He leapt to his feet, gave one glance at me, and with a joyful cry, threw himself on his knees before me.
"Thank God, sire! thank God, you're safe!" he cried, stretching his hand up to catch hold of mine.
I confess that I was moved.

This King, whatever his faults, made people love him.

For a moment I could not bear to speak or break the poor fellow's illusion.

But tough old Sapt had no such feeling.

He slapped his hand on his thigh delightedly.
"Bravo, lad!" cried he.