Page:The black tulip (IA 10892334.2209.emory.edu).pdf/213

 landing-place by the multitude, which was accompanying, or rather following, a young man, simply clad in a coat of violet-coloured velvet, embroidered with silver; who, with a certain aristocratic slowness, ascended the shining white stone steps of the house.

In his wake followed two officers, one of the navy, and the other of the cavalry.

Van Herysen, having found his way through his frightened domestics, began to bow, almost to prostrate himself before his visitor, who had been the cause of all this stir.

“Monseigneur!” he called out, “Monseigneur! What distinguished honour is Your Highness bestowing for ever on my humble house by your visit!”

“Dear Mynheer Van Herysen,” said William of Orange, with a serenity, which, with him, took the place of a smile, “I am a true Hollander; I am fond of the water, of beer, and of flowers, sometimes even of that cheese, the flavour of which seems so grateful to the French; the flower which I prefer to all others is, of course, the tulip. I heard at Leyden that the city of Haarlem at last possessed the black tulip; and, after having satisfied myself of the truth of news which seemed so incredible, I have come to know all about it from the President of the Horticultural Society.”

“Oh! Monseigneur, Monseigneur,” said Van Herysen, “what glory to the Society, if its endeavours are pleasing to Your Highness!”

“Have you got the flower here?” said the Prince, who, very likely, already regretted having made such a long speech.

“I am sorry to say we have not.”

“And where is it?”

“With its owner.”

“Who is he?” O