“I spoke for myself, Highness, thinking that the services I have rendered you, the affection I have always felt for you might have kept me some place in your esteem.”
Still the Prince would not answer the appeal in the words, even by raising his eyes.
“I have always striven,” he said, “to express my gratitude to you, Mynheer, for your constant care.”
There was a look almost of wonder on the noble face of M. de Witt, as if he could hardly credit the unmoved composure of this boy.
“I have not come, Highness, to exchange with you the language of diplomacy,” he said.
William looked up now.
“It is the only language I have had the chance to learn, Mynheer.”
John de Witt gazed at him gently and sadly.
“I have never taught you anything but frankness, Highness—I have deserved both your trust and your affection. It has been my dearest wish, my most cherished hope, that I might educate you to become my friend, my ally in the government of the United Provinces.”
The Prince made the slightest movement and again averted his eyes.