He has strenuously kept that oath and promise.

Since that night no sound of his shepherd life has crossed his lips--even to yourself.

But do you wish to hear more, or do you not, your Grace ?' 'I wish to hear no more,' said the Duke sullenly.
'Very well; let it be so.

But a time seems coming--may be quite near at hand--when, in spite of my lips, that episode will allow itself to go undivulged no longer.' 'I wish to hear no more!' repeated the Duke.
'You need be under no fear of treachery from me,' said the steward, somewhat bitterly.

'I am a man to whom you have been kind--no patron could have been kinder.