I did not know how to say just what I wished to ask; for it was worth to me very much more than the place of secretary.

'Come, then, comrade; speak quickly,' said the emperor; 'what is it you wish ?'--'I wish, my Emperor,' I stammered, 'to press my lips to your hand.'" "Ho! was that all ?" cried the youngster.
"All!" echoed the Nonesuch, turning upon the youngest veteran a look of scorn.

"All! It was more than anything!" "Well, and what said the emperor ?" asked Stephen breathlessly.
"He said nothing," responded Nonesuch.

"He smiled; then instantly I felt his hand in mine.

I wonder I did not die with joy.