No one doubted his genius, and all felt or affected admiration at its display upon this critical occasion.

"The Prince of Orange is doing very great and notable services at Antwerp to the King and to the country," said Assonleville.

"That seignior is very skilful in managing great affairs." Margaret of Parma wrote letters to him fixed with the warmest gratitude, expressions of approbation, and of wishes that he could both remain in Antwerp and return to assist her in Brussels.

Philip, too, with his own pen, addressed him a letter, in which implicit confidence in the Prince's character was avowed, all suspicion on the part of the Sovereign indignantly repudiated, earnest thanks for his acceptance of the Antwerp mission uttered, and a distinct refusal given to the earnest request made by Orange to resign his offices.

The Prince read or listened to all this commendation, and valued it exactly at its proper worth.