Page 53 - The Grotesque Children's Book

all of gold. Don't tell anyone, Minister,” whispered Aurumius, leaning close to
the Minister's ear, “But I really love gold.”

“Your secret is safe with me, your Majesty.”
“Good, good, excellent! So? Where can I find more?!” (Back to
bellowing.)
“Diavolo d'Oro.”
“What? What's that?”
“Not what. Who. He's a demon. He controls the flow of gold throughout
the earth. Diavolo d'Oro. It means the Demon of Gold; the gold Devil.”
“Dia-volo Di-o-ro. It's an awful mouthful. I'll call him Diavolo.”
“Assuming he'll see you.”
“What do you mean, of course, he'll see me. I'm the Emperor! One more
crack like that and I'll cut off your head.”
“Cut off my head and I won't be able to tell you how to find Diavolo.”
“Tell me how to find Diavolo or I'll cut off your head.”
“Now, now, your Majesty,” said the Minister. “You and I both know you
won't cut off my head, because you'd be too afraid I actually do know how to
find the Gold Devil who can get you more gold.”
“Well, what makes you think I wouldn't cut off your head after you lead
me to the Gold Devil?”
“You'll be too busy making more gold toilets,” said the Minister. “You'll
forget all about me.”

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