Amsterdam.

Is scituated on the Gulf cal­led the Fie, and the Ditch or Channel call'd Amstel; whence it hath the name of Amsteldam, in Latine Amstelo­damum; built upon Piles like Venice.

It consisted at the first of a few Fishermens houses, and was under the Jurisdiction of the Lords of Amstel. About 300 years since, Gilbert Amstel for­tified this City with Bulwarks and Towers; which being burnt by ill Neighbours, 'twas walled about Anno 1482.

And afterwards 'twas inlar­ged, and it is now become one of the greatest Mart-towns in Europe.

Here a 1000 Ships of all sorts have been seen to go out and in.

They of Amsterdam made a great present of Money to the [Page 11] Emperor Maximilian the First of that name; for the which, and other their good Services, he granted them leave to bear an Imperial Crown upon the Arms of the City: a Dignity never granted to any Town before.

There is yet to be seen in a Glass-window of the old Church, certain Purses painted with their Mouths down, scat­tering Gold and Silver, to sig­nifie their liberality.

It's strong by reason of the Scituation, but stronger by Art. It's flanck'd about with great Bulwarks, which answer­ing one another, make it im­pregnable. What with the Walls about it, and the indu­stry of man, it's warranted to­wards the Sea, with a long dou­ble Pallisadoe from th'east to to the West; in which above [Page 12] 1000 Ships, and innumerable lesser Vessels, may safely lie out of danger.

By reason of Trade, it's grown exceeding rich, by di­verting it from Antwerp hither.

It's inhabited by People of all Nations, and of all Religi­ons, and those nor tolerated or conniv'd at in private, but openly and freely exercis'd without any disl ke.

It's seven Leagues from Ley­den.

The Town-house is the pro­digie of the world, and a mira­cle beyond the Seven that An­tiquity brags so much of; the Foundation of which cost ma­ny hundred thousand pounds.

The Revenue of this City cometh to above 4000 l. a day.

Near St. Katharin's Church, are laid the Foundations of a Tower, which is to be exceed­ing [Page 13] high: 6300 great Trees have been driven into a piece of ground of about 100 Foot square, to be Piles for the foun­dation of the said Tower.

They have here a House of Correction, called the Tutcht­huyse, for vain, idle, and extra­vagant persons, and also for those children which will not be obedient to their Parents: at the coming in, there are two Lyons upon the doors bridled, as an emblem of the wild youth of the Town. They make them here work according to their offences. If they refuse to work, they are put into a low Cellar, and water is let in upon them: if they will stand still, they may; if they will pump, and deliver themselves, then they are help'd out again. They come out of this House, when they give Testimony of their repentance.

Anno 1595 was here set up the like house for young Maids which liv'd a licentious and i­dle life.

In Amsterdam, notwithstand­ing their precise observance of the Sabbath, yet every Sunday Morning they have a publique Mart for Dogs and Rags.

Harlem

On the Lake called Harlem­meer. It's a Noble Town, both for the largeness of the City, the fairness of the Houses, and pleasantness of the Scituation, being seated a­mongst many goodly Mea­dows: famous for the inven­tion of Printing, invented here by Laurence Jans. The first Book that ever was Printed be­ing Tullies Offices.

Anno 1245, Pope Innocent at the Councel of Lions made St. Lewis King of France, and [Page 15] William Earl of Holland, un­dertake the relief of the Holy Land: the Army being come before Pelusium (now called Damietta,) a great Chain did hinder the approach of the Navy; this the Harlem-men undertook to break, and did execute their Design, giving entry to the whole Fleet. In memory of which, the Empe­rour gave the Town for Arms (which before was a dry tree) a Sword compass'd with six stars; to the which the Patriarch of Jerusalem added upon the point a Cross Pattee. They have many silver Bells, which they brought from thence, hang up in their Steeple.

It hath the fairest Church in all Holland, being supported with great Columns or Pillars.

The River Sparr passeth through this Town.

Anno 1572, 'twas greatly afflicted by the Spaniards ly­ing before it eight moneths, to their great loss, and dis­charged 10256 Cannon shot a­gainst the Town; yet in the end, by reason of Famine, it was constrained to yield to the mercy of Duke d'Alva, who put them to the Sword: the Papists crying they were Ca­tholiques, expecting to receive mercy at his hands; but they were answered, that it was good for their Souls, but their Bodies must die for the King.

This Town and Castle was built by the Harmelois, who issued from the bloud of the Kings of Friesland, and from thence it took its name, as the learned Adrianus Junius con­ceiveth. It's the second Town in Holland for Rank and Dig­nity.

The Castle hereof was seated upon the Chanel that runs to­wards Egmont, not far from Heemskirk▪ and built of Brick; but at this day there is nothing to be seen but the ruines of it.

The Lord of this place by his cruelty having made himself odi­ous to his people, he and his wife fled into this Castle, and being besieged, and reduced to want for Provision, (having no means to escape) was compelled to enter into a Treaty for the rendition of the Town: his wife amongst o­ther Articles capitulated that she might have so much of her most precious Goods as she could carry at one time: which was granted. She (with the help of her Maid) carried out her Husband lock'd in a Chest out of the Castle, leav­ing all her Rings and Jewels be­hind her. A rare Example of conjugal Love! It's desir'd that [Page 18] the Ladies of these times would make it their President.

The Lordships and Villages under it, are

• 1 Bredenrood.
• 2 Assenburg.
• 3 Heems kerck.
• 4 Meresteen.
• 5 Forest.
• 6 Keewrick.
• 7 Velsen.
• 8 Polenburgh.
• 9 Hemsteed.
• 10 Beurwick.

Between Harlem and Leyden there are many fair Villages: Heligon, Lys, and Tassam: they are not above a League distant one from another. Not far from them is the House of Feiling, now belonging to his Highness the Prince of Orange.

Naerden

On the Zuyder-Sea, Fortifi'd with a strong Castle, held of the Earls of Holland by the Dukes of Brunswick, to whom it anciently belong'd.

Anno 1580, having submitted to the Duke of Alva, he, con­trary [Page 19] to his Faith and Promise to them, fired it, and put all the poor Inhabitants to the Sword. It's the chief Town of the Bayli­wick of Goeland.

Anno 1355 it was built by Wil­liam of Bavaria, and by him in­riched with many Priviledges.

Anno 1481 they of Ʋtrecht having given the Hollanders a great overthrow, surprized the Town of Naerden by an ingenious Stratagem: For they dressed a good company of young Souldi­ers like Country-women going to Market; who being let in, seized a Gate of the Town, and gave entrance to the Enemy: the Citizens redeemed themselves from Fire and Sword with a great sum of Money.

Enchuysen,

So call'd from Euckle-Huysen, little or simple Houses, as they were at first; but now 'tis be­come [Page 20] a great Town scituate on the very point of the Gulf of Zuyder-see opposite to Friesland, from which it's not distant above two Leagues.

'Twas very serviceable to the Prince of Orange in the first Re­volt of these Countries from the King of Spain, for siding with him: they cut off all Supplies and Provisions from Amsterdam, and compell'd it in a short time to yield to the Prince. It's a place of great Trade and Navigation; their Ships passing to all Seas of the world. There are two Pas­sages out to the Sea, and three Havens: at the entrance of one of them, there is a great Tower.

It's reported that Anno 1394 Albert Earl of Holland set sail from thence with a Fleet of 300 Boats, to transport his Army into Friesland: an Argument that it was then a Famous Port.

Here are built great Ships for the Indies; and great Fleets do sail from hence to the Baltick Seas.

This Town is environ'd on three parts by the Sea.

Under the Jurisdiction of this Town are these Villages

• 1 Grootenbroeck.
• 2 Luttlebroeck.
• 3 Boumers-kerspel.
• 4 Hogekerspel.
• 5 Hem.
• 6 Veenhuysen.
• 7 Broeckhaven.

This Town, Horne, and Me­denblyck, have equally, but suc­cessively, the priviledge of Coyn­ing of Money; each for the space of Seven years, and then they be­gin again.

Horn

Is on the same Gulf also; a rich Town, with a very good Ha­ven; and of so great strength by reason of the multitude of Ditches and Chanels which are round about it, that it seems im­pregnable.

Anno 1427 this Town began to be encompassed with goodly Walls, deep and large Ditches. Half of it all along the Sea is de­fended with Pallisadoes, and Banks.

It hath its name from the Ha­ven of the Town, that turns in Form of a Horn.

It hath these Villages under its Jurisdiction:

• 1 Avenhoorne.
• 2 Berth.
• 2 Oudendick.
• 4 Woggenom.
• 5 Hubixwou.
• 6 Hauvoant.
• 7 Berchont.
• 8 Swaech.
• 9 Banejert.
• 10 Betlem.
• 11 Ostblocker, & several other Towns.

Edam

Upon the same Gulf of Zuy­der-see, remarkable for the great number of Ships which are yearly built here; It's a Town well wall'd in, and ditch'd. It hath a long Haven, to the which there [Page 23] doth belong many fair Ships, be­ing as stately, and of as great Burthen as any in Holland or Zea­land, either for War or Merchan­dize.

It was antiently call'd Yedam, of a current of Water called Ye or Ʋde, by a Sluce (which they call dam) so it's the Sluce of Yde.

This Town is two Leagues di­stant from Horn.

Anno 1404, some women of this Town going in Barks to feed their Cattle in the Pastures of Gurmer-meer, discovered a Sea­woman (which came out of the Sea into the waters there, and could not finde the way out.) They took her by Force, they drew her into a Boat, and carried her into Edam, where she was wash'd and cloath'd; in time she grew Familiar, using her self to feed on ordinary Meats, and did learn to spin. They of Harlem [Page 24] desired to have her; to whom she was sent, and lived 15 years: she never spake (which was a rare thing in a woman!) seeking often to get away into the water. You may read this in the History of the Netherlands: for the truth hereof, it's desir'd that the Virtu­osi of the Royal-Society would take it into their grave considera­tion.

