Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/203

 ness and trouble, and never would accept a riksdaler from us in payment for his services. As long as I have a shelter, you and your friends can share it.”

“I thank you for your generosity, my good woman,” said Colonel Van Straalen. “I hope to execute my mission here as soon as possible and then join the army of our noble Prince.”

As soon as the two young men were alone, Reynold said eagerly, "Conrad, have you found Hilvardine yet? I know she is the lodestone which keeps you as well as myself from immediately joining the army of the Prince.”

“Alas, no!” said his friend. “She was abducted from her home and brought to Brussels at the instigation of the Chancellor of Brabant, but farther than that I can learn nothing. All clue to her whereabouts is carefully concealed. I have haunted the premises of the Chancellor, have made myself on good terms with some of the servants in his household, but either they cannot or will not divulge the secret.”

“Then nothing remains for us except to try and interest Doña Isidore de Cisneros in the case,” said Reynold.

“I know the lady well by sight,” said Conrad, “but she is inaccessible.”

“I am assured that this will find a way to her heart,” said Reynold, producing General Berlay-