How do I know that you will not poison me as you would have poisoned my father, or stir up rebellion against me, or bring my brother's _impis_ on my head ?" "If the King thinks any of these things of his servant," answered Hokosa in a humble voice, but with dignity, "his path is plain: let him put me to death and sleep in peace.

Who am I that I should full the ears of a king with my defence against these charges, or dare to wrangle with him ?" "Long ago I should have put you to death, Hokosa," answered Nodwengo sternly, "had it not been that one has pleaded for you, declaring that in you there is good which will overcome the evil, and that you who now are an axe to cut down my throne, in time to come shall be a roof-tree for its support.

Also, the law that I obey does not allow me to take the blood of men save upon full proof, and against you as yet I have no proof.

Still, Hokosa, be warned in time and let your heart be turned before the grave claims your body and the Wicked One your soul." "I thank you, King, for your gentle words and your tender care for my well-being both on earth and after I shall leave it.

But I tell you, King, that I had rather die as your father would have killed me in the old days, or your brother would kill me now, did either of them hate or fear me, than live on in safety, owing my life to a new law and a new mercy that do not befit the great ones of the world.