Medenblick

Is fortified with a strong Castle, seated on the Sea. It's two Leagues and a half from Enchuy­sen, and within 6 Miles of Horn.

It hath a Port made by Art. It's a safe retreat for Ships in foul weather. It's so fortified with Walls and Bulwarks, as 'tis held impregnable. It's an ancient Town, and formerly the Metro­polis before Horn and Enchuysen were built. Here live most of your Wood-Merchants which [Page 25] drive a Trade to Norway, and into the North. Some derive its name from the River Medenlack.

Monickendam

On the South-side looks to­wards the Isle of Marke, which is opposite to it. The Sea there­in reasonably still; for that it li­eth under the Lee of the said I­sland. Towards the Land 'tis wall'd and ditch'd: Great Ships may harbour here safely.

It's a League from Edam. It's seated upon the River Monic, which signifies a Monck; and it hath for its Arms a Monck.

Purmerent

Is a Town which stands in the midst of Moors, lying at the end of the Purmer-Sea, where's a sluce by the which they of the Town sail towards Edam, Monickken­dam, and other places which bor­der upon the Sea. On th'other side there's nothing but Lakes, [Page 26] which coast the Towns of Ryp, Graft, Wormer, even to Alkmer.

Anno 1573, it was walled in. There is a Castle which did be­long to the House of Count Eg­mond; but Anno 1590 it was bought by the States.

Muden

Is seated on the River Vecte, a strong Town Fortifi'd with Ram­parts, and a strong Castle upon the Gulf where the Vecte runs into the Zuyder-see. It held corre­spondence with Alkmer, Horn, Enchuysen, Medenblick, Edam, Monickendam, and other Towns in West-Friesland; against whom the Spaniards could not pre­vail, but lost many men in this waterish Countrey; the which is rightly call'd Water­land, by reason of the many Lakes that it abounds with: some of them have been drain'd, as Beemster, Zijp, and Schermer, [Page 27] which are now rich Grounds. In this Castle Count Florent of Hol­land was kept Prisoner.

South-Holland lies next to the middle Channel of the Rhene, (passing from Ʋtricht to Ley­den and Zealand) eminent for these Cities.

Dort or Dordrecht

Is a City of Holland; the Fi­gure of it is long like a Galley. It's very rich and plentiful, and a Granary or Store-house of Corn, and all other Provisions: anci­ently 'twas the Staple for Rhe­nish Wines; formerly joyned to the Firm Land, but in the year 1421 rent from't by the violent­ness of the Sea, and made an I­sland. By this Breach there were 72 Villages drown'd, and above 100000 Persons perished, with all their Goods.

It's seated upon the Merew, but [Page 28] so as this River is compos'd of the Rhene, the Wahall, the M [...] & Ling [...] which all being joyn'd in one, pass before the Town, so as we may say 'tis seated upon four Rivers: the Merew, Wahall, Meuze and Ling. It's distant 10 Leagues from Leyden: It hath a conveni­ent Port.

Dordrecht or Dort hath its name from the River Dort, and Drecht, which is a passage over Dort; and therefore it's to be observed, that all the Towns in the Netherlands ending in Tricht, Dricht, or Drecht (as that excellent Janus Rutgert­sius noteth,) betoken a fare, or pas­sage over; as appeareth by Mae­stricht, Ʋtrecht, Swynedrecht, and other Towns.

Dort is one of the ancientest and chiefest Cities in Holland, having that power and priviledge (as Reginus Pruniensis relateth) to stop and take of Toll Wares [Page 29] which come down the streams, till they be sold; having been once the Staple for Wools and Cloaths, of Timber for Building houses. This is call'd the Maiden-Town, because it was never taken, though often besieged.

'Tis of great note in these latter times for an Assembly of Divines out of divers Countries following Calvins Doctrine, for condemna­tion of the Lutheran or Arminian Tenents concerning Universal Grace, Anno 1618.

This Town hath power to Coyn both Silver and Gold.

Gorchum

Scituate on the Wael, where it meeteth with the Lingen; a Town of great Trade and riches: It hath a fair Church, from the Steeple whereof one may behold 22 wall'd towns, besides an infinite number of Villages. It's a strong Town, fortifi'd with 12 Bulwarks, [Page 30] besides Half-Moons and Coun­ter-scarps, and together with that abundance of Water, as one would say it is impregnable. The River of Lingen runs through the midst of it, being always full of Ships. It falls into the Merew, and mingles it self with the Rivers of Wahall and Mouze; all which together pass before Dor­drecht, Rotterdam, Delf-Haven, Scheidam, and Briel, where it falls into the British Seas.

Rotterdam

Is scituate near unto the Meuze upon the mouth of the Channel, which they call Rotter, where­unto adding Dam, which is a Sluce, it makes Rotterdam, the Sluce of Rotter: so they are much de­ceived who fetch this name from Rotarius King of France.

Without doubt the place where it now stands, was heretofore an Arm of the Sea without the River [Page 31] of Meuze, which the remainder of the Banks do yet witness; the which extended from the Castle of Honingen unto Croeswick, which was a Castle upon the Rot­ter, and so went unto the Village Ouderschy, and ended at the Ditches of Schiedam.

It's a strong, fair, and well-traded Port; the Haven is long built, all of blew stones, which doth resist the violence of the Water. In which Haven a great company of Ships may safely lie.

Every year there are goodly great Ships built in this Town for War and Trade; and likewise Galleys when there is any need of them for War upon the Coast of Holland and Zealand.

Anno 1467, the great Erasmus was here born: there is his Statue in Copper upon the Bridge, with his Book in his Hand.

They say when he hears the Clock strike he turns a Leaf.

Anno 1270 it was first wall'd.

Schoon-hoven

Scituate on the Leck. It's a fair Town, having a commodious Haven: it takes its name of the pleasant Gardens, which are both within and about it; for Schoon signifies fair, and Hoffe Garden. There passes a Chan­nel through this Town which comes out of the River Yssel, very convenient to pass from one Ri­ver to another. On the other side of this Town is the great and mighty Castle of Lysfesdman unto the Banks of the River of Leck formerly belonging unto the Duke of Brunswick.

Goude

Is so nam'd from Gou, a Town which lieth near it; or from the river Gow which runneth through it.

It's one of the six Principal Towns in Holland, rich, and well Fortifi'd with strong Walls, and deep Ditches; and by their Sluces the Countrey may be drown'd round about. It's seated upon the River Yssel, which rising about Ysselsteyn, falls into the Leck at a place call'd Ysselmond.

There runs a Chanel of fresh water through every street in this Town.

Anno 1272 it was built by Count Florent, and adorn'd with many Priviledges. It's two leagues from Leyden, and nine English Miles from Rotterdam.

Oudewater

Is a reasonable good Town, upon the River Yssel, a League distant from Woerden, and Mont­ford; 'twixt which Towns they sow great abundance of Hemp, wherewith they make Ropes, Cables, and Nets for fishing. From [Page 34] this Town you may go to Goude, and by the Meuze to Rotterdam.

This Town Anno 1589 was be­sieged by Duke Alva, and stoutly defended it self, but in th'end was taken by Assault.

Ysselsteyn

Is a small Town, but very strong: It belongs to the Prince of Orange.

Leyden

Is call'd by Antoninus in his Itinerary Lugdunum, Caput Ger­manorum; for antiently it was a Town of great Renown. The Roman Praetor which governed that quarter, kept always his Re­sidence and Garison there; and therefore some derive Leyden from Legio, there being a Roman Legion quartered there.

Ptolomy of Alexandria calls it [...], Lugdunum Bata­vorum. Plutarch makes honoura­ble mention of it.

It's one of the six chief Towns in Holland, and the fourth in pre­heminence and suffrage.

It's the chief for that quarter of Rhin-lant, having under it 49 Towns and Villages.

In this Town was born Hans­van-Leyden, a Cutler by trade; a monstrous Anabaptist, who so besotted the people, that he made himself King of Munster in West­phalia, and caused himself to be treated as a King, wearing a Crown of Gold; and when he did go abroad, had always two Boys before him; one of which carried a Sword, and th'other a Bible: those which did not fall down and worship him, were im­mediately condemn'd to die. He kept 14 wives, and caused one to be kill'd, because she despised his inspirations.

After a years Siege by the Bi­shop, the City was taken, and [Page 36] this King and his Councellor Knipperdoling were put into two Cages of Iron, and hung out of a high Tower, where they ended their most miserable lives and reign. A just reward for Rebels.

The town consisteth of 41 I­slands, to which they pass partly by Boats, and partly by Bridges, whereof there are 144, and of them an Hundred and four built with Stone. Here's a Castle said to have been built by Hengist the Saxon at his return out of Eng­land. This City is scituated at the middle of the mouth of the River Rhene.

Anno 1574 it held out a gallant Siege; and at last the Enemies were enforc'd by the overflowing of the waters to raise their Siege, though the Spaniard had built 30 Forts to famish it; and there died about 7000 Persons in the town of Famine and Pestilence; [Page 37] which made a great confusion in the town, insomuch as the people came in great multitudes to Peter Adrianson the Burgermaster, de­claring their misery and want, and using many threatning words that he might agree with the E­nemy: but he answered them, and said, My beloved Fellow Ci­tizens, I have made an Oath, which I mean by the grace of God con­stantly to keep: If my death, sith I must die, may any ways profit you, it's all one to me, whether you or the Enemy kill me: and therefore if this Carkass of mine will do you any good, in Gods Name take it, cut it in pieces, and divide it a­mongst you, as far as it may possi­bly stretch; for I shall be contented therewith.

