414 THE LION KILLER. 



in bundles, she kneeled down to tie them, when she 

 thought she heard a heavy sigh, and on looking around) 

 there was the lion seated a few steps oft* watching her 

 movements. 



" ' Good morning, Aicha,' he said, in a dry tone. 



" ' Good morning, monseignior,' returned Aicha, in a 

 trembling voice, for she had not forgotten her remark in 

 regard to his fetid breath, or the triple roar of indignation 

 that followed the impolite disclosure ; ' Good morning ; what 

 can I do that will be agreeable V 



" ' You can do me a favor.' 



"'What is it?' 



" ■ Come close to me.' 



" The girl obeyed, inwardly wishing herself home again. 



" l Now I am by you.' 



" ' Very well. Now raise your hatchet, and give me a 

 blow on the head.' 



" ' But, seignior, thou dost not think ' 



" ' On the contrary, I have thought much about it.' 



" * But, seignior ' 



" ■ Strike.' 



" ' But, my dear sir.' 



" ' Strike, Aicha, I pray you.' 



" ■ Hard, or softly V 



11 4 As hard as you can.' 



" » But I will hurt you.' 



" ■ What is that to you ?— strike.' 



" * Do you want me to V 



"'I do.' 



" The girl hesitated no longer, but gave a blow with her 

 hatchet between the eyes of the lion, that left a bloody mark 

 where it fell. 



" ' Thank you,' said the lion, and in three bounds he dis- 

 appeared in the woods. Since that time only have the lions 



