Moreover, as she hath borne her cross, and knows how to deal with gentlemen, so much the better would it be for me.

Nevertheless, inasmuch as she has already had two husbands, is of a tolerable age, and is taller of stature than myself, my inclination is less towards her than towards her daughter." For these various considerations, Count John, notwithstanding the remonstrances of his brother, definitely laid down his government of Gelderland, and quitted the Netherlands about midsummer.

Enough had not been done, in the opinion of the Prince, so long as aught remained to do, and he could not bear that his brother should desert the country in the hour of its darkness, or doubt the Almighty when his hand was veiled in clouds.

"One must do one's best," said he, "and believe that when such misfortunes happen, God desires to prove us.

If He sees that we do not lose our courage, He will assuredly help us.