Page:Stories after Nature.pdf/33

Rh upon her by her own father, who condemned her to present death.

But fate was fickle in this, and would not permit it; for the man who appeared slain, after long seeming dead, showed some signs of animation; and he found his senses, and voice enough to accuse his murderers; who, being apprehended, confessed their crime, and the whole of them had just come into court. The judges were amazed at this matter, as also was Lysius; and they said, "Woman, why hast thou deceived us, and thus cast thy life at fortune? Albeit thou hast saved the life of a fellow being, we understand it not." She replied, "Stifle your amazement. The gods are above. We two are declared innocent. I know not why, my soul, but I have some hope." Saying this, she took Lysius's hand and kissed it, and a tear fell on it; so she departed. When she touched him he trembled like a child (for he knew her), but was dumb with remorse and wonder. After this time Julia became more peaceful, seeing she had saved her lover's life.

Now away went Lysius into Athens, full of love and affection for Julia; wondering at himself and the greatness of her act. He came to his steward, gathered his books together, and worked from light till dark; beginning at the