"It must be," said Hildebrand, without moving.
"No, I say!" cried the King; and turned.
Wachis was standing close before him.
Witichis looked at him wildly; then the servant threw himself at his feet, weeping loudly.
"Wachis!" cried the King, in terror; "what is it? Thou comest from her? Stand up--what has happened?"
"Alas! master," cried Wachis, still kneeling, "it breaks my heart to see you! I could not help it. I have repaid and avenged with all my might!"
Witichis pulled him up to his feet by the shoulders.
"Speak, man! What is there to revenge? My wife----"
"She lives, she is coming; but your child!"
"My child!" cried Witichis, turning pale, "Athalwin? What of him?"