We met Captain van Adrienssen on our way from The Hague." "Yes, yes." "And it appeared--though I had forgotten it--that twenty years ago I had the imprudence to throw a boot at his head.

It was off the Texel--" "Have you lost your senses ?" "I beg your Majesty to listen.

The sight of me revived that painful recollection.

We pulled out our swords and fell on each other, forgetting, alas! that now we are both servants of your Majesty.
It is annoying; but before we could remember it, Captain van Adrienssen was wounded." William's brow was black as night.
"A duel ?" he said sternly.
"Your Majesty, it could hardly be dignified by that name.
Say rather--" "What shall I do with these incorrigibles ?" asked the King, turning to Portland.

"At this time, too, when I've not a single other commander of value within call!" "If I may advise you, sire--But, first, will you command these gentlemen to retire ?" William dismissed them with a wave of the hand, and they withdrew to a little distance among the trees, where they waited in considerable trepidation.
It was a full half an hour before Portland came towards them, trying to hide a smile.
"Pouf!" he said, "that was a tough business, gentlemen.