Fitz of Fitz-Ford; a legend of Devon - University Library

FITZ OF FITZ-FORD. 21
For some time the two riders continued
their journey, without other attempts at speech
than an oc();asional ejaculatory address to the
animals tl^ey bestrode, accompanied by many
a good blow bestowed by the younger upon
his own beast, which grew tardy as the ascent
grew steeper ; till the elder rider observing the
contest, turned round, and said in a tone of
admonition, '^ Benjamin, dismount ; spare the
beast such hard blows ; dismount I say, and
walk thyself up the hill. The ass will be sore
laden anon with a grievous burthen ; spare
him therefore now, that his strength may not
fail him in the hour of need ; and remember,
Benjamin, the merciful man is merciful to his
beast."
" I wish, then," answered Benjamin, some-
what pertly, " that you. Master Levi, would
think me a beast, and that I might find some
mercy at your hands, for there is not a hire-
Un"- amono-st the Nazarenes that is worked as
you work me. All yesterday was I out upon
the watch in this wilderness of desolation, to
look for what I could not find, till I was
drenched to the skin in such a rain, that, but
for the bow of the covenant, which rested like
the ark on the summit of Brent Tor, I should