“Then the next thing is harder. Do you think you can do whatever I command?”
“Oh yes, I am sure I can promise that!” replied the prince, warmly.
“Mind, whatever I command, then—however hard, or however dreadful it may be?”
“Yes, any thing—however hard, or however dreadful!”
“But will you swear it?”
“I see you doubt my courage,” said the prince, half offended. “You take me for a fool, like the rest. But no wonder; I know I look like a fool!”
“Now don’t look gloomy again! you were so handsome just now when you said so firmly you would do ‘any thing.’ Will you gratify me by swearing?”
“You doubt my courage.”
“No; I don’t doubt your courage. But I know how terrible a thing I have to command you; and I know how many others have failed before you. Now will you not swear, but to please me?”
“Yes; I swear,” said the prince, energetically, “to do whatever it may be that you tell me to do.”