The Citizens were so amazed at his answer, as that they all went away without any more words.

But certain the deliverance of this Town can be attributed to none but to God Almighty; for though the Prince did use all means by breaking of Ditches, drawing up of Sluces, and drown­ing all the Country almost to the Town, yet the waters were not so deep as to carry Boats, until God sent a strong South-west-winde, which drave the Sea into the Rivers and Land, that great Boats pass'd afloat and victuall'd the Town: and two days after it was victuall'd, came so strong a North-west-winde, that beat back the Sea again from whence it came; as doth appear in the Hi­story of the Netherlands.

Balder General for the King of Spain, when he raised the Siege, left in his Lodgings the Town of Leyden pictur'd with her Royal Ways, Paths, and Chanels of Water, and in such manner [Page 39] as they were guarded and de­fended with Forts: and under the Picture was written:

They of Leyden had a perfect hatred against the Spaniards; and therefore a Zealander being in the Town, and having shot a Spaniard, he rip'd him open, pluck'd his heart out of his body, as he was half dead; and when he had knawn it with his teeth, he cast it away from him: this knawn heart was afterwards seen in Delph by many credible people, and the very print of his teeth in it, as it's delivered to us by good Authority.

The Fort Waddinghe, which the Spaniards had made against the town, did much annoy the [Page 40] townesmen; whereupon they issu'd out, and took the Fort, and roasted the Spaniards in it a­live, though they cry'd out very lamentably, Misericordia, mise­ricordia.

They here printed Paper-coyn; on the one side, Haec libertatis ergo; on th'other side, Godt be­hoed Leyden.

Some of them wore about them in a silver Crescent these words: Rather the Turk then a Spaniard; because the Turk paying his Tri­bute gives Liberty of Conscience, but the Spaniard none.

I cannot forget one memorable Passage at this Siege. An Eng­lish Gentleman here had in a Sal­ley his right Arm shot off with a Cannon-Bullet; he took it up, and carried it along with him unto his Chyrurgeon at his lodg­ing, where without being sick or distempered, he held it in his left [Page 41] hand, saying; This is the Arm which to day at Dinner serv'd the whole Body.

There is a memorable Story, if true, which we have read in several eminent Authors; which is thus: Anno 1316 there hap'ning a great Famine, a poor Woman went to her own Sister that was very rich, to borrow a Loaf of Bread to save her and her Chil­dren from starving: her Sister de­nied that she had any in the house: she insisted that she had: whereupon her rich Sister fell a cursing and swearing, praying God that if she had any, it might be turn'd into a Stone: which God miraculously suffer'd to be done, as it's said, to the confusion of this pitiless and wretched Woman. In St. Peter's Church in the same City, there is one of these Loaves safely kept to this day in a place iron'd about, for a perpetual re­membrance [Page 42] of the strangeness of this accident.

But Anno 1575 this Town be­ing delivered of its long and ca­lamitous Siege, an University was here Founded, in recom­pence of their great sufferings.

The chief Towns within the Territories of Leyden, are, 1 Rins­burgh, anciently a well-Fortifi'd town within a League of it. 2 Nortvies within a Mile of the Sea, and two Leagues of Leyden. 3 Valkenbourgh, where every Sep­tember is kept a Horse-fair. Here were the Romans Magazins and Store-houses against the English. 4 The two Catwicks. 5 Wassenere, a fair Village two Leagues from Leyden. 6 Oestgrest. 7 War­mont, a League and a half from Leyden on Harlem-side. 8 Souter­voude, a League distant from it: neer it is Lam, and the Castle of Gronestren. 9 Leyderdrope, a Vil­lage [Page 43] which hath many Magnifi­cent and Noble Seats in it. 10 In Woorschoten, a fair Village not far off from Leyden, stood that Famous Nunnery of Ramsburgh, so plentifully endow'd, that 2000 Persons did there dayly receive Relief.

Here is a Hospital for poor Passengers and decay'd old Peo­ple, and also for Orphans, a Noble Building: In it are ordi­narily 500 Children, who are taught to read and write, and bound Apprentices as they grow up.

Their Charity here is very great; if any be overburden'd with Children, or undone by ac­cident, they go to the Masters of the Poor, and receive Relief according to their necessities. The number within this City which receive Charity, amounts ordi­narily to 20000.

Viane

Is a square town seated upon the left bank of the River Leck, a free Barony belonging to the House of Brederode: it hath a strong Castle in it.

Heusden

Is a fair Town and well built, beautifi'd with a strong Castle, and goodly Territories. It's sci­tuated on Brabant-side upon the River Wahal.

There is a Fort in this Island of Hemert which defends Heusden. Near it is Voroum, a small Town with four Bastions between Leni­stein and Gorchum.

Leerdam

Is a wall'd Town upon the Ri­ver Lyngen, which together with Ysselsteyn fell unto Philip Prince of Orange, from the Earls of Bu­ren. It hath a strong Castle be­longing unto it.

Delfe.

So call'd from a Ditch, which the Batavians call Delph, which is brought from the Meuze even to this City.

It was built by Godfrey the crooked Duke of Lorain, who had conquer'd Holland by the assi­stance of the Bishop of Ʋtrecht. It hath two Chanels which pass through the Town.

Anno 1536 the beauty of it was much eclips'd by Fire, but built up again fairer then former­ly it was.

In this Fire there happen'd so memorable an accident, that (happily) the like hath not been recorded in any Story. In this town the Storks Nest almost in e­very house to breed; the Fire be­ing the third of May, at which time the young Storks are grown pretty big: the old ones perceiving the Fire to approach their Nests, [Page 46] attempted to carry them away, but could not, they were so weighty; which they perceiving, never ceas'd with their wings spread, covering them until they all perish'd in the Flames. Jasper Veldius, an Author of great esti­mation, reports the same in's Book of Storks.

This Town holds the third rank and suffrage for the Coun­try of Holland. It's four Leagues from Leyden. Near this Town is Loresendam, a great and fair Village: not far off it is Losdan, and Voorburg; the last a good Town.

In this Town was the Body of the Famous Hugo Grotius in­ter'd.

Anno 1584, William Prince of Orange was here shot with a Bul­let by Balthasar Gerard a Bur­gundian. It's a Town of great Trade for Cloathing.

It's the Birth-place of that Monstrous Heretick, David George, who call'd himself King and Christ immortal.

Gertruden-burgh

Is a strong Town, both by Na­ture and Art, scituated on the left Bank of the River Merew; it hath a good Garrison in't: so nam'd, as Hondius supposeth, from Geertruyd, the Daughter of Pipi­nus de Landen, who was a Reli­gious Woman, and liv'd here; and Anno 664 here died.

Scheidam

Hath a good Haven upon the Mewze: it's scituated upon a current of Water which comes out of the Country call'd Schie; and from thence it takes its name.

In this place there is an Hos­pital call'd the New-dam, which hath these Priviledges; that a Burger dying within or without the Town, or in the liberties [Page 48] thereof, the best garment he leaves doth belong unto the Hospital.

The chief Trade of this Town is Fishing, which they send into all parts.

Ʋlarding is hard by, a small Village, but formerly a strong Town.

Mausouluis is a fair Burrough two Leagues lower.

Woerden

Is seated on a Moor, and hath a strong Castle to it, and cannot be approach'd, because it may be overflown round about it.

Anno 1374, this Town was built by the Bishop of Ʋtrecht to awe his Subjects. In this Castle the Admiral of Aragon was kept Pri­soner a great while after the Bat­tle of Flanders.

Worcom,

It's beyond the River of Wahal on Brabant-side, right against the strong Castle of Loveisteine: [Page 49] a little lower on the other Bank stands Gorchom: It's well for­tifi'd with good Ramparts, Bul­warks and Ditches. It did be­long to the Earls of Horn. Neer this Town is the Castle and Ter­ritory of Altena; being in an­cient time drown'd, but now it's a Country full of good Pa­stures, and is the Rampart of the whole Province.

Gorcum is one of the strongest Towns in the Netherlands. It's one of the Keys of Holland. Fa­mous for being a Prison to Hugo Grotius, and of the Arminian Ministers.

The chief of the Holland-Vil­lages is the

Hague, or Graven-Hague, in Latine Haga Comitis, because formerly the residence of the Earls of Holland: So call'd, as Ju­nius supposed, from Hagh, which signifies a Hedge, from the many [Page 50] Hawthorn-Hedges that grow thereabouts.

It's rich in Wealth, pleasant in Gardens, and stately in Build­ings, having 2500 Houses; a­mongst which, the most magnifi­cent is the Court built here Anno 1249 by William Earl of Holland, now the Residence of the Prince of Orange. It's a Ca­stle with Ditches and Gates. It's always guarded.

There are the Courts of Justice, the States Chamber for the Pro­vince, and for the Union, whi­ther all Causes are brought by Appeal, and finally determin'd.

Here resides the Count Fis­chal of Brabant, the States Ge­neral, the States of Holland and West-Friesland, the Councel of State, the Masters of the Cham­ber of Accounts of Holland, the Councel of War: every of these have their several Chambers. [Page 51] Hard by there's a Park 1501 Paces long▪ Princes, Earls, Lords, all sorts of people walk here, and take the pleasure and profit of the place.

Not far from it you come to shady Walks, which have at once the reverence and content of Heaven. If you please to walk a little further, you'll see all Eu­rope floating on the one hand by water, & carried on the other by Land, to this great Mart of Chri­stendom for Trade and Intelli­gence.

