"Sir," said John, "it grows dark--do you want a light?"
"We want no light but what heaven gives us," said Sir Philip; "I knew
not whether it was dark or light."
"I hope," said John, "nothing has happened, I hope your honour has
heard no bad tidings; I-- I-- I hope no offence."
"None at all," said the good knight; "I am obliged to your solicitude
for me; I have heard some things that grieve me, and others that give
me great pleasure; but the sorrows
are past, and the joys remain."
"Thank God!" said John; "I was afraid something was the matter to give
your honour trouble."
"I thank you, my good servant! You see this young gentleman; I would
have you, John, devote
yourself to his service; I give you to him for an attendant on his
person, and
would have you show your affection to me by your attachment to him."
"Oh, Sir!" said John in a melancholy voice, "what have I done to be
turned out of your
service?"
"No such matter, John," said Sir Philip; "you will not leave my
service."
"Sir," said John, "I would rather die than leave you."
"And, my lad, I like you too well to part with you; but in serving my
friend you will
serve me. Know, that this young man is my son."
"Your son, sir!" said John.
"Not my natural son, but my relation; my son by adoption, my heir!"
"And will he live with you, sir?"
"Yes, John; and I hope to die with him."
"Oh, then, I will serve him with all my heart and soul; and I will do
my best to please you both.
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