“It has been my ambition, Highness.”
The Prince put the letter away in his pocket.
“You will see M. Renswoude, who is now head of my household; I need another secretary. I will speak with you again. Meanwhile, Mynheer, I thank you for your fidelity to M. Bentinck.”
Florent, quivering with pleasure, bowed low.
The Prince turned to the table between the windows.
“First I will request you to return to Hertogenbosch, Mynheer, with a letter for M. Bentinck.”
He sat down, wrote hastily, in a large, flowing hand, a few lines, and sealed them in a cover with the signet on his thumb.
As he rose again the door was opened.
“Highness, the Grand Pensionary is below and requests an immediate interview.”
It seemed to Florent’s acute observation that a malicious and triumphant expression flashed for an instant in William’s eyes, but he answered quietly—