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THE GREEN FAIRY BOOK
By Various
Edited by Andrew Lang
To Stella Margaret Alleyne the Green Fairy Book is dedicated
To Stella Margaret Alleyne the Green Fairy Book is dedicated
To The Friendly Reader
To the Friendly Reader
This is the third, and probably the last, of the Fairy Books of many colours. First there was the Blue Fairy Book; then, children, you asked for more, and we made up the Red Fairy Book; and, when you wanted more still, the Green Fairy Book was put together. The stories in all the books are borrowed from many countries; some are French, some German, some Russian, some Italian, some Scottish, some English, one Chinese. However much these nations differ about trifles, they all agree in liking fairy tales. The reason, no doubt, is that men were much like children in their minds long ago, long, long ago, and so before they took to writing newspapers, and sermons, and novels, and long poems, they told each other stories, such as you read in the fairy books. They believed that witches could turn people into beasts, that beasts could speak, that magic rings could make their owners invisible, and all the other wonders in the stories. Then, as the world became grown-up, the fairy tales which were not written down would have been quite forgotten but that the old grannies remembered them, and told them to the little grandchildren: and when they, in their turn, became grannies, they remembered them, and told them also. In this way these tales are older than reading and writing, far older than printing. The oldest fairy tales ever written down were written down in Egypt, about Joseph’s time, nearly three thousand five hundred years ago. Other fairy stories Homer knew, in Greece, nearly three thousand years ago, and he made them all up into a poem, the Odyssey, which I hope you will read some day. Here you will find the witch who turns men into swine, and the man who bores out the big foolish giant’s eye, and the cap of darkness, and the shoes of swiftness, that were worn later by Jack the Giant-Killer. These fairy tales are the oldest stories in the world, and as they were first made by men who were childlike for their own amusement, so they amuse children still, and also grown-up people who have not forgotten how they once were children.
This is the third, and probably the last, of the Fairy Books of many colors. First, there was the Blue Fairy Book; then, kids, you asked for more, and we created the Red Fairy Book; and when you wanted even more, we put together the Green Fairy Book. The stories in all the books are taken from many countries; some are French, some German, some Russian, some Italian, some Scottish, some English, and one Chinese. Despite how differently these nations might argue about small things, they all agree on loving fairy tales. The reason, no doubt, is that people were a lot like kids in their minds a long, long time ago. Before they started writing newspapers, sermons, novels, and lengthy poems, they told each other stories, just like those in the fairy books. They believed witches could turn people into animals, that animals could talk, that magic rings could make their wearers invisible, and all the other wonders found in the stories. As the world matured, the fairy tales that weren't written down would have been completely forgotten if it weren't for the old grandmothers who remembered and told them to their little grandchildren. Then, when those grandchildren became grandparents, they remembered and shared them too. This way, these tales are older than reading and writing, much older than printing. The oldest fairy tales ever recorded were written in Egypt, around the time of Joseph, almost three thousand five hundred years ago. Other fairy stories were known to Homer in Greece, nearly three thousand years ago, and he turned them into a poem, the Odyssey, which I hope you'll read someday. Here you’ll find the witch who turns men into pigs, and the guy who pokes out the big foolish giant's eye, and the cap of darkness, as well as the shoes of swiftness that were later worn by Jack the Giant-Killer. These fairy tales are the oldest stories in the world, and since they were first created by people who were childlike for their own entertainment, they continue to entertain children and grown-ups who haven't forgotten what it was like to be a child.
Some of the stories were made, no doubt, not only to amuse, but to teach goodness. You see, in the tales, how the boy who is kind to beasts, and polite, and generous, and brave, always comes best through his trials, and no doubt these tales were meant to make their hearers kind, unselfish, courteous, and courageous. This is the moral of them. But, after all, we think more as we read them of the diversion than of the lesson. There are grown-up people now who say that the stories are not good for children, because they are not true, because there are no witches, nor talking beasts, and because people are killed in them, especially wicked giants. But probably you who read the tales know very well how much is true and how much is only make-believe, and I never yet heard of a child who killed a very tall man merely because Jack killed the giants, or who was unkind to his stepmother, if he had one, because, in fairy tales, the stepmother is often disagreeable. If there are frightful monsters in fairy tales, they do not frighten you now, because that kind of monster is no longer going about the world, whatever he may have done long, long ago. He has been turned into stone, and you may see his remains in museums. Therefore, I am not afraid that you will be afraid of the magicians and dragons; besides, you see that a really brave boy or girl was always their master, even in the height of their power.
Some of the stories were definitely created not just to entertain, but also to teach us about goodness. In these tales, you see how the kind, polite, generous, and brave boy always comes out on top during his challenges, and it’s clear these stories were meant to inspire their listeners to be kind, selfless, courteous, and brave. That’s the real lesson here. However, as we read them, we tend to focus more on the fun than the message. There are adults today who claim that these stories aren’t suitable for children because they aren’t realistic—there are no witches or talking animals, and people often get killed, especially the wicked giants. But you, who are reading these stories, probably understand very well what’s true and what’s just make-believe. I’ve never heard of a child who harmed a very tall man just because Jack killed giants, or who was unkind to a stepmother, if they had one, just because the stepmother in fairy tales is often portrayed as unpleasant. If there are scary monsters in fairy tales, they don’t terrify you now because that kind of monster isn’t roaming around anymore, no matter what they might have done long ago. They’ve been turned to stone, and you can see their remains in museums. So, I’m not worried that you’ll be scared of magicians and dragons; besides, you can see that a truly brave boy or girl always had the upper hand over them, even at the peak of their power.
Some of the tales here, like The Half-Chick, are for very little children; others for older ones. The longest tales, like Heart of Ice, were not invented when the others were, but were written in French, by clever men and women, such as Madame d’Aulnoy, and the Count de Caylus, about two hundred years ago. There are not many people now, perhaps there are none, who can write really good fairy tales, because they do not believe enough in their own stories, and because they want to be wittier than it has pleased Heaven to make them.
Some of the stories here, like The Half-Chick, are for very young kids; others are for older ones. The longest stories, like Heart of Ice, weren't created alongside the others but were written in French by talented men and women, such as Madame d’Aulnoy and the Count de Caylus, about two hundred years ago. Nowadays, there aren’t many people, maybe none at all, who can write really good fairy tales because they don’t believe enough in their own stories and because they want to be funnier than fate has allowed them to be.
So here we give you the last of the old stories, for the present, and hope you will like them, and feel grateful to the Brothers Grimm, who took them down from the telling of old women, and to M. Sebillot and M. Charles Marelles, who have lent us some tales from their own French people, and to Mr. Ford, who drew the pictures, and to the ladies, Miss Blackley, Miss Alma Alleyne, Miss Eleanor Sellar, Miss May Sellar, Miss Wright, and Mrs. Lang, who translated many of the tales out of French, German, and other languages.
So here we present the last of the classic stories for now, and we hope you enjoy them and feel thankful to the Brothers Grimm, who recorded them from the storytelling of older women, as well as to M. Sebillot and M. Charles Marelles, who shared some tales from their French heritage, and to Mr. Ford, who created the illustrations, and to the ladies, Miss Blackley, Miss Alma Alleyne, Miss Eleanor Sellar, Miss May Sellar, Miss Wright, and Mrs. Lang, who translated many of the stories from French, German, and other languages.
If we have a book for you next year, it shall not be a fairy book. What it is to be is a secret, but we hope that it will not be dull. So good-bye, and when you have read a fairy book, lend it to other children who have none, or tell them the stories in your own way, which is a very pleasant mode of passing the time.
If we have a book for you next year, it won’t be a fairy tale. What it’ll be is a secret, but we hope it won’t be boring. So, goodbye, and when you’ve read a fairy tale, share it with other kids who don’t have one, or tell them the stories in your own way, which is a really nice way to spend your time.
CONTENTS
PRINCE NARCISSUS AND THE PRINCESS POTENTILLA
PRINCE FEATHERHEAD AND THE PRINCESS CELANDINE
KING KOJATA (From the Russian)
PRINCE FICKLE AND FAIR HELENA (From the German)
THE STORY OF HOK LEE AND THE DWARFS
PRINCE VIVIEN AND THE PRINCESS PLACIDA
LITTLE ONE-EYE, LITTLE TWO-EYES, AND LITTLE THREE-EYES
ALLERLEIRAUH; OR, THE MANY-FURRED CREATURE
THE WAR OF THE WOLF AND THE FOX
CONTENTS
PRINCE NARCISSUS AND THE PRINCESS POTENTILLA
PRINCE FEATHERHEAD AND THE PRINCESS CELANDINE
KING KOJATA (From the Russian)
PRINCE FICKLE AND FAIR HELENA (From the German)
THE STORY OF HOK LEE AND THE DWARFS
PRINCE VIVIEN AND THE PRINCESS PLACIDA
LITTLE ONE-EYE, LITTLE TWO-EYES, AND LITTLE THREE-EYES
ALLERLEIRAUH; OR, THE MANY-FURRED CREATURE
THE WAR OF THE WOLF AND THE FOX
THE BLUE BIRD
Once upon a time there lived a King who was immensely rich. He had broad lands, and sacks overflowing with gold and silver; but he did not care a bit for all his riches, because the Queen, his wife, was dead. He shut himself up in a little room and knocked his head against the walls for grief, until his courtiers were really afraid that he would hurt himself. So they hung feather-beds between the tapestry and the walls, and then he could go on knocking his head as long as it was any consolation to him without coming to much harm. All his subjects came to see him, and said whatever they thought would comfort him: some were grave, even gloomy with him; and some agreeable, even gay; but not one could make the least impression upon him. Indeed, he hardly seemed to hear what they said. At last came a lady who was wrapped in a black mantle, and seemed to be in the deepest grief. She wept and sobbed until even the King’s attention was attracted; and when she said that, far from coming to try and diminish his grief, she, who had just lost a good husband, was come to add her tears to his, since she knew what he must be feeling, the King redoubled his lamentations. Then he told the sorrowful lady long stories about the good qualities of his departed Queen, and she in her turn recounted all the virtues of her departed husband; and this passed the time so agreeably that the King quite forgot to thump his head against the feather-beds, and the lady did not need to wipe the tears from her great blue eyes as often as before. By degrees they came to talking about other things in which the King took an interest, and in a wonderfully short time the whole kingdom was astonished by the news that the King was married again to the sorrowful lady.
Once upon a time, there was a King who was incredibly wealthy. He owned vast lands and had bags overflowing with gold and silver, but he didn’t care about any of his riches because his wife, the Queen, had died. He isolated himself in a small room and banged his head against the walls out of grief, to the point that his courtiers were genuinely worried he might hurt himself. So, they hung feather beds between the tapestry and the walls, allowing him to keep banging his head for as long as it brought him some comfort without causing much harm. All his subjects came to see him and said whatever they thought would soothe him: some were serious, even somber, while others were pleasant and even cheerful; but not one of them could make any impact on him. In fact, he hardly seemed to notice what they were saying. Eventually, a lady appeared dressed in a black cloak, looking utterly devastated. She cried and sobbed, catching even the King’s attention; and when she expressed that instead of trying to lessen his grief, she, who had just lost a wonderful husband, had come to add her tears to his because she understood his pain, the King intensified his mourning. He then shared long stories about the admirable qualities of his late Queen, and she shared all the virtues of her deceased husband; this kept them engaged so well that the King forgot to bang his head against the feather beds, and the lady didn’t need to wipe the tears from her big blue eyes as often as before. Gradually, they started discussing other topics that the King was interested in, and before long, the entire kingdom was shocked by the news that the King had married the sorrowful lady.
Now the King had one daughter, who was just fifteen years old. Her name was Fiordelisa, and she was the prettiest and most charming Princess imaginable, always gay and merry. The new Queen, who also had a daughter, very soon sent for her to come to the Palace. Turritella, for that was her name, had been brought up by her godmother, the Fairy Mazilla, but in spite of all the care bestowed upon her, she was neither beautiful nor gracious. Indeed, when the Queen saw how ill-tempered and ugly she appeared beside Fiordelisa she was in despair, and did everything in her power to turn the King against his own daughter, in the hope that he might take a fancy to Turritella. One day the King said that it was time Fiordelisa and Turritella were married, so he would give one of them to the first suitable Prince who visited his Court. The Queen answered:
Now the King had a daughter who was just fifteen years old. Her name was Fiordelisa, and she was the prettiest and most charming princess you could imagine, always cheerful and happy. The new Queen, who also had a daughter, quickly called for her to come to the Palace. Turritella, which was her name, had been raised by her godmother, the Fairy Mazilla, but despite all the attention given to her, she was neither beautiful nor graceful. In fact, when the Queen saw how unpleasant and unattractive she looked next to Fiordelisa, she was distraught and did everything she could to turn the King against his own daughter, hoping he might prefer Turritella. One day, the King declared that it was time for Fiordelisa and Turritella to get married, so he would offer one of them to the first suitable prince who visited his Court. The Queen replied:
‘My daughter certainly ought to be the first to be married; she is older than yours, and a thousand times more charming!’
