in this retreat, which made all France and Flanders astonished at this sudden Action.  
The Cardinal was not backward in making his complaints to his correspondents in Zealand, that at the request of the Colonel and his associates, he had withdrawn the Army, and done on his part all that was required of him, pressing them to avoid all delays on their side, adding fresh offers of money, with promises of great rewards. These letters passed from Spintelet's hands to de Bocq, and from his were with speed conveyed to his Highness for fresh instructions.  
●t being very necessary to find out some new pretence for delays, to carry the cheat on the better; his Highness thought fit that de Bocq should, in the name of the Confiderates, writ to the Colonel that all things were now ready for action, and that they were highly satisfied to find their design so infallible; and it being likewise requisite that they on their part should forecast and provide all things possible, there restend but one scruple or let which they suspected might impede their proceedings, for they said they studied night and day to remove all obstructions. But this was of great importance, That the English▪ Ships which did ride before Ostend, might at the very instant that the business was to be put in execution, hinder the French Boats from coming in, detaining them perchance three or four tides, till they had acquainted the Protector with it; especially, being nettled that they had no share in the enterprise, which would undoubtedly disappoint their so much wished for expedition, with the hazard of the lives and fortunes of all such as should be found in the Town to have had a hand in it; therefore 'twas expedient to require Passeports of the protector, and orders for his Ships to give all requisite assistance, which in regard of the strict League and Amity betwixt them, would not be hard to obtain.  
This obstacle was signified by an express Messenger called pay, the French Preacher of Dover, who had been engaged in the business: The Cardinal found this so necessary to be redressed, that he sent away this pay to London to Monsieur de Bourdeaux, who was the French King's ambassador there; charging him to give the protector speedy notice of the design, and to procure such dispatches from him, as pay should tell him were necessary.  
But Oliver cronwell, not confiding in Payen's relation, thinking the business to be absolutely dashed by the imprisonment of Spintelet( the news of which was quickly spread abroad) and desiring to inform himself more particularly, he sent for pay late one night to examine the matter; who recounting to him by degrees all that the Colonel had made him believe, he did so smoothly and cunningly set forth the whole business, and made it appear so practicable, that cronwell was tickled with the thoughts of it, and began to deal with pay to change the Scene, and to act for the interest of the Commonwealth of England; at last he won pay wholly to himself, having out-brib'd the Cardinal by a Bar and a half, and so it 'twas agreed upon betwixt themselves, that pay should go over into Zealand to negotiate w●th Spintelet.  
The Minister( by virtue of an Order from the protector) found a vessel of 30. pieces of ordnance ready in the Downs to transport him into Zealand, with instructions, credentials, and all possible allurements, which he thought might wo●k with Spintelet and his Camarades; offering much more ample, and a●vantageous conditions than the Cardinal. The Minister, coming into Z●ala●d, by making some excuse, dissembled to his Companions his going over to sluice to treat on the behalf of the protector, contrary to the trust and confidence reposed in him by the Cardinal. So slight is the faith of many of that Nation, & so prevalent a devil is money.  
The Minister was not backward in soliciting the Colonel, showing him his large Commission and Instructions, which reached to mountains of gold. The Colonel overjoyed at this occasion of new delays, answered, very cunningly, that he could not treat alone without Stappin and the other Confederates; wherefore he required some time, which was the most his Highness expected from that business.  
The said de Bocq going with speed to Brussels, to give his Highness this fresh intelligence, was commanded w●th all possible artifice to embrace the Protector's motion, making show as if he did entirely dedicate the design to him, entertaining him with treating of conditions; so and returned with all dil●gence to sluice, pret●nding to come from stend, with the resolution of the other ●onfederates; and entering into conference with P●yen, after many demands and answers( that he might not s●em to sell his wears at too too low a rate) they came at last to agree, That the Town of Ostend, and whatever depended on it, should be put into the Protectour's possession, he not disturbing, or disquieting them in their Religion; and that for the exercise of Calvinism they might take any house in the Town, but not meddle with any of the Churches, and that they should pay down upon the nail one hundred thousand pound Sterling; but as for the gratifying Stappin, and the other Officers, that should be left wholly to the Protectour's discretion. There was one Monsieur de Winter( Brother-in-law to Spintelet) who did not a little contribute to the striking up of this Bargain, passing under the name of Captain Horns, whose part he had acted, before he became the Go-between, and Broker in this affair.  
The Minister returns with these Articles into England, whence he presently wrote to Spintelet, how well he was received by the protector, who had ratified all the Capitulations, and was now dispatching him to finish the work, and that he would be with him within very few days.  
The French ambassador being subtle, found( by the Protectour's delaying those dispatches for which he solicited) that he treated the business for himself; whereupon he sent away an Express to the Cardinal with his sense, who commanded him to press the granting his demands: and to add threats to them, intimating that he knew the Protectour's meaning and intentions, and alleging that it did not consist with the laws of Alliance, to take a business out of his hands, which for six months together he had transacted, and look't upon it as already hi● own. pay, perceiving the protector wax could in the business, judging that either he feared the Cardinal, or that he was not sound at heart, and fearing lest they might fail with both, he wrote to the Colonel, that there was no good to be done with the English; therefore he should be careful how he gave a jealousy to the Frenchmen, or abandon those that treated on the behalf of the Cardinal. And having at the instance of the ambassador procured dispatches to those English who were in the road, that they should not obstruct their passage, he returned to Spintelet; urging him that, now there was no farther scruple to be made, he would perform what he had so long and often promised; to which he could make no reply, but that he would not fail to do his part.  
His Highness perceiving there was no hopes of drawing the English into the trap, and that they had already spent the Autumn and the Winter in these practices, and now the Spring was at hand, and that they could no longer spin out delays, nor find out new pretexts to defer the execution of what the others did so eagerly gape after; he thought to gain some days by treating of Conditions to be Signed on both sides, for as yet there was nothing of that nature in writing; so they agreed upon the ensuing Articles, which were entitled as followeth:  

Articles by which Colonel Spintelet and his Confederates do agree, to deliver up the Town and Port of Ostend, into the hands of his most Christian Majesty, and his Eminence Cardinal Mazarini; upon which his Majesty, and his Eminence do promise to perform these Conditions following.  
FIRST his Majesty on his part shall be obliged to sand eight ●undred choice men wi h their Officers, which shall lye in the road, to be ready to enter the Town, upon such sign given by the Colonel, as shall be agreed upon. That the said Officers and Souldiers( receiving the Pilots, which shall be sent to them in small Boats, which for that purpose are to be had in a readiness) shall, upon the sign given, enter into the said Haven, at such place as the Colonel shall appoint.  
That the Sieur de Roumignac ( who was said to be Marshall de Camp) should enter at the same time with those men, and that he should bring along with him two hundred thousand Florins, to distribute amongst the soldiery.  
This was the cond●tion promised to the Souldiers and under-Officers: But you must also know( that you may the better judge how the game went) that this Roumignac was a Snap, which in France they call a Filou, a married man; yet notwithstanding he had promised to mary the Daughter of the Colonel, who was to be left governor of the Town: This they privately agreed upon betwixt themselves, alt●ough the Colonel knew all his tricks w●ll enough, and that they played 
* Turk against Moor.  Corsario à Corsavio.  
That these 800. men, in pursuance of the orders given them by Roumignac and Spintelet, should possess themselves of the Walls and magazines; and that there should be a Proclamation set forth, that no man, under pain of death, should en●er the house of any Burgher upon what pretence soever.  
That the said Colonel should remain governor of the place, and that all the soldiery, magazines, Ammunition, and whatever belonged to the Town should continue under his Command, till such time as his Majesty should have consigned into the hands of the Colonel, the sum of 400000. Crowns to be distributed amongst his( amarades; which said s●mme being satisfied, he was to re-deliver the place, with all that belonged to it, in●o the hands of the Sieur de Roumignac, who was to keep it till farther order from his m st Christian majesty.  
That all the Towns-men, and Citizens should continue the Apostolical Roman faith, not permitting in the Town any Temple or Conventicle of what Sect soever; And also that the Towns-men and Citizens, should be maintained and conserved in all their Rights, customs, privileges, and Immunities, which they enjoy under the Government of the most catholic King; and that they should continue the possession of their goods, movables and immoveables, of what quality soever, both within and without the limits of the City.  
