148
THE SILENT PRINCE
upon one of his fellow citizens; within Antwerp no fratricide shall be committed until that weapon shall first have pierced my heart."
Again the mob recognized the voice of its master. William of Orange must have possessed that which we call "authority" in his face and speech, that alone and unarmed he could awe that bloodthirsty throng. They recognized that this courageous man was in the right. At least, if he risked the lives of others, he was equally ready to risk his own.
"Long live the Prince of Orange!" cried the fickle populace.
"My children," said William persuasively, "disband and go to your homes."
And the citizens of Antwerp obeyed, and peace was secured.
