English Spy. Of that anon. Now, Brother what of the Great Cause in the Low Countries? There the struggle is at present.
Foreign Spy, (Slowly and with emphasis), And there, brother, it is almost ended. William the silent is silent for ever! (The English spy starts with surprise). That Arch-Heretic, the Prince of Orange, is no more!
English Spy. What? The Prince of Orange dead!
Foreign Spy, (With bitter emphasis), Three poisoned bullets did for him, spite of all his caution! Parma outmanœuvred him. Philip is at the right game of war now!
English Spy, (Interested to excitement), How? How was this, brother? It will be a thunder clap to Europe!
Foreign Spy. It was difficult; William was so closely guarded; so many attempts had failed. He seemed unapproachable. We found the fitting tool! (He pauses, watching his startled companion with exultation, then continues). Balthazzar Gerard, an enthusiast from Burgundy. We fanned the Bigot-flame, and armed his fiery soul with all the panoply of Faith the church could give, a Martyr’s Crown! Immediate bliss in Heaven. Philip added earthly honours, nobility and estates in Spain. Balthazzar swallowed the baited hook, and counted not the cost! (He pauses, looking at his deeply interested and astounded companion.)
English Spy, (Eagerly), Pray go on, Brother! He was seized of course! how did he proceed, or obtain access?
Foreign Spy. He repaired to the palace at Delft, petitioned for protection and aid, he pretended to be a Calvinist whose father was executed, and himself a fugitive for his religion. The mask was sufficient, he obtained employment, and was at length received into the palace. There he watched his opportunity, and as the Prince was passing through his hall to dinner fired into him three poisoned bullets. The victim dropped, “William the Silent” was no more.
English Spy, (with emotion), Villain! He was cut down, or seized, tortured, hung!
Foreign Spy. Quick as his bullets he bounded from the hall, crossed the court-yard, and gained the city wall, where aid was ready.