Page:Gesta Romanorum - Swan - Wright - 2.djvu/203

Rh thus fastened they mutually loved and fawned upon each other, but no sooner were they unloosed than they exhibited the most deadly signs of mutual hostility. The king was much concerned at this; because when he would have coursed with them, and for that purpose set them at liberty, they fought so fiercely that he was unable to follow his sport. This led him to consult some learned man, who recommended that the first of the dogs should be encountered by a strong and savage wolf; and then the second should be encouraged to the attack when his aid was most needed, and his companion in danger of being devoured. This was accordingly done; and as the strength of the first dog failed, the second was let loose, who, after a severe struggle, killed the wolf. From this time, bound or unbound, they live together in the most perfect friendship.

My beloved, the king is Christ; the two dogs are the soul and body. If loosed by