‘That is what I desire above all things, Sire,’ Gerald replied with great earnestness.
‘Your desire shall be gratified then,’ cried the Emperor, ’I wish to serve you, but I had another object in bringing you here. I took notice of the account you gave me at our former meeting of your singular deliverance from shipwreck, and I think I have some clue to the discovery of your family.’
Gerald looked up more earnestly than ever. ‘To enable me to discover my kindred, would indeed, Sire, be conferring on me a favour beyond any other,’ he exclaimed with great energy.
‘Can you write?’
‘Yes, Sire, I can write, though but indifferently. My good father, Michael Kopt, taught me to write to the best of his ability.’
‘Good—make out a clear statement then of all you know concerning your earlier history, in writing—be very particular as to dates, and send the document to me. You may withdraw now. My servants will attend to your comfort and provide you with anything you ask for.’
‘Oh! Sire,’ exclaimed the youth, bursting into a flood of tears, ’I can find no words to express my gratitude. But my heart thanks you a thousandfold.’
Peter was naturally a stern man, and not easily moved, but he could not witness the youth’s emotions without feeling something like a response.
Gerald still lingered at the foot of the throne. ‘Will your Majesty pardon me if I ask the addition of one favour more,’ he at length said, ‘it is, that I may be permitted to send a messenger to my friends to let them know that I am here safe under your Majesty’s gracious protection.’
‘Aye, if that will afford you pleasure,’ returned the emperor, smiling, and he waved his hand in token of an adieu.