And yet, even at this high-water mark of his power, his difficulties were considerable.

Each province was jealous of its rights and, as in the American Revolution, each province wished to contribute as little as possible to the common fund.

Moreover the religious question was still extremely delicate.

Orange's permission to the Catholics to celebrate their rites on his estates alienated as many Protestant fanatics as it conciliated those of the old religion.
[Sidenote: Archduke Matthew] The Netherlands were not yet strong enough to do without powerful foreign support, nor was public opinion yet ripe for the declaration of an independent republic.

Feeling that a statholder of some sort was necessary, the States General petitioned Philip to remove Don John and to appoint a legitimate prince of the blood.