This memorable document—­which is ever regarded as the foundation of the Netherland Republic—­contained twenty-six articles.

The preamble stated the object of the union.  It was to strengthen, not to forsake the Ghent Pacification, already nearly annihilated by the force of foreign soldiery.  For this purpose, and in order more conveniently to defend themselves against their foes, the deputies of Gelderland, Zutfen, Holland, Zealand, Utrecht, and the Frisian provinces, thought it desirable to form a still closer union.  The contracting provinces agreed to remain eternally united, as if they were but one province.  At the same time, it was understood that each was to retain its particular privileges, liberties, laudable and traditionary customs, and other laws.  The cities, corporations, and inhabitants of every province were to be guaranteed as to their ancient constitutions.  Disputes concerning these various statutes and customs were to be decided by the usual tribunals, by “good men,” or by amicable compromise.  The provinces, by virtue of the Union, were to defend each other “with life, goods, and blood,” against all force brought against them in the King’s name or behalf.  They were also to defend each other against all foreign or domestic potentates, provinces, or cities, provided such defence were controlled by the “generality” of the union.  For the expense occasioned by the protection of the provinces, certain imposts and excises were to be equally assessed and collected.  No truce or peace was to be concluded, no war commenced, no impost established affecting the “generality,” but by unanimous advice and consent of the provinces.  Upon other matters the majority was to decide; the votes being taken in the manner then customary in the assembly of states-general.  In case of difficulty in coming to a unanimous vote when required, the matter was to be referred to the stadholders then in office.  In case cf their inability to agree, they were to appoint arbitrators, by whose decision the parties were to be governed.  None of the united provinces, or of their cities or corporations, were to make treaties with other potentates or states, without consent of their confederates.  If neighbouring princes, provinces, or cities, wished to enter into this confederacy, they were to be received by the unanimous consent of the united provinces.  A common currency was to be established for the confederacy.  In the matter of divine worship, Holland and Zealand were to conduct themselves as they should think proper.  The other provinces of the union, however, were either to conform to the religious peace already laid down by Archduke Matthias and his council, or to make such other arrangements as each province should for itself consider appropriate for the maintenance of its internal tranquillity—­provided always that every individual should remain free in his religion, and that no man should be molested or questioned on the