"Was it to a second time offer your resignation?" he asked.
Shrewsbury went crimson under his powder; he seemed to find it difficult to maintain even a show of composure.
"Yes, Your Majesty," he answered.
"Very well," said William quietly. "I am sorry that you will not serve me till my return from Ireland."
"Sire, my health," murmured the Duke faintly—"I have had a fall from my horse—I am not fit."
Still holding his sword in both hands, the King rose.
"My lord—is that your sole reason?" he asked gently.
The blood ebbed from the young man's soft face; he answered with an effort.
"My sole reason, Your Majesty."
William continued to fix his eyes on him.