But England, long
connected both by commerce and alliance with the Netherlands, and now
more concerned in the fate of the revolted provinces by sympathy in
religion, seemed naturally interested in their defence; and as Elizabeth
had justly entertained great jealousy of Philip, and governed her
kingdom in perfect tranquillity, hopes were entertained that her policy,
her ambition, or her generosity, would engage her to, support them under
their present calamities. They sent, therefore, a solemn embassy to
London, consisting of St. Aldegonde, Douza, Nivelle, Buys, and Melsen;
and after employing the most humble supplications to the queen, they
offered her the possession and sovereignty of their provinces, if she
would exert her power in their defence.
There were many strong motives which might impel Elizabeth to accept of
so liberal an offer. She was apprised of the injuries which Philip
had done her, by his intrigues with the malecontents in England and
Ireland:[*] she foresaw the danger which she must incur from a total
prevalence of the Catholics in the Low Countries: and the maritime
situation of those provinces, as well as their command over the great
rivers, was an inviting circumstance to a nation like the English, who
were beginning to cultivate commerce and naval power.
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