“‘Yes, that I do! I remember him when he was no higher than yourself.’
“‘How delighted he’ll be to find you here! I hope you have brought up some of your family with you, as the Emperor would be so flattered by it?’
“‘No, I’ve left them at home. This place don’t suit us over well. We have plenty to do besides spending our time and money among all you fine folks here.’
“‘And not a bad life of it, either,’ added I, ‘fishing for cod and herrings,—stripping a wreck now and then.’
“He stared at me, as I said this, like a tiger on the spring, but spoke not a word.
“‘And how many young sea-wolves may you have in your den at home?’
“‘Six; and all of them able to carry you with one hand, at arm’s length.’
“‘I have no doubt. I shall certainly not test their ability. But you yourself,—how do you like the capital?’
“‘Not over well; and I’ll tell you why—’
“As he said this the door of the audience-chamber opened, and the Emperor appeared. His eyes flashed fire as he looked hurriedly around the room.