Page:The Anglo-Saxon version of the story of Apollonius of Tyre.djvu/74

 stopped him, and asked how the girl had behaved. "None better," returned the prince, "but she is very sorrowful." The youth entered, and she closed the door, as on the former occasion. "How much has the prince given you?" asked he. "Forty pieces," answered the girl. "Here, then, take the whole pound of gold." Tharsia took the present, but falling at his feet, explained her situation. Aporiatus (for that was the young man's name,) answered, "Rise, lady: we are men; all of us are subject to misfortunes." He went out, and observing Athanagoras laughing, said to him, "You are a fine fellow! Have you nobody to pledge in tears but me?" Afraid that these words should betray the matter, they gave another turn to the discourse, and awaited the coming of some other person. Great numbers appeared, but they all returned in tears, having given her sums of money. Tharsia having obtained the sum which Leno had fixed as the price of her dishonour, presented it to him. "Take care," said the monster, "that you bring me whatever money is presented to you." But the next day, understanding that she yet preserved her honour, his rage knew no bounds; and he immediately commissioned the overseer of the women to complete the iniquity. When he appeared, the poor girl's tears flowed in profusion. "Pity me, sir," said she, falling at his feet; "my misfortunes have created the compassion of others, and surely