And that all those who had been Actors in this business, and should be nominated by the said Spintelet, might pass with their families and goods to any Town of France, or to any place under the Dominion of the most Chr stian King; where they were to enjoy all freedom and privilege without being subject to free-quarter, lodging of Souldiers, taxes, or impositions, which were paid by other Vassals of France; and their Widdows and Children, both Sons and Daughters, should enjoy the same privilege.  
That if it should happen, that because of this service done by t●em, the enemies of France should ruin them, or fire their houses or goods of what quality soever they were, or should by way of revenge confiscate their rents; if they could make sufficient proofs of it, his Majesty should be obliged to rebuild them, and to make their losses good to them, and at his own proper cost and charges, to captivate them in their former condition; unless his Majesty should think convenient to recompense them with equal value, and satisfy them with other goods. And that all such who should desire to reside in France, should have the privilege of being naturalised, and made capable of bearing any Office in France, and be exempted from the forfeit of their goods to the King at their death: In fine, to be treated in all respects, without any manner of distinction, as natural Frenchmen.  
That his Majesty, as soon as they shall be Masters of the Town, do cause these Articles to be published,( in his royal name) in the Town-house the by sound of a Bell, and to have Copies of them set upon the Gates, and other publck places of the City.  
Lastly, that his Majesty should command two hundred thousand Florins more to be put into the hands of John Gerrard( one of the Cardinal's Agents) to be employed for Ammunition, Fortifications, Victuals, and other necessaries; lest the Spaniards should return and assault the Town in those places where the Fortifications were defective, and that the said Gerrard should be obliged to give an account to such person or persons as his Majesty should appoint; and upon his Majesties accepting of these conditions, they were ready ●o perform what they had promised.  
With these Capitulat●ons, which Don John had composed for his pleasure, counsellor de Bocq came down to sluice; and with great d ssimulation, as if he had come from Ostend, he delivered a Letter, in the names of the Confederates, to those Setters employed by the Cardinal, which contained in sum, That whereas they were now ready, and upon the point of putting into the hands of his most Christian Majesty, so important a place as Ostend, the only Harbour that the King of Spain had in these Countries( by which means, without either loss or charge, he made him Master of the whole Country) it was but fit that on their parts they should have some assurance of the reward and satisfaction, which they expected from the King for the common Souldiers, to whom these Confederates had pr●mised all their Arrears, with something over and above; and they found themselves obliged to require some real assurance thereof from the King, wherewithal to satisfy them; neither could they refuse to grant them so just a request, and therefore presented those Articles in their behalf; but for what concerned the Colonel, and the Captains Horns, Sneyers, and Spruyt, they cast themselves wholly upon his Majesties goodness and favour.  
It was necessary to sand away these Capitulations presently, by one of those Agents, to the Cardinal, who till then thought he had to deal with fools; but finding them( at the end of 8. months time when he thought all was safe) to come out with these cross-grained Propositions, he had much ado to dissemble his resentment; however he cast out some expressions, as if it were not well done, after so long a time, to start other Proposals than what were proposed at first, and seemed much troubled, ere he could resolve what to do. But the Messenger played his part so well, setting forth the sincerity, and plain dealing of the Flemmings; that, after a few days, there came forth an Order from the King to Marshall D' Aumont, authorizing him, and giving him absolute power, to conclude this treaty; A Copy whereof translated, is as followeth.   
To our dear and well-beloved Sieur D' Aumont Marshall of France, of our council of State, Knight of our Orders, Colonel of the Guards of our Person, and governor of our City and Castle of boulogne with the Precincts thereof.  
WHEREAS many well-affected to our Crown have made several advantageous Overtures of designs and enterprizes for the good of our kingdom; and whereas for the effecting of them, it is necessary to treat with them about the reward and recompense they pretend; and finding no person fitter than yourself to manage such a busin●ss, by reason of your prudence and great experience; having had transactions of all sorts of affairs passed through your hands, of which y●u have always given a good account: We therefore think fit to Elect, Constitute, and deputy you, as by these presents, ratified under our hand, We do Constitute and deputy you, that in Our name you do attend, consider, and examine whatever shall be proposed to you, concerning a certain secret enterprise, that it may be carried on and effected to our service, and best advantage; and that you dispose of all things in the best manner for the compassing it, making choice of the fittest persons for it; and that you give order for all Boats, Provisions, Furniture of War, and all other necessaries. You shall likewise treat in our royal Name, and agree upon the rewards and stipends of money, with other advantages for those that shall undertake and effect that thing; and you may engage our royal Word, for the performance of whatever you contract with them; and so we give you full power and authority, and do promise, and assure you, We will firmly and inviolably observe in all points, whatever shall be particularly agreed upon betwixt you, without any revocation, because We are so pleased.  
Given in Paris, Sealed with our sign-Manuel, the 5th. of April 1658. And it was Signed LEWIS, and under that, By the King. Du Tellier.  
These dispatches, which were sent by the Cardinal to the marshal, were accompanied with l●rge promises, and very fine words, with which his Eminence did abound, and was very happy in the Art of dis ributing of th●m to each man, as a lenitive to his disease: And knowing very well how the Marshall's pulse did bear, he  told him, that upon the success of this design, depended his advancement, and it would be a chief motive to the King, to confer upon him the dignity of Duke and Peer of France, and to entail the government of Bo●oigne, with all the Boulonois upon him and his sons. This made the Marshall to bestirr his stumps, and to make use of all his five Senses( and more if he had had them) to compass and bring to perfection this Design, which he found to be no less important to the Crown of France, than convenient for the establishment of his own family. You will see hereafter how intricate these deceits were, since Spintelet, being solely guided by the dexterity of his Highness, was able to cheat the French, and to put a slur upon their Chief Minister of State, with the rest of the council, who drew-in divers others depending on them.  
These dispatches were brought to the Colonel; of which Copies being taken under pretext of communicating them to the Confederates, they were sent to his High●ess to consider of them, and to let him see that the enemies were in earnest. So by his Highness order, the Mazarinites were  told that all went well, and that when the Marshall had signed the aforesaid Capitulations, and that they were confirmed by the Kings authority, and as soon as Captain Spruyt's Company was come into Ostend, they would then without further delay put in execution what was agreed upon, and that there should be a day appointed for it. We have form●rly  told you that these Captains were to recruit their Companies to 400. men, so that it was an easy matter to persuade the Fre●ch to bel●eve, that those Courlings, which were brought into the Town, were the Recruits that had been spoken of,( and, as I take it, the French paid the money for the raising them;) which made the jest take so much the better, and the design took the faster root.  
Captain Spruyt, some two days after, did actually enter into Ostend with his whole Company, which consisted but of eight men: but before he came to the Gates there were about one hundred of these Courlings joined to them, without either the one or the other knowing upon what account. This came presently to the ears of these Cunning confederates, who likewise had their double Spies under hand that were cheated as well as themselves; for, seeing the recruit to be effectually made, they laid down a sum of money to maintain them, without troubling their heads any further.  
De Bocq and Spintelet perceiving they could now no longer by any artifices defer the business, having first obtained leave of his Highness, did agree with the Mazarinites, that the day for action should be the fourth of May, in regard that on the third there was an annual feast in Bruges, upon which day they did with great solemnity celebrate the Veneration of the relics of the most sacred blood of Christ, which for many ages hath been the protection, and conservation of that most famous City, having upon frequent occasions defended it from eminent dangers. To this feast there does flock from all parts a great concourse of people, and among●t the rest many Citizens and Souldiers from the Town of Ostend;( who are great lovers of 
* Or fairs, which are usually kept on such days.  Kermesses) whereupon the Town would be the thinner, and they were like to meet with less rubs in their way. The Mazarinites found the time and opportunity of this holiday much to their purpose; and in order to it, leaving it fully resolved upon, one of them went to give the Marshall notice of it, that he might sign the Articles out of hand, that nothing might be wanting on his part. counsellor de Bocq at the same time taking his way for Brussels, that his Highness might give further order.  
