Amsterdam was the chief offender.

On one occasion a deputation sent to Amsterdam from the States-General was simply flouted.

The burgomaster refused to summon the council together, and the members of the deputation had to return without an audience.

All the prince's efforts to induce the contumacious city to consider his proposals in a reasonable and patriotic spirit were of no avail; they were rejected insultingly.

In his indignation Frederick Henry is reported to have exclaimed, "I have no greater enemy, but if only I could take Antwerp, it would bring them to their senses." The immense and growing prosperity of Amsterdam at this time was indeed mainly due to the fall of Antwerp from its high estate.