The Emperor bade him state his mission, and the old one spoke in a manner remarkable for one so uncouth, saying, "I have brought the object you desire."
With great interest, the Emperor bade him display it, but the old one refused, stating in tones of certainty that he wished to make a few observations first.
"I might press my claim," observed the Emperor, somewhat amused by this effrontery.
"I believe I have likewise the right of naming my price," suggested the old man.
"Truly," assented his majesty, "but first tell me, what is this mirror?"
"It is the mirror of Truth," was the reply.
"A pretty allegory," remarked the Monarch, and settled back.
So it was, the unclean person spoke freely in the court of the ruler.
"You will recall that this mirror was constructed by a certain sorcerer," he began in an unpleasant tone. "And you will also recall that this sorcerer did you a great service once ... did he not, Majesty?"
The Emperor looked startled, and then very grave.