It may be that I must fall back upon the
city. Be prepared, Scherirah. Let me fall back upon supporting friends.
You have a great trust. Oh! use it wisely! Worthily I am sure you must
do.'
'Your Highness may rest assured I have no other thought but for your
weal and glory. Doubt not my devotion, Sire. I am not one of those
mealy-mouthed youths, full of their own deeds and lip-worship, Sire, but
I have a life devoted to your service, and ready at all times to peril
all things.'
'I know that, Scherirah, I know it; I feel it deeply. What think you of
these movements?'
'They are not ill combined, and yet I doubt not your Majesty will prove
your fortunes most triumphant.'
'Think you the soldiery are in good cue?' 'I'll answer for my own.
They are rough fellows, like myself, a little too blunt, perhaps, your
Highness. We are not holiday guards, but we know our duty, and we will
do it.'
'That's well, that's all I want. I shall review the troops before I
go. Let a donative be distributed among them; and, 'by-the-bye, I have
always forgotten it, your legion should be called the Legion of Syria.
We owe our fairest province to their arms.'
'I shall convey to them your Highness' wish.
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