Thank you, Duke," the troll said seriously. "May your god be blessing us indeed. We go into unknown places." "As do all mortals," Josua added. "Soone… - Tad Williams

You can never tell when princes will get squinty on you. You can never tell when they might suddenly feel their blood and go all royal.

You have something that might be more use to me than either gold or power—something that in fact brings both in its train."
"And what is that?"
The count leaned forward. "Knowledge.

“There is nothing like the ocean to remind you of what is important,” she said quietly, and smiled. Cadrach’s returned smile was weak.
“Ah, by the Good Lord, that’s true,” he groaned. “I am reminded that life is sweet, that the sea is treacherous, and that I am a fool.”
Miriamele nodded solemnly, staring up at the bellying sails. “Those are good things to remember,” she said.