Kosru shrank back, and huddled in a shapeless heap against the wall.
"I cannot--I cannot go!" he gasped. "A palsy has stricken my limbs. I cannot rise--I swear to you, lord count--"
"Liar! Stand up or I--"
"Stay; do not force him, Olvir. I will guide you myself."
"To the king, then."
"My father!"
"Do you dream that this coward could withhold his secret from the werwolf? He fears my vengeance; he will fear hers more. We will go to the king, and make an end, either for good or for ill."
"It is well, dear hero. Come; my father is in the cell of Deacon Alcuin."
CHAPTER XXIII
Nor shall I leave life