‘My daughter should definitely be the first to get married; she’s older than yours and a thousand times more charming!’
The King, who hated disputes, said, ‘Very well, it’s no affair of mine, settle it your own way.’
The King, who disliked arguments, said, ‘Fine, it’s not my problem, handle it however you want.’
Very soon after came the news that King Charming, who was the most handsome and magnificent Prince in all the country round, was on his way to visit the King. As soon as the Queen heard this, she set all her jewellers, tailors, weavers, and embroiderers to work upon splendid dresses and ornaments for Turritella, but she told the King that Fiordelisa had no need of anything new, and the night before the King was to arrive, she bribed her waiting woman to steal away all the Princess’s own dresses and jewels, so that when the day came, and Fiordelisa wished to adorn herself as became her high rank, not even a ribbon could she find.
Very soon after, the word came that King Charming, the most handsome and impressive prince in the entire region, was on his way to visit the King. As soon as the Queen heard this, she had all her jewelers, tailors, weavers, and embroiderers busy creating fabulous dresses and accessories for Turritella. However, she told the King that Fiordelisa didn’t need anything new, and the night before the King was set to arrive, she bribed her maid to sneak away all of the Princess's dresses and jewels. So when the day came and Fiordelisa wanted to dress up as was appropriate for her rank, she couldn’t find even a ribbon.
However, as she easily guessed who had played her such a trick, she made no complaint, but sent to the merchants for some rich stuffs. But they said that the Queen had expressly forbidden them to supply her with any, and they dared not disobey. So the Princess had nothing left to put on but the little white frock she had been wearing the day before; and dressed in that, she went down when the time of the King’s arrival came, and sat in a corner hoping to escape notice. The Queen received her guest with great ceremony, and presented him to her daughter, who was gorgeously attired, but so much splendour only made her ugliness more noticeable, and the King, after one glance at her, looked the other way. The Queen, however, only thought that he was bashful, and took pains to keep Turritella in full view. King Charming then asked it there was not another Princess, called Fiordelisa.
However, as she quickly figured out who had pulled that trick on her, she didn’t complain but asked the merchants for some fancy fabrics. They told her that the Queen had specifically ordered them not to supply her with anything, and they couldn’t disobey. So, the Princess had nothing left to wear except the little white dress she had on the day before; dressed in that, she went down at the time the King was set to arrive and sat in a corner, hoping to stay out of sight. The Queen welcomed her guest with great ceremony and introduced him to her daughter, who was dressed beautifully, but all that extravagance only made her ugliness stand out more, and the King, after one look at her, turned his gaze away. The Queen, however, assumed he was just shy and made an effort to keep Turritella in full view. King Charming then asked if there was another Princess named Fiordelisa.
‘Yes,’ said Turritella, pointing with her finger, ‘there she is, trying to keep out of sight because she is not smart.’
‘Yes,’ said Turritella, pointing with her finger, ‘there she is, trying to stay hidden because she isn't very smart.’
At this Fiordelisa blushed, and looked so shy and so lovely, that the King was fairly astonished. He rose, and bowing low before her, said—
At this, Fiordelisa blushed and looked so shy and so lovely that the King was genuinely astonished. He stood up, bowed deeply before her, and said—
‘Madam, your incomparable beauty needs no adornment.’
"Ma'am, your unmatched beauty doesn't need any embellishment."
‘Sire,’ answered the Princess, ‘I assure you that I am not in the habit of wearing dresses as crumpled and untidy as this one, so I should have been better pleased if you had not seen me at all.’
‘Sir,’ replied the Princess, ‘I promise you that I'm not the kind of person who wears dresses as wrinkled and messy as this one, so I would have preferred it if you hadn’t seen me at all.’
‘Impossible!’ cried King Charming. ‘Wherever such a marvellously beautiful Princess appears I can look at nothing else.’
‘No way!’ cried King Charming. ‘Whenever such a wonderfully beautiful Princess shows up, I can’t focus on anything else.’
Here the Queen broke in, saying sharply—
Here the Queen interrupted, saying sharply—
‘I assure you, Sire, that Fiordelisa is vain enough already. Pray make her no more flattering speeches.’
"I assure you, Your Majesty, that Fiordelisa is already quite vain. Please don’t give her any more flattering compliments."
The King quite understood that she was not pleased, but that did not matter to him, so he admired Fiordelisa to his heart’s content, and talked to her for three hours without stopping.
The King understood that she wasn't happy, but he didn’t care, so he admired Fiordelisa as much as he wanted and talked to her for three hours straight.
The Queen was in despair, and so was Turritella, when they saw how much the King preferred Fiordelisa. They complained bitterly to the King, and begged and teased him, until he at last consented to have the Princess shut up somewhere out of sight while King Charming’s visit lasted. So that night, as she went to her room, she was seized by four masked figures, and carried up into the topmost room of a high tower, where they left her in the deepest dejection. She easily guessed that she was to be kept out of sight for fear the King should fall in love with her; but then, how disappointing that was, for she already liked him very much, and would have been quite willing to be chosen for his bride! As King Charming did not know what had happened to the Princess, he looked forward impatiently to meeting her again, and he tried to talk about her with the courtiers who were placed in attendance on him. But by the Queen’s orders they would say nothing good of her, but declared that she was vain, capricious, and bad-tempered; that she tormented her waiting-maids, and that, in spite of all the money that the King gave her, she was so mean that she preferred to go about dressed like a poor shepherdess, rather than spend any of it. All these things vexed the King very much, and he was silent.
The Queen was devastated, and so was Turritella, when they realized how much the King favored Fiordelisa. They vented their frustrations to the King, pleading and pestering him until he finally agreed to hide the Princess away while King Charming was visiting. That night, as she headed to her room, four masked figures grabbed her and took her to the highest room in a tall tower, where they left her in deep sadness. She quickly figured out that they were keeping her out of sight to prevent the King from falling for her; it was so disappointing because she already liked him a lot and would have happily accepted being chosen as his bride! Since King Charming was unaware of what had happened to the Princess, he eagerly anticipated seeing her again and tried to bring her up in conversation with the courtiers assigned to him. But under the Queen’s orders, they said nothing good about her, claiming she was vain, unpredictable, and ill-tempered; that she mistreated her maids, and that despite all the money the King gave her, she was so stingy that she preferred to dress like a poor shepherdess rather than spend any of it. All of this upset the King greatly, and he fell silent.
‘It is true,’ thought he, ‘that she was very poorly dressed, but then she was so ashamed that it proves that she was not accustomed to be so. I cannot believe that with that lovely face she can be as ill-tempered and contemptible as they say. No, no, the Queen must be jealous of her for the sake of that ugly daughter of hers, and so these evil reports are spread.’
‘It’s true,’ he thought, ‘that she wasn’t dressed very well, but she seemed so embarrassed that it shows she’s not used to it. I can’t believe that with such a beautiful face, she can be as unpleasant and despicable as they say. No, no, the Queen must be jealous of her because of that ugly daughter of hers, and that’s why these nasty rumors are being spread.’
The courtiers could not help seeing that what they had told the King did not please him, and one of them cunningly began to praise Fiordelisa, when he could talk to the King without being heard by the others.
The courtiers couldn't help noticing that what they had told the King upset him, and one of them cleverly started to praise Fiordelisa when he could speak to the King without being overheard by the others.
King Charming thereupon became so cheerful, and interested in all he said, that it was easy to guess how much he admired the Princess. So when the Queen sent for the courtiers and questioned them about all they had found out, their report confirmed her worst fears. As to the poor Princess Fiordelisa, she cried all night without stopping.
King Charming became so happy and engaged in everything he said that it was clear how much he admired the Princess. So when the Queen summoned the courtiers and asked them what they had discovered, their report confirmed her worst fears. As for the poor Princess Fiordelisa, she cried all night without stopping.
‘It would have been quite bad enough to be shut up in this gloomy tower before I had ever seen King Charming,’ she said; ‘but now when he is here, and they are all enjoying themselves with him, it is too unkind.’
‘It would have been bad enough to be stuck in this gloomy tower before I ever saw King Charming,’ she said; ‘but now that he’s here, and everyone is having a great time with him, it’s just too cruel.’
The next day the Queen sent King Charming splendid presents of jewels and rich stuffs, and among other things an ornament made expressly in honour of the approaching wedding. It was a heart cut out of one huge ruby, and was surrounded by several diamond arrows, and pierced by one. A golden true-lover’s knot above the heart bore the motto, ‘But one can wound me,’ and the whole jewel was hung upon a chain of immense pearls. Never, since the world has been a world, had such a thing been made, and the King was quite amazed when it was presented to him. The page who brought it begged him to accept it from the Princess, who chose him to be her knight.
The next day, the Queen sent King Charming amazing gifts of jewels and luxurious fabrics, including a special ornament made for the upcoming wedding. It was a heart carved from a massive ruby, surrounded by several diamond arrows, one of which pierced the heart. Above the heart was a golden true-lover’s knot with the motto, ‘But one can wound me,’ and the entire jewel was strung on a chain of huge pearls. Never before had such a thing been created, and the King was utterly amazed when it was presented to him. The page who delivered it urged him to accept it from the Princess, who had chosen him to be her knight.
‘What!’ cried he, ‘does the lovely Princess Fiordelisa deign to think of me in this amiable and encouraging way?’
‘What!’ he exclaimed, ‘does the beautiful Princess Fiordelisa actually think of me in this kind and supportive manner?’
‘You confuse the names, Sire,’ said the page hastily. ‘I come on behalf of the Princess Turritella.’
‘You’ve mixed up the names, Your Highness,’ said the page quickly. ‘I’m here on behalf of Princess Turritella.’
‘Oh, it is Turritella who wishes me to be her knight,’ said the King coldly. ‘I am sorry that I cannot accept the honour.’ And he sent the splendid gifts back to the Queen and Turritella, who were furiously angry at the contempt with which they were treated. As soon as he possibly could, King Charming went to see the King and Queen, and as he entered the hall he looked for Fiordelisa, and every time anyone came in he started round to see who it was, and was altogether so uneasy and dissatisfied that the Queen saw it plainly. But she would not take any notice, and talked of nothing but the entertainments she was planning. The Prince answered at random, and presently asked if he was not to have the pleasure of seeing the Princess Fiordelisa.
“Oh, it’s Turritella who wants me to be her knight,” said the King coldly. “I’m sorry, but I can’t accept the honor.” He sent the impressive gifts back to the Queen and Turritella, who were furious at the disrespect they received. As soon as he could, King Charming went to see the King and Queen, and as he entered the hall, he looked for Fiordelisa. Every time someone else walked in, he turned around to see who it was, and he appeared so uneasy and dissatisfied that the Queen noticed it right away. But she didn’t acknowledge it and talked only about the events she was planning. The Prince responded at random and soon asked if he wouldn’t have the pleasure of seeing Princess Fiordelisa.
‘Sire,’ answered the Queen haughtily, ‘her father has ordered that she shall not leave her own apartments until my daughter is married.’
'Sir,' the Queen replied arrogantly, 'her father has commanded that she must not leave her own rooms until my daughter is married.'
‘What can be the reason for keeping that lovely Princess a prisoner?’ cried the King in great indignation.
‘What could possibly justify keeping that beautiful Princess locked up?’ exclaimed the King in deep outrage.
‘That I do not know,’ answered the Queen; ‘and even if I did, I might not feel bound to tell you.’
‘I don’t know,’ replied the Queen; ‘and even if I did, I might not feel obligated to share that with you.’
The King was terribly angry at being thwarted like this. He felt certain that Turritella was to blame for it, so casting a furious glance at her he abruptly took leave of the Queen, and returned to his own apartments. There he said to a young squire whom he had brought with him: ‘I would give all I have in the world to gain the good will of one of the Princess’s waiting-women, and obtain a moment’s speech with Fiordelisa.’
The King was extremely angry about being blocked like this. He was sure that Turritella was responsible, so he shot her a furious look and quickly left the Queen, heading back to his own rooms. Once there, he said to a young squire he had brought along, "I would give everything I own to win over one of the Princess's maids and get a chance to talk to Fiordelisa."
‘Nothing could be easier,’ said the young squire; and he very soon made friends with one of the ladies, who told him that in the evening Fiordelisa would be at a little window which looked into the garden, where he could come and talk to her. Only, she said, he must take very great care not to be seen, as it would be as much as her place was worth to be caught helping King Charming to see the Princess. The squire was delighted, and promised all she asked; but the moment he had run off to announce his success to the King, the false waiting-woman went and told the Queen all that had passed. She at once determined that her own daughter should be at the little window; and she taught her so well all she was to say and do, that even the stupid Turritella could make no mistake.
