The Stadtholder interrupted.
“I believe none of it.”
M. Bentinck, however, was not so sure.
“At least investigate the story.”
But all further speech was arrested by the announcement of the expected envoys from the Allies.
M. de Zuylestein drew Van Mander aside.
“I will see you afterwards; your tale requires looking into—particularly as regards M. de Witt. The Prince is too rash.”
It was Sir Gabriel Sylvius who brought the final answer from King Louis; the terms that William III. hoped, through the intervening influence of the English, might prove more reasonable.
Sir Gabriel was accompanied by Mr. Jermyn and an Englishman very different from either Buckingham or Arlington, Sir Edward Seymour, of the proudest name in the three kingdoms.
The young Stadtholder received them with perfect composure; all trace of weariness left his manner.