Page:A Tour Through the Batavian Republic.djvu/341

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THE BATAVIAN REPUBLIC
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was dubious, would probably prevent them from sending any considerable reinforcements to their troops in Holland.

These representations, coinciding with the inclinations of the British government, produced in the autumn of the year an expedition against Holland. The stadtholderian party complained, that the army destined for their deliverance was not embarked until the favourable season for the campaign was past, and a continuance of unfavourable weather for some days after the appearance of the armament off the Texel increased the evils of this delay. A part of the hostile fleet having anchored off the Helder, the point where a landing was meant to take place was disclosed, and the forces destined to oppose the invaders consequently marched towards that point.

It appeared on the landing of the troops, that an erroneous opinion had been formed of the disposition of the Dutch soldiers. They were commanded by General Daendals, an officer of great experience and abilities, whose fidelity to the new government was