“Nothing could be easier,” said the young squire. He quickly made friends with one of the ladies, who told him that in the evening, Fiordelisa would be at a little window overlooking the garden, where he could come and talk to her. However, she warned him to be very careful not to be seen, as it would cost her job to be caught helping King Charming meet the Princess. The squire was thrilled and promised to do everything she asked. But as soon as he ran off to share his success with the King, the deceitful waiting-woman went and told the Queen everything that had happened. The Queen immediately decided that her own daughter should be at the little window, and she coached her so thoroughly on what to say and do that even the dull-witted Turritella couldn't make a mistake.
The night was so dark that the King had not a chance of finding out the trick that was being played upon him, so he approached the window with the greatest delight, and said everything that he had been longing to say to Fiordelisa to persuade her of his love for her. Turritella answered as she had been taught, that she was very unhappy, and that there was no chance of her being better treated by the Queen until her daughter was married. And then the King entreated her to marry him; and thereupon he drew his ring from his finger and put it upon Turritella’s, and she answered him as well as she could. The King could not help thinking that she did not say exactly what he would have expected from his darling Fiordelisa, but he persuaded himself that the fear of being surprised by the Queen was making her awkward and unnatural. He would not leave her until she had promised to see him again the next night, which Turritella did willingly enough. The Queen was overjoyed at the success of her stratagem, end promised herself that all would now be as she wished; and sure enough, as soon as it was dark the following night the King came, bringing with him a chariot which had been given him by an Enchanter who was his friend. This chariot was drawn by flying frogs, and the King easily persuaded Turritella to come out and let him put her into it, then mounting beside her he cried triumphantly—
The night was so dark that the King had no chance of discovering the trick being played on him, so he approached the window with great excitement and said everything he had been wanting to express to Fiordelisa to convince her of his love. Turritella replied, as she had been instructed, that she was very unhappy and that there was no hope of her being treated any better by the Queen until her daughter was married. The King then begged her to marry him; he took off his ring and placed it on Turritella’s finger, and she responded as best she could. The King couldn’t shake the feeling that she wasn't saying what he would expect from his beloved Fiordelisa, but he convinced himself that her fear of being caught by the Queen was making her behave awkwardly. He wouldn’t leave until she promised to meet him again the next night, which Turritella gladly agreed to. The Queen was thrilled with the success of her plan and assured herself that everything would now go as she wished; and sure enough, as soon as it got dark the following night, the King arrived, bringing with him a chariot given to him by an Enchanter who was his friend. This chariot was pulled by flying frogs, and the King easily convinced Turritella to come out and let him help her into it; then, climbing in beside her, he shouted triumphantly—
‘Now, my Princess, you are free; where will it please you that we shall hold our wedding?’
‘Now, my Princess, you are free; where would you like to have our wedding?’
And Turritella, with her head muffled in her mantle, answered that the Fairy Mazilla was her godmother, and that she would like it to be at her castle. So the King told the Frogs, who had the map of the whole world in their heads, and very soon he and Turritella were set down at the castle of the Fairy Mazilla. The King would certainly have found out his mistake the moment they stepped into the brilliantly lighted castle, but Turritella held her mantle more closely round her, and asked to see the Fairy by herself, and quickly told her all that had happened, and how she had succeeded in deceiving King Charming.
And Turritella, with her head wrapped in her cloak, said that Fairy Mazilla was her godmother and that she wanted to be at her castle. So the King told the Frogs, who had the entire world mapped out in their minds, and soon he and Turritella were dropped off at Fairy Mazilla's castle. The King would have definitely realized his mistake the moment they entered the brightly lit castle, but Turritella pulled her cloak tighter around herself and asked to speak to the Fairy alone. She quickly told her everything that had happened and how she managed to trick King Charming.
‘Oho! my daughter,’ said the Fairy, ‘I see we have no easy task before us. He loves Fiordelisa so much that he will not be easily pacified. I feel sure he will defy us!’ Meanwhile the King was waiting in a splendid room with diamond walls, so clear that he could see the Fairy and Turritella as they stood whispering together, and he was very much puzzled.
‘Oh, my daughter,’ said the Fairy, ‘I see we have a tough job ahead of us. He loves Fiordelisa so much that he won't be easily calmed down. I’m sure he’ll challenge us!’ Meanwhile, the King was waiting in a magnificent room with diamond walls, so clear that he could see the Fairy and Turritella as they stood whispering together, and he was very confused.
‘Who can have betrayed us?’ he said to himself. ‘How comes our enemy here? She must be plotting to prevent our marriage. Why doesn’t my lovely Fiordelisa make haste and come hack to me?’
‘Who could have betrayed us?’ he thought to himself. ‘How did our enemy get here? She must be trying to sabotage our wedding. Why isn’t my beautiful Fiordelisa hurrying back to me?’
But it was worse than anything he had imagined when the Fairy Mazilla entered, leading Turritella by the hand, and said to him—
But it was worse than anything he had imagined when Fairy Mazilla walked in, holding Turritella's hand, and said to him—
‘King Charming, here is the Princess Turritella to whom you have plighted your faith. Let us have the wedding at once.’
‘King Charming, here is Princess Turritella, to whom you have pledged your faith. Let’s have the wedding right away.’
‘I!’ cried the King. ‘I marry that little creature! What do you take me for? I have promised her nothing!’
‘I!’ shouted the King. ‘I’m supposed to marry that little creature! What do you think of me? I haven’t promised her anything!’
‘Say no more. Have you no respect for a Fairy?’ cried she angrily.
“Don’t say anything else. Do you have no respect for a Fairy?” she shouted angrily.
‘Yes, madam,’ answered the King, ‘I am prepared to respect you as much as a Fairy can be respected, if you will give me back my Princess.’
‘Yes, ma'am,’ replied the King, ‘I’m ready to honor you as much as a Fairy can be honored, if you will return my Princess.’
‘Am I not here?’ interrupted Turritella. ‘Here is the ring you gave me. With whom did you talk at the little window, if it was not with me?’
‘Am I not here?’ interrupted Turritella. ‘Here is the ring you gave me. With whom did you talk at the little window, if it wasn't with me?’
‘What!’ cried the King angrily, ‘have I been altogether deceived and deluded? Where is my chariot? Not another moment will I stay here.’
‘What!’ the King shouted angrily, ‘have I been completely tricked and fooled? Where is my chariot? I won't stay here another moment.’
‘Oho,’ said the Fairy, ‘not so fast.’ And she touched his feet, which instantly became as firmly fixed to the floor as if they had been nailed there.
‘Oh,’ said the Fairy, ‘not so quick.’ And she touched his feet, which immediately became as firmly stuck to the floor as if they had been nailed down.
‘Oh! do whatever you like with me,’ said the King; ‘you may turn me to stone, but I will marry no one but Fiordelisa.’
‘Oh! do whatever you want with me,’ said the King; ‘you can turn me to stone, but I will marry no one but Fiordelisa.’
And not another word would he say, though the Fairy scolded and threatened, and Turritella wept and raged for twenty days and twenty nights. At last the Fairy Mazilla said furiously (for she was quite tired out by his obstinacy), ‘Choose whether you will marry my goddaughter, or do penance seven years for breaking your word to her.’
And he wouldn’t say another word, even though the Fairy yelled and threatened, and Turritella cried and threw a fit for twenty days and nights. Finally, the Fairy Mazilla said angrily (because she was completely exhausted by his stubbornness), “Choose whether you want to marry my goddaughter, or serve a seven-year penance for breaking your promise to her.”
And then the King cried gaily: ‘Pray do whatever you like with me, as long as you deliver me from this ugly scold!’
And then the King said cheerfully, ‘Please do whatever you want with me, just get me away from this terrible nag!’
‘Scold!’ cried Turritella angrily. ‘Who are you, I should like to know, that you dare to call me a scold? A miserable King who breaks his word, and goes about in a chariot drawn by croaking frogs out of a marsh!’
‘Scold!’ shouted Turritella, furious. ‘Who do you think you are to call me a scold? A pathetic king who breaks his promises and rides around in a chariot pulled by croaking frogs from a swamp!’
‘Let us have no more of these insults,’ cried the Fairy. ‘Fly from that window, ungrateful King, and for seven years be a Blue Bird.’ As she spoke the King’s face altered, his arms turned to wings, his feet to little crooked black claws. In a moment he had a slender body like a bird, covered with shining blue feathers, his beak was like ivory, his eyes were bright as stars, and a crown of white feathers adorned his head.
‘Let’s stop with the insults,’ shouted the Fairy. ‘Jump out of that window, ungrateful King, and for seven years be a Blue Bird.’ As she spoke, the King’s face changed, his arms became wings, and his feet turned into small crooked black claws. In no time, he had a slender body like a bird, covered in shiny blue feathers, with a beak like ivory, eyes bright as stars, and a crown of white feathers on his head.
As soon as the transformation was complete the King uttered a dolorous cry and fled through the open window, pursued by the mocking laughter of Turritella and the Fairy Mazilla. He flew on until he reached the thickest part of the wood, and there, perched upon a cypress tree, he bewailed his miserable fate. ‘Alas! in seven years who knows what may happen to my darling Fiordelisa!’ he said. ‘Her cruel stepmother may have married her to someone else before I am myself again, and then what good will life be to me?’
As soon as the transformation was complete, the King let out a sorrowful cry and jumped through the open window, chased by the mocking laughter of Turritella and the Fairy Mazilla. He flew on until he reached the densest part of the woods, and there, perched on a cypress tree, he lamented his miserable fate. "Oh no! In seven years, who knows what might happen to my beloved Fiordelisa!" he said. "Her cruel stepmother might have married her off to someone else before I turn back into myself, and then what will life be like for me?"
In the meantime the Fairy Mazilla had sent Turritella back to the Queen, who was all anxiety to know how the wedding, had gone off. But when her daughter arrived and told her all that had happened she was terribly angry, and of course all her wrath fell upon Fiordelisa. ‘She shall have cause to repent that the King admires her,’ said the Queen, nodding her head meaningly, and then she and Turritella went up to the little room in the tower where the Princess was imprisoned. Fiordelisa was immensely surprised to see that Turritella was wearing a royal mantle and a diamond crown, and her heart sank when the Queen said: ‘My daughter is come to show you some of her wedding presents, for she is King Charming’s bride, and they are the happiest pair in the world, he loves her to distraction.’ All this time Turritella was spreading out lace, and jewels, and rich brocades, and ribbons before Fiordelisa’s unwilling eyes, and taking good care to display King Charming’s ring, which she wore upon her thumb. The Princess recognised it as soon as her eyes fell upon it, and after that she could no longer doubt that he had indeed married Turritella. In despair she cried, ‘Take away these miserable gauds! what pleasure has a wretched captive in the sight of them?’ and then she fell insensible upon the floor, and the cruel Queen laughed maliciously, and went away with Turritella, leaving her there without comfort or aid. That night the Queen said to the King, that his daughter was so infatuated with King Charming, in spite of his never having shown any preference for her, that it was just as well she should stay in the tower until she came to her senses. To which he answered that it was her affair, and she could give what orders she pleased about the Princess.
In the meantime, Fairy Mazilla had sent Turritella back to the Queen, who was anxious to know how the wedding had gone. But when her daughter arrived and told her everything that happened, she was furious, and of course, all her anger was directed at Fiordelisa. “She’ll regret that the King admires her,” said the Queen, nodding her head meaningfully. Then she and Turritella went up to the little room in the tower where the Princess was locked up. Fiordelisa was extremely surprised to see Turritella wearing a royal cloak and a diamond crown, and her heart sank when the Queen said, “My daughter has come to show you some of her wedding gifts because she is King Charming’s bride, and they are the happiest couple in the world; he adores her.” All this time, Turritella was spreading out lace, jewels, rich fabrics, and ribbons before Fiordelisa’s unwilling eyes, making sure to show off King Charming’s ring, which she wore on her thumb. The Princess recognized it as soon as she saw it, and after that, she could no longer doubt that he had indeed married Turritella. In despair, she cried, “Take away these miserable trinkets! What joy does a wretched captive find in seeing them?” Then she collapsed unconscious onto the floor, and the cruel Queen laughed maliciously and left with Turritella, abandoning her there without comfort or help. That night, the Queen told the King that his daughter was so infatuated with King Charming, despite him never showing any interest in her, that it was better for her to stay in the tower until she came to her senses. To which he replied that it was her issue, and she could give whatever orders she liked about the Princess.
When the unhappy Fiordelisa recovered, and remembered all she had just heard, she began to cry bitterly, believing that King Charming was lost to her for ever, and all night long she sat at her open window sighing and lamenting; but when it was dawn she crept away into the darkest corner of her little room and sat there, too unhappy to care about anything. As soon as night came again she once more leaned out into the darkness and bewailed her miserable lot.
