98, FORTUNATUS,

many years ago, in hopes to better his fortune; but now,
owing to many accidents, was poorer than ever, and had not
money enough to take him back to his family.

When Loch Fitty found how much Fortunatus wished to
obtain knowledge, he told him many of the strange adventures
he had met with; and gave him an account of all the countries
he had been in, as well as of the customs, dress, and manners
of the people. Fortunatus thought to himself, “this is the
very man I stand in need of :” so at once he made him a good
offer, which the old gentleman agreed to, but made the bargain
that he might first go and visit his family. Fortunatus told
him that he should. “And,” said he, “as I am a little tired
of being always in the midst of such noisy pleasures as we find
at Paris, I will, with your leave, go with you to Scotland, and
see your wife and children.” They set out the very next day,
and came safe to the house of Loch Fitty ; and, in all the
journey, Fortunatus did not once wish to change his kind
‘companion for all the pleasures and grandeur that he had left
behind. Loch Fitty kissed his wife and children ; five of whom
were daughters, and the most beautiful creatures that were
ever beheld. When they were seated, his wife said to him,
“Ah! dear Lord Loch Fitty, how happy I am to see you once
again ! now I hope we shall enjoy each other's company for
the rest of our lives. What though we are poor! we will
be content if you will but promise not to think of leaving us
again to get riches, only because we have a noble title.”

Fortunatus heard this with great surprise. ‘ What,” said
he, “are youa lord? Then you shall be a rich lord too.
‘And that you may not think I Jay you under auy burden in
the fortune I shall give you, I will put it in your power to
make me your debtor instead. Give me your youngest daughter,
Cassandra, for a wife, and accompany us as far as to Famagosta,