Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/40

 way for a splendid equipage, on which was emblazoned the escutcheon of the Prince of Orange. In an instant the tumult ceased, and all but the soldiers uncovered their heads as the nobleman rode slowly toward the royal palace. There were two occupants in the carriage. The younger man had a handsome face, a dark complexion, large and expressive brown eyes, and symmetrical features. His forehead was high and spacious. He wore a mustache and a pointed beard, There were threads of silver in the dark hair, and the forehead was wrinkled by anxious thought. His frame was slightly bent, as if the weight of public affairs rested too heavily upon his shoulders. He was dressed in the magnificent costume for which the Netherlanders were famous. This man was William of Nassau, the Prince of Orange.

Born of Protestant parentage, William was sent to Brussels to be educated when but eleven years of age. He served the Emperor Charles in the capacity of page. The Emperor soon discovered that the lad was no ordinary boy. Even at this early age he showed remarkable prudence, judgment, and the power, so rare, of reading and using men. His royal patron soon raised him to the rank of confidential adviser. His natural abilities were stimulated and developed in this favorable atmosphere. During his long apprenticeship at the court of the most powerful monarch of his age, William