“How much was given for them?”
La Motte looked at M. Heenvliet.
“The gloves cost six gulden a pair, Highness,” said that gentleman, “and they are such as Your Highness hath often worn before.”
“My faith, no!” replied William. “I have never worn such gauntlets. Six gulden a pair! I do not know what is the motive of this economy but I will not endure it, Mynheer.”
Kerckhove Lord of Heenvliet flushed.
“Your clothes are bought under the approval of M. Van Ghent, Highness, and the authority of Mynheer de Witt.”
The Prince’s eyes were dangerously bright.
“All of which makes no difference, Mynheer; my income is sufficient to dress me better than a German count.”
Mr. Bromley held his peace. It seemed to him that the gloves were well enough, and that the Prince wished to provoke his hated tutor, since His Highness lost no possible opportunity for annoying M. Van Ghent.
“This is merely vexatious, Highness,” said M. Heenvliet, “and I must again remind you that for a trifling affair you keep M. Van Ghent waiting.”