Die eerst valt betaelt de Speelman, die laest, de Kosten
Here, we see the Catholic monarchs recast as tightrope walkers in a circus, performing a balancing act to stay in power. This metaphor illustrates their precarious situation in a way that viewers can easily understand. Stadtholder-King William III provides musical accompaniment for the dance. As King James II of England tumbles from the tightrope, Louis XIV steps up to try his skill.