human
You have now served me faithfully for some years, Policarpio, and it is time your services were more amply rewarded,
gpt
Oh, your Excellency is too kind, too generous; for when you are served for love, why speak of reward?--the satisfaction of following so good a master is in itself sufficient payment,
human
Because it is my pleasure to repay those who serve me faithfully and well as you have done, answered the Duke.
gpt
It may soon, too, be in my power to reward you far more than I have yet done; for when the master rises, so will those who follow him. Mark that, Policarpio!
human
How can my lord rise higher than he is at present? said the flatterer, surprised at the question, and eager to learn to what it might further tend.
gpt
Is not my lord already one of the greatest men in the kingdom, both in rank and wealth?
human
I was so, truly, under the reign of our late pious king; but things have changed, and a vile upstart has dared to insult my honour; but the day will come, and soon, too, when I may have my full revenge, and he who now triumphs in power shall writhe beneath my feet.
gpt
May my lord have success in all his wishes, and enjoy full revenge on all his enemies!
human
Wishes are but of little avail, without action, observed the Noble;
gpt
Whatever need be done, I will undertake to serve you, my lord,
human
Ah, my friend, you are a man in whom I can place implicit confidence, said the Duke;
gpt
Those are already fortunate who serve your Excellency; and no one is more calculated to adorn a throne, answered the subtle follower,--his own ambition taking fire on the instant at thoughts of his master's aggrandisement, in the advantages of which he might well expect to participate.
human
And well do I feel assured that you will not neglect those who have hitherto obeyed you faithfully. Do but point out the means to attain your aims, and no scruples, no obstacles shall deter me from prosecuting them.
gpt
Well, well, we will talk of that anon, my worthy servant, answered the Duke.
human
It is but lately Heaven has thought fit to inspire my heart with such mighty aims; nor have I yet been able to form any plans; but this alone I know, that while that enemy to our holy religion, Sebastiao Joze de Carvalho exists, all will be fruitless; and he who would do me service will strike a poniard to his heart. In this will he commit no sin, as I have been assured by Heaven itself, in the sacred person of one of its most devoted ministers.
gpt
I should fear nothing to serve my master, said Policarpio.
human
But how can the death of the Minister alone place your Excellency on the throne?
gpt
Hark, you! whispered the Duke, drawing his servant close to him.
human
The king himself may die. He is weak and sickly; or he may be killed while hunting; he may be thrown from his horse, or a shot may strike him.--Ha! dost thou understand me?
gpt
I comprehend, I comprehend; nor will your Excellency's hint be thrown away.