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Endorsed: To my L. Tresurer 29 June 1592.
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fol.225r
Later Addition: [[To my L.]] Treasurer
May it please your good L. Steenwicke being yelded, wherof I have advertised the occurrence before, it is now in consultation with the states that are heere, whether it were convenient to goe against Coevoerden. It is a very strong castel in the lande of Drente, and is distant Southest about 10 leagues from Steenwick: where the garrison of the enemie doth exceedingly annoye both Frise and Overyssel. The states of Frise doe urge it hard, alleaging that Steenwick will profit them litle, unles they may have Coevoerden. Which is answea- red againe by some other of the Provinces, that their armie hath bin toiled, and is greatly diminished both in strength and in number: and that Coevoerden will be found to be as strong a place as Steenwicke. That it is not possible, they should speede of their purpose, except they should bring their artillery thither: which must all be done by land, and with a mervelous charge, and daily danger of loosing all. For our forces not surmounting the number of 5000 foote, and 1400 horse, and overwearied already with the services at Steenwicke, if the enemy should soddainly assem- ble a greater power, for which the bruit is already that he maketh preparation, they should never have the meanes, to retire their people and munition. They are come to no conclusion, because the Martial Commanders are absent from hens. But the mater is committed to the Councel of estate, and to the Deputies of the Provinces, that are abiding at the Campe. In the meane season those that are heere in the assembly of the states, have written their advise, that they thinke it not expedient, to undertake the siege of Coevoerden. But notwithstanding their writing they are in some doubte, least the earnestnes of Frise will induce the Councel and Counte Maurice to satisfie their humor. I would be willingly there my selfe, to knowe the course that it held in all their proceedings, and to report every action assuredly unto yow. But because I doe attend; what her Majestie will determine about the sending into Britaine, and how the offer of the states is accepted in that behalf, (for to that effect they call upon me) and for as much as their residence is allwaies at the Hage, for which of force I should returne upon receat of any letter, I have thought it my best to continue heere still, untill that your next shall come to my handes. And so I take my humble leave. From the Hage. June 29 1592.