Now M. de Witt looked at him.
“Yes, I will take the responsibility, Your Highness,” he answered proudly. “M. de Montbas is as trusty, worthy a gentleman as any under Your Highness’ command——”
“I am glad that you will answer for him, Mynheer.”
“We will talk no more of it,” replied the Grand Pensionary; “he stays.”
William picked up the red rose and looked at it languidly.
“My brother,” continued M. de Witt, “will not accompany Your Highness, as he hath answered the appeal of the States General to go as deputy plenipotentiary to the Fleet.”
The Prince still kept his eyes on the flower.
“I am glad, Mynheer,” he answered. “M. Cornelius de Witt and I are not likely to agree.”
The Grand Pensionary gave him a long and searching glance.