Do you not know me ? does no voice within The Emperor, laughing, said, "It is strange sport To keep a madman for thy Fool at court!" In solemn state the Holy Week went by, With haggard eyes the unwonted splendor saw, And, kneeling humbly on his chamber floor, He heard the rushing garments of the Lord Sweep through the silent air, ascending heaven ward. And now the visit ending, and once more Valmond returning to the Danube's shore, Homeward the Angel journeyed, and again The land was made resplendent with his train, Flashing along the towns of Italy Unto Salerno, and from there by sea. And when once more within Palermo's wall, King Robert crossed both hands upon his breast, And meekly answered him: "Thou knowest best! My sins as scarlet are; let me go hence, And in some cloister's school of penitence, Across those stones, that pave the way to heaven, Walk barefoot, till my guilty soul is shriven!" And through the open window, loud and clear, "He has put down the mighty from their seat, And has exalted them of low degree! And through the chant a second melody Rose like the throbbing of a single string: "I am an Angel, and thou art the King!" King Robert, who was standing near the throne, Lifted his eyes, and lo! he was alone! Kneeling upon the floor, absorbed in silent prayer. AND then the blue-eyed Norseman told "There is," said he, "a wondrous book And in each pause the story made |