Torcy, who had, a few days before, proved by irrefragable arguments that his master could not, without a gross breach of contract, recognise the Pretender, imagined that sophisms which had not imposed on himself might possibly impose on others.

He visited the English embassy, obtained admittance, and, as was his duty, did his best to excuse the fatal act which he had done his best to prevent.

Manchester's answer to this attempt at explanation was as strong and plain as it could be in the absence of precise instructions.

The instructions speedily arrived.
The courier who carried the news of the recognition to Loo arrived there when William was at table with some of his nobles and some princes of the German Empire who had visited him in his retreat.

The King said not a word; but his pale cheek flushed; and he pulled his hat over his eyes to conceal the changes of his countenance.