Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/145

 heed my counsel, but chose to adopt those rigorous measures, that this outbreak has occurred. You will kindly remember that I gave you fair warning."

"Yes, yes! " said the wily woman, changing her tactics. "You gave us good advice. Would that we had heeded it. Now, my kind friend and counsellor will you hasten at once to Antwerp and calm these rioters. If Antwerp rebels, the government is lost."

"The government, I trust, rests on a firmer foundation," replied the Prince. "The rebellion of Antwerp ought not to mean the downfall of the government. Nevertheless, I will at once depart to do your bidding."

The Prince was not deceived by Margaret's dissimulation. He had means at his command by which the Regent's letters were opened before they reached Madrid. Philip's replies were subjected to the same system of espionage. William was aware that the Regent was his enemy, yet he proceeded to Antwerp at her request. But it was for the last time. He found that Brederode, "the Beggar Prince," had incited the people to an armed resistance, and a force of thirteen hundred men, commanded by Thoulouse, was organized and equipped. Orange ordered the soldiers either to disband or to encamp outside the city. They chose the latter alternative, and set up their camp at Oosterweel.