In this counterfeit epistle; the Colonel was directed to do the best he could for himself, by reason that Don John was himself besieged, and unable to render him assistance.

The same captain who had brought the real letter was bribed to deliver the counterfeit.

This task he faithfully performed, spreading the fictitious intelligence besides, with such ardor through the town, that the troops rose upon their leader, and surrendered him with the city and their own arms, into the custody of the estates.

Such was the result of the attempt by Don John to secure the citadel--of Antwerp.

Not only was the fortress carried for the estates, but the city itself, for the first time in twelve years, was relieved from a foreign soldiery.
The rage and disappointment of the Governor-General were excessive.