“What did Buat die for?” he asked.
William answered calmly—
“For selling the secrets of Holland to France.”
“For betraying his country, Highness; and he was of the Orange party. Madame Buat is one of their most active agents now. But I have had enough of it … if you dare——”
The Prince sprang lightly to his feet.
“—If you dare, Highness,” repeated De Witt sternly, “the Republic will know how to act.”
“Mynheer de Witt,” said William in a stifled voice, “what do you mean?”
“Have you dealings with your uncle Charles Stewart? Are you secretly tampering with the agents of France?” demanded the Grand Pensionary. “There is my meaning.”
He paused. The Prince did not alter the hard quiet of his manner, though his great eyes showed a tumult of feeling.