e young man smiled at this compliment, and commenced playing some
fresh tunes; and, when he had finished, he informed the Prince that he
was slave to a rich shepherd named Oaxus, who lived near, and who
would be rejoiced to see him, and show him some hospitality.

In a few moments they reached the abode of Oaxus.

It was a low stone building of considerable size, with a porch
surrounding it, overgrown with vines and flowers. Around it was a
large yard, encircled with a high wall, in which were some flocks of
sheep, with a number of men tending them.

On entering, the old shepherd came forward and gave the stranger a
hearty welcome, leading him into a neat apartment, and setting before
him a handsome repast. After Azgid had finished eating, he thought it
his duty to give his kind host some information as to who he was, and
thus spoke:

"My friend," said he, "you no doubt wonder at seeing a stranger of my
appearance thus suddenly visiting you, and will naturally wish to
inquire who I am. This wish I can only in part gratify. Suffice it to
say that I am a Prince whom troubles at home have driven abroad; but
my name I cannot tell. That is a secret lodged in my own breast, to be
imparted to no one. If no inconvenience to you, it would please me
much to remain in this delightful spot. I have ample means at my
disposal, and will remunerate you for whatever trouble I may put you
to."

Oaxus replied to this speech in the kindest manner, begging the young
man to say nothing about remuneration, for that the company of one so
exalted and accomplished would more than repay him for any trouble he
might be put to in entertaining him, and that nothing would give him
more happiness than to have him remain there to the end of his days.

"But come, Asdril," said he, addressing the musician, "take the Prince
and show him what is most worthy to be seen in this neighbourhood.
Lead him to the waterfalls, the fountains, the rocks and vales, for I
perceive our guest is one able to appreciate nature's beauties."

The young shepherd did as requested, and, taking up his flute, led the
youth to all the pleasantest and most interesting spots.

They wandered about the sloping hills and deep valleys, and over
beautiful lawns, sprinkled with trees of immense size. At one time
they stood by the side of some gently murmuring stream, and now they
were startled with a romantic cascade, whose flashing waters tumbled
from mossy cliffs and echoed far