"At least he possesses it. And over the place where once stood my cradle he now drives his ploughshare."
His head sank upon his breast, and both were silent.
"And thy harp," at last said Witichis, "will it never be heard again? They praise thee as our nation's best minstrel!"
"Like Gelimer, the last King of the Vandals, who was also the best singer of his nation.--But they shall never lead me in triumph to Byzantium!"
"Thou singest but seldom now?"
"Seldom or never. But it seems to me time is coming when I shall sing again."
"A time of joy?"
"A time of deep and final sorrow."
Again a long pause ensued.
"My Teja," resumed Witichis, "I have ever found thee, in all trouble of peace or war, as true as steel. And although thou art so much younger than I--and an elder man does not lightly bind himself to a youth--I may call thee my best and bosom-friend. I know that thy heart cleaves to me more than to thy youthful companions."