Page:Diary of the times of Charles II Vol. I.djvu/260

144 clapt up in the castle at Antwerp, which he thinks would be likely enough if he passed that way.

20th.I was with the Pensioner; he told me he hoped the business would succeed; that he was at work about it, that the States are kept together a purpose, that nobody did yet suspect the reason, and he desired me to keep it secret, for if the French Ambassador should have any sight of it he might do harm. I went to Monsieur Van Beuninghen; he told me he had great hopes, that he had made several journeys, and had taken a good deal of pains to bring it to what it is; he says they are afraid of our disunion at home, and that is the only reason that keeps them off; that he is confident the French Ambassador will do nothing, though he threatens them extremely that if they enter into any new alliance with us they should have 100,000 men upon their backs. They have appointed Commissaries to treat with him, and so it will be. He showed me the alteration, which I think will be as well for us, and will make them consent a great deal sooner than as it was before; he desires nothing but a good union among ourselves, and does not doubt but we shall make our party good without great expense.

22nd.I rode out to see my horses. At night I