That is why, dreading the penal stripe of the rod, we thought it doleful to return to our own roof.

We supposed it safer to hold aloof from the familiar hearth than to bear the hand of punishment.

Thus we are fain to put off the punishment; we loathe going back and our wish is to lie hid here and escape our master's eye.

This will aid us to elude the avenger of his neglected flock; and this is the one way of escape that remains safe for us." Then Swanhwid gazed intently, and surveying his features, which were very comely, admired them ardently, and said: "The radiant flashing of thine eyes is eloquent that thou art of kingly and not of servile stock.

Beauty announces blood, and loveliness of soul glitters in the flash of the eyes.