be well for the Scholars of the Hanlin Academy to be here also, that they may learn the exacting duties of a competent interpreter. . . . And now you are free to ask whatever favor you wish. It shall be granted."
Li Po gazed about him. His expression was bland, friendly.
"I do not wish much," he said. "Nothing that will drain the treasuries of the Empire. All that I crave is a new pair of boots. These pinch."
"Fetch them at once," commanded the Emperor.
When they were brought, Li Po examined them critically. "They will do," he said, "but only if Kao Li-shih draws off my old boots."
Kao Li-shih was astonished. He turned to the Emperor.
"I have spoken," declared Ming Huang. "Do as the poet requests."
Kao obeyed. He felt hurt that his Majesty should so humiliate him in the presence of all the officers of the Court.
He pulled off Li Po's boots and replaced them with new buckskins which he laced on firmly.
Kao was still on his knees.
"Arise, Kao Li-shih, Generalissimo of the Empire," said the Emperor. "You have been with me ever since I mounted the throne. There is no one I trust more, nor whose elevation has caused me more pleasure."
Kao prostrated himself, touching his head to the floor.
"Your Majesty, may I speak?" he asked softly.
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