Something like respect arose in Magnus’ eyes...the devil take him, though, he really considers me a clod! Continuing to pace the room, he looked at me curiously several times, as if he were trying to recall and verify my remark. Then, with a quick movement, he touched my shoulders:
“You have an active mind, Wondergood. It is a pity I did not come to know you before.”
“Why?”
“Just so. I am interested to know how you will speak to the king: he will probably suggest something very evil to you. And great evil is great good. Is that not so?”
He again broke into laughter and shook his head in a friendly fashion.
“I don’t think so. The chances are he will propose something very silly.”
“Hm!... And is that not great wisdom?” He laughed again but frowned suddenly and added seriously: “Do not feel hurt, Wondergood. I liked what you said very much and it is well you do not put any questions to me at this time: I could not answer them just now. But there is something I can say even now...in general terms, of course. Are you listening?”
“I am all attention.”
Magnus seated himself opposite me and, taking a sip of wine, asked with strange seriousness:
“How do you regard explosives?”