"And there is the English post in," said M. Dyckfelt, "all in a reek from skirting Villeroy's forces."
"Why must you remind me of England?" asked William.
Portland interposed quickly—
"Surely you will return almost immediately? Is this not a good juncture to call a parliament?"
"This is not a good season to discuss politics." The King administered his reproof in the gentlest manner, but Portland, with a curt bow, instantly set down his glass, rose, and left the tent. William flushed, and a kind of tremor ran through the company. They thought that the King would not take this even from Portland.
But, after a second, he turned to the Prince de Vaudemont.
"My cousin," he said quietly, "will you go after my lord and persuade him that he is unreasonable?"
The princes glanced at each other covertly as M. de Vaudemont obeyed. M. van Keppel coloured violently; he knew perfectly well who Portland's wrath was directed against, but his anger was not personal but for his master thus openly slighted.
The King sat silent, drinking slowly and looking down at the damask cloth. In a few moments M. de Vaudemont returned alone.
It seemed almost incredible that Portland should refuse to return when sent for by the King and by such a messenger; William looked up.