ed to see
a power which could be relied upon at the head of the community, even
though it were a tool of the abhorred King. The danger was so terrible
that it could not fail to alarm and summon to the common defence every
individual, no matter to what party he might belong; for the unpaid
Spanish regiments, with unbridled violence, rioting and seeking booty,
capable of every crime, every shameful deed, obedient only to their own
savage impulses, were already entering Brabant.

Now many a Spanish partisan also hoped for deliverance from the Prince
of Orange, but he took advantage of the favour of circumstances in
behalf of the great cause of liberty. The "Spanish" in Ghent heard with
terror that all the heads of the royalist party who were at the helm of
government had been captured, that province after province had revolted,
and would no longer bow to the despot. Philip of Croy, Duke of Aerschot,
had been appointed military governor of Brabant.

The inhabitants of Ghent now saw the States-General meet within the
walls of their city, in order, as every other support failed, to appeal
for aid to foreign powers, and entreat "Father William," who could do
everything, to guard the country from the rebellious soldiery. Even
those who favoured Spain now relied upon his never-failing shrewdness
and energy until the King sent the right man.

Then the rumour that King Philip would send his brother Don John of
Austria, that, as his regent, he might reconcile the contending parties,
strengthened into authentic news, and not only the Spanish partisans
hailed it with joyous hope, for the reputation of military ability, as
well as of a noble nature, preceded the victor of Lepanto.

Barbara received these tidings through the distinguished City Councillor
Rassingham, who invited her for the first time to a meeting of the
Spanish party in his magnificent home--an honour bestowed, in addition
to herself, upon only a few women belonging to the highest social
circles, and which she probably owed to the summons to Don John. The
members of the States-General who favoured the King were also to be
present at this assembly, and a banquet would follow the political
discussions. This invitation promised to lend fresh distinction to her
social position, and open a sphere of activity which suited her taste.

The King's cause was hers, and to be permitted to work for it gained a
special charm by her son's appointment to be governor of the country