He told them that his life, passed in service and sacrifice, ought to witness sufficiently for his fidelity.
Nevertheless, he thought it necessary--in view of the calumnies which were circulated--to repeat once more his sentiment that no treaty of peace, war, or alliance, ought to be negotiated, save with the consent of the people.

His course in Holland and Zealand had proved, he said, his willingness always to consult the wishes of his countrymen.

As for the matter of religion it was almost incredible that there should be any who doubted the zeal which he bore the religion for which he had suffered so much.

"I desire," he continued, fervently, "that men should compare that which has been done by my accusers during ten years past with that which I have done.

In that which touches the true advancement of religion, I will yield to no man.