tees for the
safety of those who submit," said the burgomaster. "It would be
suicidal madness to trust them; let us put faith in God, who defends the
right, in our own resolute courage and power of endurance, in our strong
walls, and in the assistance which the Prince of Orange will afford us
at our need."

The baron was silent; he was especially anxious not to say anything
which might offend the burgomaster by openly differing from him; but his
remarks encouraged others connected with certain persons, their
relations or friends, recreant Hollanders, who had sided with the
Spaniards and professed to have returned to the Faith of Rome. These
men were familiarly called Glippers; their object was to induce their
countrymen to follow their example. A few holding their opinions
remained in the city, either kept there by business or with the
intention of creating dissension among the patriots. Although Baron Van
Arenberg openly professed to be a patriot, yet from the expressions he
let fall many already began to suspect his designs. When those who
followed him spoke, their opinions were received with loud expressions
of disapprobation. He saw that in the present state of the public mind
it would be prudent for the future more carefully to conceal his
sentiments than he had hitherto done. "I must bide my time," he said to
himself.

Numerous matters of importance were discussed, and the persons supposed
best suited for certain duties were selected to superintend the various
tasks which had to be performed to prepare the city for the expected
siege. One undertook to procure cattle, another fodder, a third corn;
others to collect arms and ammunition. The strengthening of the
fortifications was allotted to several who had some experience in such
matters. The guns and their carriages had to be looked to, such
buildings as were suited for storehouses were to be prepared, and
hospitals fitted up to receive the sick or wounded; indeed, no point was
neglected. All these arrangements having been made, the brave John Van
der Does, the newly-elected commandant, rose.

"We have not concealed from ourselves the difficulties and dangers of
the task we have undertaken," he said. "But, my friends and
fellow-citizens, on God, on your stout arms, and on the energy of our
Prince we will rely to defend our city against all the foes who may
appear before our walls," he exclaimed, as he drew his sword; and
raising it above his head,