"I think Your Majesty will change your resolution," he said, with sudden warmth, "for the sake of Europe."
"For the sake of Europe, my lord, I shall persist in it."
Sidney Godolphin looked straightly at the King.
"No—Your Majesty is not the man to shirk difficulties—bear with us a little."
"My lord," answered William, "if all were as you I should have no difficulties—rise up, my lord of Shrewsbury; this is not your fault."
The Duke got to his feet and retired to the deep window-seat; he appeared utterly overwhelmed.
"I undertook to serve a King," said Godolphin, deeply moved. "Let me resign that service while you are still my King—if Your Majesty becomes Prince of Orange I become a private gentleman. I pray Your Majesty accept my resignation."
"And mine, sir," added Halifax.
"I hope that you will serve the Queen," replied William; he leant back in his chair and his face was colourless against the red brocade cushion.
"It was to Your Majesty I swore obedience," said Godolphin firmly.