Gradually the wrath faded out of the old King's face, and he said,—
"Kiss me, my prince. There . . . what fearest thou? Am I not thy loving father?"
"IS THIS MAN TO LIVE FOREVER?""Thou art good to me that am unworthy, O mighty and gracious lord: that in truth I know. But—but—it grieveth me to think of him that is to die, and"—
"Ah, 'tis like thee, 'tis like thee! I know thy heart is still the same, even though thy mind hath suffered hurt, for thou wert ever of a gentle spirit. But this duke standeth between thee and thine honors: I will have another in his stead that shall bring no taint to his great office. Comfort thee, my prince: trouble not thy poor head with this matter."
"But is it not I that speed him hence, my liege? How long might he not live, but for me?"
