But the Silent One spoke: “We will resist,” said he, “if Egmont who twice, at Saint Quentin and at Gravelines, made France tremble, who has all authority over the Flemish soldiers, will come to our rescue and prevent the Spaniard from coming into our countries.”
Messire d’Egmont replied: “I think of the king with too much respect to believe that we must arm ourselves like rebels against him. Let those who fear his anger draw back. I will remain, having no way of living save by his help.”
“Philip may take cruel vengeance,” said the Silent.
“I have complete trust!” answered Egmont.
“Your head included?” asked Ludwig of Nassau.
“Included,” replied Egmont, “head, body, and loyal devotion, which are his.”
“Trusty and well-beloved, I will do even as thou,” said De Hoorn. Said the Silent:
“We must foresee and not wait.”
Then Messire d’Egmont, speaking vehemently, “I have,” said he, “had two and twenty reformed hanged at Grammont. If the preachings come to an end, if the image breakers are punished, the king’s anger will be appeased.”
The Silent replied: