. But
suddenly he died. Those in his service guessed that his brother
Robert, this present King, had caused his death by poison. So Robert
became king. A stormy time he had of it, at first; for the whole land
loved King Cyril. Many accused Robert, and refused to do him
honor,--especially one holy man, John, King Cyril's friend and
physician. Yes, my son, he bore the same blessed name as yourself.
This man the people loved dearly, for he was wise and generous with his
wisdom. He healed them freely of their hurts. He went about the
country doing good, bringing love and good cheer wherever he went. He
was honored almost as a saint. But because he dared lift his voice
against the King--he died. No one knew how it happened. At the same
time his little son disappeared; men believed that he also was slain by
the cruel King. The people were furious; they stormed and threatened.
But alas! gradually the voices of their leaders were silenced. Some
died suddenly, as John had done. Some disappeared. Some were banished
from the kingdom. Some went away, broken-hearted; who knows where they
may be now?"

"Oh, how could the people forget their King and the holy man who had
been good to them?" cried John. "How could they allow that bad man to
be their king?"

"The people?" said the Hermit sadly. "The people so soon forget! Do
you not recall how, ages ago, the people treated the best Man who ever
lived? These folk dared not seem to remember. They were selfish and
lazy. The new King was rich and powerful. They found it easier to
grumble and do nothing else. And when the King said, 'Hunt!' they
hunted. When he commanded, 'Hate all animals; have no pets!' they
obeyed him. But it is a gloomy land, a sad land, of which Robert is
king!"

"Oh!" said John, "how do you know so much, my father?"

"Do not ask," said the Hermit. "One day I will tell you, but not now."

"Oh, he is a wicked King, who ought to die!" burst out John, throwing
up his arm angrily. "Would I were a man, and I would go kill him. But
I will do it when I am grown!"

At his rough tones and gestures the birds fluttered away, frightened,
and the animals slunk into the corners, trembling. The peace of the
little hut was rudely disturbed.

"Nay, my son, nay!" cried the old man in horror. "Say not such wicked
words! See how you frighten our peaceful friends. What have I tried
to teach you? It is not yours to avenge. The Lord himself will pu