The marquis of Caracena( seeing the French so eagerly bent upon the surprisal of Ostend) was desirous to take the advantage while their minds were upon that, to put a considerable Convoy into gravelling, & not being in a readines● to do it, he was very willing to have the business put off, till the eleventh of the said month; but it was a difficult thing to find out new pretexts, without giving a jealousy to the Marshall, who had prepared all things in readiness to be on the third in the road before Ostend, where accordingly he did arrive. Upon which there was spread a rumour over all the Country, that he had an intention to fall upon Flanders; some said upon Ostend, others upon Newport, others upon the North-forts; some said, 'Twas only a blind( their design lying upon Henault and Artois) to draw away the Troops from thence into Flanders; in fine, every one shot his boult at pleasure. sergeant mayor General Campi gave notice immediately to the other States of the Provinces of the certainty of the news, to the end that( t ll such time as his Highness could take further order) they might provide against the danger with all speed; and they sent him 200. men more to perform their part.  
counsellor de Bocq met accidentally with a Son of Colonel Spintelet's, and so( to gain such time as the marquis desired) he wrote another letter from Ostend, in the name of the Confederates, dispatching away the Youth with it as far as Gaunt to the said Spintelet; by which he advertised him, that the arrival of the marshal in the road of Ostend had alarmed all the Country; and that there being foot and horse in the Country, designed for a Convoy to gravelling, they had put 400. foot, and a troop of horse into the Town; wherefore the marquis should not advance too forward, lest he might destroy the business; but that he should rather put off to Sea, upon which they would infallibly march forth about the 10th. or 11th. of the Month, and that then he should have notice when he might effect what they all so much desired.  
These Letters were carried( with what possible speed the Colonel's Son could make) to sluice; where, with much importunity he pressed the French-men, that one of them would go away to the marshal, to persuade him to agree to it, since all was done for the greater caution; and, since the lives and fortunes of the Confederates depended on it, they besought him that he would have patience, and not destroy the business for two or three dayes time, but that he would be pleased to trust to them.  
The marshal was easily carried away with these apparent reasons, upon the arrival of this crafty companion, who of his own accord added much more; whereupon he resolved to put off to Sea for four or five days, till such time as the Souldiers for the Convoy were drawn out of Town. De Bocq returned with this news to his Highness beseeching him that he would be pleased to sand such forces to Ostend, as might be sufficient to receive the marshal, and also to catch him in the Mousetrap.  
The French, on their part, had made choice of two very able persons( as they thought) who( with some of the pretended Confederates) were to go into the Town in a disguise, and to lie close in the house of a certain Citizen, whose name it were injustice to conceal, since he hath so well served the King, in this and other occasions; but most particularly as Pay-master to the Naval Army which was entertained in the year 1651, and 1652. for the besieging and taking gravelling and Dunkirk. This was one Jaques Uleeshauwer, Brother-in-law to the said de Bocq, who harboured and entertained them, and passed amongst them for a chief Mutineer.  
The Principal of th●se two French-men was called Monet de Joly, born at Calais, who had been a Captain of horse, but at present s●rv●d in the Cardinal's Guards; he was a man of parts, and undoubtedly well qualified, had he not had a touch of the ordinary French Levity, and that his want of years made him over-confident: The other was name de Fontene, who either was( or pretended to be) an Ingeniere, but otherwise one of a very mean capacity, and somewhat deaffish. This man came as deputy to Monet; and their Commission was to treat with the Confederates of whatever was to be acted upon the place, to dispose the Marshall's entrance into the Town, to distribute his forces, and with the 400. men( which they conceived they had in Town at their own devotion) to possess the principal Gates, the main Guards, and the magazines; to take or kill the governor, to give the Watchword, and what else was to be done; and that then, one of them should return to the marshal, with a particular relation, that he might know how to proceed with security.  
These two, above-mentioned, left Zealand on the eighth of May, taking leave of the other Agents, in Company of the said Colonel; and counsellor de Bocq, came from sluice by the Sea cost to Ostend, in a waggon, which was purposely provided for them, by one Robert Mulebeq, a man of Credit and Estate, a principal Privateer in Ostend, whom they also took to be one of the Confederates. Coming near to the Ferry-boat, de Bocq advanced, upon pretence to see if the cost were clear, fearing lest they should accidentally stumble upon the governor in their way, for it was not convenient they should see him or know him; and, to confirm the Cheat the more, the governor( having notice of their coming) had placed a reformed Ensign( who had his lesson without book) as Sentinel, to startle them that they might not seem to be negligent in their Guards; and so being questioned upon their coming out of the Ferry-boat, who they were, and whither they went, 'twas answered by de Bocq and Mulebecq, that they were Holland Marchants, and that they would be answerable for them. Thus they passed the first encounter with no small fright; and coming to the house of the said Uleeshauwer, thinking themselves now in Sanctuary, they fell down on their knees, and gave God thanks, that they had so happily escaped out of the hands of the Spaniards.  
Now come I again to act my part of this Comedy, having not been upon the Stage, since the imprisonment of Spintelet, who left me fully instructed in all the Plot. His Highness and the marquis of Caracena, had designed me the person whom the French were to seize upon as governor, in conformity to the agreement betwixt the Confederates, who were to deliver up the governor dead or alive. I being upon the seventh of the same month at brussels( deputed by the Country upon some public employment) was sent for by his Excellency about e●even of the clock at night, after I was retired to my Chamber, and commanded from his Highness to hasten away to Ostend, to assist the governor upon any occasion; for that it would be very grateful to his Highness, the governor much desiring to have me as an assistant to him in this Action.  
His Excellency( to prevent my replying or excusing myself from the journey) did purposely conceal from me the business which I had there to do; but I, who never stuck at any thing, which was commanded me, in relation to his Majesties service( although it were out of the sphere of my activity) offered myself immediately to go away that very night; his Excellency giving me a paper, which contained his Highnesse's Commands to that effect, with a letter to the governor, that he might understand so much; and thus, with a ticket to have the Gates of the Town opened, his Excellence dispatched me away at Midnight. It was about two hours ere my Boots and Horses were ready, so that before I got two leagues and a half from brussels it was broad day, and coming very early into gaunt, 'twas impossible for me to get horses, in regard there was a great Fair that day: Wherefore having no better means to advance, I took a little Boat upon the Channel of Bruges, capable to receive about a dozen or fifteen musketeers( being one of those in which the Spanish foot had passed with sergeant mayor Sanpayo to Bruges) and taking a fresh horse at the half way, I lost but little time, although I feared I should for want of horses. At Bruges Gates I met with the said sergeant mayor, expecting the arrival of Boats and provisions, for to continue his journey to Ostend. I endeavouring to speak with him, found him at first very reserved, being unwilling to acquaint me with his march, or let me know, that the order he had was not in those express and usual terms, that were requisite to make him be furnished with conveniencies to pass his men; but discoursing betwixt ourselves, we declared the march to be of Concern; and therefore we resolved, that he should make for Lefinguen, and sand his Adjutant with me to Ostend, whence the governor should sand further directions what was to be done. I provided him Boats and provisions, and in pursuance of an order from his Excellency, I sent the Count de Grimbergh's Troop which lay in Garrison at Bruges, to Blanquenbergh, with directions to observe what orders should be sent them by the governor of Ostend; and so I took Horses, and went away on my journey thither. At the mouth of the Haven I met two of the Eschevins of the Franc, who were sent by their Magistrates to make provision for the Troops which came in from all parts, no body knowing upon what account, unless it were to make a Convoy for gravelling. I thought good to advice them, that it did much import his Majesties service, that they should quarter close, and not straggle about the Country; for upon that depended the good or ill success of a Design in hand, wherefore they should be very careful not to commit any disorders in the Country.  
Having made some little stay about this business, and Sailing towards the Ferry, whom should I spy upon the wharf, but Monsieur de Mulebesq, Spintelet, and counsellor de Bocq, who were going to introduce the two French-men, before mentioned, into the Town, as 'twas agreed upon between them, which I understood by the letters shewed me by the marquis of Caracena; so that I was forced to delay some time upon the water, to avoid being seen and known.  
