“So—you will oppose me in the Assembly?” he asked, rather breathlessly.
“I shall oppose your election into the Council of State, Highness—at least till you are of age.”
“And your reason, Mynheer?”
“My reason,” replied the Grand Pensionary gravely, “is that I am the servant of this Republic and sworn to maintain it in its integrity, therefore I cannot put so much power into the hands of one who has nothing save his birth as a qualification. I am not blind to your abilities, Highness, but you are too young, and have just given proof you may be too ambitious.”
William made a little movement in his chair.
“And the Captain Generalship?” he asked.
“On that point the States are adamant, it remains in the hands of M. de Montbas—until you are of age at least.”
There was a second’s pause while William strove to contain himself, when he spoke it was in a low voice—
“I am sorry to have incurred your enmity, Mynheer.”
“Not my enmity,” returned M. de Witt, with feeling; “there you mistake me, Highness.”