Were it otherwise, the next cup you drank should still your madness, and that vile tongue of yours which gives its venom voice.

My uncle, come with me.

Your hand, for I grow weak with shame and woe." The old Shaman hobbled forward, but when he came face to face with the Khan he stopped and looked him up and down with his dim eyes.

Then he said--"Rassen, I saw you born, the son of an evil woman, and your father none knew but I.The flame flared that night upon the Fire-mountain, and the stars hid their faces, for none of them would own you, no, not even those of the most evil influence.

I saw you wed and rise drunken from your marriage feast, your arm about a wanton's neck.