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Zodiac Stories
the hoop. I called and cracked my whip. He growled and crouched. I called again. He laid his head flat upon his paws, lashed his tail and sprang, tearing my arm as I jumped aside. At that instant Leo sprang also—on the rebellious lion; and as they rolled over, fighting, I made my escape from the cage. I have a scar on my arm still."
Aimée had clung tightly to Alphonse as he told his story. When he ended, she drew a deep breath.
"And you did not die?"
"As you see."
"And Leo saved you?"
"I have always said so."
She looked over the old man's shoulder at Leo.
"I think I love him a little," she said.
"He is my one friend," replied Alphonse. "We love each other, and we shall never be parted. As we have lived, we shall die, together."
