VALEN-
TINE AND
ORSON

espied her on the ground, tearing her hair, and
uttering piercing cries of grief. ‘Ah, Blandiman!’
she exclaimed, ‘can there exist in the world a
being more encompassed with grief and sorrow?
I left Constantinople the mother of two beautiful
children, my only comfort under my bitter sorrow.
A ravenous bear has now snatched one from my
arms, and ano less cruel beast of prey has doubt-
less devoured the other. At the foot of yonder
tree I left it when I pursued the bear; but no
trace of either of my children remains. Go, Blandi-
man, leave me here to perish, and tell the Emperor
of Constantinople to what a horrible fate, by listen-
ing to evil counsel, he has destined his innocent
wife and children.’

At this moment they were interrupted by the
sudden appearance of a huge giant, who imme-
diately attempted to seize the empress. Blandi-
man sprang to his feet, stepped before him, and
began to draw and defend himself. His efforts,
however, were unavailing: the giant prevailed,
and slew him; and throwing the unfortunate lady
over his shoulder, proceeded towards his castle.

CHAPTER II

MEANTIME the bear that had carried away the
infant, bore it to its cave, and laid it down unhurt
before her young ones. The young bears, how-
ever, did not devour it, but stroked it with their
rough paws; and the old bear, perceiving their
kindness for the little babe, gave it milk, and
nourished it in this manner for the space of a
whole year.

The boy became hardy and robust; and as he
grew in strength he began to range the forest, and
attack ie wild beasts with such fury that they

3