Page:Stories after Nature.pdf/35



HERE was an old king of Norway, who, though he came to the throne late in life, brought with him none of that discretion which should belong to maturity of age; but only great tyranny, and a violent will.

There were three young noblemen of his kingdom, of great fortunes and independence, named Christian, Gustavus, and Frederick; who often conversed together in private of the disgusting practices of the old king, and of his unwholesome government.

It happened, that after having reigned two years his extravagancies became so great, that he levied a heavy and burthensome tax upon his people; insomuch that they murmured, and