
audiobook
by G. A. (George Alfred) Henty
The narrative opens in a modest English parish where daily prayers echo the plight of the Dutch rebels, capturing the deep religious and emotional ties that bound the two peoples together. It paints a vivid picture of a Europe dominated by Spain’s overwhelming might, while England, still reeling from the after‑effects of Agincourt, watches from the sidelines, its military traditions faded and its navy yet untested.
When England finally steps onto the continental stage, the story follows the daring exploits of Sir Francis Vere and his contingent of seasoned soldiers, whose leadership becomes a turning point for the embattled Netherlands. Through detailed accounts of sieges, naval raids, and the strategic use of English gold, the book shows how newfound English resolve helped shift the balance of power, setting the stage for the eventual triumph of Dutch independence.
Language
en
Duration
~11 hours (671K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Release date
2005-08-01
Rights
Public domain in the USA.

1832–1902
Best known for fast-moving historical adventures, this prolific Victorian writer turned real wars, distant places, and imperial history into stories that thrilled generations of young readers. Before becoming a hugely popular novelist, he worked as a journalist and war correspondent, giving his fiction a strong sense of action and detail.
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