The Nightingale

I love your heart better than your crown; and yet something holy lingers around that also. I will come, I will sing to you; but you must promise me one thing.”

“Everything,” said the emperor, who having dressed himself in his imperial robes, stood with the hand that held the heavy golden sword pressed to his heart.

“I only ask one thing,” she replied, “let no one know that you have a little bird who tells you everything. It will be best to conceal it.” So saying, the nightingale flew away.

The servants now came in to look after the dead emperor; when lo! There he stood, and to their astonishment, said, “Good morning.”