glance softened, and his face assumed a kind and mild expression.

When the adagio was finished, the king laid his flute aside and
approached the prince.

"Forgive me, brother," he said, offering his hand--"forgive me for
keeping you waiting, I always like to conclude what I commence. Now,
I am entirely at your service, and as I am unfortunately not
accustomed to receive such friendly visits from you, I must ask you
what brings you to me, and how I can serve you?"

The fierce, violent nature of the prince slumbered but lightly. The
king's words aroused it, and made his pulse and heart beat stormily.

"How you can serve me, my brother?" he said, hastily. "I will tell
you, and truthfully, sire."

The king raised his head, and glanced angrily at the burning face of
the prince.

"I am not accustomed to have my words repeated, and all find that
out here to their cost," he said, sternly.

"Have the goodness, then, to tell me why you have pursued me so long
and unrelentingly? What have I done to deserve your displeasure and
such bitter humiliations?"

"Rather ask me what you have done to deserve my love and
confidence," said the king, sternly. "I refer you to your own heart
for an answer."