When the sad Fiordelisa regained her senses and recalled everything she had just heard, she began to cry uncontrollably, convinced that King Charming was lost to her forever. All night long, she sat at her open window, sighing and mourning. But as dawn broke, she crawled into the darkest corner of her small room and sat there, too heartbroken to care about anything. As night fell again, she leaned out into the darkness once more and lamented her unfortunate situation.
Now it happened that King Charming, or rather the Blue Bird, had been flying round the palace in the hope of seeing his beloved Princess, but had not dared to go too near the windows for fear of being seen and recognised by Turritella. When night fell he had not succeeded in discovering where Fiordelisa was imprisoned, and, weary and sad, he perched upon a branch of a tall fir tree which grew close to the tower, and began to sing himself to sleep. But soon the sound of a soft voice lamenting attracted his attention, and listening intently he heard it say—
Now it just so happened that King Charming, or the Blue Bird, had been flying around the palace hoping to catch a glimpse of his beloved Princess, but he didn't dare get too close to the windows for fear of being spotted and recognized by Turritella. When night fell, he still hadn't figured out where Fiordelisa was trapped, and feeling tired and sad, he settled on a branch of a tall fir tree close to the tower and started singing himself to sleep. But soon, he heard the sound of a soft voice lamenting, and as he listened closely, he heard it say—
‘Ah! cruel Queen! what have I ever done to be imprisoned like this? And was I not unhappy enough before, that you must needs come and taunt me with the happiness your daughter is enjoying now she is King Charming’s bride?’
‘Ah! cruel Queen! what have I ever done to be locked up like this? And wasn’t I already unhappy before that you had to come and mock me with the happiness your daughter is experiencing now that she is King Charming’s bride?’
The Blue Bird, greatly surprised, waited impatiently for the dawn, and the moment it was light flew off to see who it could have been who spoke thus. But he found the window shut, and could see no one. The next night, however, he was on the watch, and by the clear moonlight he saw that the sorrowful lady at the window was Fiordelisa herself.
The Blue Bird, very surprised, waited anxiously for dawn, and the moment it was light, he flew off to see who had spoken like that. But he found the window shut and couldn't see anyone. However, the next night, he kept an eye out, and in the bright moonlight, he saw that the sorrowful lady at the window was Fiordelisa herself.
‘My Princess! have I found you at last?’ said he, alighting close to her.
‘My Princess! Have I finally found you?’ he said, landing close to her.
‘Who is speaking to me?’ cried the Princess in great surprise.
‘Who is talking to me?’ the Princess exclaimed in shock.
‘Only a moment since you mentioned my name, and now you do not know me, Fiordelisa,’ said he sadly. ‘But no wonder, since I am nothing but a Blue Bird, and must remain one for seven years.’
‘It was just a moment ago you said my name, and now you don’t recognize me, Fiordelisa,’ he said with sadness. ‘But I guess it makes sense since I’m just a Blue Bird, and I have to stay one for seven years.’
‘What! Little Blue Bird, are you really the powerful King Charming?’ said the Princess, caressing him.
‘What! Little Blue Bird, are you really the powerful King Charming?’ said the Princess, petting him.
‘It is too true,’ he answered. ‘For being faithful to you I am thus punished. But believe me, if it were for twice as long I would bear it joyfully rather than give you up.’
‘It’s too true,’ he replied. ‘For being loyal to you, I’m being punished like this. But believe me, even if it lasted twice as long, I would endure it gladly rather than give you up.’
‘Oh! what are you telling me?’ cried the Princess. ‘Has not your bride, Turritella, just visited me, wearing the royal mantle and the diamond crown you gave her? I cannot be mistaken, for I saw your ring upon her thumb.’
‘Oh! What are you saying?’ cried the Princess. ‘Didn’t your bride, Turritella, just come to see me, wearing the royal cloak and the diamond crown you gave her? I can’t be wrong, because I saw your ring on her thumb.’
Then the Blue Bird was furiously angry, and told the Princess all that had happened, how he had been deceived into carrying off Turritella, and how, for refusing to marry her, the Fairy Mazilla had condemned him to be a Blue Bird for seven years.
Then the Blue Bird was really angry and told the Princess everything that had happened, how he had been tricked into taking Turritella, and how, for refusing to marry her, the Fairy Mazilla had cursed him to be a Blue Bird for seven years.
The Princess was very happy when she heard how faithful her lover was, and would never have tired of hearing his loving speeches and explanations, but too soon the sun rose, and they had to part lest the Blue Bird should be discovered. After promising to come again to the Princess’s window as soon as it was dark, he flew away, and hid himself in a little hole in the fir-tree, while Fiordelisa remained devoured by anxiety lest he should be caught in a trap, or eaten up by an eagle.
The Princess was really happy when she learned how loyal her lover was, and she could have listened to his sweet words and explanations forever. But too soon the sun came up, and they had to say goodbye before the Blue Bird could be discovered. After he promised to return to the Princess’s window as soon as it got dark, he flew away and hid in a small nook of the fir tree, while Fiordelisa was overwhelmed with worry that he might get caught in a trap or be eaten by an eagle.
But the Blue Bird did not long stay in his hiding-place. He flew away, and away, until he came to his own palace, and got into it through a broken window, and there he found the cabinet where his jewels were kept, and chose out a splendid diamond ring as a present for the Princess. By the time he got back, Fiordelisa was sitting waiting for him by the open window, and when he gave her the ring, she scolded him gently for having run such a risk to get it for her.
But the Blue Bird didn't stay hidden for long. He flew away, until he reached his own palace and slipped inside through a broken window. There, he found the cabinet where his jewels were kept and picked out a beautiful diamond ring as a gift for the Princess. By the time he returned, Fiordelisa was sitting by the open window waiting for him, and when he gave her the ring, she gently scolded him for taking such a risk to get it for her.
‘Promise me that you will wear it always!’ said the Blue Bird. And the Princess promised on condition that he should come and see her in the day as well as by night. They talked all night long, and the next morning the Blue Bird flew off to his kingdom, and crept into his palace through the broken window, and chose from his treasures two bracelets, each cut out of a single emerald. When he presented them to the Princess, she shook her head at him reproachfully, saying—
‘Promise me that you’ll wear it always!’ said the Blue Bird. The Princess agreed, but only if he would come and see her during the day, not just at night. They talked all night long, and the next morning the Blue Bird flew back to his kingdom and sneaked into his palace through the broken window. He picked out two bracelets from his treasures, each made from a single emerald. When he gave them to the Princess, she shook her head at him disapprovingly, saying—
‘Do you think I love you so little that I need all these gifts to remind me of you?’
‘Do you think I love you so little that I need all these gifts to remember you?’
And he answered—
And he replied—
‘No, my Princess; but I love you so much that I feel I cannot express it, try as I may. I only bring you these worthless trifles to show that I have not ceased to think of you, though I have been obliged to leave you for a time.’ The following night he gave Fiordelisa a watch set in a single pearl. The Princess laughed a little when she saw it, and said—
‘No, my Princess; but I love you so much that I feel I can't express it, no matter how hard I try. I only bring you these little gifts to show that I haven't stopped thinking about you, even though I've had to leave you for a while.’ The next night he gave Fiordelisa a watch with a single pearl. The Princess laughed a little when she saw it and said—
‘You may well give me a watch, for since I have known you I have lost the power of measuring time. The hours you spend with me pass like minutes, and the hours that I drag through without you seem years to me.’
‘You might as well give me a watch, because ever since I met you, I've lost the ability to keep track of time. The hours we spend together feel like minutes, while the hours I spend without you drag on like years.’
‘Ah, Princess, they cannot seem so long to you as they do to me!’ he answered. Day by day he brought more beautiful things for the Princess—diamonds, and rubies, and opals; and at night she decked herself with them to please him, but by day she hid them in her straw mattress. When the sun shone the Blue Bird, hidden in the tall fir-tree, sang to her so sweetly that all the passersby wondered, and said that the wood was inhabited by a spirit. And so two years slipped away, and still the Princess was a prisoner, and Turritella was not married. The Queen had offered her hand to all the neighbouring Princes, but they always answered that they would marry Fiordelisa with pleasure, but not Turritella on any account. This displeased the Queen terribly. ‘Fiordelisa must be in league with them, to annoy me!’ she said. ‘Let us go and accuse her of it.’
‘Oh, Princess, time doesn’t seem to drag for you like it does for me!’ he replied. Day after day, he brought more beautiful gifts for the Princess—diamonds, rubies, and opals; at night, she adorned herself with them to make him happy, but during the day she hid them in her straw mattress. When the sun was out, the Blue Bird, hidden in the tall fir tree, sang to her so sweetly that everyone passing by was amazed and said the woods were home to a spirit. And so two years went by, and the Princess was still a prisoner, and Turritella was not married. The Queen had proposed to all the neighboring Princes, but they all said they would happily marry Fiordelisa, but had no intention of marrying Turritella. This greatly upset the Queen. ‘Fiordelisa must be in cahoots with them to frustrate me!’ she said. ‘Let’s go and confront her about it.’
So she and Turritella went up into the tower. Now it happened that it was nearly midnight, and Fiordelisa, all decked with jewels, was sitting at the window with the Blue Bird, and as the Queen paused outside the door to listen she heard the Princess and her lover singing together a little song he had just taught her. These were the words:—
So she and Turritella went up into the tower. It just so happened that it was almost midnight, and Fiordelisa, all adorned with jewels, was sitting by the window with the Blue Bird. As the Queen paused outside the door to listen, she heard the Princess and her lover singing a little song he had just taught her. These were the words:—
‘Oh! what a luckless pair are we, One in a prison, and one in a tree. All our trouble and anguish came From our faithfulness spoiling our enemies’ game. But vainly they practice their cruel arts, For nought can sever our two fond hearts.’
‘Oh! what an unlucky pair we are, One in a prison, and one in a tree. All our trouble and pain came From our loyalty ruining our enemies’ plans. But in vain they use their cruel tricks, For nothing can tear apart our two loving hearts.’
They sound melancholy perhaps, but the two voices sang them gaily enough, and the Queen burst open the door, crying, ‘Ah! my Turritella, there is some treachery going on here!’
They might sound sad, but the two voices sang them cheerfully enough, and the Queen flung open the door, exclaiming, ‘Ah! my Turritella, there is some trickery happening here!’
As soon as she saw her, Fiordelisa, with great presence of mind, hastily shut her little window, that the Blue Bird might have time to escape, and then turned to meet the Queen, who overwhelmed her with a torrent of reproaches.
As soon as she saw her, Fiordelisa, thinking quickly, quickly closed her little window so the Blue Bird could escape, and then turned to face the Queen, who bombarded her with a flood of accusations.
‘Your intrigues are discovered, Madam,’ she said furiously; ‘and you need not hope that your high rank will save you from the punishment you deserve.’
‘Your schemes have been uncovered, Madam,’ she said angrily; ‘and you shouldn’t expect that your high status will protect you from the consequences you deserve.’
‘And with whom do you accuse me of intriguing, Madam?’ said the Princess. ‘Have I not been your prisoner these two years, and who have I seen except the gaolers sent by you?’
‘And who are you accusing me of conspiring with, Madam?’ said the Princess. ‘Haven’t I been your prisoner for the last two years, and who have I seen besides the guards you sent?’
While she spoke the Queen and Turritella were looking at her in the greatest surprise, perfectly dazzled by her beauty and the splendour of her jewels, and the Queen said:
While she spoke, the Queen and Turritella stared at her in astonishment, completely dazzled by her beauty and the brilliance of her jewels, and the Queen said:
‘If one may ask, Madam, where did you get all these diamonds? Perhaps you mean to tell me that you have discovered a mine of them in the tower!’
‘If I may ask, ma'am, where did you get all these diamonds? Are you trying to say that you've found a mine of them in the tower!’
‘I certainly did find them here,’ answered the Princess.
'I definitely found them here,' replied the Princess.
‘And pray,’ said the Queen, her wrath increasing every moment, ‘for whose admiration are you decked out like this, since I have often seen you not half as fine on the most important occasions at Court?’
‘And tell me,’ said the Queen, her anger growing with each passing moment, ‘who are you trying to impress with this outfit, when I’ve often seen you looking nowhere near as nice on the most important occasions at Court?’
‘For my own,’ answered Fiordelisa. ‘You must admit that I have had plenty of time on my hands, so you cannot be surprised at my spending some of it in making myself smart.’
‘For myself,’ answered Fiordelisa. ‘You have to admit that I’ve had a lot of time on my hands, so you can’t be surprised that I’m using some of it to make myself look good.’
‘That’s all very fine,’ said the Queen suspiciously. ‘I think I will look about, and see for myself.’
