BAUCIS AND PHILEMON 159 



The old people were frightened at this strange 

 thing, but kept silent. 



After the travellers had finished their sup- 

 per, Baucis lighted a candle. She led the way 

 to her own little room where they were to 

 sleep. 



She and her husband lay down on the floor 

 and talked in whispers of their strange guests. 



In the morning the old people were up early, 

 and the travellers, too, soon came down. 



Philemon and Baucis begged them to stay a 

 little longer. But they said that they had far 

 to go, and must go at once. 



So all four started out together. For the old 

 man and his wife had the kind thought to walk 

 a little way with their guests. 



As they were mounting the hill which over- 

 looked the town, the elder traveller spoke of the 

 hard hearts of the people, who had driven him 

 from their doors. 



" They forget," said he, " that we are all 

 brothers, and that we should all help each 

 other." 



As he spoke he frowned. At the same mo- 

 ment the sky darkened and distant thunder was 

 heard. 



