THE RISE OF THE DUTCH REPUBLIC, 1577

By John Lothrop Motley

1855



1577 [CHAPTER II.]

Triumphal entrance of Don John into Brussels--Reverse of the picture
--Analysis of the secret correspondence of Don John and Escovedo
with Antonio Perez--Plots against the Governor's liberty--His
desponding language and gloomy anticipations--Recommendation of
severe measures--Position and principles of Orange and his family--
His private views on the question of peace and war--His toleration
to Catholics and Anabaptists censured by his friends--Death of
Viglius--New mission from the Governor to Orange--Details of the
Gertruydenberg conferences--Nature and results of these
negotiations--Papers exchanged between the envoys and Orange--Peter
Panis executed for heresy--Three parties in the Netherlands--
Dissimulation of Don John--His dread of capture.

As already narrated, the soldiery had retired definitely from the country
at the end of April, after which Don John made his triumphal entrance
into Brussels on the 1st of May. It was long since so festive a May-day
had gladdened the hearts of Brabant. So much holiday magnificence had
not been seen in the Netherlands for years. A solemn procession of
burghers, preceded by six thousand troops, and garnished by the free
companies of archers and musketeers, in their picturesque costumes,