MARTIN HAPPERTZ VAN, a celebrated Dutch admiral, was born at the Baille, in Holland. He raised himself by his merit, after having distinguished himself on many occasions, especially at the famous engagement near Gibraltar in 1607. He passed for one of the greatest seamen that had till that time appeared in the world; and was declared admiral of Holland, even by the advice of the prince of Orange. He in that character defeated a large Spanish fleet in 1630, and gained 32 other victories at sea; but was killed when under deck, in an engagement with the English in 1653. The states-general caused medals to be struck to his honour, and lamented him as one of the greatest heroes of their republic. Van Tromp, in the midst of the greatest glory, constantly discovered a remarkable modesty; for he never assumed a higher cha- racter than that of a burgher, and that of being the father of the sailors.