But if the king should chance to die--why he is old, is he not?
and such things happen to the old.

Also he grows feeble, and will not suffer the regiments to be doctored for war, although day by day they clamour to be led to battle; for he seeks to end his years in peace." "I say that you speak folly," answered the prince with vehemence.
"Then, Son of the Great One, why should you waste time in listening to me?
Farewell, Hafela the Prince, first-born of the king, who in a day to come shall carry the shield of Nodwengo; for he is good and gentle, and will spare your life--if I beg it of him." Hafela stretched out his hand through the darkness, and caught Hokosa by the wrist.
"Stay," he whispered, "it is true.

The king must die; for if he does not die within three days, I shall cease to be his heir.

I know it through my spies.

He is angry with me; he hates me, and he loves Nodwengo and the mother of Nodwengo.