Whereupon Xit signed to the two giants to advance with their fair burden, and as they drew near, the King bade Og go forward and help her to alight. It is needless to say that the command was promptly obeyed. With a few mighty strides Og cleared the space between him and his mistress, while his brothers elevated the chair on which she was seated, as if to place her out of his reach. Lilias, however, did not hesitate to spring from the giddy height into her gigantic lover’s outstretched arms, and was instantly clasped to his mighty breast. After gazing on her rapturously for a moment, and uttering a few passionate words, he deposited her gently on the ground, amid the shouts and laughter of the beholders.
“Welcome!—thrice welcome!” he cried. “This moment amply repays me for all the misery I have endured.”
“And have you really been unhappy without me?” inquired Lilias.
“Unhappy!” exclaimed Og; “I have been so wretched that it is a marvel I didn’t drown myself in the Tower moat. However, it’s all right now.”
“To be sure it is,” interposed Xit. “You will have plenty of time for explanations hereafter. Your first business is to present your bride to his Majesty.”
“Come, then,” said the giant, taking her hand, and leading her towards the king.
Lilias displayed no bashfulness, but tripped gracefully by the side of her gigantic admirer, and made a profound reverence to his Majesty as she was presented to him.
“By my faith, good fellow, thou art to be envied,” said Philip. “I would not advise thee to let this fair creature out of thy sight in future.”
“I do not intend to give him the opportunity, Sire,” replied Lilias, demurely.
“Wisely resolved,” rejoined Philip, laughing. “As I chanced to witness the commencement of your love affair, I am glad to see it brought to such a satisfactory conclusion. Make merry with your friends, and that you may do so without scruple, here is that shall help to pay for the wedding feast.”