It's no wall'd Town, neither do the Inhabitants desire it; for they had rather have it accoun­ted the chief Village in Europe, then the second City.

Not far from it is Hontstar­dick, where the last Prince of Orange built a most stately House, beautifi'd with Walks and Gal­leries.

Riisuick is another fair Vil­lage: there the same Prince hath another House in a very pleasant scituation amongst Meadows; and it's a noble Prospect to those which come from Delft.

Anno 1574, at Scheveling neer the Hague the Sea brake in, and carried away 121 Houses, as 'tis to be seen recorded upon a Pi­cture in the Church.

The other Villages of Note are, 2 Egmond. 3 Brederode. 4 Wassenare, which is a fair and beautiful Town, two Leagues from Leyden: from hence the noble Family of the Wassemers fetch'd their Original. They pretend to be descended from that Noble and Famous Captain Claudius Civilis, of whom Tacitus makes honourable mention. From them are descended the Duven­vords, the Warmonds, the Bou­chorts, the Polanes, the Male­nesses; [Page 53] all the flower of the Dutch Nobility.

The three forementioned Townes anciently gave names to three ancient Families; of which none so illustrious and re­nown'd as that of Egmond, de­scended lineally from Radbolt, Son of Agillis the King of the Frisons.

They were made Earls of Egmond by Maximilian the Emperour, Anno 1592.

Thierry of Aquitaine, the first Earl of Holland, built an Abby for Monks neer unto Egmond, inrich'd with great Revenues.

In the year 1565, the Prince of Orange, the Earl of Horn, and the Baron of Brederode went with the Earl of Egmond to Dine in this Abby: when they were to wash, my Lord Abbot, (who was but a Monk) took the three Noblemen by the hands to wash; [Page 54] the Earl of Egmond coming to present himself, the Abbot said unto him; No; for you are my Vassal, it becomes you not to wash with your betters; yea, he offer'd to put the Towel upon his shoul­der, to give it to the other Noble­men when they had wash'd: whereat the Earl was much dis­contented, and went away.

Brederode is descended from Ziphard the second son of Arnulph the third Earl of Holland and Zealand, who to avoid his Fathers displeasure, retired into Frie­sland, and married the Potestates Daughter of the Countrey, by whom he had two Sons; but being afterwards reconveyed to his Father, he had certain Lands allotted him for his Portion, which were measur'd by the great Rod, the which in the Country-Language is Brederode, from whence they take their name.

Besides those Towns on the firm Land or Continent, there are some Islands which appertain to the States of Holland, call'd by the General name of Voorn, signifying as much as before, or in old English bevorne, but known now directly by their pro­per Names: 1 Somerdike. 2 Gau­rede. 3 Pierschille, so call'd of their principal Towns. 4 Voorn specially so nam'd, and chief of them all.

The principal Towns hereof, are, 1 Briel, which we call the Brill; a strong Town, and the first that revolted from the Spa­niards, Anno 1572. A Cautio­nary Town to the English, with the Town of Flushing; chosen by them in regard of the great Command it hath upon the pas­sage to Gertrudenburg, and the rest of Brabant; and also to Delf, Dort, and Rotterdam, the [Page 56] greatest Town of Trade in the South of Holland.

Breheel, or Brehil, is as much as to say Brede-Heel; that is, a Broad River; for Heile signifies a River: on the right side of it, the Maes receives the Rhene into it, and falleth into the main O­cean.

Geruliet

Is a small Town, but hath Jurisdiction over many Villages.

There are also on the North­side of Holland the Isles Vierengen and Texel; of which little is me­morable, but that the last is fur­nished with a large and capacious Bay for receit of Shipping.

Goeree

Is scituated in a little Island, and hath as good and deep a Road as any in Holland, where great Ships which go long Voy­ages cast Anchor, attending their last Provision and a good Wind.

The Garrisons of Wonde and Hulst, and also Hellevoetsluys opposite unto it, which is the Sluce of the Island of Voorn on that side towards the Sea; whereas Brill lies on th'other side, upon the Gulf of the River which is call'd the Mewze.

Beverwyck,

A Burg two Leagues from Har­lem, upon the River Ty, not a­bove two Miles distant from the Sea: this and Reensburg were in former times reckon'd amongst the strongest and fairest Towns in all this Province.

Scage,

A good Burg, and well built, in which there's a strong Castle.

Middleburgh,

Seated on a creek off on the Sea, well wall'd & fortifi'd; the Streets spacious, the Houses and Churches well built; inhabited by weal­thy Merchants and industrious Tradesmen: so call'd, because [Page 60] built in the midst of the Island. It's a quarter of a League from Arnemuyden.

Flushing,

Of great Note for its good Port and invincible strength, one of the first Towns which the Low Country-men took from the Spa­niards, by the diligence of Voorst a Sea man, and Monsieur de Ber­land then Bayliff thereof; and not long after put into the hands of the English as a Town of Cau­tion: A poor Town then it was, now the Key of the Netherlands; without whose license no Ship can pass either to or from the City of Antwerp: insomuch as if the Duke of Alva, in the be­ginning of his Government, had bestow'd that pains in the fortify­ing of this and th'other Martime Towns, as he did in the strength­ning Antwerp, and some midland Cities, he had in all probability [Page 61] hindered the Revolt of those flourishing Countries.

It's scituate right against Flan­ders, & a Mile from Middleburgh. There are three goodly Bulwarks towards the Land, and one to the Sea, which defend the Haven on that side, flanking it at the Port.

They have made a new Haven there, and built a Church for the English.

It's also a Marquisate belong­ing to the Prince of Orange, as La Vere.

Ramne, or Arnemuyden,

A wall'd Town, beautifi'd with one of the goodliest, and most frequented Havens in Europe; out of which one may sometimes see 500 sail of Ships of great burthen set forward on their Voyage to several parts.

Anno 1574 'twas yielded to the Prince of Orange.

Veer, or Camp-veere,

A very Famous Sea-Town, and exceeding strong, having many Staples for Herrings and other Commodities here: it belong'd to the Prince of Orange. From hence came that illustrious and most noble Family of the Veeres, now Earls of Oxford.

By Maximilian Duke of Bur­gundy and Lord of it, was made a Marquisate. It hath ample Jurisdiction, and nine Villages depend upon't.

Rammeken or Zeeburgh,

Built upon the Dike between Middleburgh & Flushing, serving for a Bulwark for all Ships, which for want of good winde are forc'd to come and Anchor in this Road.

This Castle is alwayes well Man'd and Garrison'd, with all things necessary for a place of such Importance.

This was one of the Cautionary Towns delivered to Queen E­LIZABETH.

East and West-Suyburgh,

A quarter of a League one from the other betwixt Flushing and Middleburgh: at West-Suy­burgh there is a good Castle.

South-Beverland,

Scituate betwixt Walcheren and Brabant, the greatest of the Isles of Zealand; heretofore 20 Dutch Miles in compass, but now much diminish'd by the rage and fury of the Sea; by which the Town and Seignory of Borhule, with all the Country round about it, was swallowed up, Anno 1532.

The chief Towns here are Romerswal, seated on the East to­wards Bergen-Op-Zoome, sever'd at the same time from the rest of the Island, and made an Island of [Page 64] it self defended with continual charge from following the sad Fate of the Town of Bursule, distant about a League from Bergen-Op-Zoome.

Goes, or Tergoes,

On the Northern Coast, a strong Town, and well Priviledg'd, and the only wall'd in all the Island. It hath a good Haven, at the mouth whereof there are two Forts, one of either side, so as nothing can pass without Disco­very.

Not far off are Cloelingen, Cruyningen, Zeateskerke, Capelle, Catton-dike, and other Villages.

North-Beverland

Lying betwixt South-Beverland and the Isle of Schowen, in former times esteemed the Paradise of Zealand, but so destroyed by Sea-breach, that there's now nothing remaining but a few poor Villages. It's the Patrimony of the Prince of Orange.

Anno 1532 by Inundation there perished the Towns of Cortgreen, Catts, Campen, Wele, Emitesse, and others; but since recove­red.

Wolferdike

Lying between the two Bever­lands, the smallest of the Western Islands, as having in it no more then three Villages, Wolferdike, Sabinglye, Habersdike; but re­plenished with good store of Pasture.

Schowen,

Lying on the South-West of Holland, so neer unto North-Be­verland in former times, that the Inhabitants could talk together from one Shore to the other; but now the Sea hath set them at a greater distance. It contains a­bout eight Leagues in Circuit.

The chief Towns herein are,

Zirick zee,

The ancientest Town in all Zealand, and the greatest except Middleburgh; once beautifi'd with a fair and commodious Haven, now choaked up with Beech; yet still reputed for the second of all the Province.

It was built Anno 845 by one Zerick, from whence it was so nam'd.

Brouwers-Haven,

A very strong Haven, inhabited only by Fisher-men. It's two Leagues distant from Zirick-zee.

Here was born William Bur­ckeld, who first invented the way of pickling Herrings, and he died at Bieverlet, Anno 1347.

Charles the Fifth, Emperour, went one day to see his Tomb, in acknowledgment of the service he had done his Country.

Duveland,

So nam'd from the multitude of Doves and Pigeons, scituate between Schoven and Tolen. It's in compass about four Dutch Miles. It hath no good Town in it, but only Country-Villages. Anno 1530 surrounded by the Sea, but by the industry and charge of the people recover'd.

