“M. de Zuylestein is below with his regiment of cavalry.” M. Bentinck, who was also in armour, bent and kissed his master’s hand. “I think you will already find the streets full of people——”
“They had best keep their cheers for our return,” answered William briefly.
Florent was observing him closely. He wished that he might have accompanied M. Bentinck to the war; the empty Palace was no alluring prospect.…
The Prince wonderfully softened his discontent by entrusting him with the letters lying on the little desk, and giving him his instructions for M. Gabriel Sylvius, who had not yet arrived.
Then he said “Good-bye,” nodded, and went downstairs.
In the hall he took unconcerned leave of the rest of his household, M. Heenvliet, M. Renswoude, M. Boreel, handing to the last the keys of his desk.
By now the sun was bright and strong, lying in scattered patches of gold on the grass beneath the Palace trees.
The Prince gave his helmet to an officer and put on his hat.
Mr. Bromley came to say his horse was waiting. William was leaving the Palace when he stopped at a sudden recollection and mounted the stairs.
When, a moment later, he returned he wore a red rose fastened into the brooch of his cravat.