The governor received me with his wonted civility, as the professed friendship betwixt us might deserve, and with somewhat more than an ordinary demonstration for the confidence he always had in me; having passed some compliments, we retired with the sergeant mayor Don Diego de Herreras and counsellor de Bocq, to debate about the main business; and being shut up together, the governor made a formal discourse, with great dissimulation commending the zeal and fervour which I had always shown in his Majesties service, t●lling me, how that his Highness, and the marquis of Caracena, had ordered him, in recompense of my services, to deliver up t●e government of Ostend into my hands, offering me( as an ●arnest of it) hi● Commanding Cane, which he had in his hand, charging the sergeant mayor to obey such orders, as I should give him in the quality of governor; and all of them together, without expecting my reply, saluted me, and gave me joy. Although I could not but smile at their feigned compliment, which in itself was so extravagant and remote, yet I was very curious to know what this would amount to at last, and desiring them to leave their drolling, they began by degrees to explain themselves, and to declare to me, that it was agreed betwixt the Confederates and the Frenchmen, that they should take the governor of the place Prisoner, and that his Highness and his Excellence had commanded me to personate him, and that no body could perform it with more dexterity and address than myself; so that I had nothing further to reply, for they knew it was not my custom to dispute commands, especially in such an Exigent as that.  
I must confess, that as the preamble of the Governour's discourse made me laugh, who( with his formal gravity was resolved to recreate himself upon my score, to see how I would take it) so was I much surprised at the conclusion, which was attended with the condition of so chimerical and perilous a government; which you may easily believe, especially, when a proposition is made to an honest man, to counterfeit another mans person: However, seeing it was upon so extraordinary a piece of service, lest it might be thought I either wanted resolution, or a will, who upon all other occasions had shew'd myself so forward; without any other consideration than the King's service, I presently accepted that imaginary government, and resolved to do whatever they deemed most expedient, for the carrying on the intended design.  
Whereupon it was resolved that I should make choice of my own Prison, where I thought good. But set ng aside what might concern that business, we fell into debate concerning the discourses of those two French-men which were brought in, who had declared that in those Ships and Vessells which lay before the Haven, there were double the number of men agreed upon; which they very well observing, all of them, found that those who were sent to re-inforce them, were not sufficient to secure the place; so they agreed upon dispatching away a Post immediately to his Highness, and to the marquis of Caracena, that they would please to sand them more men that they might be able to receive their enemies without danger.  
And, to disguise this delay to the French-men, as also to alloy the impatience of the marquis( who was at sea) and to keep him from going away, they were made believe, 'twas necessary to defer the execution for a day or two, because those Troops, designed for a Convoy to gravelling( which quartered upon the Franc Country) were to receive a certain allowance, and so for the ease of the Country-people they were to quarter in the Towns; that this could not hold above two days, and that 'twas very convenient the marshal should be advertised of it, that he might know it was deferred but the better to secure the success.  
And that they might not think it an excuse, or an invention, it was ordered that the Spanish Foot, which lay already in Lefinguen, should be brought into the Town, and should pass through that very street where those two Frenchmen might( by peeping out of their Windows) both see and number them, and that the Marshall might likewise have a view of them as they marched along the shore. All this was performed to a tittle; and moreover, I placed myself over against the Frenchmen's Windows, with the sergeant mayor of the Town, and two or three Servants in the Governours Livery, where the Captains of the Spanish Infantry, who came into the Town, saluted me as they passed by, being my friends and acquaintance; and several of them speaking to me, those two French-men which were shut up, asked who we were? And counsellor de Bocq, who was with them at their Window,  told them, It was the governor, and the sergeant mayor of the place, describing us by the clothes we wore; whereupon they( making themselves sure of their prise) said one to the other, Little think those Gentlemen what will become of them within these 24. hours.  
There remained one difficulty, which was, to find out a person to carry this advice to the marshal, some one that was rational, whom they might trust in so important a business: There occurred to my memory one John Duey, who( having forfeited his life upon some high mis-demeanours which he had committed) was condemned to be banished. This man was promised his pardon, if he would undertake the carrying of this message; he accepting of it, the two French-men, who were shut up, wrote to the marshal all what hath been related, in the most efficacious manner they could; beseeching his Excellency, that he would not think the time tedious, since all things went to his hearts desire. This Messenger took a Horse, and made great hast to sluice, from whence in a Boat with Sails and Oars, he soon got on board the marshal, to whom he delivered his Message to the full. He was so well received and entertained, that he had his answer in a moment, and he being a very devil of Hell, was hugged and kissed by the marshal himself, who discharging two pieces of Ordnances, gave notice he had received the dispatch, and likewise, to let them understand, he would willingly wait. He shewed unto this John Duey a Chest, which he said was full of double pistols, to be distributed amongst the Confederate Souldiers; and  told him he should not be out of patience, though he were to expect whole years, that he doubted not of their fidelity, and that he might assure them so much. Duey had purposely ordered his Horse to be sent back to Blanquenbergh, which is the half way betwixt Ostend and sluice, and in his return he was set on shore there, so that his diligence seemed miraculous.  
In the mean time, I thought it good to find out persons to manage my imprisonment, and such as I might confided in, for so important a business. There were two Companies of Auxiliaries of the Count de Meghems Tercia, under Captain Eguels, and Captain Febre: These as my friends and acquaintance( having first taken their Words and Oaths of secrecy) I thought best to instruct, and to make them instruments in carrying on that matter, so by degrees I began to acquaint them with the principal design, as likewise to inform them what they were to do in particular, and by what means they should be introduced into the company and acquaintance of those French spies that were shut up, and the other pretended Conspirators. These, feigning themselves to be reformed-Officers, that had taken a discontent, for having been affronted by the governor, and had vowed revenge, were called by councillor de Bocq into the presence of these two French-men, as friends and relations of Colonel Spintelet, who were resolved to steer his course, and run the same fortune with him, venturing their miserable lives, which they said were a burden to them, so much were they oppressed by the many injuries they had received from the governor.  
They were received with open arms into the Committy, and there they fell presently to debate( according to the instructions I had given them) whether it were best to kill the governor, or to take him prisoner. One alleged, that the chief person in command being dead, there would certainly want the necessary Orders, and so in case they should endeavour to make a head, and to rally, they would never be able to give any considerable opposition; that it was to be feared so great a Revolution could not be without Tumult and hurly burly; and having removed out of the way the principal persons, who were most to be feared, all would be safe.  
The other, on the contrary, urged that the governor, in the present posture the Town was in, could not get together three men; besides, although what the other alleged should fall out, yet keeping him well-guarded, neither of them could want a dagger to take another resolution; and that it was not probable that either the King or Cardinal would refuse a Prisoner to those two Gentlemen, who had ventured themselves upon the place, which was the least recompense he could give them; and that he knew for certain, that he had 80000. Ducats ready Cash in Bruges, which was an infallible ransom, much more to be valued than his carcase; and, grant it should not be given them, yet such a sum of money might serve at any time to fortify the Sasse of Plasquendal, by which means, all the land about it would be their own; that to expect money from France, would require some weeks time, which were to give the Spaniard's leisure to come and fortify themselves there, and consequently to render Ostend useless to the most Christian King.  
These Reasons( together with the news of the money, of which they thought themselves sure) made the French-men begin to unlock their five Senses, and having heard all their opinions, the most being for the killing of the governor &( all this, as I  told you, in order to the Instructions I had given them) the two French-men declared absolutely for the negative, giving express Order, that they should by no means kill him, repeating many times, Non mordieu il ne faut pas le tuer, but that they should let him live and use him well, and fish the 
* Or Double pistols.  Doblons out of him, and after they had resolved upon this point each man retired to his Chamber.  
All this passed upon the eleventh of May, his Excellence having already given Command, that to the Spanish Foot should be added the Count de Megems whole Tercia, and the Regiment of Alman's, of Don Alberto Coloma, writing to the governor, that with this strength, there was nothing to be feared.  
His Excellency's Letters and his Troops arrived not till the thirteenth in the morning, for they were commanded to make a halt at Lefinguen, till they had settled other matters. The first thing that was to be done, was to dispatch a second Messenger to the Marshall, to let him know that the Troops would march out of Town that very thirteenth day, to the end, that he should prepare to fall in with the tide on the fourteenth, being the day following; and about eleven of the clock at night they sent away the same John Duey a second time, to let him know that the Convoy was in a readiness to go out; that they would march the next day without fail, and that they might discover them from Sea, and by a white cloth, which should at the same time be held up in a Mans hand, upon the great bulwark of the Haven; and that he would please to signify to them, by discharging of two Guns, and by hanging out a White-flag upon the Stern of his Ship, whether he was resolved to come and second them.  