Tolen, so call'd from the chief Town of the Island, where the Earls Toll was wont to be paid; whence it had the name. It's sci­tuate over against the North-west of Brabant, from thence disjoyn'd by a narrow Creek, or arm of the Sea. It's wholly invironed with good Trenches, and some Forts, fearing the irruption of the Spa­niards, who twice or thrice have attempted to get Footing. There is but one Chanel to pass upon Brabant-side.

St. Martins Dike, the second [Page 68] Town of Note, but not other­wise considerable, is the Inheri­tance of the Prince of Orange: joyning unto it is a little Island called Philips-Land.

Harlingen,

A Haven-Town upon the O­cean, defended with a very strong Castle. It's the best Haven in all Friesland, and it's a League from Franiker. It hath two Cha­nels coming from the Sea, which pass through the Town.

Hindelopen on the same Coast also,

It was first a place for Hunting when Friesland was half Forrest. It comes from Hinden, and Loo­pen, which is to run. It's a course and recourse for Staggs and Hindes. It's a considerable place for Navigation.

Staveren,

A Hanse-Town: It's fortified with a strong Castle, which se­cures the Haven. It stands upon the Sea on the South-side, on the entry of the Gulf of Zuyder-see, at the point which looks towards Holland, almost opposite to the passage of Enchuysen, halfe a League from Hinderlopen upon the same Shore. No doubt but heretofore it hath been a very rich and mighty Town; but by the inundation of the Sea it's much lessen'd. It's a long and narrow Town, and fortified with Ramparts and Bulwarks. Here lived the people which Pliny called Sturii, from whence all Friesland was sometimes cal­led Regnum Stauriae; from hence this Town had its name.

Franiker,

An University, or a Schola Il­lustris, as they call it: It's two [Page 71] Leagues distant from Leuwarden, and one from Harlingen. It's one of the most ancient and re­nowned Towns in Friesland. It draws many Scholars thither from all parts, even out of Poland and France.

Snelk,

A Town for largeness and beauty the best in this Province, and the second in esteem of all the Country. It's three Leagues from Leuwarden, and one from Ilst.

Sloten,

A Town neer unto the Gulf of the Zuyder see, lying on the South-part upon the Sea, a league and half from Staveren.

Ilst

Stands upon the West half a League from Snelk; upon the North-West a League from Bols­waert; on the South as far from Sloten. It's environ'd with a [Page 72] large Ditch, which may defend it from the invasion of Enemies.

Bolswaerdt,

It's a free Hanse-Town, a League distant from Snelk, Ilst and Worcom; a League and a half distant from Hindelopen, and two Leagues from Staveren.

It's a Town well fortified with Ports, Ramparts, Bulwarks, and otherwise. It hath a passage to the Sea by the Sluce of Mackum a League from thence, where the Ships of the said Town lie as safely as in a good Haven.

Anno 1713, this Town was built by the Lady Bolswyne, Daughter to Radbod King of Friesland.

Ostergoe

On the East part, lying towards Groningland: the Towns of most Note are

Leuwarden,

Scituate on the hinder Leewart, [Page 73] the prime Town of all West-Frie­sland, and honoured with the supream Court and Chancery hereof, from which there lyeth no Appeal. A rich Town, well built, and strongly fortified. It's two Leagues from Franiker: this Town hath under its Jurisdiction 17 good Villages.

Here is also the Mint for Mo­ney for the whole Country, both for Gold and Silver, according to the order which the Deputies of the Estates shall set down; the which notwithstanding is sub­ject to the Generals of the Mints of all the United Provinces when need requires. A League from this Town is the Village Zuy­chen.

Dockum,

Bordering upon Groening. It's five Leagues distant from it, and eight from Franiker, and six Miles from Leuwarden, having [Page 74] a Chanel which goes into the Sea, and another which leads unto Groning. They may go easily from this town by Boat to all the towns in Friesland, and by Sea to all parts of the world. It suf­fered much in the late Wars. It's the second town in all the Quar­ter of Ostergoe.

Seven-Wolden, or the Country of the Seven Forests,

So call'd from so many small Forests joyning neer together, not well Inhabited until of late.

To this Province belongs the Isles of Amelandt Schellink; the Shores whereof are plentifully stored with Dog-fish, took by the Inhabitants in this manner:

The men of the Island attire themselves with Beasts skins, and then fall to dancing; with which sport the Fish being much deligh­ted, make out of the waters to­wards them: Nets being pitch'd [Page 75] presently 'twixt them and the water; which done, the men put off their Disguises, and the frighted Fish hastening towards the Sea are caught in Toyl [...] ▪

There is a good P [...]on of Ground which is call'd the Bildt. It's well defended with Ditches from the Sea, and the fertilest quarter in all Friesland.

Wickter-Duyrsted,

Scituate on the middle Chanel of the Rhene, where it diverts into the Leck; well built, and fortifi­ed with a good Castle. It formerly had 32 Parish Churches in it. The Princes and Bishops did here keep their Courts. Tacitus makes ho­nourable mention of this Town, calling it Batavodurum.

Rhenen

Upon the same Branch or Cha­nel, whence it hath its name: it's [Page 77] five Leagues from Ʋtrecht, and as many from Arnhem and Gelders. It's a great passage towards De­venter, Zutphen, Doesburgh, and other places aswell in Gelders as Cleve, or to Colen, or to any place where they shall please in Ger­many.

Amersfort

On the River Ems, a fair Town and well peopled; there's a little Town all wall'd about in the midst of it. It's very strong with Ramparts, and Bulwarks flanking one another, and large Ditches. It's three Leagues from Ʋtrecht, standing upon a little River which they call Do.

Montfort

Upon the Yssel, pleasantly seat­ed, and of great strength, as be­ing anciently a Frontier-Town against the Hollanders. It's a league in equal distance from the towns Woorden, Oudewater, and Ysselsteyn.

Ʋtrecht

Is scituate on the middle Cha­nel of the Rhene; first called An­tonina, from one of the Anthonies at Rome: But Dagobert King of France gave it the name of Tra­jectum, or Ʋltrajectum, because there was at that time the com­mon Ferry over the River.

This City is large, beautiful, & sumptuously built, having in it many goodly Churches; of which, Five were Anciently Collegi­ate; namely, our Saviours Church, St. Martins, St. Peters, St. Johns & St. Maries: but the most magni­ficent is that of St. Martins; it was built by the Emperor Frede­rick. 'Twas strange that at the Foundation of this Church there was a Quick-sand found, on which they could not build, but that it would still sinke: At length, they cast Oxe-hides into it, which made the ground solid [Page 79] and firm, so that they built the Church on't. In remembrance whereof, these Verses were made, and now extant in the Church.

It hath a fair strong Castle built by the Emperour Charles the fifth, and called in their speech, Vredenburgh. The private Houses are well contriv'd; most of them having goodly Cellars, vaulted with wonderful art and skill; to which the People did resort in all times of danger. Sometimes the Seat-Royal of Radbolt the King of the Frisons, then of the Bi­shops.

A City so eminently seated a­mongst wall'd Towns, that a man may go from hence in one day to any one of 50 wall'd Towns or [Page 80] Cities thence equally distant, or to any one of twenty six towns to Dinner, and come home to Bed.

Betwixt Ʋtrecht and Leyden is that famous and most noble Ca­stle of Abcoude.

Here was born Pope Adrian the sixth; he was Doctor of both Laws, and Schoolmaster to Charles the fifth.

Anno 1522 he was chosen Pope, and being in Spain, he receiving the news thereof, he made no shew of joy; being anointed, he would not change his name. He liv'd but 20 moneths and some days after, in continual trouble and grief of minde.

His Epitaph was: Hadrianus Sextus hic situs est, qui nihil sibi infelicius in vita duxit, quam quod imperaret.

The Estate of Ʋtrecht was so great anciently, that the Bishop [Page 81] or Prince thereof could come into the Field with 40000 armed Men of his own Subjects, and maintain them.

But the Bishop being envi'd for his great Revenues, and for that the Duke of Gelders made conti­nual War upon him, He Anno 1522 resign'd the Temporalities thereof to the Emperour Charles the Fifth, as Duke of Brabant, and Earl of Holland, that he might have the protection of so great a Monarch to defend him and his Subjects from their Ene­mies, and to the end he might quietly enjoy his Ecclesiastical E­state. Which Donation was af­terwards confirm'd by the Pope, and his Subjects did then Homage to him as Duke of Brabant, and Earl of Holland: and the Bishop did finely discharge them of their Oath which they had made to him. Of which Estate of Ʋtrecht [Page 82] the Emperour made two Pro­vinces; that is to say, of Overyssel and Ʋtrecht; which make the number of 17 Provinces in the Netherlands.

The Principal of which, are Deventer.

It's an Imperial Hanse-Town, scituated on the River Yssel, three [Page 83] Leagues from Zutphen, and four from Swoll; the chief Town of all this Province, first taken for the States by the Earl of Leicester, then Governour of those Coun­tries for Queen ELIZABETH, Anno 1586.

Their Trade here is great, as well by Land to Westphalia, and other places of Germany, as by the River Yssel; which on one side mounts up the Rhene unto Colen, and descends down before Cam­pen to the Zuyder-see, unto Am­sterdam, Horn, Enchuysen, and other Towns of Holland and Friesland.

It's wonderfully Fortifi'd with Ramparts and Bulwarks; besides that it always had a double Wall of Brick round about it.

In former times, when matters succeeded not well in the Dio­cess of Ʋtrecht, the Bishops reti­red themselves thither; as we [Page 84] read of the Bishop named Bal­drick, who to fly the fury of the Normans and Danes which ruined the Town of Ʋtrecht, retired with all his Clergy to this town.

