"I took good care not to split my mouth." "And after all, what great thing is there behind this outcry for freedom?
Alva burnt the Bible-readers, De la Marck hangs the priests.
My wife likes to go to Mass, but always does so secretly, as if she were committing a crime." "We, too, cling to the good old faith." "Never mind faith," said the third.

"We are Calvinists, but I take no pleasure in throwing my pennies into Orange's maw, nor can it gratify me to again tear up the poles before the Cow-gate, ere the wind dries the yarn." "Only let us hold together," advised the older man.

"People don't express their real opinions, and any poor ragged devil might play the hero.

But I tell you there will be sensible men enough in every ward, every guild, nay, even in the council, and among the burgomasters." "Hush," whispered the second citizen, "there comes Van der Werff with the city clerk and young Van der Does; they are the worst of all." The three persons named came down the broad street, talking eagerly together, but in low tones.
"My uncle is right, Meister Peter," said Jan Van der Does, the same tall young noble, who, on the morning of that day, had sent Nicolas Van Wibisma home with a kindly warning.

"It's no use, you must seek the Prince and consult with him." "I suppose I must," replied the burgomaster.