If you are not poisoned, and do not die, you will recover--yes?"
"Thank you, Sergeant. You are a consoling spirit; but I assure you on my
honor as a gentleman that if I die I shall certainly haunt you. This is
the fourth day. To-morrow I shall throw away the bandage and be quite
ready for more trouble."
"It would be better on the fifth--"
"The matter is settled. You will now go for the mail; and do take care
that no one pots you on the way. Your death would be a positive loss to
me, Oscar. And if any one asks how My Majesty is--mark, My Majesty--pray
say that I am quite well and equal to ruling over many kingdoms."
"Yes, sire."
And Armitage roared with laughter, as the little man, pausing as he
buckled a cartridge belt under his coat, bowed with a fine mockery of
reverence.
"If a man were king he could have a devilish fine time of it, Oscar."
"He could review many troops and they would fire salutes until the powder
cost much money."
"You are mighty right, as we say in Montana; and I'll tell you quite
confidentially, Sergeant, that if I were out of work and money and needed
a job the thought of being king might tempt me.
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