Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/50

 The closing words of the Prince were significant. A year previous he would have said “the duties of a good Catholic.” The moral as well as the political aspects of the Reformation were already occupying his attention, and the time had come when he felt that he could no longer conscientiously ignore these claims.

“As I foresee that I can no longer work in harmony with the State Council,” concluded William, “I herewith tender my resignation as a member of this official board.”

With a courteous bow, the Prince withdrew from the Regent's presence.

“Traitor!” cried the indignant representatives of royalty. “He shall suffer for this.”

“Mark my words, your Highness,” said Baron Berlaymont, “that man will some day become a heretic.”