  An interesting and affecting story is told of two of these brave dogs having once saved the life of a little boy who had lost his way on the mountain.—(See Pictures I. II. III.) I.It was a clear, cold, winter night, The heavens all brightly starred, Where on Mount Bernard’s snowy height The good monks kept their guard. And round their hearth, that night, they told To one who shelter craved, How the brave dog, he thought so old, Full forty lives had saved; When, suddenly, with kindling eye, Up sprang the old dog there, As from afar a child’s shrill cry Rung through the frosty air. In haste the monks unbarred the door, Rugs round the mastiffs threw; Called, “Blessings be with you!” II.They hurried headlong down the hill, Past many a snow-wreath wild, Until the older guide stood still Beside a sleeping child. He licked the little icy hand With his rough, kindly tongue; With his warm breath he gently fanned The tresses fair and long. The child looked up, with eyes of blue, As if the whole he guessed; His arms around the dog he threw, And sunk again to rest. Once more he woke, and wrapped him fast In the warm covering sent; The dogs then with their charge, at last, Up the steep mountain went.
|
|
