“Dordt, Highness—they desire to see you immediately.”
“Why? For what reason?”
“Sir, they are confused with haste and agitation, but I gather the town is in such a tumult none save Your Highness can quell it—and to save their own lives the magistrates have sent for Your Highness.”
William answered rather impatiently—
“It is impossible for me to journey to Dordt.”
“They will not return without you.”
“I must remain at my post.”
“Sir, they are afraid of being torn to bits if they disappoint the people——”
“Ah,” said William sharply, “is it as serious as that?”