Fables concerning him and Queen Isabella--Mystery, concerning his
death--Secret letters of Philip to the Pope--The one containing the
truth of the transaction still concealed in the Vatican--Case
against Philip as related by Mathieu, De Thou, and others--Testimony
in the King's favor by the nuncio, the Venetian envoy, and others--
Doubtful state of the question--Anecdotes concerning Don Carlos--His
character.

Those measures were taken with the precision and promptness which marked
the Duke's character, when precision and promptness were desirable.
There had been a terrible energy in his every step, since the successful
foray of Louis Nassau. Having determined to take the field in person
with nearly all the Spanish veterans, he had at once acted upon the
necessity of making the capital secure, after his back should be turned.
It was impossible to leave three thousand choice troops to guard Count
Egmont. A less number seemed insufficient to prevent a rescue. He had,
therefore, no longer delayed the chastisement which had already been
determined, but which the events in the north had precipitated. Thus the
only positive result of Louis Nassau's victory was the execution of his
imprisoned friends.

The expedition under Aremberg had failed from two causes. The Spanish
force had been inadequate, and they had attacked the enemy at a
disadvantage. The imprudent attack was the result of the contempt
with which they had regarded their antagonist. These errors were not to
be repeated. Alva ordered Count Meghem, now commanding in the province
of Groningen, on no account to hazard hostilities until the game was
sure. He also immediately ordered large reinforcements to move forward
to the seat of war. The commanders intrusted with this duty were Duke
Eric of Brunswick, Chiappin Vitelli, Noircarmes, and Count de Roeulx.