History of the United Netherlands, 1597-1598



CHAPTER XXXIII.

Straggle of the Netherlands against Spain--March to Turnhout--
Retreat of the Spanish commander--Pursuit and attack--Demolition of
the Spanish army--Surrender of the garrison of Turnhout--Improved
military science--Moral effect of the battle--The campaign in
France--Attack on Amiens by the Spaniards--Sack and burning of the
city--De Rosny's plan for reorganization of the finances--Jobbery
and speculation--Philip's repudiation of his debts--Effects of the
measure--Renewal of persecution by the Jesuits--Contention between
Turk and Christian--Envoy from the King of Poland to the Hague to
plead for reconciliation with Philip--His subsequent presentation to
Queen Elizabeth--Military events Recovery of Amiens--Feeble
operations of the confederate powers against Spain--Marriage of the
Princess Emilia, sister of Maurice--Reduction of the castle and town
of Alphen--Surrender of Rheinberg--Capitulation of Meurs--Surrender
of Grol--Storming and taking of Brevoort Capitulation of Enschede,
Ootmaxsum, Oldenzaal, and Lingen--Rebellion of the Spanish garrisons
in Antwerp and Ghent--Progress of the peace movement between Henry
and Philip--Relations of the three confederate powers--Henry's
scheme for reconciliation with Spain--His acceptance of Philip's
offer of peace announced to Elizabeth--Endeavours for a general
peace.

The old year had closed with an abortive attempt of Philip to fulfil his
favourite dream--the conquest of England. The new year opened with a