Swoll

Is an Imperial Hanse-town, standing on a River which runs into the Vidre, Fortified with double Walls, double Ditches, and very strong Ramparts and Bulwarks; a Place of great Traffick It hath two Chanels which pass through it. It's the third Town of this Province. It's three Miles from Campen.

Campen

Scituate on the West-shore and Fall of the Yssel into the Zuyder-see A fair, large and Imperial Hanse-town, well Fortified, and of very great strength, by reason of those inaccessible Marishes a­mongst which it is scituated. It hath a goodly Bridge upon the [Page 85] River; at the end whereof there's a goodly Fort to defend it; by which Bridge they may go both on Horse-back, Waggon, or Foot, to all the Towns of Overyssel, Friesland, and Groning; or else if they please, by the Chanels which run through the Country. Merchants and Workmen with a good winde may go in one night to Amsterdam; and going from thence at night after dispatch of business, may be again the next day at their own Houses; which is a great commodity. It's the second Town in this Province: the Burgers can put it under wa­ter when they please; which is a great security to it.

These three Towns are in that part hereof which is called Yssel­land. In that part which is cal­led Twent, we have the Town of

Enschede,

A Town of good Traffick, a [Page 86] League from Oldenzel, and two from Otmarsum. Anno 1597, 'twas reduc'd to the obedience of the States by Prince Maurice, and 'twas much ruin'd.

• Delden
• Almeto

Stenwick,

It's scituated on a Brook called Blocker-zyel. It suffered two great Sieges in the late Belgick Wars, and did undergo a sad Fate; but since is much recove­red, and is a Town of good Trade, and of considerable strength: it's three Miles from Meppel.

Hassel

Is seated upon the River Vidre, which runs into the Zuyder-see at Gheelmuyden, being mingled with the two Rivers of Regg and Vect. It's well Fortified.

Otmarsum,

A Town which did three times [Page 87] tast the fruits of the Wars, as well by Siege as otherwise. It's a place of no great strength, lying in an open Country: but Anno 1592 taken by Prince Maurice.

In Latine this Town is called veteros Marsii, which are the old Marsians whom Pliny and Livie do often mention, being seated in the Country of the Tubantines, which is now Tuent.

Oldenzeel

Is a Town of good Trade, and reasonable great. It suffered much by a long Siege Anno 1605, being beleaguered by Marquess Spinola, to whom 'twas yielded for Arch-Duke Albert: But Anno 1567 'twas retaken by Prince Maurice. It's three Miles from Otmarsum.

Coewarden

Is a place of good strength. Anno 1593 'twas strongly defen­ded against Count Harman van [Page 88] Borgh and Veedugo, who belea­guered it. From hence you may go by Land into Friesland, the Counties of Groning, Westphalia, Breme, and other places. It's a­bout three Miles from Harden­burgh, 15 from Linge, 15 from Swoll.

There are many other Towns here; but whosoever is Master of the Field, is Master of them.

And in that of Drent, the Town and Castle of Valenhoven, standing upon the Zuyder-see, and two Leagues from Stenwick. It suffered much in the Wars, but since is repair'd and well forti­fied.

Gheelmuyden

Stands upon the gulf of Vidre to­wards the Zuyder-see. It's a league distance from Valenhoven, and as much from Hassel: it hath to­wards the Land, the pleasant Pa­stures of Mastubroouck, a league [Page 89] distant from Campen. It hath a strong Castle in it.

Hardenbergh,

A good Town upon the River Beecht: the Bishops of Ʋtrecht took great delight in it, by reason of the pleasantness of the Seat. It hath a very strong Castle. It's the mid-way between Coewarden, and Ommen.

The Soveraignty of this Pro­vince before the War in the Ne­therlands, did belong unto Philip the second King of Spain, who succeeded the Emperour Charles the fifth his Father; who had the interest confirmed by the Pope, from Henry of Bavaria Bishop of Ʋtrecht.

Nimmegen,

A Town high mounted on the [Page 91] top of a Hill; the Wael, which is there large and deep running at the Foot of the Hill: rich, great, and populous, having beside the modern Fortifications, an Ancient Castle, with so goodly a Prospect, that from thence one may behold the best part of the Countrey; built, as some say, by Julius Cae­sar, to command those parts. The Castle was re-edified by B [...]tto, and by him was the Town like­wise encompass'd with Walls: he being dead, his Son Hesus augmented it, by adding thereto that quarter which is called He­selbergh, or the hele of Hesus: which Town the Kings that suc­ceeded him caused to be the Me­tropolis of Battavia or Holland, as we read in Gerrard of Nimme­gen. This Town was Founded by Magus King of the Gauls, who called it after his own name Ma­gus; but being deceased, it was [Page 92] re-built by [...]to: s [...]nc [...] which time it hath been called Nimme­gen, that is, New-megen, [...] Nem­meghen.

Anno 1592 it came under the obedience of the States, being taken by Prince Maurice.

The States have built a mighty Fort, called Knotsen­burgh on the other Bank of the River of Wael, opposite to the Town, which is a great security to it.

Tiel

Is chief of Tyelweerd: it was formerly a Peninsula, but since the last Wars a Chanel hath been cut through the Country to sail from the River of Mewze into the Wahal, upon the right Bank whereof the said Town is built: by which means the said Tyel­weerd is now made an Island; for there is no entrance into it but by water, or through the Town. [Page 93] It's very strong by Nature and Art.

Anno 1528 it was besieged by the Emperour; but was so stout­ly defended, that they were en­forc'd to raise their Siege. It hath many rich towns under its Juris­diction. It's a strong Place, and well fortified.

Bomel

Is a fair strong Place, the chief Town of all the Territory of Bomel-weerd, which the Rhene and Mewze do encompass and make it an Island. It's a Frontier-town upon the confines of Gelderland towards the South, and stands upon the River Wael on the North-side of Bomel. It's ex­ceeding strong by Nature. It was first walled by Otho.

The River Wael doth not only make Bomel commodious for Traffick, but impregnable on the North-side, and free from all In­vasion.

The Country about it is very low, and not only unfit for Mines, but for continuance of any long Siege; for in Winter, by reason of great Waters, and overflowing of Rivers, it enforces the Enemy to leave the Field. Besides its natural strength, it hath been e­ver well fortified with Bulwarks and Towers, and is environ'd with a double Rampier and Ditch. It hath many rich Towns under its Jurisdiction.

Anno 1599 'twas beleaguered by D. Francisco de Mendoza High Admiral of Arragon, but was en­forced to raise his Siege with much loss and dishonour, after he had begirt it 20 days.

The taking of this Town opens a Passage into Holland, Ʋtrecht, and the heart of Gelderland. The Fort of Voorn & Crevecoeur makes the Town impregnable, with Hewsden a strong town, and seat­ed [Page 95] within an hours journey of Bomel, and within two Leagues of Boisleduke.

Ghent

Scituate on the Wael, not far off. At the first meeting of the Wael and the Maes, stands the strong Fort of St. Andrews, raised by the Arch-Duke Albert, to com­mand the passage of those Rivers. But in the year 1600 taken in by Maurice Count of Nassau (after Prince of Orange) and ever since Garrisoned by the States to secure that Passage. It's the most Noble and strongest Fort in all the Netherlands. It's comprehen­ded in five Bulwarks, whereof three are upon the Banks of the Mewze and Wahal, and the two other towards Haerwarden; either of them having a platform to defend it, with broad and deep Ditches, without the which is a Counter-scarp, the which hath [Page 96] also a Ditch round about it, and small Forts to warrant it.

Ruermond,

Scituate on the mouth of Ruer. Mondt in Dutch signifies a mouth or entrance; and so of that word and Ruer is derived Ruermondt, as many others are in that Coun­try: As Dendermond in Flanders, Isselmond in Holland, &c.

It's five Leagues from Mae­stricht, three from Venlo. It's a rich and populous Town, both by Nature and Art, full of Fortifi­cations, Ramparts and Bulwarks. Under the Jurisdiction of Ruer­mond are comprehended Venlo, Gelder, Straten, Wachtendonck, and Erckelam; all walled and strong Towns, with those Bo­roughs of Montfort, Ʋucht, Nieu­stadt, Kessel, Middeter, and Greytenberck.

Kessel stands a League from Ruermond: a goodly Village, [Page 97] with a strong Castle built upon a Mountain. It's called by Pto­lomy, Castelleum; and he makes it the Metropolis of the Mena­pians.

Venloe,

A strong Town on the Maes: the people are Martial, and have in former times resisted an Impe­rial Army. It's half a League from Shalen, and three Leagues from Ruermond.

In this Town the Duke of Cleve, having lost all his Dutchy of Cleve, and a great part of Juliers, yielded himself to Charles the fifth, Anno 1543.

Gelder,

Heretofore of such Reputa­tion, that it gave Name to all the Country. It's within two leagues of Shalen. It hath a good Castle, and strong Fortifications.

Strael, or Stralen,

A strong and well Fortified [Page 98] Town. It's a League and a half from Wachtendonck.

Arnhem,

Called by Tacitus and other Authors Arenacum: It's a large and well-built Town. It's seated upon the right Bank of the River Rhene, half a League from Issel-Dort.

It was the ordinary Residence heretofore of the Dukes of Gel­ders, who had here their Chan­cery, and other Supream Courts of Justice, established here, Anno 1543 by Charles the fifth.

This is the third Capital City of Gelderland; and had under it's Jurisdiction, besides divers Villages,

Wageninghen:

It's a strong Town seated on the Rhene. It's on all sides com­passed with Moores and Boggs, which makes it inaccessible. It's equally distant from Arnhem [Page 99] and Nimmegen, and four Leagues from Culemburg.

