The Secretary bit his lip uneasily.
“We have obtained for Your Highness, on condition that you take the oaths never to attempt the Stadtholdership——”
“M. Van Odyk told me of that precaution of M. de Witt—I have no objection, Mynheer. He who binds can loose.”
“On this condition, and provided war is declared, Their Noble Mightinesses will offer you the Captain Generalship for one campaign, with option to continue the appointment or no at their discretion.”
“For one campaign——” repeated William.
“It was all, Highness, that our utmost endeavours could obtain.” M. Fagel spoke with humility.
William rose abruptly.
“Their Noble Mightinesses may spare themselves this offer, Mynheer,” he said hotly, “for I shall refuse the post.”
“Your Highness!”