I tremble because I have discovered the impotence of earthly things to gratify the cravings of an immortal soul--because, in finding that I have a capacity of enjoyment not to be appeased by the highest dignities on earth, I begin to comprehend my immortality.

I see what a shadow I have pursued--how madly I have neglected eternal happiness for temporal preferment.

You, my son, are full of earthly hope, dreaming of the Lady Margaret, of minstrels' praises, and knightly fame.

Do not think me harsh, if I pray God that you may speedily know their emptiness.

You can never rise as high in this mundane atmosphere as I am now; but your soul is as immortal as mine, and would sicken over less renown, as I do over this." Rodolph paused, and Gilbert, struck dumb with surprise, gazed up into his face.
"It is late, my son," he resumed, "and we must part.