Institutes of Oratory

...that, just as it never happened to you before, so it has happened to none of the neighboring princes until now. Indeed, it seemed all the more mournful to the King Referring to King Philip IV of Spain. and the enemies because they considered it a disgrace that you were now being armed against them from their own wealth. Who could also praise you enough for the fact that, with almost no loss of your own blood, you captured Wesel? original: "Vesaliam". The city of Wesel was captured in a surprise attack in 1629. That city was famous for its strength and fortified with an enemy garrison. It was rich with the spoils and plunder of several years. It was the chosen seat of war against you. Divine favor toward you shone more clearly in this event because the enemy was rampaging in the heart of the confederate territories at that time. While the enemy caused great damage, they were eager for even greater destruction. Capturing this city did more than stop the progress of the enemy's victory. You recovered your own property. You drove the enemies from your borders. You added many towns to the territories of the confederates. original: "fœderatorum". This refers to the United Provinces of the Netherlands. These towns have remained under the protection of you and your allies since that time. Finally, how grand and magnificent it was. How glorious it was for the Prince of Orange, Frederick Henry, Prince of Orange, who was the stadtholder and military commander during these campaigns. for you, and for the confederates. You brought 's-Hertogenbosch original: "Sylvam Ducis", meaning "The Duke's Wood". The city was one of the most important Spanish strongholds until its capture in 1629. back under your power and that of your allies. This city was always hostile before. It was so well protected by its natural location and veteran soldiers that the general opinion was...