that is a proof that they have acted wisely and
rightly," I observed.

"No, no, Master Verner, you do not think that," he answered: "I know
enough of the truth to know that it is not always those who flourish in
this world who are most favoured by God. Look at me, Master Verner, I
am not happy; and when I pass them, and observe their countenances,
there is little contentment and cheerfulness to be seen in them."

"And Dame Trond," I asked, "is she still alive?"

"Ah, that she is," he answered, "and drives a more flourishing trade
than ever. People of all ranks go and consult her, and believe that she
can work all sorts of miracles, and has numberless familiar spirits at
her command."

"She is a strange woman," I observed; "but I ought to feel grateful to
her for the assistance she afforded us in helping our friends to
escape."

"Ah! but still I am afraid she is a _very_ wicked old woman," said
Jacob. "I cannot tell you how many bad things I believe she has done;
and she will do many more, I suspect. I, for one, would not trust her."

"I have no wish to do so," I said, "and, indeed, doubt how far I should
be right in obtaining her services, now that we know more of her
character."

Finding that there was a considerable amount of ill-feeling towards the
English among the Spaniards and the Flemings who adhered to Alva, I went
very little abroad while at Antwerp, except when I was compelled to call
on the merchants and others with whom I had business. I found, however,
that it was absolutely necessary for me to proceed to Brussels. I was
there going into the lion's den; but yet, as the English Government had
an envoy at the Duke's court, I considered that I had no cause for fear.
I accordingly went with Jacob Naas, who earnestly begged that he might
accompany me.

At this time the Duke of Alva was endeavouring to force upon the
provinces a tax which was known as the Tenth Penny. Expostulations had
been sent to King Philip; but, though the tax was not formally
confirmed, the King did not distinctly disavow his intention of
inflicting it. The citizens in every town throughout the country were
therefore in open revolt against the tax; and, in order that it should
not be levied on every sale of goods, they took the only remedy in their
power, and a very effectual one that was--namely, not to sell any goods
at all. Thus, not only was the wholesale commerce of the provinces
suspended, but even the minute and i