The truth is that their pride had, as extravagant pride often has, a close affinity with meanness.
They knew that it was unsafe to insult Lewis; and they believed that they might with perfect safety insult William.

Lewis was absolute master of his large kingdom.

He had at no great distance armies and fleets which one word from him would put in motion.

If he were provoked, the white flag might in a few days be again flying on the walls of Barcelona.

His immense power was contemplated by the Castilians with hope as well as with fear.