XXXII
The Redemption of Poictesme
When then these matters were concluded, and the future of Poictesme had been arranged in every detail, then Miramon Lluagor's wife told him that long words and ink-bottles and red seals were well enough for men to play with, but that it was high time something sensible was done in this matter, unless they expected Niafer to bring up the baby in a ditch.
The magician said, "Yes, my darling, you are quite right, and I will see to it the first thing after dinner."
He then said to Dom Manuel, "Now Horvendile informs me that you were duly born in a cave at about the time of the winter solstice, of a virgin mother and of a father who was not human."
Manuel replied, "Certainly that is true. But why do you now stir up these awkward old stories?"
"You have duly wandered from place to place, bringing wisdom and holiness to men—"
"That also is generally known."
"You have duly performed miracles, such as reviving dead persons and so on—"
"That too is undeniable."