Reluctant Aproval

Baths are short and to the point: with no running hot water and nothing more than a wooden tub to bathe in you get done as quickly as possible. Clothing is similarly short to pick out, you have only one suit which is appropriate for seeing a king in, and likewise for your wife and children. As it turns out you presently have two children, a son and a daughter, the first five years old and the other three. Your son's name is Michale Alfred Family and the daughter is Elsabet Maria Family the younger, or just "Elsa".

You are all collected for the meeting with the Stadholder by one of the royal coaches. You have everything for your presentation with you and are glad you already have a ship, just awaiting re-christening and loading with cargo or passengers...

It is approaching dusk when you are given your audience, and the children have been a handful, but the Stadholder sees you and you make your case...

"You have seen the charts and notes for the expedition my liege, now I ask for what I cannot provide, money and men to see this venture through. I have a ship already, newly rebuilt and refitted after being recovered as a derelict in the North Sea, and would offer the naming of her to your Majesty for good luck should You approve this voyage," You explain, but the Stadholder just frowns...

"We are-" he begins still frowning, from the high backed throne flanked by Netherland's flags but a hand on his arm from the queen silences him for a crucial instant.

"My husband the Stadholder doubts the charts and book, but I am convinced: take this necklace," the queen says unclasping the Saphire and Pearl necklace she was given as a diplomatic gift by the English Ambassador, "have it re-appraised then take it to one of Our many fine banks and use it as collateral for a loan for the finances you require for this mission," the Queen says boldly.

You take the necklace and bow low, "Then in Your honor Your Majesty, it shall be done! I ask but one more thing, an exceeding small favor indeed," you say in a jovial tone, and the stadholder looks at you to ask what that favor is with a gesture. "That we brave explorers be allowed to name our stout and sturdy vessel in The Wilhelmina Regina in honor of Your most generous wife!" You answer proudly.

The stadholder chuckles for a moment, shaking his head. "I'm sorry Personal M.I. Family, but that name is reserved for a Man-O-War presently under construction at the royal shipyards, however, Exchequer; the name of the 'Queen Wilhelmina Nassau' is available in Our registry is it not?"

"Yes, Majesty, it is. Shall I have it marked reserved?" The Exchequer replied.

"Do," Stadholder Wilhelm commanded, and so it was done.