He clung eagerly to the hand of his protectress, and once and again cast a frightened look behind, as if expecting to get sight of the pursuers, from whose clutches they were even now seeking shelter.
"Mother," said the lad, as they entered the wood, and for the first time abated somewhat of their hurried progress, "I am weary and hungry.

May we not rest here awhile and eat something ?" "My child," said the lady, "there is naught here to eat, and we must go farther ere we are safe from our cruel foes." So they went on, deep into the gloomy shade of the wood, till they were far beyond the sight of the outer world, and where the rays of the setting sun scarce gave the feeblest light.
"Mother," said the boy presently, "this is an awful place; we shall die here." "Fear not, my child," replied the lady bravely.

"Heaven will protect us when none else can." "But do not robbers abound in these woods?
Have I not heard you say so ?" "It is true; but they will not hurt thee or me.

Remember whose son thou art." "Ay, I am the king's son; but I would fain have a morsel to eat." Just then there was a crackling among the underwood, and a sound of voices approaching the spot.
The boy clutched his mother's hand and trembled.

She stood pale and motionless.
The sound of feet grew nearer, and presently the voices of those who spoke became distinguishable.
"Some will be sure to find their way to this wood," said one.
"I hope such as do may have full purses," said another.