Chapter Nineteen
AMSTERDAM, 1622
Clara made the same journey to the Spinhuis she had first undertaken five days earlier, this time in the comfort of Henri’s town coach with its matched pair of sorrels, their hooves clattering imperiously across the cobbled square. The day was fine, the azure sky cloudless, and passing the group of trees in the centre, their sparse leaves were golden pellets.
She had dressed very differently this time, in a high-necked chemise with red ribbon-tied sleeves and a broad-brimmed hat with feathers. Henri was attired as the wealthy merchant he was, black striped satin coat with a froth of white lace at his neck, his tall hat ostentatiously plumed.
He had sent a servant on ahead with a letter informing Dr Hogerbeets of their visit and their intention to take A
