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"
True, true--I had forgot. Thou teachest me in private--then if I fail,
he argueth that thy office was lamely done, and--"
"
Oh, my liege, what words are these? I, the humblest of thy servants,
presume to teach THEE?"
"
Then where is thy blame? What riddle is this? Am I in truth gone mad,
or is it thou? Explain--speak out."
"
But, good your Majesty, there's nought that needeth simplifying.--None
may visit the sacred person of the Prince of Wales with blows; wherefore,
when he faulteth, 'tis I that take them; and meet it is and right, for
that it is mine office and my livelihood." {1}
Tom stared at the tranquil boy, observing to himself, "Lo, it is a
wonderful thing,--a most strange and curious trade; I marvel they have
not hired a boy to take my combings and my dressings for me--would
heaven they would!--an' they will do this thing, I will take my lashings in
mine own person, giving God thanks for the change." Then he said aloud--
"
And hast thou been beaten, poor friend, according to the promise?"
No, good your Majesty, my punishment was appointed for this day, and
"
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