t he would
not do it, and was dismissed from the service of the Empire because he
spoke his mind and prayed his heathen gods to bring a like fate upon
Constantine himself. Lead me to this governor; I would talk with him."

So they brought Nicephorus to me, though doubtfully, and when he was
near I rose from my seat and saluted him. Thereon they all gabbled again
with their split tongues, till at length he understood and flushed with
pleasure.

"General Olaf," he said to me, "I thank you for your courtesy to a poor
prisoner, forgotten by God and cruelly oppressed by man. General Olaf,
the promise is of little worth, but, if ever it should be in my power, I
will remember this kindness, which pleases me more than did the shouting
of the legions in the short day of my prosperity."

"Sir," I answered, "whatever happens I shall remember your words, which
are more to me than any honours kings can bestow. Now, sir, I will ask
your royal brethren to fall back, as I wish to speak with you."

Nicephorus made a sign with his hand, and the four half-dumb men, all of
whom resembled him strangely, especially in the weakness of their mouths
and chins, obeyed. Bowing to me in a stately fashion, they withdrew,
leaving us alone.

"Sir," I said, "I would warn you that you have enemies whom you may not
suspect, for my duty here wherewith I was charged by the Augusta is not
to oppress but to protect you and your imperial brothers."

Then I told him the story of the poisoned figs.

When he had heard it, the tears welled from his hollow eyes and ran down
his pale cheeks.

"Constantine, my brother Leo's son, has done this," he said, "for never
will he rest until all of us are in the grave."

"He is cruel because he fears you, O Nicephorus, and it is said that
your ambition has given him cause to fear."

"Once, General, that was true," the prince replied. "Once, foolishly, I
did aspire to rule; but it is long ago. Now they have made a priest of
me, and I seek peace only. Can I and my brethren help it if, mutilated
though we are, some still wish to use us against the Emperor? I tell you
that Irene herself is at the back of them. She would set us on high that
afterwards she may throw us down and crush us."

"I am her servant, Prince, and may not listen to such talk, who know
only that she seeks to protect you from your enemies, and for that
reason has placed me here, it seems not in vain. If you would continue
to live, I warn you and