17 patriots of prins

1787
'Patriots or prince'
A few weeks ago, on 28 June, Princess Wilhelmina, wife of Stadholder William V, was detained by a group of patriots from Gouda, near Goejanverwellesluis. But already a week before that, on 19 June, a large crowd of assembled people stood on the Kruiseind in Gemert, ranting and blowing weaver's lamps. It was the Gemert weavers who took the lead.
    ‛We are patriots!'
The procession moved down the street towards the Mercktveld. Thomas van der Horst, the klepperman, stood along the side and was caught by the collar by weaver Henricus Toupée. Thomas had to say whether he was patriotic or princely. Fortunately, just then, the parish priest arrived to address the crowd with soothing words and dampen rebellious feelings a little. This succeeded only partially. A number of weavers were sensitive to Mr parish priest's arguments; an equal number walked on, shouting and singing. At the bridge over the Rips, Willem Arnoldi stood watching. He too was grabbed.
    ‛Are ye patriots or prince'?
Willem's answer was very cutting.
    ‛I am William.'
But yes, holding a riotous parade is a serious business. No time for jokes.
    ‛Then thou art but a tod or trash.' And William could make do with that.
The wife of master carpenter Albert Verhofstadt did see bread in an uprising.
    ‛My husband said that in case the drossard should be hanged, he would be willing to make a new gallows.'
So you see, a riotous spirit need not always be fierce and impetuous. Measuring the value of all thought and knowledge by its practical usefulness, that is sensible rioting.