"You also brought the papers, relative to the manning and armament of the camp, out of the inn of Brederode, wresting them from the French spies at the risk of your life. And I made you an officer for it."
He paused again, still smiling. Never was there a brave man so nobly clement as William of Orange.
"If I pardon you the double treason—and the prison-breaking," he added, a little thoughtfully, "will you command again for me—not a company this time, but a regiment?"
It was an offer noble, generous, worthy of the greatest prince.
The courtiers and the great folks assembled gave a shout, which was not checked this time.
The king still stood silent, smiling, expectant, confident of Wat's answer.
"My general, and your most noble highness," began Lochinvar, slowly, "but lately it would have been the greatest honor of my life to command a regiment in the service of the Prince of Orange. But I cannot command one in the service of William, King of England."
"Think again," said the king, who understood him. "I have regiments over seas as well as in England."
"But they might be needed here, and I could not desert my colors a second time for loyalty, as once I did for love."
"What, then, do you desire?" said the king, shortly, looking manifestly disappointed.