Dirk III, Count of Holland 993-1039, born circa 982, died 27 May 1039 son of Arnuld and Liutgard of Luxemburg, married Othelhildis and they are the parents of Dirk IV and Floris I. Dirk III ruled 46 years. He appeared to have supported highwaymen who caused a lot of trouble not only for the farmers, forcing them to pay protection money, but also for merchants by creating a toll post on their way to England. These merchants complained to the Emperor who, in 1018, sent an army. However, this army was so ineffectual in the marshes of Holland, after being decimated and robbed, that its general, Duke Godfrey of Lorraine [GODFREY IV], was imprisoned and only released after he swore he would not return to avenge his defeat. These 'Friesians' did not like their counts but outside interference was even more resented.