Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/218



morning for the execution of Francis Junius dawned clear and bright. Hugo Berlaymont arose with the sun. He hardly knew what he was about to do, but he felt that God was leading him and would show him each step of the way.

Fritz was surprised at the interest which his young master evinced in the approaching execution. Hitherto the young lord had listened shrinkingly to any details of these affairs, and had even begged him to refrain from alluding to them in his presence. The sight of Hugo preparing to go to the market-place filled him with amazement and disgust.

“Really, I did not know before that my young master had a taste for blood. He has inherited it, I suppose. They say such things will crop out sooner or later.” Aloud he said, ”Is it wise for you to go and see the sentence executed, Master Hugo? The patrols are strengthened, and the officers fear a riot. It is no fit place for you.”

Hugo looked at his servant with eyes which 208