‘That sounds nice,’ said the Queen, suspicious. ‘I think I’ll take a look around and see for myself.’
So she and Turritella began to search every corner of the little room, and when they came to the straw mattress out fell such a quantity of pearls, diamonds, rubies, opals, emeralds, and sapphires, that they were amazed, and could not tell what to think. But the Queen resolved to hide somewhere a packet of false letters to prove that the Princess had been conspiring with the King’s enemies, and she chose the chimney as a good place. Fortunately for Fiordelisa this was exactly where the Blue Bird had perched himself, to keep an eye upon her proceedings, and try to avert danger from his beloved Princess, and now he cried:
So she and Turritella started searching every corner of the small room, and when they got to the straw mattress, a huge quantity of pearls, diamonds, rubies, opals, emeralds, and sapphires spilled out, leaving them astonished and unsure of what to think. But the Queen decided to hide a packet of fake letters somewhere to make it look like the Princess had been conspiring with the King’s enemies, and she picked the chimney as a good spot. Luckily for Fiordelisa, this was exactly where the Blue Bird had settled himself to keep an eye on her actions and try to protect his beloved Princess, and now he called out:
‘Beware, Fiordelisa! Your false enemy is plotting against you.’
‘Watch out, Fiordelisa! Your pretend enemy is scheming against you.’
This strange voice so frightened the Queen that she took the letter and went away hastily with Turritella, and they held a council to try and devise some means of finding out what Fairy or Enchanter was favouring the Princess. At last they sent one of the Queen’s maids to wait upon Fiordelisa, and told her to pretend to be quite stupid, and to see and hear nothing, while she was really to watch the Princess day and night, and keep the Queen informed of all her doings.
This strange voice scared the Queen so much that she quickly grabbed the letter and left with Turritella. They held a meeting to figure out what fairy or enchanter was helping the Princess. In the end, they sent one of the Queen’s maids to visit Fiordelisa, instructing her to act completely clueless and to see and hear nothing, while she secretly kept an eye on the Princess around the clock and reported back to the Queen about everything she did.
Poor Fiordelisa, who guessed she was sent as a spy, was in despair, and cried bitterly that she dared not see her dear Blue Bird for fear that some evil might happen to him if he were discovered.
Poor Fiordelisa, who suspected she was sent as a spy, was in despair and cried bitterly that she couldn’t bear to see her dear Blue Bird for fear something bad might happen to him if he was found out.
The days were so long, and the nights so dull, but for a whole month she never went near her little window lest he should fly to her as he used to do.
The days felt endless, and the nights were so boring, but for an entire month, she stayed away from her little window to avoid him coming to her like he used to.
However, at last the spy, who had never taken her eyes off the Princess day or night, was so overcome with weariness that she fell into a deep sleep, and as son as the Princess saw that, she flew to open her window and cried softly:
However, eventually the spy, who had kept her eyes on the Princess day and night, was so exhausted that she fell into a deep sleep, and as soon as the Princess saw that, she rushed to open her window and softly called out:
‘Blue Bird, blue as the sky, Fly to me now, there’s nobody by.’
‘Blue Bird, blue like the sky, Fly to me now, there’s nobody around.’
And the Blue Bird, who had never ceased to flutter round within sight and hearing of her prison, came in an instant. They had so much to say, and were so overjoyed to meet once more, that it scarcely seemed to them five minutes before the sun rose, and the Blue Bird had to fly away.
And the Blue Bird, who had never stopped flitting around within sight and sound of her prison, arrived in an instant. They had so much to discuss, and were so thrilled to reunite that it hardly felt like five minutes before the sun rose, and the Blue Bird had to take off.
But the next night the spy slept as soundly as before, so that the Blue Bird came, and he and the Princess began to think they were perfectly safe, and to make all sorts of plans for being happy as they were before the Queen’s visit. But, alas! the third night the spy was not quite so sleepy, and when the Princess opened her window and cried as usual:
But the next night, the spy slept just as soundly as before, so the Blue Bird came, and he and the Princess started to think they were completely safe and began making all kinds of plans to be happy like they were before the Queen’s visit. But, unfortunately! The third night, the spy wasn’t quite as sleepy, and when the Princess opened her window and called out as usual:
‘Blue Bird, blue as the sky, Fly to me now, there’s nobody nigh,’
'Blue Bird, blue like the sky, Fly to me now, there’s no one nearby,'
she was wide awake in a moment, though she was sly enough to keep her eyes shut at first. But presently she heard voices, and peeping cautiously, she saw by the moonlight the most lovely blue bird in the world, who was talking to the Princess, while she stroked and caressed it fondly.
she was instantly wide awake, though she cleverly kept her eyes shut at first. But soon she heard voices, and when she peeked cautiously, she saw by the moonlight the most beautiful blue bird in the world, who was chatting with the Princess as she lovingly stroked and petted it.
The spy did not lose a single word of the conversation, and as soon as the day dawned, and the Blue Bird had reluctantly said good-bye to the Princess, she rushed off to the Queen, and told her all she had seen and heard.
The spy didn’t miss a single word of the conversation, and as soon as morning came and the Blue Bird had reluctantly said goodbye to the Princess, she hurried off to the Queen and told her everything she had seen and heard.
Then the Queen sent for Turritella, and they talked it over, and very soon came to the conclusion than this Blue Bird was no other than King Charming himself.
Then the Queen called for Turritella, and they discussed it, and very quickly came to the conclusion that this Blue Bird was none other than King Charming himself.
‘Ah! that insolent Princess!’ cried the Queen. ‘To think that when we supposed her to be so miserable, she was all the while as happy as possible with that false King. But I know how we can avenge ourselves!’
‘Ah! that arrogant Princess!’ exclaimed the Queen. ‘To think that when we believed she was so unhappy, she was actually as happy as could be with that deceitful King. But I know how we can get our revenge!’
So the spy was ordered to go back and pretend to sleep as soundly as ever, and indeed she went to bed earlier than usual, and snored as naturally as possible, and the poor Princess ran to the window and cried:
So the spy was told to go back and act like she was sleeping as deeply as ever, and she actually went to bed earlier than usual, snoring as naturally as possible, while the poor Princess rushed to the window and cried:
‘Blue Bird, blue as the sky, Fly to me now, there’s nobody by!’
’Blue Bird, blue like the sky, Fly to me now, there’s no one nearby!’
But no bird came. All night long she called, and waited, and listened, but still there was no answer, for the cruel Queen had caused the fir tree to be hung all over with knives, swords, razors, shears, bill-hooks, and sickles, so that when the Blue Bird heard the Princess call, and flew towards her, his wings were cut, and his little black feet clipped off, and all pierced and stabbed in twenty places, he fell back bleeding into his hiding place in the tree, and lay there groaning and despairing, for he thought the Princess must have been persuaded to betray him, to regain her liberty.
But no bird showed up. All night she called, waited, and listened, but there was still no answer, because the cruel Queen had covered the fir tree with knives, swords, razors, shears, billhooks, and sickles. So when the Blue Bird heard the Princess call and flew toward her, his wings got cut, and his little black feet were clipped off. Pierced and stabbed in twenty places, he fell back, bleeding into his hiding place in the tree, groaning and in despair, thinking the Princess must have been convinced to betray him to regain her freedom.
‘Ah! Fiordelisa, can you indeed be so lovely and so faithless?’ he sighed, ‘then I may as well die at once!’ And he turned over on his side and began to die. But it happened that his friend the Enchanter had been very much alarmed at seeing the Frog chariot come back to him without King Charming, and had been round the world eight times seeking him, but without success. At the very moment when the King gave himself up to despair, he was passing through the wood for the eighth time, and called, as he had done all over the world:
‘Ah! Fiordelisa, can you really be so beautiful and so unfaithful?’ he sighed, ‘then I might as well just die right now!’ And he turned onto his side and began to give up. But it turned out that his friend the Enchanter was very worried when he saw the Frog chariot return without King Charming, and he had traveled around the world eight times trying to find him, but had no luck. At the exact moment when the King succumbed to despair, the Enchanter was passing through the woods for the eighth time and called out, just as he had done everywhere else in the world:
‘Charming! King Charming! Are you here?’
‘Charming! King Charming! Are you around?’
The King at once recognised his friend’s voice, and answered very faintly:
The King immediately recognized his friend's voice and replied very softly:
‘I am here.’
"I'm here."
The Enchanter looked all round him, but could see nothing, and then the King said again:
The Enchanter glanced around him, but saw nothing, and then the King spoke again:
‘I am a Blue Bird.’
"I’m a Blue Bird."
Then the Enchanter found him in an instant, and seeing his pitiable condition, ran hither and thither without a word, until he had collected a handful of magic herbs, with which, and a few incantations, he speedily made the King whole and sound again.
Then the Enchanter found him right away, and seeing his terrible condition, rushed around without saying a word until he gathered a handful of magic herbs. With those and a few spells, he quickly made the King whole and healthy again.
‘Now,’ said he, ‘let me hear all about it. There must be a Princess at the bottom of this.’
‘Now,’ he said, ‘I want to hear everything about it. There has to be a Princess involved in this.’
‘There are two!’ answered King Charming, with a wry smile.
‘There are two!’ replied King Charming, with a crooked smile.
And then he told the whole story, accusing Fiordelisa of having betrayed the secret of his visits to make her peace with the Queen, and indeed saying a great many hard things about her fickleness and her deceitful beauty, and so on. The Enchanter quite agreed with him, and even went further, declaring that all Princesses were alike, except perhaps in the matter of beauty, and advised him to have done with Fiordelisa, and forget all about her. But, somehow or other, this advice did not quite please the King.
And then he shared the entire story, accusing Fiordelisa of betraying the secret of his visits to win favor with the Queen, and he expressed a lot of harsh opinions about her unpredictability and her deceitful beauty, among other things. The Enchanter completely agreed with him and even went further, claiming that all Princesses were the same, except maybe when it came to looks, and advised him to move on from Fiordelisa and forget about her. However, for some reason, this advice didn’t sit well with the King.
‘What is to be done next?’ said the Enchanter, ‘since you still have five years to remain a Blue Bird.’
‘What should we do next?’ asked the Enchanter, ‘since you still have five years left as a Blue Bird.’
‘Take me to your palace,’ answered the King; ‘there you can at least keep me in a cage safe from cats and swords.’
‘Take me to your palace,’ replied the King; ‘there you can at least keep me in a cage, safe from cats and swords.’
‘Well, that will be the best thing to do for the present,’ said his friend. ‘But I am not an Enchanter for nothing. I’m sure to have a brilliant idea for you before long.’
‘Well, that’s the best thing to do for now,’ said his friend. ‘But I’m not an Enchanter for nothing. I’ll definitely come up with a great idea for you soon.’
In the meantime Fiordelisa, quite in despair, sat at her window day and night calling her dear Blue Bird in vain, and imagining over and over again all the terrible things that could have happened to him, until she grew quite pale and thin. As for the Queen and Turritella, they were triumphant; but their triumph was short, for the King, Fiordelisa’s father, fell ill and died, and all the people rebelled against the Queen and Turritella, and came in a body to the palace demanding Fiordelisa.
In the meantime, Fiordelisa, utterly heartbroken, sat by her window day and night, calling for her beloved Blue Bird in vain, and repeatedly imagining all the terrible things that could have happened to him, until she became pale and thin. As for the Queen and Turritella, they were celebrating, but their victory was short-lived, as the King, Fiordelisa’s father, fell ill and died. The people turned against the Queen and Turritella, gathering at the palace to demand Fiordelisa's return.
The Queen came out upon the balcony with threats and haughty words, so that at last they lost their patience, and broke open the doors of the palace, one of which fell back upon the Queen and killed her. Turritella fled to the Fairy Mazilla, and all the nobles of the kingdom fetched the Princess Fiordelisa from her prison in the tower, and made her Queen. Very soon, with all the care and attention they bestowed upon her, she recovered from the effects of her long captivity and looked more beautiful than ever, and was able to take counsel with her courtiers, and arrange for the governing of her kingdom during her absence. And then, taking a bagful of jewels, she set out all alone to look for the Blue Bird, without telling anyone where she was going.
The Queen stepped out onto the balcony with threats and arrogant words, which finally made the crowd lose their patience. They broke open the palace doors, and one of them fell back on the Queen, killing her. Turritella ran to Fairy Mazilla, and all the nobles of the kingdom rescued Princess Fiordelisa from her tower prison and made her Queen. Soon, with all the care and attention they gave her, she recovered from her long captivity and looked more beautiful than ever. She was able to consult with her courtiers and plan for governing her kingdom during her absence. Then, taking a bag of jewels, she set out alone to find the Blue Bird without telling anyone where she was going.
