“That is understood between us—I come to you as to the chief of the Orange party in the absence of His Highness.”
These two had been friends once, and allies, before Gaspard Fagel had been led by ambition to envy the position of the Grand Pensionary and serve the Prince.
At John de Witt’s calm, sad recognition of their estrangement and its motive the Secretary was silent.
“You represent the party that has always been for war, M. Fagel, as I that for peace—you have, perhaps, more influence in the Assembly than I——”
“M. de Witt——”
The Grand Pensionary silenced him.
“It is true.”
M. Fagel wiped his lips.
“What do you want of me?”
“Your help in the Assembly.”