He promised to respect the privileges of the provinces and to free political prisoners, including the son of Orange.

In April the troops really withdrew.

The small effect of these measures of conciliation became apparent when the Estates General voted by a majority of one only to recognize Don John as their Statholder.

[Sidenote: May 12] So little influence did he have that he felt more like a prisoner than a governor; he soon fled from his capital to the fortress of Namur whence he wrote urging his king to send back the troops at once and let him "bathe in the blood of the traitors." William was as much pleased as John was enraged at the failure of the policy of reconciliation.

While the majority of the states still hoped for peace William was determined on independence at all costs.