The scene shows a fleet of Dutch merchant ships leaving Portsmouth Harbour after an embargo on Dutch shipping, imposed at the end of 1832, was lifted. Great Britain had joined with France in supporting Leopold as the newly elected King of the Belgians. William of Orange opposed Leopold and the embargo was imposed in response to that opposition. On 21 May, 1833, William modified his position with regard to Leopold and agreed to a provisional convention with Britain and France. The embargo was subsequently lifted. The ‘Prins van Orange’ is the large ship on the left closest to the viewer. Several rowing boats are also present in the foreground. On the left, spectators wave their hats to the outgoing crew. Coloured aquatint. Inscription in Dutch and English.