It is remarkable that Amsterdam, which had voted for keeping these troops in Holland when James needed their help against the Western insurgents, now contended vehemently that his request ought to be granted.

On both occasions, the sole object of those who ruled that great city was to cross the Prince of Orange.

[274] The Dutch arms, however, were scarcely so formidable to James as the Dutch presses.

English books and pamphlets against his government were daily printed at the Hague; nor could any vigilance prevent copies from being smuggled, by tens of thousands, into the counties bordering on the German Ocean.

Among these publications, one was distinguished by its importance, and by the immense effect which it produced.