t you hence, or keep you so close that you could scarcely move
without my knowledge.

"Why should I trust you?" Nodwengo went on vehemently. "Can a wizard
cease from wizardry, or a plotter from his plots? No, not until the
waters run upward and the sun shines at night; not until repentance
touches you and your heart is changed, which I should hold as much a
marvel. You were my father's friend and he made you great; yet you could
plan with my brother to poison him, your king. Nay, be silent; I know
it, though I have said nothing of it because one that is dear to me has
interceded for you. You were the priest of the false god, and with that
god are fallen from your place, yet you have not renounced him. You sit
still in your kraal and pretend to be asleep, but your slumber is that
of the serpent which watches his time to strike. How do I know that
you will not poison me as you would have poisoned my father, or stir up
rebellion against me, or bring my brother's _impis_ on my head?"

"If the King thinks any of these things of his servant," answered Hokosa
in a humble voice, but with dignity, "his path is plain: let him put me
to death and sleep in peace. Who am I that I should full the ears of
a king with my defence against these charges, or dare to wrangle with
him?"

"Long ago I should have put you to death, Hokosa," answered Nodwengo
sternly, "had it not been that one has pleaded for you, declaring that
in you there is good which will overcome the evil, and that you who now
are an axe to cut down my throne, in time to come shall be a roof-tree
for its support. Also, the law that I obey does not allow me to take
the blood of men save upon full proof, and against you as yet I have
no proof. Still, Hokosa, be warned in time and let your heart be turned
before the grave claims your body and the Wicked One your soul."

"I thank you, King, for your gentle words and your tender care for my
well-being both on earth and after I shall leave it. But I tell you,
King, that I had rather die as your father would have killed me in the
old days, or your brother would kill me now, did either of them hate or
fear me, than live on in safety, owing my life to a new law and a new
mercy that do not befit the great ones of the world. King, I am your
servant," and giving him the royal salute, Hokosa rose and left his
presence.

"At the least there goes a man," said Nodwengo, as he watched him
depart.

"Of whom do you speak, King?" asked