The Adventures of King Midas. Lynne Banks Reid

But Biffpot was devoted to the King, and determined that he would be the last to desert his employer, who had always been very good to him.

      “Are you retiring early, Sire?” he asked, trying to keep his voice quite normal.

      “Yes, Biffpot,” said the King, and then, as the man made a step towards him, he suddenly shouted:

      “Keep back, man, don’t come near me!”

      Biffpot started back. The King was very agitated and kept his hands behind him. They stared at each other.