Pagina 132 di 1116

Now when night came on I went home, and there I saw these two

hounds tied up; and, when they sighted me, they arose and whined

and fawned upon me; but ere I knew what happened my wife said,

"These two dogs be thy brothers!" I answered, "And who hath done

this thing by them?" and she rejoined, "I sent a message to my

sister and she entreated them on this wise, nor shall these two

be released from their present shape till ten years shall have

passed." And now I have arrived at this place on my way to my

wife's sister that she may deliver them from this condition,

after their having endured it for half a score of years. As I was

wending onwards I saw this young man, who acquainted me with what

had befallen him, and I determined not to fare hence until I

should see what might occur between thee and him. Such is my

tale!