All this succeeded to wish, the Marshall having given the signal with two piece of Ordnance, and the Whitestreamer; The governor commanded the Drums to beat up, and the Spanish Foot to march out the same way that they had taken; and I, placing myself directly over against them in the same equipage, was taken notice of again, that they might not mistake me the night following. sergeant mayor Sanpayo had order, that as he passed along the Sands, about a league off from the Town, he should cross over the Downs, and make a halt, calling to him the other two Regiments which were in Lefinguen, with express order that upon pain of death no man should appear upon the Downs, to be discovered by those at Sea; and for greater security, they planted sentinels, and the Officers themselves had strict charge to prevent it.  
All this was a Riddle to both Officers and Souldiers, who could not guess to what all this caution tended. 'Tis not to be expressed what joy there was amongst the French-men, as well those two who lay privately in the Town, as also those who were in the Ships; neither the one or the other were able to contain themseles, they were so puffed up with the hopes of being Masters of so important a place within few hours; being Eye-witnesses of the marching away of those who obstructed their Conquest, and counted their very Ranks as they marched through the Town; and those on Ship-board were troubled at nothing more, than that they had not Perspective-glasses to do the same upon the Shore.  
The Spanish Foot having marched out, and the rest of them being come to Lefinguen, with the Cavalry which were expected, it was thought requisite to recommend the good success to his Divine Majesty, the supreme conductor of human affairs, on whom depends the good or evil events of all enterprizes; whereupon a solemn mass was ordered to be said in the great Church, none knowing upon what occasion, only to implore the Divine assistance for his Majesties good success, to which were invited the Magistrates, together with the chief of the soldiery and Towns-men, and it was recommended to the Guardian of the Capuchins to order the devotions of his Convent to the same intent.  
Having thus performed the obligation of highest Concern, the governor caused an assembly of the Magistrates, being attended on by de Bocq and my self; When we had taken our seats, the doors being barred, I  told them the governor had a business to propound to them, of so great importance to his Majesties service, that before it were declared to them, they must first be all sworn by the bailiff to keep secrecy with all strictness, it being so absolutely essential, that without it all would fall to the ground; and an Oath being accordingly tendered to them in due form, counsellor de Bocq began a large and ample discourse, relating to them the whole business from the beginning, requiring their concurrence, and assistance in accomplishing the work. They very readily offered themselves to do whatever should be ordered them; so it was agreed upon, that after the Gates were shut, they should divide themselves into every street and quarter of the Town, by two and two; and that they should speak with every family, charging them, that whatever Rumour they should hear, that Night after Mid-night, or about break of day, that not a man of them should stir, nor open a Door or Window, although they should hear the Cannons to play, the French Drums to beat, and the people to cry, Vive la France: However that each man should have his Fire-arms ready fixed, that when they should hear the jangling o● Bells, every man should then repair to his Colours, to go wherever they should be appointed, and that they should fear nothing, since all was for the good of the Town. In the second place, he  told them how the two French-men were shut up, and that the night being come, and the counterfeit-Governour secured, it was agreed upon by the pretended conspirators, the better to wheedle the French-men, that in that interim, whilst they expected the coming in of the Tide, they should assemble the Magistrates, and propound to them the swearing of Fealty to the King of France, wherefore he wished them to carry it so, as that some should pretend to retreat out of Town; others, that they would not swear; some, that they would; however, that they should order it, in such manner, that there might be an equality of votes, so that nothing should be concluded on; alleging they were not sufficiently im●owered from the King to tender them such an Oath, and that the matter should rest undecided, and be deferred till the arrival of the marshal. That sergeant mayor Don Diego de Herrera should be ready at the place of arms, to conduct the burghers to that part of the Walls which they were to defend, where they should receive farther orders.  
Having given them this admonition, we took our leaves of the Magistrates, and went to the Covent of the Capuchins, advising the Guardian in general terms, that they should keep quiet and still whatever they heard; and that they should prepare their Church, to shelter the Count de Meghem's Tercia of Wallone Foot, appointing some one to open and shut their Gate, betwixt nine and ten of the clock at night. There was the same care taken with the Oratorian Fathers, the Pastors of the great Church, that they should receive-in the Spanish and Alman Infantry, which amounted to some 1200. men; and, this done, we went to eat, as if no such thing had been to follow.  
We passed the evening in ordering who should command the Artillery and dispose the Batteries, and for that purpose they appointed the Captains and Masters of Ships, with such Sea-men as were in Town. There was another invention found out for the greater confusion of those who were to be let into the Town, which was to clap up some ten or twelve men in Prison, giving the Keeper private notice, that at Midnight, when he should see the French-men enter with Colonel Spintelet, de Bocq, and others, to demand the Keys; he should then let out those ten or twelve men, with some English Seamen, which were taken some few days before; but if he had any criminal Prisoners, or that were considerable, he should shut them up where they should not be seen; and I, on the other side, entertained myself with running over the lessons of those who were to take me Prisoner, that every one being perfect in his part, might act it to the life. The Officers of Horse and Foot were sent for to Town by an Adjutant; the Horse were ordered to march, and be before Mid-night( 300. of them with their sergeant Majors, the Baron de Courieres, and Monsieur Voglaer) on that part of the Downs which is called Lissemorre, whither they should be conducted by Monsieur le Fabre, one of the Eschevins of the Franc, and that sergeant mayor de Feu, with 150. more, should come by the Bank of Plasquendal, to plant themselves behind it, at the point which is towards the Haven called Slicque, whither they should be guided by Monsieur de Maldegem, another Eschevin of the Franc; and that being come to their Posts, they should alight, not quitting the Bridle out of their hands; and, upon pain of death, that they should not straggle, much less show themselves upon the Downs, or on the bank, nor to get on Horseback, till such time as they heard the Muskets play from the Walls of the Town.  
The Foot were charged not to stir from the place where they were, till late at night, and, that then, without beat of Drum, or Match lighted, they should march to the Town, where they should find the Gates open, and one to conduct them under the Walls to the Church, or to that part where they were to be shut up, from whence( whatever should happen, either noise of Drums or Cannons) they were not to move, until such time the governor should direct them what to do. These orders being given out, each man retired to act what was assigned him: They had caution given them, not to permit any living soul to go out of the Gates, lest the secret should be discovered, which was a kind of Miracle, since there was a necessity it should pass through the hands of so many, and so different persons.  
It being now night, the governor, the sergeant mayor, and myself, went to open the Gates to let in the Foot, each one guiding his party: The first lead the Spanish ●oot under the Walls on the right-hand, towards the great Church; the sergeant mayor lead the Germans the same way; and I with the Walloons passed under the Walls of the 
* Water Piles.  Cofres, to shut them up in the Capuchins Church, where they all remained, without know●ng what work was in hand, or in what they were to be employed. I  told them the same thing which I had  told the guardian, and that I would be with them again about two or three of the clock in the morning, and that then I would conduct them where they were to continue for some time.  
There fell out an unexpected Accident about this time, which was like to have disordered the whole Design; which being in itself so frivolous, it is worth a man's observation to consider, How small a matter may serve to dash such enterprizes. Thus it was; the Camp-boys who attended the Spanish Infantry, and other Servants with their Master's Led-horses, running up and down the streets to seek their Quarters, did make such a hurly-bury, that they alarmed the two French-men; which being observed by the Master of the house, and the rest who were at Supper, to divert it, they, under pretence of beginning a health, made such a din with their Knives and Dishes, that they no more minded what the business was; which really was a great presence of mind in such an occasion. They  told them, that the Governor with other Officers, were returned from seeing the Troops march with the Convoy towards Gravelin; so their apprehension being over, they continued their Drinking of Healths to the most Christian King, the Cardinal, the Marshall, and to their good success; of which they made no doubt.  