Meanwhile, the Enchanter was taking care of King Charming, but as his power was not great enough to counteract the Fairy Mazilla’s, he at last resolved to go and see if he could make any kind of terms with her for his friend; for you see, Fairies and Enchanters are cousins in a sort of way, after all; and after knowing one another for five or six hundred years and falling out, and making it up again pretty often, they understand one another well enough. So the Fairy Mazilla received him graciously. ‘And what may you be wanting, Gossip?’ said she.
Meanwhile, the Enchanter was looking after King Charming, but since his power wasn't strong enough to combat Fairy Mazilla’s, he finally decided to see if he could negotiate some terms with her for his friend. You see, Fairies and Enchanters are kind of like distant relatives, and after knowing each other for five or six hundred years, having disagreements, and making up regularly, they really understand each other quite well. So, Fairy Mazilla welcomed him warmly. “And what brings you here, Gossip?” she asked.
‘You can do a good turn for me if you will;’ he answered. ‘A King, who is a friend of mine, was unlucky enough to offend you—’
‘You can do me a favor if you want;’ he replied. ‘A King, who’s a friend of mine, was unfortunate enough to upset you—’
‘Aha! I know who you mean,’ interrupted the Fairy. ‘I am sorry not to oblige you, Gossip, but he need expect no mercy from me unless he will marry my goddaughter, whom you see yonder looking so pretty and charming. Let him think over what I say.’
‘Aha! I know who you’re talking about,’ interrupted the Fairy. ‘I’m sorry to disappoint you, Gossip, but he shouldn’t expect any kindness from me unless he marries my goddaughter, who you see over there looking so lovely and charming. Let him think about what I said.’
The Enchanter hadn’t a word to say, for he thought Turritella really frightful, but he could not go away without making one more effort for his friend the King, who was really in great danger as long as he lived in a cage. Indeed, already he had met with several alarming accidents. Once the nail on which his cage was hung had given way, and his feathered Majesty had suffered much from the fall, while Madam Puss, who happened to be in the room at the time, had given him a scratch in the eye which came very near blinding him. Another time they had forgotten to give him any water to drink, so that he was nearly dead with thirst; and the worst thing of all was that he was in danger of losing his kingdom, for he had been absent so long that all his subjects believed him to be dead. So considering all these things the Enchanter agreed with the Fairy Mazilla that she should restore the King to his natural form, and should take Turritella to stay in his palace for several months, and if, after the time was over he still could not make up his mind to marry her, he should once more be changed into a Blue Bird.
The Enchanter didn’t have anything to say, as he found Turritella truly terrifying, but he couldn’t leave without making one last effort for his friend the King, who was really in serious danger living in a cage. In fact, he had already faced several frightening incidents. Once, the nail that held his cage had come loose, and his feathered Majesty had suffered a lot from the fall, while Madam Puss, who happened to be in the room at the time, had scratched him in the eye, almost blinding him. Another time, they forgot to give him any water, and he nearly died of thirst; and the worst part was that he was at risk of losing his kingdom because he had been gone so long that all his subjects thought he was dead. So, considering all these things, the Enchanter agreed with Fairy Mazilla that she should return the King to his natural form and take Turritella to stay in his palace for several months, and if after that time he still couldn’t decide to marry her, he would once again be turned into a Blue Bird.
Then the Fairy dressed Turritella in a magnificent gold and silver robe, and they mounted together upon a flying Dragon, and very soon reached King Charming’s palace, where he, too, had just been brought by his faithful friend the Enchanter.
Then the Fairy dressed Turritella in a stunning gold and silver robe, and they climbed onto a flying Dragon, quickly arriving at King Charming’s palace, where he had just been brought by his loyal friend the Enchanter.
Three strokes of the Fairy’s wand restored his natural form, and he was as handsome and delightful as ever, but he considered that he paid dearly for his restoration when he caught sight of Turritella, and the mere idea of marrying her made him shudder.
Three swipes of the Fairy’s wand brought him back to his original form, and he was just as handsome and charming as before, but he felt he paid a heavy price for his restoration when he saw Turritella, and the thought of marrying her made him cringe.
Meanwhile, Queen Fiordelisa, disguised as a poor peasant girl, wearing a great straw hat that concealed her face, and carrying an old sack over her shoulder, had set out upon her weary journey, and had travelled far, sometimes by sea and sometimes by land; sometimes on foot, and sometimes on horseback, but not knowing which way to go. She feared all the time that every step she took was leading her farther from her lover. One day as she sat, quite tired and sad, on the bank of a little brook, cooling her white feet in the clear running water, and combing her long hair that glittered like gold in the sunshine, a little bent old woman passed by, leaning on a stick. She stopped, and said to Fiordelisa:
Meanwhile, Queen Fiordelisa, disguised as a poor peasant girl with a big straw hat hiding her face and an old sack slung over her shoulder, had begun her long journey. She had traveled far, sometimes by sea and sometimes by land; sometimes on foot, sometimes on horseback, but she had no idea which direction to take. She constantly worried that with every step she took, she was moving farther away from her lover. One day, as she sat, tired and sad, on the bank of a small stream, cooling her pale feet in the clear water and combing her long hair that shone like gold in the sunlight, a hunched old woman walked by, leaning on a stick. She stopped and said to Fiordelisa:
‘What, my pretty child, are you all alone?’
‘What, my lovely child, are you all by yourself?’
‘Indeed, good mother, I am too sad to care for company,’ she answered; and the tears ran down her cheeks.
‘Honestly, Mom, I’m too sad to want company,’ she replied; and the tears rolled down her cheeks.
‘Don’t cry,’ said the old woman, ‘but tell me truly what is the matter. Perhaps I can help you.’
‘Don’t cry,’ said the old woman, ‘but tell me honestly what’s wrong. Maybe I can help you.’
The Queen told her willingly all that had happened, and how she was seeking the Blue Bird. Thereupon the little old woman suddenly stood up straight, and grew tall, and young, and beautiful, and said with a smile to the astonished Fiordelisa:
The Queen gladly shared everything that had happened and how she was searching for the Blue Bird. Then, the little old woman suddenly straightened up, became tall, young, and beautiful, and said with a smile to the surprised Fiordelisa:
‘Lovely Queen, the King whom you seek is no longer a bird. My sister Mazilla has given his own form back to him, and he is in his own kingdom. Do not be afraid, you will reach him, and will prosper. Take these four eggs; if you break one when you are in any great difficulty, you will find aid.’
‘Lovely Queen, the King you're looking for is no longer a bird. My sister Mazilla has returned his true form to him, and he is in his own kingdom. Don’t worry, you will find him and be successful. Take these four eggs; if you break one when you’re in serious trouble, you will receive help.’
So saying, she disappeared, and Fiordelisa, feeling much encouraged, put the eggs into her bag and turned her steps towards Charming’s kingdom. After walking on and on for eight days and eight nights, she came at last to a tremendously high hill of polished ivory, so steep that it was impossible to get a foothold upon it. Fiordelisa tried a thousand times, and scrambled and slipped, but always in the end found herself exactly where she started from. At last she sat down at the foot of it in despair, and then suddenly bethought herself of the eggs. Breaking one quickly, she found in it some little gold hooks, and with these fastened to her feet and hands, she mounted the ivory hill without further trouble, for the little hooks saved her from slipping. As soon as she reached the top a new difficulty presented itself, for all the other side, and indeed the whole valley, was one polished mirror, in which thousands and thousands of people were admiring their reflections. For this was a magic mirror, in which people saw themselves just as they wished to appear, and pilgrims came to it from the four corners of the world. But nobody had ever been able to reach the top of the hill, and when they saw Fiordelisa standing there, they raised a terrible outcry, declaring that if she set foot upon their glass she would break it to pieces. The Queen, not knowing what to do, for she saw it would be dangerous to try to go down, broke the second egg, and out came a chariot, drawn by two white doves, and Fiordelisa got into it, and was floated softly away. After a night and a day the doves alighted outside the gate of King Charming’s kingdom. Here the Queen got out of the chariot, and kissed the doves and thanked them, and then with a beating heart she walked into the town, asking the people she met where she could see the King. But they only laughed at her, crying:
So saying, she vanished, and Fiordelisa, feeling much more hopeful, put the eggs into her bag and headed toward Charming’s kingdom. After walking on for eight days and nights, she finally arrived at a huge hill made of polished ivory, so steep that it was impossible to get a grip on it. Fiordelisa tried countless times, scrambling and slipping, but always ended up right back where she began. Eventually, she sat down at the base in despair and suddenly remembered the eggs. Breaking one quickly, she found some tiny gold hooks inside, and using them on her feet and hands, she climbed the ivory hill without any more trouble, as the little hooks prevented her from slipping. Once she reached the top, a new challenge appeared—the entire other side and the entire valley was one giant polished mirror, where thousands of people were admiring their reflections. This was a magic mirror, where people saw themselves exactly how they wished to appear, and pilgrims came from all over the world to see it. But nobody had ever managed to reach the top of the hill, and when they saw Fiordelisa standing there, they raised a loud outcry, insisting that if she stepped on their glass, she would shatter it into pieces. The Queen, unsure of what to do since going down seemed dangerous, broke the second egg, and out came a chariot pulled by two white doves. Fiordelisa got in and was gently carried away. After traveling for a night and a day, the doves landed outside the gate of King Charming’s kingdom. Here, the Queen stepped out of the chariot, kissed the doves and thanked them, and then, with a pounding heart, walked into the town, asking everyone she met where she could find the King. But they just laughed at her, shouting:
‘See the King? And pray, why do you want to see the King, my little kitchen-maid? You had better go and wash your face first, your eyes are not clear enough to see him!’ For the Queen had disguised herself, and pulled her hair down about her eyes, that no one might know her. As they would not tell her, she went on farther, and presently asked again, and this time the people answered that to-morrow she might see the King driving through the streets with the Princess Turritella, as it was said that at last he had consented to marry her. This was indeed terrible news to Fiordelisa. Had she come all this weary way only to find Turritella had succeeded in making King Charming forget her?
‘See the King? And why do you want to see the King, my little kitchen maid? You should really wash your face first; your eyes aren’t clear enough to see him!’ For the Queen had disguised herself and let her hair fall over her eyes so no one would recognize her. When they refused to tell her anything, she continued on and soon asked again. This time, the people informed her that tomorrow she would see the King driving through the streets with Princess Turritella, as it was rumored he had finally agreed to marry her. This was truly terrible news for Fiordelisa. Had she traveled all this way only to discover that Turritella had managed to make King Charming forget her?
She was too tired and miserable to walk another step, so she sat down in a doorway and cried bitterly all night long. As soon as it was light she hastened to the palace, and after being sent away fifty times by the guards, she got in at last, and saw the thrones set in the great hall for the King and Turritella, who was already looked upon as Queen.
She was too exhausted and upset to take another step, so she sat down in a doorway and cried hard all night long. As soon as it was light, she rushed to the palace, and after being turned away fifty times by the guards, she finally got in and saw the thrones set up in the great hall for the King and Turritella, who was already seen as the Queen.
Fiordelisa hid herself behind a marble pillar, and very soon saw Turritella make her appearance, richly dressed, but as ugly as ever, and with her came the King, more handsome and splendid even than Fiordelisa had remembered him. When Turritella had seated herself upon the throne, the Queen approached her.
Fiordelisa hid behind a marble pillar and soon saw Turritella show up, dressed beautifully but as ugly as ever. Along with her came the King, even more handsome and impressive than Fiordelisa remembered. After Turritella sat on the throne, the Queen moved closer to her.
‘Who are you, and how dare you come near my high-mightiness, upon my golden throne?’ said Turritella, frowning fiercely at her.
‘Who are you, and how dare you come close to my greatness, sitting on my golden throne?’ said Turritella, glaring at her fiercely.
‘They call me the little kitchen-maid,’ she replied, ‘and I come to offer some precious things for sale,’ and with that she searched in her old sack, and drew out the emerald bracelets King Charming had given her.
‘They call me the little kitchen-maid,’ she replied, ‘and I’ve come to offer some valuable things for sale,’ and with that she searched in her old sack and pulled out the emerald bracelets that King Charming had given her.
‘Ho, ho!’ said Turritella, those are pretty bits of glass. I suppose you would like five silver pieces for them.’
‘Hey, hey!’ said Turritella, those are nice pieces of glass. I guess you want five silver coins for them.’
‘Show them to someone who understands such things, Madam,’ answered the Queen; ‘after that we can decide upon the price.’
‘Show them to someone who knows about this stuff, ma'am,’ replied the Queen; ‘after that, we can figure out the price.’
