* After Flanders fell under the power of Philip Second, a large number of Walloons emigrated to Holland and afterward to the New Netherlands. They are, in fact, the ancestors of the Dutch Reformed Church.
"So! And what would you advise to be done for this poor man and his old landlady? Speak freely," added the Duchess, "we need fear no spies here."
"Since your Grace will have me be so bold, I would recommend that the poor woman be established once more in a house where she can carry on her business. A small payment in advance would enable her to rent a much better stand than before, and then Monsieur Claude could lodge with her till he is sufficiently recovered to return home."
"That sounds like a good scheme!" said the Duchess, thoughtfully: "And how much would be required for all? I mean to pay this poor woman's first quarter and Monsieur Claude's traveling expenses!"
Master Hall named the sum, and the Duchess bade me take the money from her cabinet, and herself put it into his hand, with that sweet, graceful manner which made every such act on her part a personal favor.
"And now, let us see what books you have brought," said she. "Nothing seditious, I trust, since Mistress Corbet hath given her personal security that you do not deal in such matters, and it were a pity to shame her."
"There is no fear of her being shamed by me!" said Master Hall. "At least so far as that goes—but knowing your Grace to be fond of prints and the like, I have ventured to bring two or three, and also some music books, if your Grace will accept so small an offering."
"In truth, Master Hall, we shall be your debtors!" answered the Duchess. "My daughter was even now petitioning for new music. Frances, let me hear you make your acknowledgments to Master Hall for the pleasure he hath given us."
Lady Frances did so in her usual pretty, frank fashion. Master Hall answered a question or two about the prints, and was just upon taking his leave, when the Duke entered. There was an unusual cloud on his brow, and he looked both grave and angry.
"What gear is here?" he asked. "Ha, my good friend, Master Hall, this is a fortunate chance. I have business with you, and was about to send for you. Leave the ladies with their books, and come you to my cabinet. This is a matter that brooks no delay?"