We( having made all things sure) went to the Governour's house, where we Supp't at our leisure, smiling and pleasing ourselves with the expectation of the good day following, which was the 14. of May. Supper being ended in good conversation, I retired to a Chamber, where there lay ready a Box with the Keys of the Town and magazines, several Papers upon the Table, & a Desk to writ upon; and you must know, there was only a little Court of the House, to be crossed to these Lodgings, so that one might go to them without any noise or disturbance. They all retired to take a little rest, and to make themselves ready to act their parts, which were to begin precisely at Midnight. I being now in my quarters, and having already put on the Order of St. Jago, flinging the Governour's Cloak over my shoulders, with the same badge; I had nothing further to do but to School a Laquay of the Governour's, who lay at my Beds-feet upon a mattress, and knew nothing of what was in hand; I wished him only to make a counterfeit bus●le, telling him that those that were to rush in to take me prisoner, were friends, and of his acquaintance in the Town, so that he need fear nothing, but that he should dissemble the best he could, but so as not to disturb or destroy the work. I reflected with myself, that one of these French-men( when they should see me hold up the dispute at that height) might happen to give me a stab, or prick me in some part of the body, that could not brook could Iron, either upon my violent crying out, or upon any slight occasion; wherefore I took a choir of paper, and opening it, I clapped it to the mouth of my stomach, and upon some part of my Belly, which I thought might be proff against a thrust, in case it should come to trial, or that the Monsieur should have a mind to pink my Doublet. Into one of my Pockets I slipped a pistol, and into the other a Poniard or Stiletto, of those which they had hide in a private place, to be distributed amongst the Conspirators.  
In this Posture( far from shutting my eyes) I for the space of an hour, expected their coming to take me, which I knew was to be precisely about Midnight. The clock had no sooner struck, but ere you could say a Miserere, I could hear them advancing, cum laternis, facibus, & armis, making a great noise upon their surprising t●e Sentinel, which is usually set at the Governour's door, where there was at this time placed by design a reformed 
* An Officer which in the Spanish Infantry is both Ensign and Lieutenant.  Alferez, who had no need to be taught his lesson. They now began their Action of battery against my Chamber-door, and with their Hammers and Iron-barrs, they opened it, in a less space than was requisite for the waking of me though I had slept never so soundly. They came rushing into my Chamber in a crowd, and two of the Captains seizing upon me, counterfeited so much to the life, that they had almost choked me, so that being scarce able to breath, I could not articulate with my voice, what I seemed desirous to express; it came at last to be past dissembling, for they had so throatled me with a wisheth, or Cravat, which I had about my neck, that( had it continued but a little longer) there had been an end of my counterfeiting; and my French monsieurs bad been defeated of their ransom, with which they were so much tickled. At last, the chief of those two French-men, called Du Monet, he that was Captain of Horse in the Cardinal's Guards, whith his Sword in his hand, spoken thus unto me: Submit yourself to the Arms of France, for the Town is the King's, the marshal D' Aumont is at the Gates ready to enter, I have taken possession of it in his name, the People and the Garrison have declared for the most Christian King. By this time, I was a little come to myself, and feigning to be infinitely troubled, I cried out in Spanish, Arma, Arma, sargento mayor, traycion, traycion; making as if I understood not what he said to me: and, when I espied Colonel Spintelet amongst them, I addressed my complaints to him, calling him Infamous traitor, telling him I never expected better of him, and raging like a Mad-man out of his wits, I begged of them to kill me, making as if I would have snatched one of their Swords out of their hands: In fine, I dissembled as much as it was possible, endeavouring to express great rage and indignation, from which in reality I was free enough. Du Monet,( seeing me so highly afflicted, and discomposed, reflecting perchance on the 80000. ducats, which I had not at Bruges) endeavouring all he could to comfort me, with much gallantry, and fine language, he said, Sir, you must please to suffer the Crosses of Fortune with a generous spirit; remembering who you are, and the great valour which you have for so many years shown in your King's service; this was a Stratagem of War, from which the greatest Commanders are not secure; you are betrayed by your own men, and against such treason there is no defence; your reputation is so established in the Army, that you can never suffer in it, your courage is too well known; the affairs of War have their ebbs and flows, and what is held to be most secure, is often lost in an hour: Comfort yourself, Sir, with this, the King of France is a mighty Monarch, and the marshal a noble Lord, He will both give you good Quarter, and use your Lady with all civility; Resolve to bear this mis-fortune like a man of courage, and comform yourself to time and occasion. As well he might have spoken all that while to a Wall, for I made as if I understood him not, still talking on like a Mad-man; with that my Monsieur began to take Pepper in the Nose, and said in great wrath, Bid him hold his tongue, and be quiet, or, I will clap my Sword in his Guts; which crabbed logic sounded harsh in my ears, whereupon I put my hand in my Pocket, keeping my eye upon him, to see if he persisted in such Blasphemy,; if he had, I should have made bold to have singed his Beard for him; said motos praestat componere fluctus, but I thought it best to furle up my Sails, the high winds of my passion seeming to be allayed; so I expressed the anguish and trouble I seemed to have in my mind, only by sighing and sobbing.  
As they lead me along, we passed by the Capuchins Church, where the Count de Meghem's Regiment was shut up, and so to the little Market-place, to meet with Captain horns, who, with a hundred men ready in Arms( which by agreement he had got together upon the discharging a Pistol) marched all in good order, to seize upon the Court of Guards at the Gate of the Cay; and being come within fifty paces of them, he sent a sergeant mayor with a Vanguard of twenty five shoemakers, to fall in amongst those careless Souldiers, who having but one Sentinel and six or seven old men, hovering over a little fire, and three or four more asleep, it was an easy matter for them to discharge some few Muskets in the air, and two or three of them to counterfeit being hurt, besmearing themselves with a little blood, which they had purposely provided. These were commanded by the said Monsieur du Monet to be sent away to the Hospital; the rest were disarmed; and he  told them very courteously in Italian, as well as he could, Figlivoli bon animo è fortuna de la Guerra hauretè bon quartiere. He delivered me up to that Court of Guard, with an express charge to Captain Febre, to keep me safe: As for Captain Eguel's, I had before given him order not to stir an Inch from du Monet, but strictly to observe his words and actions, and to squeeze out of him what possible he could of the design of these Gentlemen, and what they farther intended, having possessed themselves of so important a place: Nor was the Captain careless to do so, to whom this French-man had already promised to be instantly put into the Command of a Company in the Regiment of Picardy. In the interim, they met with great difficulty in opening the Gates: for, the usual Porter not being prepared for it, and much surprised to see the Town surrendered, in that confusion had mingled his Keys together, so that they were forced to sand for a Spanish Corporal from the Court of Guard to open them; who patiently bore some Raps of the Pate, the better to disguise his trouble.  
The Gates being opened, Colonel Spintelet, and Advocate de Bocq( who, as I said before, went by the name of Stapin)  told them, that now they had nothing further to do on their part, and that the rest did not depend on them; wherefore the Souldiers began to cry, Spintelet, Spintelet, Money, Money, Money; to which du Monet replied, Gentlemen, your money is ready in the Ships, the marshal brings it with him, and I assure you, you shall have more than was promised you;[ and I believe he spake a truth, meaning blows, the usual rewards of Traytors.]  
At the same time the two Captains, Sneyers and Spruit, possessed themselves of the Main Guards, and of the Gate of Newport, who a little before had had notice given them of what would happen. Then this du Monet, with Captain Eguels, the Colonel, and many others of the pretended Conspirators, got) upon the Walls, and changed all the sentinels, and the Word, which they gave, St. Lewis. After that, they went to the grand Battery, whence they did let fly three pieces of Ordnance, as a signal, to show they were Masters of the Place; hanging forth a great Sheet upon a Pole, instead of a white Banner, as they use in France.  
The English fleet, which lay in the road( having in her the marshal, with those men which were to be brought into the Town) answered likewise with three pieces of Cannon; but it being as yet not day, nor the time of tide serving, which we had duly weighed, du Monet resolved to go and assemble the Magistrates, to make them swear Allegiance to the most Christian King. And by the way, as they were going, he  told Captain Eguels, that there would be suddenly d●s-embark'd a very puissant Army, to conquer the whole Country; and that, leaving Dunkirk and Gravelin( which of themselves would fall in) they would begin with that which was the most solid, and essential. First of all, they would fortify Plasquendall, to command the Water: Then he fell to his ejaculations, crying out to himself, with a loud voice; Oh fortunate King of France, now thou art truly a Monarch, since, in one day, I have added to thy Crown so powerful, and rich a Country, which thou hast gained without the loss of one man! What reward may not a poor Gentleman expect at thy hands, who with the hazard of his life, hath made thee Earl of Flanders! Thus did his tongue run riot, entertaining Captain Eguels with such extravagant discourses; and, promising to himself mountains of gold, he came to the Town-house, by the way flinging open the Prison, and letting our those, who were not really imprisoned( as I formerly said) but such as were clapped up by design; telling them that in the King of France his Name, he gave them their liberty.  
