Oldenbarneveldt and those who had acted with him were deeply disappointed at the failure of their plans for the capture of Dunkirk and were far from satisfied with Maurice's obstinate refusal to carry out any further offensive operations.

From this time there arose a feeling of soreness between the advocate and the stadholder, which further differences of opinion were to accentuate in the coming years.
The vigour and powers of leadership displayed by their new sovereigns in meeting the invasion of Flanders by the States' army, though a defeat in the field had been suffered at Nieuport, had inspired their subjects in the southern Netherlands with confidence and loyalty.

Albert had proved himself a brave commander, and his efforts had at least been successful in compelling the enemy to withdraw within his own borders.
Ostend had long been a thorn in the side of the government at Brussels and energetic steps were soon taken to besiege it.

But the possession of Ostend was important also to Elizabeth, and she promised active assistance.

The larger part of the garrison was, indeed, formed of English troops, and Sir Francis Vere was governor of the town.