He had been wearied with the policy which Alva had enforced, and for which he endeavoured at that period to make the Duke appear responsible.

The barren clemency which the Grand Commander had been instructed to affect, had deceived but few persons, and had produced but small results.

The King was, perhaps, really inclined at this juncture to exercise clemency--that is to say he was willing to pardon his people for having contended for their rights, provided they were now willing to resign them for ever.

So the Catholic religion and his own authority, were exclusively and inviolably secured, he was willing to receive his disobedient provinces into favor.

To accomplish this end, however, he had still no more fortunate conception than to take the advice of Hopper.