“We shall hear first what he says to Macko,” answered Powala.
And Macko really went to see the German; but he returned as gloomy as the night and went directly to the king, to whom he was presented by the castellan, himself. The king received Macko kindly because he had been appeased; when Macko kneeled, he immediately told him to arise, asking what he wished.
“Gracious lord,” said Macko, “there was an offence, there must be a punishment; otherwise, there would be no law in the world. But I am also guilty because I did not try to restrain the natural impetuosity of that youth; I even praised him for it. It is my fault, gracious king, because I often told him: ‘First cut, and then look to see whom you have hurt.’ That was right in war, but wrong at the court! But he is a man, pure as gold
