"Do not look at the rabble, your Majesty," the Prime Minister said.
"They are an evil, ill-tempered lot of worthless malcontents and
thieves."

"I would not look at them," answered King Amor, "if I knew that I could
not help them. There is no time to look at dark things if one cannot
make them brighter. I look at these because there is something to be
done. I do not yet know what."

"There is such hatred in their eyes that they will only make you angry,
Sire," said a handsome young prince who rode near.

"There is no time for anger," said Amor, holding his crowned head high.
"It is a worthless thing."

After sunset there was a great banquet and after it a great ball, and
the courtiers and princes were delighted by the beauty and grace of the
new King. He was much brighter and more charming than any of the King
Mordreths had been. His laugh was full of gaiety and the people who
stood near him felt happier, though they did not know why.

But when the ball was at its height he stepped into the center of the
room and spoke aloud to the splendid company.

"I have seen the broad streets and the palaces and all that is beautiful
in my capital," he said. "Now I must go to the narrow streets and the
dark ones. I must see the miserable people, the cripples, the wretched
ones, the drunkards and the thieves."

Every one clamored and protested. These things they had hidden from him;