Mr. Herbert hesitated, eyed the Prince, then said, with more boldness than he felt—
"I must tell Your Highness that there is one matter, too delicate to commit to writing, that hath been in debate among your friends in London——"
"Ah?" questioned the Prince.
"—'tis the attitude of the Princess, sir."
William seemed to slightly stiffen and straighten.
"What should her attitude be but the same as mine?" he asked.
Mr. Herbert coloured.
"Forgive me, sir, she is King James his daughter——"
The Prince interrupted—
"Also my wife," he said quietly, but with extraordinary force and, it seemed, pride. "You shall hear the lady for yourself, sir."