Even the icy Philip was almost softened, as he rose to perform his part in the ceremony.

Dropping upon his knees before his father's feet, he reverently kissed his hand.

Charles placed his hands solemnly upon his son's head, made the sign of the cross, and blessed him in the name of the Holy Trinity.

Then raising him in his arms he tenderly embraced him saying, as he did so, to the great potentates around him, that he felt a sincere compassion for the son on whose shoulders so heavy a weight had just devolved, and which only a life-long labor would enable him to support.
Philip now uttered a few words expressive of his duty to his father and his affection for his people.

Turning to the orders, he signified his regret that he was unable to address them either in the French or Flemish language, and was therefore obliged to ask their attention to the Bishop of Arras, who would act as his interpreter.