Some few days before, they had taken five or six English mariners, and those were purposely freed, they which took them losing their ramsomes, which they ought not to have done. This did extremely confirm them, and heighten their confidence; for the news arriving at the Fleet( being sent thither with the Pilots who went to bring in the French) they did there divulge the rendition of the Town.  
There came the bailiff, Burgomaster, and Head-borroughs, running in great hurry, and confusion to the Town-house, some of them half naked, making as if they had been frighted out of their Beds. He made them a large discourse, how that by the just judgement of God, that Place was returned to the obedience of its lawful Lord, and natural King, since the most Christian King's Title to those Provinces, was so clear and manifest, that no body could question it; and that after so many years of slavery, they might rejoice to have come back to the obedience of so benign, and just a Prince; being freeed from the yoke and tyranny of Spain; and since they had obtained this grace without toil or blood-shed, he desired them all in his presence, to swear Fidelity to the most Christian King.  
As to this point, they all had their instructions, which were, to debate amongst themselves, whether they should swear or not, upon which, being divided in their opinions, they resolved to spur him the question. Whether he were fully empowered( which they well knew he was not) to take their oaths. In case he had, they would have shifted it off upon equality of Votes, desiring it might be deferred till the entry of the marshal, which would be in a very few hours: Upon hi● answer, that he had no power, the matter for that time was laid aside, they promising to keep together, till they had the honour to see the marshal.  
The day now began to break, it being about half an hour past one, or upon the point of two of the clock, at which time he gave order, that they should take me from the Court of Guard, and that they should carry me to some Inn, or private house, with a guard of a dozen men, and a sergeant, giving them a strict charge of my person; but withall, that they should treat me with all civility and courtesy. Whereupon they carried me to a place, not far from the Walls, near unto the Capuchins. Then returned he to the Town-house, to order the disposing of the men who were to come in with the marshal, for the guarding the several Posts of the place, sending away a relation of all what had passed to the Fleet, by his Camarade( who was present at all, and had been shut up with him) and by the Pilots before mentioned, and the English who escaped out of Prison, and with a letter of his own. They were not long in carrying their intelligence; for, the marshal presently fired three pieces of Cannon, and by the Pendents and Streamers which they hung out, it might plainly be discerned from the Walls, that the French thought themselves absolutely Masters of the Place.  
In the interim( leaving my Gentleman very busy, and writing, as I was  told by several persons who observed him) I slipped out of my Prison by a back door; and passing through Narrow-lanes, and little By-alleys, I came to the Governour's house; where we could not but celebrate with laughter, all that had passed. The governor, and I,( having comforted our stomacks with Chocolate) went upon the Walls, whence we could descry a Shallop, making into the Haven in all hast, Rowing against Tide, which we conceived to be some one sent before to scout, and see, if the cost were clear; nor were we deceived. The governor retired privately to his house, and I fair and softly stepped back to my Prison.  
A while after, du Monet was advertised there was a Gentleman arrived from the marshal; he presently left his business, and ran to receive him with open arms at the Cay, he shew'd him the Gates of the Town open, the Keys of the magazines, the soldiery crying viva Francia, a Spintelet, a Spintelet, Money, Money; to conclude all, he brought him to see the governor under Custody. I being advised of his coming( by my Keepers) did set Sentinels at the Street-door, in the Garden, at the Windows, and doubled them upon the Stairs, another at my Chamber-door, and two within, in sight of me, every one of them asking the Word, with extraordinary punctuallity, and strictness, which was more and more to increase the confidence of one who was already sufficiently deceived. In fine, in rushed a crowed, where I was leaning upon my Elbow sighing, and as melancholy as a Lover's Lute. The Messenger began, with great Civility, to deliver me a compliment from the Marshal, comforting me in my misfortune, assuring me of good usage, and fair quarter, as well for my own Person, as for my Wife and Children; he  told me, that the King was a sufficient gainer by the place, and that, without doubt I should be speedily freed, since I was bought and sold, with a great deal more of such stuff; and whereas he expected a correspondent answer to his compliment, I did very soberly( making as if I understood him not) ask Captain Febre in Spanish, queen dize, Sennore? What says he, Sir? He on the other side, laboured all he could to explicate, and interpret his Harangue, using, in a manner, the very same words; to which I answered with much gravity, that the marshal might do by me as he pleased, I should neither ask, nor take quarter, that I was a lost man on all hands, that I had formerly been his Prisoner, and that I expected no better usage from him now, that I was taken unarmed, then, when I was taken, in the open field; that he might spare his compliments, which I neither needed, nor regarded; and so I turned my back to him: with which he was so nettled, that he used this expression to his companion, and the rest who were present, Mordieu l'arrogance Espanole!  
As he returned to re-imbark himself, passing the Gate, and the Court-guard, the Souldiers still cried out, a Spintelet, a Spintelet, Money, Money, Money; with this cry they followed him to his Boat, they Beat their Drums for the morning watch after the French Mode, and Beat a French March to the Place of Arms, and to the Walls; all the burghers keeping their Windows and Doors close shut, according to the order given them the night before, by the Headboroughs, as was before mentioned.  
Du Monet returned to the Town-house, to finish the disposing of the men for the Guards, which he had begun; allotting to some the Marketplace, to others the Gates, according to the quality of the Troops. In which employment we will leave him a while; for what follows, will prove tragical to him.  
Day coming on apace, it was now time to un-mask, and to shake off our disguise, for we could from the Walls discover the French Infantry, shifting out of the great English Ships into small French Vessels, to get into the Haven, the Tide being within an hour ready to flow. Above all things, we thought it necessary to make sure of this man, and he having taken me Prisoner at Midnight, I thought I was bound to treat him with the same civility, as he had shewed to me; and to save the life of a man of so much resolution and courage, which in the greatest enemies is always to be valued. At first the governor, and myself, had thoughts of hanging him up upon a Wind-mill at the ●ay, to undeceive their men; but the great courage and generosity which I observed in the man, made me have a kindness for him; so I resolved to beg his life of his Highness, and his Excellence, which afterwards I did, and obtained it. So lapping a Skarff about my Middle, with a pistol by my Side, not knowing what might happen, I went along with Captain Eguels, and some Souldiers, to apprehended him; I found him Writing of his Orders; and he seeing me come into the Room, with a Skarff and pistol, my Staff and Hat in my hand, he started back in an amaze, I made up towards him, and said to him in French, Monsieur, what is it you fear? I come not to you with my Sword in my Hand, as you d●d at Mid-night when you took me; I come to bid you welcome, and embrace you in these arms, which have long expected you here: Therefore, Sir, give me leave to tell you, you are welcome; which that you may believe to be real, I shall need to use no other language than your own. These are Accidents and Stratagems of War, from which the greatest Souldiers are not secure; have patience, and comform yourself to your fortune: for, men of courage, whatever falls out, are always themselves, and remain as firm as rocks. Comfort yourself with what I shall tell you; you well enough know, Whosoever enters secretly into a Garrison-town, and continuing there shall cause a Revolt, or endeavour to debauch the Garrison, or with-draw the People or Magistrates from the obedience of their lawful Lord, and natural King, carries his Sentence along with him; neither can he expect any quarter, by the laws of War or Nature. Wherefore all things are prepared in a readiness, for the breaking you alive upon the Wheel, to serve as an Example and terror to others, lest at any time hereafter they should attempt the like design; however, your civill carriage to me, and the rest of the Prisoners( whom you did really believe in your power) hath so far gained upon me, that, I assure you, your person shall not be touched, and I will cast myself at his Highnesses feet, to beg both your life and liberty, which I am confident will not be denied me: In the mean while be of good courage, I here give you my hand to make good my promise, neither shall you want the command of my purse.  
