Page:The Anglo-Saxon version of the story of Apollonius of Tyre.djvu/85

 He threatens us with instant destruction, unless Leno, who would have prostituted his daughter, be given up to him." Scarcely had he spoken, when the whole population, men and women, hurried off to implore the king's clemency. Seizing the execrable Leno, they tied his hands to his back, and carried him along to the presence of offended majesty. Apollonius, clad in royal robes, his hair shorn, and crowned, ascended the tribunal with his daughter. The citizens stood round, in expectation of his address. "Men of Machilena," said he, "today I have recovered my daughter, whom the villainous Leno would have corrupted. Neither pity, nor prayers, nor gold, could prevail with him to desist from his atrocious purposes. Do ye, therefore, avenge my daughter." The people, with one voice, answered, "Let Leno be burnt alive, and his wealth given to the lady." Instantly the wretch was brought forward and burnt. "I give you your liberty," said Tharsia to the overseer, "because by your kindness, and the kindness of the citizens, I remained unsullied. I also present to you two hundred gold sestertia." Turning to the other girls whom Leno had purchased, she added: "Be free, and forget your past habits." Apollonius, again addressing the people, returned them thanks for their compliance with his wishes, and bestowed on them a donation of five hundred weight of gold. Shouts and applauses followed; and they immediately set about