Pensionary

Pensionary, the name formerly given to the syndic or legal adviser in every important town of Holland, because receiving a salary or pension; and, during the republic of the United Netherlands, the state secretary for the province of Holland was called Raads-pensionaris—Englished by State Pensionary, or, more commonly, Grand Pensionary. The Grand Pensionary had no vote in the assembly of the states, and could only bring forward the subjects of discussion. He, however, collected the votes, wrote the decrees, read the letters addressed to the states, conducted negotiations with foreign ambassadors and ministers, and took charge of the revenues of the province, and whatever else pertained to its welfare. The office was abolished in 1795, after the conquest of Holland by the French revolutionists. Olden Barneveldt, De Witt, and Heinsius were the most celebrated holders of this office.