Turritella, who really loved King Charming as much as she could love anybody, and was always delighted to get a chance of talking to him, now showed him the bracelets, asking how much he considered them worth. As soon as he saw them he remembered those he had given to Fiordelisa, and turned very pale and sighed deeply, and fell into such sad thought that he quite forgot to answer her. Presently she asked him again, and then he said, with a great effort:
Turritella, who truly loved King Charming as much as she could love anyone, and always felt excited to have the chance to talk to him, now showed him the bracelets, asking how much he thought they were worth. The moment he saw them, he remembered the ones he had given to Fiordelisa, and he turned pale and sighed deeply, falling into such a sad thought that he completely forgot to respond. After a while, she asked him again, and then he said, with a great effort:
‘I believe these bracelets are worth as much as my kingdom. I thought there was only one such pair in the world; but here, it seems, is another.’
‘I believe these bracelets are worth as much as my kingdom. I thought there was only one pair like this in the world; but here, it seems, is another.’
Then Turritella went back to the Queen, and asked her what was the lowest price she would take for them.
Then Turritella went back to the Queen and asked her what the lowest price she would accept for them was.
‘More than you would find it easy to pay, Madam,’ answered she; ‘but if you will manage for me to sleep one night in the Chamber of Echoes, I will give you the emeralds.’
‘More than you’d find it easy to pay, ma'am,’ she replied; ‘but if you can arrange for me to spend one night in the Chamber of Echoes, I’ll give you the emeralds.’
‘By all means, my little kitchen-maid,’ said Turritella, highly delighted.
“Of course, my little kitchen helper,” said Turritella, very pleased.
The King did not try to find out where the bracelets had come from, not because he did not want to know, but because the only way would have been to ask Turritella, and he disliked her so much that he never spoke to her if he could possibly avoid it. It was he who had told Fiordelisa about the Chamber of Echoes, when he was a Blue Bird. It was a little room below the King’s own bed-chamber, and was so ingeniously built that the softest whisper in it was plainly heard in the King’s room. Fiordelisa wanted to reproach him for his faithlessness, and could not imagine a better way than this. So when, by Turritella’s orders, she was left there she began to weep and lament, and never ceased until daybreak.
The King didn’t try to find out where the bracelets came from, not because he didn’t want to know, but because the only way to find out was to ask Turritella, and he disliked her so much that he avoided talking to her whenever possible. He was the one who had told Fiordelisa about the Chamber of Echoes when he was a Blue Bird. It was a small room below the King’s bedroom, designed so cleverly that even the softest whisper in it could be clearly heard in the King’s room. Fiordelisa wanted to confront him about his unfaithfulness, and couldn’t think of a better way than this. So, when she was left there by Turritella’s orders, she began to cry and mourn, and didn’t stop until dawn.
The King’s pages told Turritella, when she asked them, what a sobbing and sighing they had heard, and she asked Fiordelisa what it was all about. The Queen answered that she often dreamed and talked aloud.
The King's pages told Turritella, when she asked them, about the sobbing and sighing they heard, and she asked Fiordelisa what it was all about. The Queen replied that she often dreamed and talked in her sleep.
But by an unlucky chance the King heard nothing of all this, for he took a sleeping draught every night before he lay down, and did not wake up until the sun was high.
But by an unfortunate turn of events, the King heard none of this, as he took a sleeping potion every night before going to bed and didn’t wake up until the sun was high.
The Queen passed the day in great disquietude.
The Queen spent the day in a state of great unease.
‘If he did hear me,’ she said, ‘could he remain so cruelly indifferent? But if he did not hear me, what can I do to get another chance? I have plenty of jewels, it is true, but nothing remarkable enough to catch Turritella’s fancy.’
‘If he heard me,’ she said, ‘could he really be so cruelly indifferent? But if he didn’t hear me, what can I do to get another chance? I have plenty of jewels, it’s true, but nothing special enough to catch Turritella’s attention.’
Just then she thought of the eggs, and broke one, out of which came a little carriage of polished steel ornamented with gold, drawn by six green mice. The coachman was a rose-coloured rat, the postilion a grey one, and the carriage was occupied by the tiniest and most charming figures, who could dance and do wonderful tricks. Fiordelisa clapped her hands and danced for joy when she saw this triumph of magic art, and as soon as it was evening, went to a shady garden-path down which she knew Turritella would pass, and then she made the mice galop, and the tiny people show off their tricks, and sure enough Turritella came, and the moment she saw it all cried:
Just then, she remembered the eggs and cracked one open, revealing a little carriage made of shiny steel decorated with gold, pulled by six green mice. The coachman was a pink rat, the postilion was gray, and inside the carriage were the tiniest and most charming figures who could dance and perform amazing tricks. Fiordelisa clapped her hands and danced with joy when she saw this magical spectacle, and as soon as evening came, she headed to a shady garden path where she knew Turritella would stroll by. She made the mice gallop and the tiny figures show off their tricks, and sure enough, Turritella arrived, and the moment she saw everything, she exclaimed:
‘Little kitchen-maid, little kitchen-maid, what will you take for your mouse-carriage?’
‘Hey little kitchen-maid, what do you want for your mouse-carriage?’
And the Queen answered:
And the Queen replied:
‘Let me sleep once more in the Chamber of Echoes.’
‘Let me sleep one more time in the Chamber of Echoes.’
‘I won’t refuse your request, poor creature,’ said Turritella condescendingly.
‘I won’t turn down your request, poor thing,’ said Turritella condescendingly.
And then she turned to her ladies and whispered
And then she turned to her friends and whispered
‘The silly creature does not know how to profit by her chances; so much the better for me.’
‘The silly creature doesn’t know how to take advantage of her opportunities; that’s better for me.’
When night came Fiordelisa said all the loving words she could think of, but alas! with no better success than before, for the King slept heavily after his draught. One of the pages said:
When night fell, Fiordelisa whispered every sweet thing she could think of, but unfortunately, it didn’t work any better than before, as the King was sound asleep after his drink. One of the pages said:
‘This peasant girl must be crazy;’ but another answered:
‘This peasant girl must be out of her mind,’ but another replied:
‘Yet what she says sounds very sad and touching.’
‘Yet what she says sounds really sad and moving.’
As for Fiordelisa, she thought the King must have a very hard heart if he could hear how she grieved and yet pay her no attention. She had but one more chance, and on breaking the last egg she found to her great delight that it contained a more marvellous thing than ever. It was a pie made of six birds, cooked to perfection, and yet they were all alive, and singing and talking, and they answered questions and told fortunes in the most amusing way. Taking this treasure Fiordelisa once more set herself to wait in the great hall through which Turritella was sure to pass, and as she sat there one of the King’s pages came by, and said to her:
As for Fiordelisa, she thought the King must have a really cold heart if he could hear how sad she was and still ignore her. She had just one more chance, and when she broke the last egg, she was thrilled to discover a more amazing surprise than ever. It was a pie made of six birds, perfectly cooked, yet they were all alive, singing, and talking. They answered questions and told fortunes in the most entertaining way. With this treasure, Fiordelisa once again settled down to wait in the grand hall through which Turritella was bound to pass, and while she was sitting there, one of the King’s pages walked by and said to her:
‘Well, little kitchen-maid, it is a good thing that the King always takes a sleeping draught, for if not he would be kept awake all night by your sighing and lamenting.’
‘Well, little kitchen maid, it’s a good thing the King always takes a sleeping potion, because if he didn’t, your sighing and crying would keep him awake all night.’
Then Fiordelisa knew why the King had not heeded her, and taking a handful of pearls and diamonds out of her sack, she said, ‘If you can promise me that to-night the King shall not have his sleeping draught, I will give you all these jewels.’
Then Fiordelisa understood why the King hadn’t listened to her, and taking a handful of pearls and diamonds from her sack, she said, ‘If you can promise me that the King won’t have his sleeping potion tonight, I will give you all these jewels.’
‘Oh! I promise that willingly,’ said the page.
‘Oh! I promise to do that gladly,’ said the page.
At this moment Turritella appeared, and at the first sight of the savoury pie, with the pretty little birds all singing and chattering, she cried:—
At that moment, Turritella showed up, and at the first sight of the delicious pie, with the cute little birds all singing and chattering, she exclaimed:—
‘That is an admirable pie, little kitchen-maid. Pray what will you take for it?’
‘That is a wonderful pie, little kitchen maid. What do you want for it?’
‘The usual price,’ she answered. ‘To sleep once more in the Chamber of Echoes.’
‘The usual price,’ she replied. ‘To sleep again in the Chamber of Echoes.’
‘By all means, only give me the pie,’ said the greedy Turritella. And when night was come, Queen Fiordelisa waited until she thought everybody in the palace would be asleep, and then began to lament as before.
‘Of course, just give me the pie,’ said the greedy Turritella. And when night fell, Queen Fiordelisa waited until she thought everyone in the palace was asleep, and then began to lament as she had before.
‘Ah, Charming!’ she said, ‘what have I ever done that you should forsake me and marry Turritella? If you could only know all I have suffered, and what a weary way I have come to seek you.’
‘Ah, Charming!’ she said, ‘what have I ever done that would make you leave me and marry Turritella? If only you could understand everything I’ve been through and the long journey I’ve taken to find you.’
Now the page had faithfully kept his word, and given King Charming a glass of water instead of his usual sleeping draught, so there he lay wide awake, and heard every word Fiordelisa said, and even recognised her voice, though he could not tell where it came from.
Now the page had kept his promise and gave King Charming a glass of water instead of his usual sleeping potion, so he lay wide awake, hearing everything Fiordelisa said, and even recognized her voice, though he couldn't figure out where it was coming from.
‘Ah, Princess!’ he said, ‘how could you betray me to our cruel enemies when I loved you so dearly?’
‘Ah, Princess!’ he said, ‘how could you betray me to our ruthless enemies when I loved you so much?’
Fiordelisa heard him, and answered quickly:
Fiordelisa heard him and quickly replied:
‘Find out the little kitchen-maid, and she will explain everything.’
‘Find the little kitchen maid, and she'll explain everything.’
Then the King in a great hurry sent for his pages and said:
Then the King quickly called for his pages and said:
‘If you can find the little kitchen-maid, bring her to me at once.’
‘If you can find the little kitchen maid, bring her to me right away.’
‘Nothing could be easier, Sire,’ they answered, ‘for she is in the Chamber of Echoes.’
‘Nothing could be easier, Your Majesty,’ they replied, ‘because she is in the Chamber of Echoes.’
The King was very much puzzled when he heard this. How could the lovely Princess Fiordelisa be a little kitchen-maid? or how could a little kitchen-maid have Fiordelisa’s own voice? So he dressed hastily, and ran down a little secret staircase which led to the Chamber of Echoes. There, upon a heap of soft cushions, sat his lovely Princess. She had laid aside all her ugly disguises and wore a white silken robe, and her golden hair shone in the soft lamp-light. The King was overjoyed at the sight, and rushed to throw himself at her feet, and asked her a thousand questions without giving her time to answer one. Fiordelisa was equally happy to be with him once more, and nothing troubled them but the remembrance of the Fairy Mazilla. But at this moment in came the Enchanter, and with him a famous Fairy, the same in fact who had given Fiordelisa the eggs. After greeting the King and Queen, they said that as they were united in wishing to help King Charming, the Fairy Mazilla had no longer any power against him, and he might marry Fiordelisa as soon as he pleased. The King’s joy may be imagined, and as soon as it was day the news was spread through the palace, and everybody who saw Fiordelisa loved her directly. When Turritella heard what had happened she came running to the King, and when she saw Fiordelisa with him she was terribly angry, but before she could say a word the Enchanter and the Fairy changed her into a big brown owl, and she floated away out of one of the palace windows, hooting dismally. Then the wedding was held with great splendour, and King Charming and Queen Fiordelisa lived happily ever after.
The King was very puzzled when he heard this. How could the beautiful Princess Fiordelisa be just a kitchen maid? Or how could a kitchen maid have Fiordelisa’s voice? So he quickly got dressed and ran down a hidden staircase that led to the Chamber of Echoes. There, on a pile of soft cushions, sat his lovely Princess. She had taken off all her ugly disguises and wore a white silk robe, with her golden hair shining in the soft lamp light. The King was overjoyed at the sight and rushed to throw himself at her feet, asking her a thousand questions without giving her a chance to answer even one. Fiordelisa was just as happy to be with him again, and the only thing troubling them was the memory of Fairy Mazilla. But at that moment, the Enchanter entered, accompanied by a famous Fairy, the same one who had given Fiordelisa the eggs. After greeting the King and Queen, they said that since they were united in wanting to help King Charming, Fairy Mazilla no longer had any power over him, and he could marry Fiordelisa whenever he wanted. The King’s joy was unimaginable, and as soon as it was day, the news spread throughout the palace, and everyone who saw Fiordelisa instantly loved her. When Turritella heard what had happened, she ran to the King, and when she saw Fiordelisa with him, she was furious. But before she could say a word, the Enchanter and the Fairy turned her into a big brown owl, and she flew away out of one of the palace windows, hooting sadly. Then the wedding took place with great splendor, and King Charming and Queen Fiordelisa lived happily ever after.
L’Oiseau Bleu. Par Mme. d’Aulnoy.
