All this was duly reported to Philip by Granvelle, who continued, in his retirement, to keep himself well informed of all that was going on.
Meanwhile by the efforts of Orange, Egmont and Hoorn, chiefly of the former, proposals of reform were being urged for the strengthening of the powers of the Council of State, for the reorganisation of finance, and for the more moderate execution of the placards against heresy.
While discussion concerning these matters was in progress, came an order from Philip (August, 1564) for the enforcing of the decrees of the recently concluded Council of Trent.

This at once aroused protest and opposition.

It was denounced as an infringement of the fundamental privileges of the provinces.

Philip's instructions however were peremptory.

In these circumstances it was resolved by the Council of State to despatch Egmont on a special mission to Madrid to explain to the king in person the condition of affairs in the Netherlands.