Page:The Anglo-Saxon version of the story of Apollonius of Tyre.djvu/61

53 Full of pleasure at the unexpected intelligence he had received, the prince said to his wife: "Will you acquiesce in my setting out to obtain the throne?" The lady instantly burst into tears. "O my lord," said she, "the journey is long, and yet you would leave me! If, however, it is necessary that you should go, we will go together." Instantly hastening to her father, she communicated the happy news which had just been heard, that Antiochus and his daughter, by the just judgement of an offended God, had been struck with lightning, and his wealth and diadem reserved for her husband: and, lastly, she entreated his permission to accompany him. The old king, much exhilarated with the intelligence, was easily prevailed upon to assent; and ships were accordingly prepared for their conveyance. They were laden with everything necessary for the voyage; and a nurse, called Ligoridis, was embarked, in anticipation of the young queen's parturition. Her father accompanied them to the shore, and, with an affectionate kiss of each, took his leave.

When they had been at sea some days, there arose a fearful tempest; and the lady, brought by this circumstance into premature labour, to all appearance perished. The moaning and tears of her family almost equalled the storm; and Apollonius, alarmed at the outcry, ran into the apartment, and beheld his lovely wife like an inhabitant of the grave. He tore 3