Page:History of England (Froude) Vol 10.djvu/389

 1576-] THE SPANISH TREATY. 369 was most likely Walsingham, ' considers herself forced, in respect of her honour, to enter into action against the Prince of Orange. The Prince has been a bridle to Spain hitherto, and kept war out of our own gate.. If Spain assail him now by land, and the Queen of Eng- land by sea, he must fall, and what can her Majesty look for but such mischief as Spanish malice can yield ? Spain will then assist France to put down the religion. The number of malcontents at home is increased, and if the King of Spain attack England he will find so great a party within the realm as is grievous to a good sub- ject to think of. There are but three possible courses to maintain the Prince of Orange and the Huguenots, to seek reconciliation with Spain, and for her Majesty to settle her estate at home. To the first, men are now unwilling to move her, for that her Majesty has with very bitter speeches repaid those that first advised her to assist the Protestants, and thinks it against her con- science to maintain rebels. In reality that advice de- served rather praise than blame. The Prince of Orange is her soundest friend. The King of Spain daily con- sumes her Majesty's subjects by fire, and confiscates their goods. Such of her subjects as are loyal, would all have her support the Prince. Those who make a conscience of maintaining rebels are themselves rebels in heart, and will become disaffected when time shall serve. Reconciliation with Spain it is unlikely can ever be. If religion icere the only impediment, then perhaps it was likely reconciliation might follow by changing religion, but though in outward show religion shall be the pre- TOL. x. 24