the transport of a parent's embrace, I took the first opportunity
of setting sail for Naples, from whence, within these six days, I
wandered into this province, still supporting myself by the labour
of my hands; nor until yester-morn did I believe that heaven had
reserved any lot for me but peace of mind and contented poverty.
This, my Lord, is Theodore's story. I am blessed beyond my hope in
finding a father; I am unfortunate beyond my desert in having
incurred your Highness's displeasure."

He ceased. A murmur of approbation gently arose from the audience.

"This is not all," said Frederic; "I am bound in honour to add what
he suppresses. Though he is modest, I must be generous; he is one
of the bravest youths on Christian ground. He is warm too; and
from the short knowledge I have of him, I will pledge myself for
his veracity: if what he reports of himself were not true, he
would not utter it--and for me, youth, I honour a frankness which
becomes thy birth; but now, and thou didst offend me: yet the
noble blood which flows in thy veins, may well be allowed to boil
out, when it has so recently traced itself to its source. Come, my
Lord," (turning to Manfred), "if I can pardon him, surely you may;
it is not the youth's fault, if you took him for a spectre."

This bitter taunt galled the soul of Manfred.

"If beings from another world," replied he haughtily, "have power
to impress my mind with awe, it is more than living man can do; nor
could a stripling's arm."

"My Lord," interrupted Hippolita, "your guest has occasion for