Page:Stories after Nature.pdf/107

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OR, THE TWO FRIENDS.
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are fledged know what checks the cunning hawk can make. You, though as common as dirt, once despised me. I have laboured thus far, only to strike your heart against your rocky ribs, and so bruise it; I have done so, and glory in it. I now look upon thee as mine enemy, who has fallen from the battlement of his strength; and cursing him, leave him to die." And he went out smiling, with affected malice. She followed him with her eye as far as she could see, and then, listening to his last footfall, gathered her hair, and holding her forehead, turned to the right and to the left; and looking mournfully round, burst into fresh tears, as a child who hath lost its way.

Now the evening was advanced, so walking a few paces in the field where she was, she threw herself on some half-made hay, and slept soundly till the morning. Then rising refreshed, and going into the town, she sold all the jewels she had about her, and took up her abode with a respectable family; who, being humane people, got her employment; and so she lived.

Edward, who had watched over her all this time, still jealous of his conquest, and tempting his fate, took care, that two noblemen, her former favourite companions, should know where