According to the mediaeval fable, a dragon once terrorised a city called Silene. To keep him away, the people gave him two sheep daily, and when they were all gone they sacrificed their own children. One day, the daughter of the king was chosen. Just as she was being duly offered up, St George rode by.

St George challenged the dragon, and wounded it with his spear. He then led it through the town using the princess’s girdle as a leash. The people were fearful, but after George had reassured them they clamoured to be baptised, and George slew the dragon. This and similar tales are all romances; but St George was a real historical figure.

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