Lay of Kushta, Sonnet 16
One supposes, mus'd Daoud slowly, that rule by a god
Presumes a theocratic state. Furthermore, the priestly
Authority ought to be skillful. Yet it chokes my throat
To see it gloatingly lorded about by whatever odd
Cleric should happen to preside. I think it a beastly
Occurrence. Yet I acquiesce. But as I say, to gloat
Is unseemly and contrary to just rule. Do not take
Me amiss, or my words misconstrue. Such things I will do
To secure our Imperial design as will succeed
But not for Jonachem, but for Maliva's august sake
Will I do these things. And those such as will follow me through
May come along as my brothers. For you all I will bleed!
Such speech made Daoud sternly, but evenly, to the clear
Devious machinations of this pontifical seer.
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