Page:The silent prince - a story of the Netherlands (IA cu31924008716957).pdf/79

 wince. “The young advocate is an honest man, of whose love any woman might be proud. If I am to be sold like a chattel, God help me! But I will guarantee the Chancellor one thing: his purchase shall bring him only misery and pain, for I will be a thorn in his side and a curse to his peace.”

“There is no doubt about that,” replied her father. “You have a sharp tongue, and you know full well how to use it. I do not envy the Chancellor his prize, but he is bound to have you at any cost, and there is no doubt but that he loves you.”

Courageous as Hilvardine Van Straalen was, she dared make no further remonstrance. The maidens of the sixteenth century were well trained in the duty of obedience to parents. After obedience, they were taught to respect the authority of man, and were enjoined to silent submission to his superior judgement.

Conrad Chenoweth was not able to see Hilvardine again before his return to Brussels. He went to the Burgomaster's house, but Madam Van Straalen told him that her daughter had been forbidden to see the young advocate.

“Keep up a brave heart, Master Chenoweth,” she said. “I am your friend and I fully sympathize with you and with my daughter. Perhaps I may be able to remove the Burgomaster's prejudices. He has a good heart and truly loves his daughter, but these perilous times have frightened