As he rose to greet the Landgrave his eyes shone; he had a moment's hope that Hesse was sending troops to his aid, or at least bringing promises of future assistance.
Count Hoogstraaten also wore an eager look as he saluted the German Prince.
But the appearance of the Landgrave was neither cheerful nor hopeful; he seated himself heavily, took off his black silk hat, and wiped his forehead.
"It is something important," said William quickly, "that has brought you from Hesse here to seek my poor company."
"I came myself," returned the Landgrave, "because my father could think of no better messenger. I have been at Dresden, and bear also the messages of the Elector Augustus."
"Ah!" said William softly.
He seated himself and glanced at Hoogstraaten.
The Landgrave was a man of blunt words and a stern courtesy; without preamble he came to what was the gist of his errand.
"Turn back—wait—leave the Provinces; it is impossible to assist them. No one can withstand Alva and his army."
This was the sum of what the Landgrave William had ridden rapidly from Hesse to say.