shed family,
but still more distinguished for his learning, his poetical genius, his
valour and military accomplishments; if we select him, the Prince I am
sure will sanction our appointment."

Without a dissentient voice the Seigneur of Nordwyck was elected
military commandant. The burgomaster did not conceal from them the
dangers and the sufferings which perchance they would have to undergo,
but he added, "Remember Naarden, my friends, we cannot too often reflect
on the fate of Naarden; although the inhabitants offered no resistance,
they were indiscriminately slaughtered, and such may be our lot even if
we go humbly forth to sue for pardon from the conquerors of Mookerheyde.
Remember Haarlem, which, although defended with the heroism which ought
to have inspired respect and consideration in the hearts of the
conquerors, was treated with cruelties from the bare contemplation of
which the mind shrinks back with horror; then let us think of Alkmaar
which so bravely and successfully resisted, and imitate the example of
its citizens with the hope and confidence that we shall be equally
successful in driving back the hated foe."

Other patriotic magistrates spoke in the same strain, and all were
unanimous in their resolution to defend their city to the last, while it
was agreed that steps should instantly be taken for that object.
Unhappily much precious time had already been lost; the forts and
redoubts thrown up by the Spaniards still remained, and at present the
defenders of the city had too much to do within the walls to attempt
levelling them. The new commandant urged them to strengthen the
fortifications, and in the meantime to obtain such stores of provisions
from the immediate neighbourhood as could be collected. There were a
_few_, however, who, although they did not vote in opposition to the
opinions of the majority, yet spoke of the hopelessness of the
undertaking in which they were about to engage. Among these was Baron
Van Arenberg, although he expressed himself carefully he did his best to
persuade the citizens that their wisest course would be to yield before
proceeding to extremities.

"I say not that such is what I advise," he observed. "But conciliatory
measures might prove successful; if they fail let us by all means
endeavour to keep out the enemy as long as we can."

"The Spaniards have already shown us the uselessness of conciliatory
measures as well as the utter worthlessness of their guaran