He stated boldly that his services had not been ineffective, that the enemy had never been in worse plight than now, that he had lost at least five thousand men in divers overthrows, and that, on the other hand, the people and towns of the Seven Provinces had been safely preserved.  “Since my arrival,” he said, “God hath blessed the action which you have taken in hand, and committed to the charge of me your poor unhappy servant.  I have good cause to say somewhat for myself, for that I think I have as few friends to speak for me as any man.”

Nevertheless—­as he warmly protested—­his only wish was to return; for the country in which he had lost her favour, which was more precious than life, had become odious to him.

The most lowly office in her presence was more to be coveted than the possession of unlimited power away from her.  It was by these tender and soft insinuations, as the Earl knew full well, that he was sure to obtain what he really coveted—­her sanction for retaining the absolute government in the Provinces.  And most artfully did he strike the key.

“Most dear and gracious Lady,” he cried, “my care and service here do breed me nothing but grief and unhappiness.  I have never had your Majesty’s good favour since I came into this charge—­a matter that from my first beholding your eyes hath been most dear unto me above all earthly treasures.  Never shall I love that place or like that soil which shall cause the lack of it.  Most gracious Lady, consider my long, true, and faithful heart toward you.  Let not this unfortunate place here bereave me of that which, above all the world, I esteem there, which is your favodr and your presence.  I see my service is not acceptable, but rather more and more disliketh you.  Here I can do your Majesty no service; there I can do you some, at the least rub your horse’s heels—­ a service which shall be much more welcome to me than this, with all that these men may give me.  I do, humbly and from my heart, prostrate at your feet, beg this grace at your sacred hands, that you will be pleased to let me return to my home-service, with your favour, let the revocation be used in what sort shall please and like you.  But if ever spark of favour was in your Majesty toward your old servant, let me obtain this my humble suit; protesting before the Majesty of all Majesties, that there was no cause under Heaven but his and yours, even for your own special and particular cause, I say, could have made me take this absent journey from you in hand.  If your Majesty shall refuse me this, I shall think all grace clean gone from me, and I know:  my days will not be long.”