Page:The black tulip (IA 10892334.2209.emory.edu).pdf/219

 although producing no change in the impassible mien of the Prince, did not fail to take effect on Van Herysen.

“But,” said the Prince, "it cannot be long since you knew the prisoner.”

Rosa opened her large eyes and looked at the stranger, who drew back into the dark corner, as if he wished to escape her observation.

“Why, sir?” she asked him.

“Because it is not yet four months, since the jailor Gryphus and his daughter were removed to Lœvestein.”

“That is true, sir.”

“Otherwise, you must have solicited the transfer of your father, in order to be able to follow some prisoner who may have been transported from the Hague to Lœvestein.”

“Sir,” said Rosa blushing.

“Finish what you have to say,” said William.

“I confess, I knew the prisoner at the Hague.”

“Happy prisoner!” said William, smiling.

At this moment, the officer who had been sent for Boxtel, returned and announced to the Prince, that the person whom he had been to fetch was following on his heels with his tulip.

  return was scarcely announced, when he entered in person the drawing-room of Mynheer Van Herysen, followed by two men, who carried in a box their precious burden, and deposited it on a table.

The Prince, on being informed, left the cabinet, passed into the drawing-room, admired the flower, and silently