But dare not quit them, lest the wolf be near;

And then the chief, advancing from the rest,

At sound of trump, the peasants thus addressed,—

"A purse of gold, and his own diamond ring,

As a reward, are offered by the king,

To him who slays the wolf!" The trumpet's blast

Re-echoed loud, as that gay pageant passed.

Meanwhile, each swain, in hope to gain the prize,

Shouldering his gun, to kill the monster tries;

But home returning oft without his prey,