The negotiations were conducted in the Binnenhof.

The Special Commissioners to represent the States-General were William Lewis of Nassau, Walraven, lord of Brederode, and a deputy from each of the provinces under the leadership of Oldenbarneveldt.

Envoys from France, England, Denmark, the Palatinate and Brandenburg were present, took part in the discussions, and acted as friendly mediators.
The question of treating the United Provinces "as free States" was soon settled.

The archdukes, who were aiming at the conclusion of a truce in which to recuperate and not of a definitive peace, showed an unexpected complaisance in granting a concession which they regarded as only temporary.

Then came the really serious questions as to freedom of trade in the Indies and the liberty of Catholic worship.