Catalogue description COUNSELLOR JEHAN HOUFFLIN to LORD WILLOUGHBY.

--Having obtained letters from the States of Holland to the Admiralty of this town, desiring them to furnish boats for the transport of the forces leaving Bergen, I have this day arrived here, and hope to procure what is necessary. I am told that I shall easily be able to persuade the States to furnish boats for the men at Ostend. The ambassador informs me that six companies are to go from thence, as he believes those at Flissinges do not wish to go at all. For the troops at Gorchum no boats will be needed, as they are to march along the dyke to Vyane, on the opposite side of the Vaert; and Marshal Villiers' and Kinske's horse will do the same, on leaving Heusden.

I have spoken freely to M. Barnevelt concerning Geertrudenbergh and the coming of your Lordship's company to Dordrecht. The ambassador is sending his maistre d'hotel to Geertrudenbergh with letters of credence and instructions to draw men thence for Portugal, as it is said. Count Maurice was very ill a day or two ago, but he has youth in his favour, and we have hopes of his speedy recovery.

Seal of arms.