68
THE PEARL AMONG THE VIRTUES
they saw a man sitting in a skiff, which was fastened to the beach. No sooner did he perceive them, than he burnt with lustful desires, and leaving his boat, tried to seize one of the boys. The latter, however, understood his evil intentions. The effect upon them was similar to that produced by a hawk, when it suddenly descends upon a flock of pigeons. From their lips came forth cries of anguish, and hastening away, they came breathless to the village. This lustful man running after them, ordered them to halt; he threatened them, and commanded them to do his bidding. But they did not stop until they reached a little chapel at the end of the village, where, pros-
