“How will war help you?” asked M. Bentinck thoughtfully.
The Prince did not seem inclined to answer this.
“I have had a whole day of idleness,” he said. “For the first time since—I cannot remember when—I went to Scheveningen—idle but not useless. I encountered an old man there—and a child—his confidence!”
William turned towards the settee.
“They all look to me to save them—does not that seem curious—after all M. de Witt has done?”
M. Bentinck caressed the fine lace at his wrist.
“It is certainly strange M. de Witt should be so disliked,” he answered.
“It is his peace policy. Confess, is it not stranger that I should be beloved?”
M. Bentinck smiled.
“I cannot think so, Highness.”