Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/192

 church as well as another. But probably we shall always differ on that point. Seriously, I think your chances of fulfilling your mission are rather slim, but if any one can help you find your sister, it is that charming creature Doña Isidore de Cisneros.”

“A Spanish lady!” said Reynold in dismay. “Is there a Spaniard in whom one can put faith?”

“You can trust Doña Isidore,” replied General Berlaymont. “She lives in Brussels with her sister, who married a wealthy Fleming. They are all stanch Catholics. If Doña Isidore espouses your Sister’s cause, as I expect she will, your success is assured. She is a born schemer, and her beauty, wealth and wit have made her a leader in the best society in Brussels.”

“She will hardly interest herself in a stranger, and a heretic at that,” replied Reynold.

“Please give Doña Isidore this letter which I have written, and I shall be greatly disappointed if she does not interest herself in your affairs. See here, unbeliever,” he added, throwing back his coat and exhibiting a knot of scarlet ribbon fastened with an opal, “I am privileged to wear Doña Isidore’s colors, and if she has remained faithful, she will be ready to do me this slight favor.”

“I thank you, general, for your kind interest in my case, and hope that success will crown your scheme. I have your permission to depart today?”