Harderwick,

On the Zuyder-see, burnt to the Ground Anno 1503, but since re­edified, and now more strong and beautiful then ever formerly. The Haven is bad, so as the Ships are forced to lie in the Road.

Hattum,

Upon the Yssel, a good Town, and hath a strong Castle, the Walls whereof are 24 Foot thick.

Within the Limits of this Duke­dom, stands the Town and Coun­try of Culemburg: It's seated upon the bank of the River Leck, a League from Buren, and two from Vianen, on the same side of the Ri­ver. It hath a goodly Castle in it. It was erected into a Dukedom by King Philip the Second, by reason of the fair Territory which belonged unto it.

Montford

Is a Castle of importance; a small Town. It lies a League from Ruermond.

Wachtendonck,

A small Town with a Castle in it. Anno 1588 taken by the Duke of Parma: but Anno 1600 Count Lodowick surprized it for the States. It's very considera­ble by reason of its scituation.

Battenbourg

Is a Town of great Antiquity, with a noble Castle. It being the first Castle which King Battus did build upon the Mewze in the County of the Sicambrians, which now is Gelders.

The Baron of this place did make a great Revenue of the Toll and Custom which is paid by all Ships that pass that way. From Batto, Batavia took its name. He was descended of the Catts, people of Germany, of whom Ta­citus [Page 101] maketh honourable men­tion; For Batavia signifies the Inheritance of Batto, as one should say Battos-haur; for Haur in the Dutch-language signifies Heritage. Pliny calls this Isle, The most Noble Isle of Batto.

Tacitus, who was Commissary for Gaul Belgique, makes men­tion of Claudius Civilis descen­ded from Batto, issued from a Royal Branch of the Catts: from whom the ancient Town of Cat­wick had its Name; for wic signifies either a Town, or a Ca­stle; the Town or Castle of Catts. And it's observed, that those Towns which end in Wic, are the most Ancient and most Ho­nourable. This Batto was a great Patron of the Country, a Person of much Honour and Gallantry. The Romans laying great Impo­sitions upon the Batavians, he advised them to take up Arms [Page 102] against them; which, he being their Generalissimo, they did; and did much disable the Roman Forces: insomuch, as Tiberius Caesar coming to a Treaty with him, and demanding of him why he had stirred the People to so long and bloudy a War; he an­swered, That the Romans them­selves were the cause, in that they had sent them Wolves for their Guardians, not Dogs and Shep­herds. This and much more is reported by Dion, a Roman Hi­storiographer, in his 55 and 56 Book.

Dortecum

On the Overyssel, rising out of Westphalen. It's a League from Doesburgh; a good Town, with a double Wall about it.

Doesburgh,

Seated on the Yssel.

Bronckhorst,

A County of it self. It's within a League of Zutphen, seated upon the right side of the River Yssel. A strong Castle in it, and a Gar­rison.

Lochem,

Upon the River Berckel; it's two Leagues from Zutphen, well Fortified and strong.

Heremburgh,

A good Town with a strong Castle. It's a League and a half from Dortecum.

Groll,

Taken by the Prince of Orange for the States Confederates, Anno 1627. It is a strong Town wall'd in with Ramparts and Bulwarks, having broad and deep Ditches, Fortified with Casemates and Counterscarps. It's two Leagues from Bredefort.

Bredefort,

A small Town with a Castle: it's scituate in a Moor, which there is but one passage to come unto. It's upon a Causey, so as it's of hard Access. Anno 1597 it was taken by Prince Maurice.

Keppel

Is a small Town of no impor­tance, half a League from Does­burgh.

Burg

Not much better then Keppel: it's a League from Doesburgh.

Dam,

Neer the Ems bordering on the East-Friesland. It's two Leagues from Groning.

Keykirk Old-Haven,

Standing on the Sea.

For the Town of Groning it self, it's rich, great, and very well built, scituate amongst di­vers small streams, which run through it; and having divers Chanels for conveyance of waters which adds much to its safety and strength. This Town hath two small Rivers, Huneso, and Aha, coming out of the Country of Drenthe, through the Omme­lands; the which compassing a­bout the Town, meet in the Sub­urbs, which is cal'd Schayten-dyep; from whence passing by the town of Dam with other small Brooks [Page 107] which joyn there, they fall by the Sluces of Delf-ziel into the Dullart, which is of the River Ems, by the which all Ships both great and small take their course to joyn with the greater, which An­chor upon the Dullart, and so to go from thence to the Sea.

This City is strongly fortified with Ditches and Trenches. A Town of great Jurisdiction both within and without, judging without Appeal in Cases Civil and Criminal.

Anno 1594 it was taken by the Prince of Orange.

Some hold that the name of this Town was given by Grun­nius, issued from the Bloud of the Kings of Friesland, which was the Founder of it: but being seated in a pleasant Soyl and goodly Pastures, it's so called from the greenness thereof; this word Groen signifying green, ingen [Page 108] being an Adjective which makes up the word; as Fine-lingen and others.

This City is ennobled with ma­ny Priviledges, as, that no King, Prince, or Commonwealth, can call any Burger or Citizen out of this City, into justice, nor cause him to be cited or adjourned before any Court, but only be­fore the Senate or his Ordinary Judge.

No man can appeal from any Sentence that is given here, either in Civil or Criminal Causes.

They may make Laws, and abrogate them at pleasure, without the authority of any Per­son.

The Ommelands are divided into three Quarters: 1. The Feuelingo. 2. Himsing. 3. The West quarter.

They have many Priviledges here in their places of Judgment, [Page 109] which they call their Gretonies or Bailiwicks.

Delfzyel

Is a great and mighty strong Fort, in Form of a Town.

We have given you a short view of the Towns and Forts which the States General hold in these Provinces.

We shall now observe what o­ther Towns they hold in other Provinces under the King of Spain, especially in the Dutchy of Brabant, and County of Flan­ders, which they have gain'd by their Arms.

In the Dutchy of BRABANT, Bergen Op-Zoome.

It's called Bergen by the Nor­mans which invaded Brabant, who so called it from a Town in Norway; and Bergen-Op-Zoome, from the River Zoome upon which it is scituated; about half [Page 110] a League from Scheld, and not far from the Sea: it hath a good Haven belonging unto it.

Anno 1533 'twas made a Mar­quisate. It's within six hours journy of Antwerp. It's opposite to Rommerswael and Tholen, Towns of Zealand. It hath a very high Earthen Rampier, and Ditches round about it. It's in some places Fortified with Pali­sadoes, in other parts with Walls on the top of the Rampiers: there are many Bulwarks about it, for defence of the Town.

It came under the power of the States, Anno 1577. If Bergen be subdued, the Islands of Zea­land would easily be reduced one after another, especially the Isle of Terthole.

Anno 1588, it gave a Famous repulse unto the Duke of Parma, who Beleaguered it with 30000 Men; and after a long Siege, with [Page 111] much loss and dishonour, was forced to retire with the loss of 12000 Souldiers, as it is credibly reported.

Anno 1605, Marquess Spinola made two furious Assaults upon this Town; but by the valour of the Burgers and Souldiers, was repulsed with great loss It's held impregnable, and one of the best Fortified Towns in the Low Coun­tries.

Anno 1605, Prince Maurice took Woud-Castle within a Mile of Bergen-Op-Zoome. It's strongly fortified with Bulwark [...], and seat­ed in a Fenny pla [...]; and there­fore naturally st [...]ng. It's one of the chiefest Castles belonging to the Marquess of Bergen.

Breda

Is a very fair Town; it's seated in the Land of Kempen, scituate on the River Merck, eight Miles from Antwerp, six Miles from [Page 112] Boisleduc or s'Hertoghen bosch, six Miles from Bergen-Op-Zoome, and two from Gertrudenburg.

It's the residence, Barony, and chief Town of the Prince of O­range. Count Henry of Nassaw caused the Town to be Fortified with Rampiers.

Anno 1534, both in the Castle & round about the Town, he caused five great Bulwarks to be made, which defended one another, to­gether with very deep Ditches.

He built here a most Princely Palace, moated round about, and with that a very magnificent Edi­fice, with a most noble Gallery supported with Pillars of Blew­stone, with a gilded Frontispiece: within the Palace there is a most noble Hall built on Pillars; in the Hall there is a Chappel: there is also a goodly Armory stored with all sorts of Warlike Provi­sion, and much Cannon.

It hath under it the Town and Territory of Steenberg, the Fran­chise of Rosindale, and the Seig­nory of Osterhout.

Anno 1567 'twas taken by the Duke of Alva, the Prince retiring into Germany for's own security; and so continued as a Garrison for the Spaniard till 1577, and then it returned again unto the Prince; In whose possession it was for four years.

Anno 1581 'was taken by the Prince of Parma, & he kept it till the year 1590. It now doth conti­nue in that illustrious Family. It's invested with many Priviledges and Jurisdictions: it hath an Exchequer or Court-trial where­unto the Town of Steenberghen and the 16 Villages of the Coun­try of Breda, with those of Ey­cheren, Mewxem, Schotem, Loe­trout, and Oestmael make their Appeals. And besides the said [Page 114] Court there is a Seat of Justice belonging to a Sheriff, before whom upon the first Summons the Burgers must appear, together with them of Tettering, Moten­gracht, Sandberg, Vijsluyce, and the Haeghstrate. None may Ap­peal from the Sentence given in either of the said Courts, or any other Court of Justice.

Dirst

On the River Dennere, a strong Town, and invested with a noble Territory belonging to the Prince of Orange: in right hereof he is Burgrave of the City of Antwerp.

