Page:Gesta Romanorum - Swan - Wright - 2.djvu/103

Rh never to quit one another on any emergency, even though death were the alternative. They afterwards committed many depredations, and were, on some occasions, guilty of murder. It happened, that one of them, being caught in some theft, was imprisoned, and ordered for execution. His companion, understanding what had chanced, hastened to him, and said, "My friend, by the engagement which we have formed, I adjure you to tell me what I can do to serve you." "It appears," answered the other, "that I must die, having been taken in the fact for which I am sentenced. But I will show you how to oblige me. Obtain permission to remain in my place, while I hasten to arrange my affairs, and provide for my wife and children. Having done this, I will return in due time and liberate you." "My friend," answered the first, "I will readily comply with your wishes." He went therefore to the judge, and spoke thus. "My lord, my friend has been thrown into prison, and condemned to death. It seems that there is no chance for him; let it please you then to permit him to return home