Institutes of Oratory

...[may God] bestow prudence and courage, so that you may rule quietly and healthfully at home for a long time, and extend the power of Holland original: "Bataviæ". The Latin name for the Netherlands, referencing the ancient Batavi tribe. and the Confederated Provinces original: "Fœderatorum". The United Provinces of the Netherlands., not only in neighboring lands, but also in far distant regions, indeed, as you are currently doing, even beyond Europe. Unless, after this heavy and long-lasting war This refers to the Eighty Years' War (1568 to 1648), the Dutch struggle for independence from Spain., a long peace awaits us. I would gladly welcome that hope with my whole heart. But let the public good prevail: this will be the care of both the supreme Father and of you, the Fathers of the Fatherland original: "Patriæ Patres". A prestigious title for the ruling magistrates, borrowed from the Roman Senate to emphasize their role as protectors..