Gertruydenburgh

Stands on the Douge, not far from the influx of it into the Maes, the furthest Town in the North of Brabant, where it joyns to Holland. A Town of great Trade for Fishing, plenty of Sal­mons and Sturgeons being taken here: but of Stades or Trouts [Page 115] especially, whereof 18000 are sometimes caught in a day, salted and sent into Forreign parts.

This Town is of the Inheritance of the Prince of Orange.

Anno 1593 'twas recovered by the Prince of Orange in the view of the Earl of Mansfield, who then had the Command of an Army of 30000 for the King of Spain.

It's a Town of great strength, and well Fortified.

Grave

The chief City of the Land of Cuyck, seated in Brabant upon the Maes. It's strong by Nature: it's now so Fortified with Bul­warks, Ravelins, and Counter­scarps, that it is one of the strong­est Towns in the Netherlands. It's six Miles from Ravesteyn, and 15 from the Bosch. It's the Inhe­ritance of the House of Nassau. Anno 1586 'twas besieged by the [Page 116] Prince of Parma, and to him de­livered, and so it continued till 1602, when it was re-taken by Prince Maurice after a stout Re­sistance.

Maestricht, in Latine Trajectum ad Mosam,

So called of a Ferry over the Maes in former times. It's a very strong Town, subject in part to the Bishop of Liege, and partly to the Duke of Brabant. Anno 1632 'twas besieged and taken by the Confederate States.

Hertogen-Bosch, Boisleduc, or the Bosch,

So called from a pleasant Wood belonging to the Dukes of Brabant, where the Town now stands, scituate on a little River called Deese, some two Leagues from the Maes, near the Borders of Gelderland; a large and well-built Town, very strongly Forti­fied, and of great Trade for Cloathing.

It's one of the principal Towns in Brabant (properly so called) comprehending under it four Countries of Compenland, Maes­land, Peeland, and Osterwick; and was taken by the Confede­rate States from the King of Spain, Anno 1628. It's environ'd with seven or eight Bastions, and some Half-Moons, and Horn-works: this with the bredth of the River secures it against all Danger, and Holland from all Fear. It hath seven Ports or Gates, 51 Stone-Bridges, 58 Wooden. The Jurisdiction of the City of Bosch, and the Majo­rality thereof extends over 109 Villages.

The Town and Seignory of Ravesteine,

Scituate on the Banks of the Maes, between Grave and Me­ghen, six Miles distant the one from the other. It belongs to [Page 118] the Duke of Cleve and his Suc­cessors.

Sevenburgh,

It's seated upon the River of Merew, three Leagues beneath Gertrudenburgh, and as much from Breda: there was a most strong and mighty Fort during all the time of the late Wars.

Crevecoeur,

A most strong Fortress, lyeth about four English Miles from the Bosch, and hath held out many Sieges.

Steenberghen

Is a little Town betwixt Ber­gen-Op-Zoome and Breda along the Sea-Coast.

Anno 15 [...]0 yielded to the States General.

Willem-Stadt

Built by William of Nassaw Prince of Orange, who gave it that name; it's scituated in the Island of Rogheville, a good and [Page 119] strong Town. It serves as a Ren­dezvouze to the States Army when they have any Enterprize or Incursion to make. It hath seven Bastions, a double Ditch, and a fair Haven. It hath Brabant on the South, and Zealand on the North.

Cluyndert,

Here the States have built an exceeding strong Fort, where for the importance thereof they en­tertain a Garrison: it hath eight Bastions and some Ravelins.

Lillo

Is a strong Fort upon the Ri­ver Escault, within three Leagues of Antwerp, not far from the Gulf of the said River. It's a place of great Importance to stop the Navigation to Antwerp. It's opposite to another Fort which the States now hold in Flanders, called Liefskenhoek.

Fer Heyden.

Is a very strong Fort, at the mouth of the River; the which coming from Breda falls there in­to the Sea.

For all which Townes and Places, together with their Juris­dictions, there's a Councel of Brabant held at the Hague; be­fore which there's Appeal from inferiour Judges.

Sluce

IS a strong Fortified City, being intrench'd with Walls, and double Ditches. During the Pro­sperity and Traffick of the town of Bruges, 'twas the Store-house for their Wines which came from Spain, the Canaries, and France.

It's three Leagues distant from Flushing, five Miles from Mid­dleburgh, and three from Bruges.

It's in the Isle of Cadsant, which the States do enjoy, with all the other Forts opposite to the Haven of that Town.

In the Isle of Cadsant there are two Fortresses, the one called Hoolstede, both won by Prince Maurice 1604, with the Sluce, in which there were 70 Cannon of Brass and Iron, besides those in the Forts. The Haven is very large, where 200 Sayl of Ships of great Burthen may safely ride. There are two Block-houses in the Haven; the one in the very mouth of the Haven, called Haseschant zee; the other not far from the Town, called Beck-of.

Ardenburgh,

A strong Town neer the Isle of Cadsant; 'twas heretofore call'd Rodenburgh, and was the Me­tropolis of all Flanders; contai­ning Touront, Ostburg, Bruges, [Page 122] and all the Sea-Coast even to Bo­nonia. It hath a Church conse­crated to the Virgin MARY, which is the fairest and most mag­nificent in all Flanders: this Town is a Mile distant from Sluce.

Ysendick

Is a mighty Fort right against Flushing, standing towards the Sas of Gant and Bocholdt. It hath a very convenient Haven, able to contain many Ships of 4 or 500 Tun, very well scituated upon the Sea.

Lyefkenhoech,

A strong Fort, built at the same time with that of Lillo, and opposite unto it, upon the River Escault; so as all Ships as come from the Sea to go to Antwerp, must pass 'twixt these two Forts.

Ferneuse

Is a strong Village, and well-Garrisoned. [Page 123] It's scituate in the midst of drown'd Land; and therefore not easie to approach nor Camp before it.

Axelle

Is a strong Town in the Island of Waes, one of the best Quar­ters of Flanders. Anno 1587 Colonel John Peron surpris'd, and delivered it to the States; which they have powerfully Fortified, by drowning a great part of the Country, which makes it inac­cessible.

The States have in this Quar­ter many Sconces, as the Tetter-Sconce by Ysendicke; St. Philips, St. Catharines, Newet-Sconce: Henries-Sconce, Slyckenbergh, and Hansfriezes, all Forts between Sluce, and Ysendicke, the Hoffle, Oistictirt, the Old and New Pass-Sconces by Sluce: the Crabb, the Oly, the Alder, and Spitsbroeck-Sconces, lying about Ardenburgh: [Page 124] they have besides about Sluce, St. Fredericks, Donaes, the Star, St. Jobs and Blemkenleige sconces; Plassendate-sconce, the Fort called [...]riest, with many others.

Bieruliec,

A strong Town, and lyeth in an Island called Bieruliec, mention'd by some Greek Authors, as Ni­ceta, Chomala, for the War-like Actions under the Earl of Flan­ders, the Emperour Baldwin, who was the first that scal'd and entred the Walls of Constan­tinople, and took in the Town which stood by the Haven side; in remembrance whereof, the Burgers of Bieruliec gave for the Towns Arms, and upon their Seats, four Greek B, in or within a right Cross; likewise or in a Field Vermilian. These four B signifying, [...], (i. e.) King of Kings Ruling over Kings.

Borentungh

Is a goodly Fort, upon the Frontiers of the County of Lin­gen, which is the High-way to go out of Friesland, and Groning, into the Country of Westphalia, and by Choppeburg to Delmen­horst, and Breme, and so to Ham­burgh, Lubeck, and other Towns of the East-Country along the Baltique-Seas.

Bellinger-Wolder-Zyel

Is a strong Town at the end of the Dullard. The States have made a strong Fort here to de­fend the County of Lingen.

Wesel,

A fair and rich Town seated on the confluence of the Rhene with the River Lyppe, which rising in Westphalia doth here lose it self: a Town not subject to the Duke, though in the Dukedom, being reckoned an Imperial City, and one of the Hanse-towns; now neither so Imperial or fair as formerly. Possessed first for the Spaniards with a Garrison of 3000 (at the beginning of the War of Cleve) by Don Lewis Velasco, and from them taken by the States General of the United Provinces, Anno 1628.

Emmerick

On the Rhene, a well-frequen­ted Town, remarkable for a very fair School.

Rees, Burick.

On the French-side of the Rhene over against Wesel, a­mongst goodly Corn-fields and pleasant Pastures:

And a great part of the County of Marck.

The States came to the Posses­sion of these Places upon this occasion: John William Duke of Cleve, Anno 1610 dying with­out Issue, there were several Pretenders for the Succession, viz. Leopold Arch-Duke of Austria George William Duke of Prussia and Elector of Bran­denburgh, Wolfangus Gulielmus Palatine of Newburg: Leopold being up in Arms, and having taken Possession of Juliers and most part of that Country, the [Page 129] Duke of Brandenburgh and New­burg agreed, by the assistance of the Protestant Princes their Con­federates, recover'd the greatest part thereof from Leopold: but the Duke of Newburg not content with his Partage, and turning Papist, call'd in the Spanish Army under the conduct of Marquiss Spinola to abet his Quarrel: the Duke of Brandenburgh called in the Forces of the States under Prince Maurice. The issue of this War was; Spinola possess'd himself of most places in Gulick and Berg, and the States got into their hands many Towns in Gu­lick and Cleve; and though they delivered up some to the right owners, yet those of most strength and importance the States have kept ever since, pretending they keep them for the owners: but in regard that the King of Spain is so potent a Prince, that the Dukes [Page 130] are not able to defend themselves against him; and in case he should take them, he would much en­danger their Dominions: there­fore for the good of the Dukes and themselves, they do not think it covenient to part with them.