The task accomplished was stupendous and worthy, says a contemporary, of eternal memory.
At the popular request, the Prince afterwards made a tour through the little provinces, honoring every city with a brief visit.

The spontaneous homage which went up to him from every heart was pathetic and simple.
There were no triumphal arches, no martial music, no banners, no theatrical pageantry nothing but the choral anthem from thousands of grateful hearts.

"Father William has come! Father William has come!" cried men, women, and children to each other, when the news of his arrival in town or village was announced.

He was a patriarch visiting his children, not a conqueror, nor a vulgar potentate displaying himself to his admirers.

Happy were they who heard his voice, happier they who touched his hands, for his words were full of tenderness, his hand was offered to all.