“Perhaps not quite,” replied William in an intense, quiet tone. “This embassy, Mynheer, is utterly and entirely against my wishes.”
A little stir went through the spectators. Peter de Groot was not taken aback.
“I act on the orders of M. de Witt, Highness.”
“And you may please M. de Witt by your compliance with his wishes, but you will not please me.” William’s dark eyes held his opponent’s with a bold expression of angry disdain.
“Must I remind Your Highness that you have no share in the civil government?”
William drew a deep breath.
“Had I, there would be no talk of peace, Mynheer.”
Peter de Groot eyed him straightly.
“It seems as if you threaten me, Highness.”
“I warn you and your companions not to go on this embassy.”