“In a day or so, I think, Highness.”
William looked again at the letter.
Florent did not know how to face the disappointment of the Prince’s total forgetfulness of himself; his three years’ exile were ill repaid by this.…
Again the Prince raised his eyes.
“Are you pleased to return to the Hague, Mynheer Van Mander?”
A hot flush swept across Florent’s face.
“I thought Your Highness did not recall me.”
“I recall you very well, Mynheer—M. Bentinck speaks highly of you; if you choose to remain in my service, it is open to you—here.”
Florent found himself foolishly unable to frame an answer. He had felt himself slighted, and now he was over-rewarded; shame silenced him.
“I imagine you will care to stay,” said William, eyeing him.