The
lure that snared thy fathers may trap thee, this Delilah may shear thy
mystic locks. Spirits like thee act not by halves. Once fall out from
the straight course before thee, and, though thou deemest 'tis but to
saunter 'mid the summer trees, soon thou wilt find thyself in the dark
depths of some infernal forest, where none may rescue thee!'
'What if I do inherit the eager blood of my great ancestor, at least
I hold his sceptre. Shall aught of earthly power prevail against the
supernatural sway of Heaven and Hades?'
'Sire, sire, the legend that came from Sinai is full of high
instruction. But shape thy conduct by its oracles, and all were well. It
says our people can be established only by him who rules them with the
rod of Solomon. Sire, when the Lord offered his pleasure to that mighty
king, thou knowest his deep discretion. Riches and length of days,
empire and vengeance, these were not the choice of one to whom all
accidents were proffered. The legend bears an inward spirit, as well
as an outward meaning. The capture of the prize was a wise test of thy
imperial fitness. Thou hast his sceptre, but, without his wisdom, 'tis
but a staff of cedar.'
'Hah! Art thou there? I am glad to see Jabaster politic.
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