Two hours after the traveller's departure, the news arrived of the deed, together with orders to arrest Anastro, but it was too late.

The merchant had found refuge within the lines of Parma.
Meanwhile, the Prince lay in a most critical condition.

Believing that his end was fast approaching; he dictated letters to the states-general, entreating them to continue in their obedience to the Duke, than whom he affirmed that he knew no better prince for the government of the provinces.

These letters were despatched by Saint Aldegonde to the assembly, from which body a deputation, in obedience to the wishes of Orange, was sent to Anjou, with expressions of condolence and fidelity.
On Wednesday a solemn fast was held, according to proclamation, in Antwerp, all work and all amusements being prohibited, and special prayers commanded in all the churches for the recovery of the Prince.
"Never, within men's memory," says an account published at the moment, in Antwerp, "had such crowds been seen in the churches, nor so many tears been shed." The process against Venero and Zimmermann was rapidly carried through, for both had made a full confession of their share in the crime.

The Prince had enjoined from his sick bed, however, that the case should be conducted with strict regard to justice, and, when the execution could no longer be deferred, he had sent a written request, by the hands of Saint Aldegonde, that they should be put to death in the least painful manner.
The request was complied with, but there can be no doubt that the criminals, had it not been made, would have expiated their offence by the most lingering tortures.