The Lion by chance saw a fair maid, the forester’s daughter, as she
was tripping over a lawn, and fell in love with her. Nay, so violent
was his passion, that he could not live unless he made her his own;
therefore, without more delay, he broke his mind to the father, and
demanded the damsel for his wife. The man, odd as the proposal seemed
at first, soon recollected that, by complying, he might get the Lion
into his power; but, by refusing him, should only exasperate and
provoke his rage. Accordingly, he seemed to consent; but told him it
must be upon these conditions: that, considering the girl was young and
tender, he must let his teeth be plucked out, and his claws be cut off,
lest he should hurt her, or at least frighten her with the apprehension
of them. The Lion was too much in love to hesitate; but was no sooner
deprived of his teeth and claws, than the treacherous forester
attacked him with a huge club, and knocked out his brains.