Every minute that thou tarriest is a crime against thy
allegiance."
"Good Nectabanus, bethink thyself," said the knight. "Can my
lady know where and upon what duty I am this night engaged? Is
she aware that my life--pshaw, why should I speak of life--but
that my honour depends on my guarding this banner till daybreak;
and can it be her wish that I should leave it even to pay homage
to her? It is impossible--the princess is pleased to be merry
with her servant in sending him such a message; and I must think
so the rather that she hath chosen such a messenger."
"Oh, keep your belief," said Nectabanus, turning round as if to
leave the platform; "it is little to me whether you be traitor or
true man to this royal lady--so fare thee well."
"Stay, stay--I entreat you stay," said Sir Kenneth. "Answer me
but one question: is the lady who sent thee near to this place?"
"What signifies it?" said the dwarf. "Ought fidelity to reckon
furlongs, or miles, or leagues--like the poor courier, who is
paid for his labour by the distance which he traverses?
Nevertheless, thou soul of suspicion, I tell thee, the fair owner
of the ring now sent to so unworthy a vassal, in whom there is
neither truth nor courage, is not more distant from this place
than this arblast can send a bolt.
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