Page:Gesta Romanorum - Swan - Wright - 2.djvu/126

114 he repeated the circumstance of their loss. "Give thanks," said his wife, "give manifold thanks to the Lord; for as His Providence hath revealed our existence to each other, so will He give us back our beloved offspring." "Did I not tell you," returned he, "that wild beasts had devoured them?"

"True; but yesternight as I sat in the garden I overheard two young men relate the occurrences of their childhood, and whom I believe to be our sons. Interrogate them, and they will tell you."

Messengers were immediately despatched for this purpose, and a few questions convinced Eustacius of the full completion of his happiness. They fell upon each other's neck and wept aloud. It was a joyful occasion; and the whole army participated in the pleasure of their general: a splendid victory ensued. Previous to their return the emperor Trajan died, and was succeeded by Adrian, more wicked even than his predecessor. (20) However, he received the conqueror and his family with great magnificence, and sumptuously entertained them at his own table. But