You may well imagine what different effects this discourse of mine did work in this person, and in how great a confusion he was, however, he made no reply, but shrinking up his Shoulders, he said, I am young, and inconsiderate. Thus leaving him under the Custody of a sergeant with half a dozen Souldiers to guard him, I returned to the Walls. At the same time they rung their Bells, the signal( as I said before) for the Towns-men to open their Houses, and to repair with their arms, each man to his Colours.  
It was about four of the clock, the tide beginning to come in, which at ten was to be High-water, when we could perceive all our enemies to be got out of the English Ships, and to be embarked in lesser Vessels, Pinnaces, and other French Boats, which they had brought for that purpose from Calais,; and whilst they waited the coming in of the tide, they floated about with their Streamers and Pendents, beating their Drums, and playing on their Flutes, as if they were making an Entry of Triumph.  
He, who Commanded in the Town, was not wanting to defend the Walls, with those men which were come in; so he ordered some Spaniards to the counterscarp, that lay against the Haven, and the Ferry, since it was apparent they must disembark there; in the Stoneredout, which is upon the Cay, he placed 30. Spanish shoemakers, which were those who were like to do the best execution, the Walloons and Germans covered the counterscarp, from the Sallyport to the Sea-side, and what were over and above were placed upon the Walls; so likewise were the Townsmen from the very front of the Dock to Newport Gate, with which the Town was so well defended, that it needed not to have feared a whole Army. All the Artillery was man'd with three men to a Gun, and those were Sea-Captains and Gunners of the Town. In this posture( the Souldiers falling flat down with their Arms upon the ground, lest they should be discovered from the Top-masts of the Ships) We expected with patience an hour, none but the governor, and myself, walking upon the Walls, discoursing whether they would enter or not, and after what manner we should receive them, and whether it were best to strike a terror into them by firing upon them, or else to sand out some person to let them know that they were sold, and merely trapan'd, that therefore they should fling down their Arms, and submit themselves; otherwise, to their Co●t, they should find by experience their greater confusion. This was my advice, offering to go out myself, and to acquaint them in what a Predicament they were, and without doubt they would have accepted our offer, which seemed to me the more glorious action; however, the governor being wiser, and more circumspectly, was resolved to proclaim their confusion to them by a Volley of Shot, lest there might be a triple design, as this was double. In fine, he being so great a soldier, and all being to be filled upon his account, my reasons were out of doors.  
In the interim, the Tide began to rise, and ere it was half-flood, we could, to our great satisfaction, discover ten Vessells, coming in with a North East wind( which was what they desired) loaded with men; their Arms in their hands, their Banners displayed, with Drums beating, playing on their Flutes, as if they were at a Wedding, with the embroydred Blew-coats of the King's guard of Mu kettiers, and Cardinal Mazarin's Red-coats, with their Officers in all their gallantry, and the Marshall in the midst of them, with his Order of the Holy Ghost.  
The Wind was so brisk, that having once passed the Shelf, at the coming into the Haven, there was no stoping of themselves, by reason of the violent stream, that came along with them, and likewise, in regard of the Wind. In this posture, they came to the Cay without, and climbing over the Bilanders, and other Vessells which were there, they came on shore, to draw themselves into Squadrons.  
There is one thing not to be forgot: the marshal before he came out of the English Ship, in which he was, had sent a 
* A Pinnace, or nimble Boat.  Patache to the Cardinal, with the advice of the Victory, which he thought he had already got; who with that Wind, which I spoken of, got in few hours to Calais, to the Count de Charon, who presently dispatched away a Gentleman Post to the Cardinal, giving him joy of the taking of Ostend, and by consequence all Flanders; the Cardinal did not omit to sand away with all speed to Frankfort, where the Electors of the Empire were met upon the Election of the King of the Romans, and they did so blazon abroad the great Revolution, which from day to day would be declared, that they kept the aforesaid Electors in suspense, as likewise the other Ministers, who were there employed about that important affair; neither did this news( which the enemies had spread abroad) give a small disturbance to the King of Hungary, the Arch-Duke, and the Count de Pennaranda; till such time as their minds were quieted by the arrival of a Post, sent away by Don John, with the Relation I made him, who partend from Bruxell's the next day after this happened; for I stayed but that night, leaving Ostend at the very instant, that we had convoyed the marshal to the Governour's house, which was about three in the afternoon. And those that are at Frankfort writ from thence, that this News has so confounded the arrogance of the French there, that they appear not in the streets.  
But to return to our Enemies: being disembarked, they began to form a Squadron of 1500. men upon the Cay, which was nearest to the Town; the governor thought it fit to disperse and scatter them; and so with his own hands he pulled down the white Flag, which had been set up as a Signal upon the great Bulwark, and commanded a Volley of Musket-shot to be given them, which was the first warning they had to disabuse themselves; upon which each man began to shift for himself.  
The Artillery playing too soon upon the Ships which entred, was the only error that was committed in this Action, it hindering five Vessells from entering; and especially, a great Frigate, in which were all the Chief Officers of the English Fleet, who were invited by the marshal to Dinner,; and these being within ten or twelve paces of the Shelff, tack't about, with others that did not come in, in which, they said, there were the 200000 Florins, sent by Capitulation for the Garrison; but for my part, I do not believe there was one farthing, because 'tis seldom that Traytors are so punctually dealt withall.  
Marshall De Aumont, with two Captains of the King's Guard●, and some other particular persons, fled over the drowned Lands, thinking to save themselves by crossing the Haven, and so taking towards the Downs, over against the Town; there went about 150. of them w●th their Arms: that way was well found out by them, had it not been prevented by an Ambush of 300. Horse, with good Officers, who received them with many compliments.  
By this time I was sallied forth with an Adjutant of Don Antonio Furtado's Tercia, and a dozen Spanish musketeers, running to and fro along the Bank, and the over-flowed-land, in pursuit of the marshal, and Monsieur Talou, who escaped me, in regard I knew him not; the latter of the two having whispered a pleasant note, and grateful to the ears of a Captain of Spanish Foot, to the Tune of 300. pistols, although his ransom was worth 20000. he holding a far greater employment than his Military, and not having Quarter, but at discretion. Whether the Captain, in this particular, abused the King, or no, I shall not take upon me to judge; I know it was passed by, by which it appears, not to be capital.  
Above 300. men flung down their arms altogether, upon a Sign I gave them, telling them, they were betrayed, as they might perceive by the dead, and the wounded, which amounted not to 200. the rest being all taken Prisoners of War, and being stripped, were sent away to several Towns. The marshal, and some Noble Persons with him, were treated with all civility and respect, his Highness recommending them to the Castle at Antwerp.  
The marshal was very desirous to have entred the Town in the Governour's Coach, pretending himself to be hurt in the Heel, of which he halted, because he would not pass shamefully through the Crowd; but 'twas not thought fit; but rather, that the Souldiers, and the burghers, who were handsomely drawn up in the streets, and in all the chief places of the Town, should have the joy, and satisfaction to see those taken, who had so long watched to have taken them; by which means this day was a day of Jubily for Ostend, and all those who were concerned in it.  
Here, Sir, you have a Relation at large, of all that passed, with the happy conclusion of the success, which we owe to his Highness, who by his wisdom knew how to begin it, carry it on, and end it, according to our hearts desire.  
An ingenious person might here find field-room enough to enlarge himself, and to adorn and illustrate this Story, both with Moral and Political observations, upon the variety of changes, and the miraculous secrecy; But I who have other Irons in the Fire, shall leave it to such who profess writing, and have the faculty of applying the thoughts of other men to their own. And shall end with telling you, Colonel Spintelet was rewarded with a Regiment of Walloon Foot; and Advocate de Bocq, who was so indefatigable in the pains he took, was made counsellor of Flanders, and Attorney General of the Province. These rewards were deservedly bestowed, and may be good motives for every one, to make use of that Talent God hath given him: They have left me( who likewise bore my share in the Brunt) puffed up with the pride and vanity of having acted my part well in this Farce; with which I am as fully satisfied, as they with their rewards; and should be more if this rough draft be acceptable to you, whom God preserve: Which is the vote of  
SIR, Yours.  
FINIS.