See how he hobbles along! Let us join him, Jacqueline.” They ran ahead and caught up with the old man, who greeted them cheerily, in spite of the pains with which his poor bent body was racked.
“Yes, I managed to crawl out of my bed,” he assured them. “’Tis important that every one should attend these meetings in such a pass as we are now. Think you we will hear word from William the Silent?”
“Aye, but I hope so, though I do not yet know certainly,” answered the boy. “We have received no word from him since the siege began. Surely he will not desert us in this hour of need!”
“See, Gysbert!” whispered Jacqueline. “There is that evil-looking Dirk Willumhoog across the street. Do not let us get near him. His very appearance makes me shudder!” The girl shrank closer to her brother and old Jan.
“Surely thou art not afraid of him, Jacqueline!” said Gysbert scornfully. “’Tis true
