death. He found most of the Houses shut up, and no people
in the streets; the Town lookt as if it had been a place
that was newly deserted, and the people fled. The streets
were so full of ordure, that they were able to have stifled
those that entred. There was neither Bread nor any thing
else to be had. The Houses for want of repair, lookt as if
they had stood empty for many years. It was a sad spectacle
to behold: there was nothing to bee had for money; those
who came there out of curiosity, were glad when they were
gotten out again. But for all this sad relation about this
poor town, before 6 weeks yet come about, it will bee seen
in a flourishing condition, for you will have People come
from all parts to live there, in regard of Commerce with the
Commonwealth of England. Many there were that were
resolved upon this before ever the known was taken.
His said Highness the Archduke since the taking of this
place, is marcht towards St Omer, and the Army towards
Bouloigne to refresh themselves in the Enemies Quarters:
And it is thought that if the season of the year will permit,
that his Highness will lay siege to the Town of Bethune, or
some other place of importance before this latter part of the
Summer be past.
Here is news likewise from Marseilles, Genoa and other
places, that the French relief designed for Barcelona miscarried
by the way, and that the Towne was not able to hold
out a week longer at the most: But all the discourse here at
present is about the, defeat that was given to the French
ships designed for there lief of Dunkirke by Generall Blake;
whereby the hearts and affections of the Flemmings and
Brabanders by this noble Exploit of his, are wholly bent to
serve the Parliament of the Commonwealth of England:
you can hear nothing since this last Action, but exclamations
of praises; their wishes and prayers for the prosperity of the
Parliament of England; and a hearty desire in generall that
there may be a good understanding between England and
these Parts for the good of both.
We verily beleeve, that if your Admirall Blake had not