Page:The Works of the Rev. Jonathan Swift, Volume 3.djvu/458

450 destruction of that place, although it would be useful to the States, does more nearly import Britain, and was therefore a point that such ministers could more easily get over.

ALTHOUGH the orders and instructions of the courts of Vienna and Barcelona, upon the matters above-mentioned, do not go so far as to give directions for what follows; notwithstanding, the prince and count above-mentioned, considering the present state of affars, are of the following opinion:

First, that the counterproject of England, relating to the places where the States-general may put and keep garrisons, ought to be followed, except Lier, Halle to fortify, and the castle of Gand. Provided likewise, that the sentiments of England be particularly conformed to, relating to Dendermond and Ostend, as places in nowise belonging to the barrier; and which, as well as the castle of Gand, can only serve to make the States-general masters of the Low-countries, and hinder trade with England. And as to Lier and Halle, those who are acquainted with the country know that these towns cannot give any security to the States-general; but can only make people believe, that these places being