Page:Gesta Romanorum - Swan - Wright - 1.djvu/355

Rh of a daughter." But the third sister, called, hearing what had been said by the other two, exclaimed, "Oh, my lord, I also am thy daughter: forgive the offence of this repentant woman. If thou wilt not, thou abandonest Mercy, and she will never again acknowledge thee her father." The fourth sister, whose name was, terrified at the discord between her parent and sisters, fled to a remote corner of the earth.

Justice and Truth, however, relinquished not their purpose; and, putting into their father's hands a naked sword, said, "My lord, we present to you the sword of Justice. Take it, and strike the harlot who has wronged our brother." But Mercy, rushing forward, snatched the weapon from their grasp. "Enough, enough," cried she, "long have you reigned, and your inclinations have been your only law. Now forbear; it is fit that my wishes should sometimes be listened to. Remember, that I too, am the daughter of the King." To this Justice made answer, "Thou hast said well: we have reigned long: and long will we preserve our