VALENTINE AND ORSON. 467

whom the mermaid very much regretted ; but as all her power
lay in the sword, she could only change them into two palm-
trees, which preserving a constant and mutual affection for cach
ether, fondly unite their branches together.

 

VALENTINE AND ORSON.

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‘Tne renowned Pepin, king of France, had a sister named
Bellisant, who was exceedingly heautiful, and whose hand was
demanded in marriage by several kings and princes. The lady
Bollisant’s choice fell upon Alexander, emperor of Constanti-
nople, who came to the court of king Pepin to espouse the prin-
cess. Great rejoicings were made on the occasion throughout
France ; and shortly after the marriage the emperor took leave
of king Pepin, and conducted his lovely bride with great pomp
and triumph to the city of Constantinople. The emperor's prime
minister, and greatest favourite, wasa high-pricst, a selfish and
cruel'man, who completely governed the emperor, and tyran-
nised over his subjects. The high-priest, observing the gen-
tleness and sweetness of the new empress, began to fear that
she would acquire too much influence over the emperor, and
wickedly resolved to seek the destruction of the innocent and
amiable lady. ‘The emperor was of a credulous and suspicious
temper, and the high-priest soon found means to infuse into his
mind suspicions of the empress. One day when the emperor
was alone, the high-pricst entered the apartment, and pros-
trating himself at the emperor's feet, said: “ High and mighty
king, may Heaven guard your majesty from the base attempts
of the wicked and treacherous! Iam a holy priest, and may

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