So she wore it herself, and now for
her own reasons she sends it to you, perhaps to give you authority in
Kesh where that mighty seal is known."
"I thank the Queen," he murmured. "I shall wear it always."
"Then let it be on your breast till you have passed the frontier, lest
some should ask questions that you find it hard to answer. My son," she
went on quickly, "you dare to love this queen of ours."
"In truth I do, Mother. Did not you, who know everything, know that?
Also it is your fault who brought us up together."
"Nay, my son, the fault of the gods who have so decreed. But--does she
love you?"
"You are always with her, Mother, ask her yourself, if you need to ask.
At least, she has sent me her own ring. Oh! Mother, Mother, guard her
night and day, for if harm comes to her, then I die. Mother, queens
cannot give themselves where they will as other women can; it is policy
that thrusts their husbands on them. Keep her unwed, Mother. Though it
should cost her her throne, still I say let her not be cast into the
arms of one she hates.
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