But in this she did not succeed.

The Parliament had sent an envoy, William Strickland, to counteract the influence of Henrietta Maria, and to represent to the States-General that it was fighting in defence of the same principles which had led to the revolt against Spain.

The prince was far too prudent to allow his personal inclinations to override his political judgment as a practical statesman.

He knew that public opinion in the United Provinces would never sanction in any form active support of King Charles against his parliament, and he did not attempt it.

Intervention was confined to the despatch of an embassy to England with instructions to mediate between the two parties.