“Sire!” said Gorieux, the monk, “there is much reason for believing this knight hath given himself into the service of the evil one. It is well known that he, in his tender youth, hath been in the power of a learned magician of the East, a worker of evil, a follower of the evil arts, a minion of Satan, who hath instilled into him much magical knowledge, and hath persuaded him to give his soul up to Satan.” A dark frown overspread the face of Maugis at these words, but he controlled himself. “Are there others who would accuse me?” he demanded, fixing his stern gaze on the assembled courtiers. Silence was the only reply, and stepping forward, Maugis said impressively: “Sire! if it be true that I am in the service of Satan, how ill hath he requited me? I am persecuted by the emperor, attacked, pursued, hunted and banished from my home. It is true, a learned pundit from the East, a good and holy man, though his beliefs were not our beliefs, was my tutor. It is true he taught me much of occult things, but only relating to the laws of nature, which are as an open book to the wise of the Orient. It is true that this knowledge of the mysteries of nature, when I seek to direct them to my use, would give me certain powers over men, and it is true that this noble, wise man died blessing those who had saved him from death and counseling me ever to be true to my faith and my honor. Callest thou this noble philosopher a minion of evil? Can any man say here aught but that in battle I have relied on any occult aid other than this good sword and my strong arm? Or, if I be a follower of the evil one, why should I seek to make Boulag Akasir a Christian?” These brave and candid words made a deep impression on the council. “More, sire!” continued Maugis, “I stand now ready to swear my fealty to my God and his saints and to never henceforth on any occasion seek to use my occult powers; to utterly abandon and to never recall them. As to my fidelity to your majesty, my brothers and myself have given our word, and you all know we are incapable of breaking it. If thou knowest of any other means whereby we can reassure you, be pleased to indicate them and we will accept them.” The fairness, the candor, and the noble bearing of Maugis convinced the king of his sincerity, and even those who hated the brave knight were conquered though not changed. The council then broke up, the king retiring with Godefroy de Moulin, his counselor, promising to consider the matter and soon give his decision. CHAPTER IX.