The Blue Bird. By Mme. d’Aulnoy.
THE HALF-CHICK
Once upon a time there was a handsome black Spanish hen, who had a large brood of chickens. They were all fine, plump little birds, except the youngest, who was quite unlike his brothers and sisters. Indeed, he was such a strange, queer-looking creature, that when he first chipped his shell his mother could scarcely believe her eyes, he was so different from the twelve other fluffy, downy, soft little chicks who nestled under her wings. This one looked just as if he had been cut in two. He had only one leg, and one wing, and one eye, and he had half a head and half a beak. His mother shook her head sadly as she looked at him and said:
Once upon a time, there was a beautiful black Spanish hen who had a large brood of chicks. They were all nice, plump little birds, except for the youngest, who was very different from his siblings. In fact, he was such a weird-looking creature that when he first broke out of his shell, his mother could hardly believe her eyes; he was so unlike the twelve other fluffy, downy little chicks that nestled under her wings. This one looked like he had been cut in half. He had only one leg, one wing, one eye, half a head, and half a beak. His mother shook her head sadly as she looked at him and said:
‘My youngest born is only a half-chick. He can never grow up a tall handsome cock like his brothers. They will go out into the world and rule over poultry yards of their own; but this poor little fellow will always have to stay at home with his mother.’ And she called him Medio Pollito, which is Spanish for half-chick.
‘My youngest is just a half-chick. He’ll never grow into a tall, handsome rooster like his brothers. They’ll go out into the world and have their own flocks to rule over; but this poor little guy will always have to stay at home with his mother.’ And she called him Medio Pollito, which is Spanish for half-chick.
Now though Medio Pollito was such an odd, helpless-looking little thing, his mother soon found that he was not at all willing to remain under her wing and protection. Indeed, in character he was as unlike his brothers and sisters as he was in appearance. They were good, obedient chickens, and when the old hen chicked after them, they chirped and ran back to her side. But Medio Pollito had a roving spirit in spite of his one leg, and when his mother called to him to return to the coop, he pretended that he could not hear, because he had only one ear.
Now, even though Medio Pollito was such an odd, helpless-looking little creature, his mother quickly realized that he didn’t want to stay under her wing and protection at all. In fact, in terms of personality, he was completely different from his brothers and sisters, just like he was in appearance. They were obedient, good chickens, and whenever the old hen called for them, they chirped and rushed back to her side. But Medio Pollito had a wandering spirit, despite having only one leg, and when his mother called him to come back to the coop, he pretended he couldn’t hear her because he only had one ear.
When she took the whole family out for a walk in the fields, Medio Pollito would hop away by himself, and hide among the Indian corn. Many an anxious minute his brothers and sisters had looking for him, while his mother ran to and fro cackling in fear and dismay.
When she took the whole family out for a walk in the fields, Medio Pollito would hop away by himself and hide among the corn. Many anxious minutes passed as his brothers and sisters searched for him, while his mother ran back and forth clucking in fear and worry.
As he grew older he became more self-willed and disobedient, and his manner to his mother was often very rude, and his temper to the other chickens very disagreeable.
As he got older, he became more headstrong and disobedient, and he was often very rude to his mother and had a nasty attitude towards the other chickens.
One day he had been out for a longer expedition than usual in the fields. On his return he strutted up to his mother with the peculiar little hop and kick which was his way of walking, and cocking his one eye at her in a very bold way he said:
One day he had been out on a longer trip than usual in the fields. On his way back, he strutted up to his mother with the unique little hop and kick that was his signature walk, and with a playful glance at her, he said:
‘Mother, I am tired of this life in a dull farmyard, with nothing but a dreary maize field to look at. I’m off to Madrid to see the King.’
‘Mom, I’m tired of this life on a boring farm, with nothing but a dull cornfield to look at. I’m heading to Madrid to see the King.’
‘To Madrid, Medio Pollito!’ exclaimed his mother; ‘why, you silly chick, it would be a long journey for a grown-up cock, and a poor little thing like you would be tired out before you had gone half the distance. No, no, stay at home with your mother, and some day, when you are bigger, we will go a little journey together.’
‘To Madrid, Medio Pollito!’ exclaimed his mother; ‘why, you silly chick, it would be a long journey for a grown-up cock, and a poor little thing like you would be worn out before you even got halfway. No, no, stay home with your mother, and someday, when you’re bigger, we’ll take a little trip together.’
But Medio Pollito had made up his mind, and he would not listen to his mother’s advice, nor to the prayers and entreaties of his brothers and sisters.
But Medio Pollito had made his decision, and he refused to listen to his mother’s advice or the pleas and requests of his brothers and sisters.
‘What is the use of our all crowding each other up in this poky little place?’ he said. ‘When I have a fine courtyard of my own at the King’s palace, I shall perhaps ask some of you to come and pay me a short visit,’ and scarcely waiting to say good-bye to his family, away he stumped down the high road that led to Madrid.
‘What’s the point of all of us cramming into this tiny space?’ he said. ‘When I have a nice courtyard of my own at the King’s palace, I might invite some of you to come for a short visit,’ and barely taking the time to say goodbye to his family, he stomped down the highway that led to Madrid.
‘Be sure that you are kind and civil to everyone you meet,’ called his mother, running after him; but he was in such a hurry to be off, that he did not wait to answer her, or even to look back.
‘Make sure you’re kind and courteous to everyone you meet,’ his mother called as she ran after him; but he was in such a rush to leave that he didn’t stop to respond to her or even look back.
A little later in the day, as he was taking a short cut through a field, he passed a stream. Now the stream was all choked up, and overgrown with weeds and water-plants, so that its waters could not flow freely.
A little later in the day, as he was taking a shortcut through a field, he passed a stream. The stream was clogged and overgrown with weeds and water plants, so its waters couldn't flow freely.
‘Oh! Medio Pollito,’ it cried, as the half-chick hopped along its banks, ‘do come and help me by clearing away these weeds.’
‘Oh! Half-Chick,’ it cried, as the half-chick hopped along its banks, ‘please come and help me by getting rid of these weeds.’
‘Help you, indeed!’ exclaimed Medio Pollito, tossing his head, and shaking the few feathers in his tail. ‘Do you think I have nothing to do but to waste my time on such trifles? Help yourself, and don’t trouble busy travellers. I am off to Madrid to see the King,’ and hoppity-kick, hoppity-kick, away stumped Medio Pollito.
‘Help you, really!’ shouted Medio Pollito, flicking his head and shaking the few feathers in his tail. ‘Do you think I have nothing better to do than waste my time on silly things? Help yourself, and don’t bother busy travelers. I’m off to Madrid to see the King,’ and hoppity-kick, hoppity-kick, away went Medio Pollito.
A little later he came to a fire that had been left by some gipsies in a wood. It was burning very low, and would soon be out.
A little later, he stumbled upon a fire that some gypsies had left in the woods. It was burning really low and would be out soon.
‘Oh! Medio Pollito,’ cried the fire, in a weak, wavering voice as the half-chick approached, ‘in a few minutes I shall go quite out, unless you put some sticks and dry leaves upon me. Do help me, or I shall die!’
‘Oh! Half-Chick,’ cried the fire, in a weak, unsteady voice as the half-chick approached, ‘in a few minutes I’m going to go out completely, unless you put some sticks and dry leaves on me. Please help me, or I’ll die!’
‘Help you, indeed!’ answered Medio Pollito. ‘I have other things to do. Gather sticks for yourself, and don’t trouble me. I am off to Madrid to see the King,’ and hoppity-kick, hoppity-kick, away stumped Medio Pollito.
‘Help you, really!’ replied Medio Pollito. ‘I have other things to do. Gather sticks yourself, and don’t bother me. I’m off to Madrid to see the King,’ and hoppity-kick, hoppity-kick, away stumped Medio Pollito.
The next morning, as he was getting near Madrid, he passed a large chestnut tree, in whose branches the wind was caught and entangled. ‘Oh! Medio Pollito,’ called the wind, ‘do hop up here, and help me to get free of these branches. I cannot come away, and it is so uncomfortable.’
The next morning, as he was getting close to Madrid, he passed a big chestnut tree, where the wind was caught and tangled in its branches. "Oh! Medio Pollito," called the wind, "come up here and help me get free of these branches. I can’t get away, and it’s really uncomfortable."
‘It is your own fault for going there,’ answered Medio Pollito. ‘I can’t waste all my morning stopping here to help you. Just shake yourself off, and don’t hinder me, for I am off to Madrid to see the King,’ and hoppity-kick, hoppity-kick, away stumped Medio Pollito in great glee, for the towers and roofs of Madrid were now in sight. When he entered the town he saw before him a great splendid house, with soldiers standing before the gates. This he knew must be the King’s palace, and he determined to hop up to the front gate and wait there until the King came out. But as he was hopping past one of the back windows the King’s cook saw him:
‘It's your own fault for going there,’ replied Medio Pollito. ‘I can’t waste my whole morning helping you. Just shake it off and don’t hold me up, because I’m off to Madrid to see the King,’ and hoppity-kick, hoppity-kick, away hopped Medio Pollito with great joy, since the towers and roofs of Madrid were now in sight. When he entered the town, he saw a grand house ahead, with soldiers standing at the gates. He knew this had to be the King’s palace, so he decided to hop up to the front gate and wait there until the King came out. But as he was hopping past one of the back windows, the King’s cook spotted him:
‘Here is the very thing I want,’ he exclaimed, ‘for the King has just sent a message to say that he must have chicken broth for his dinner,’ and opening the window he stretched out his arm, caught Medio Pollito, and popped him into the broth-pot that was standing near the fire. Oh! how wet and clammy the water felt as it went over Medio Pollito’s head, making his feathers cling to his side.
‘This is exactly what I need,’ he shouted, ‘because the King just sent a message saying he needs chicken broth for dinner,’ and opening the window, he reached out his arm, grabbed Medio Pollito, and dropped him into the broth pot that was sitting by the fire. Oh! how wet and sticky the water felt as it poured over Medio Pollito’s head, making his feathers stick to his side.
‘Water, water!’ he cried in his despair, ‘do have pity upon me and do not wet me like this.’
‘Water, water!’ he cried in his despair, ‘please have mercy on me and don’t soak me like this.’
‘Ah! Medio Pollito,’ replied the water, ‘you would not help me when I was a little stream away on the fields, now you must be punished.’
‘Ah! Medio Pollito,’ replied the water, ‘you didn’t help me when I was just a little stream in the fields, now you have to face the consequences.’
Then the fire began to burn and scald Medio Pollito, and he danced and hopped from one side of the pot to the other, trying to get away from the heat, and crying out in pain:
Then the fire started to burn and scorch Medio Pollito, and he danced and hopped from one side of the pot to the other, trying to escape the heat, and cried out in pain:
Fire, fire! do not scorch me like this; you can’t think how it hurts.’
Fire, fire! Don’t burn me like this; you can’t imagine how much it hurts.'
‘Ah! Medio Pollito,’ answered the fire, ‘you would not help me when I was dying away in the wood. You are being punished.’
‘Ah! Medio Pollito,’ replied the fire, ‘you didn't help me when I was fading away in the woods. Now you’re facing the consequences.’
At last, just when the pain was so great that Medio Pollito thought he must die, the cook lifted up the lid of the pot to see if the broth was ready for the King’s dinner.
At last, when the pain was so intense that Medio Pollito thought he might die, the cook lifted the lid of the pot to check if the broth was ready for the King’s dinner.
‘Look here!’ he cried in horror, ‘this chicken is quite useless. It is burnt to a cinder. I can’t send it up to the royal table;’ and opening the window he threw Medio Pollito out into the street. But the wind caught him up, and whirled him through the air so quickly that Medio Pollito could scarcely breathe, and his heart beat against his side till he thought it would break.
‘Look here!’ he shouted in shock, ‘this chicken is totally useless. It’s burnt to a crisp. I can’t send it to the royal table;’ and opening the window, he tossed Medio Pollito out into the street. But the wind grabbed him and whipped him through the air so fast that Medio Pollito could barely catch his breath, and his heart pounded against his side until he thought it would break.
‘Oh, wind!’ at last he gasped out, ‘if you hurry me along like this you will kill me. Do let me rest a moment, or—’ but he was so breathless that he could not finish his sentence.
‘Oh, wind!’ he finally gasped, ‘if you push me along like this, you’ll kill me. Please let me rest for a moment, or—’ but he was so out of breath that he couldn’t finish his sentence.
‘Ah! Medio Pollito,’ replied the wind, ‘when I was caught in the branches of the chestnut tree you would not help me; now you are punished.’ And he swirled Medio Pollito over the roofs of the houses till they reached the highest church in the town, and there he left him fastened to the top of the steeple.
‘Ah! Medio Pollito,’ replied the wind, ‘when I got stuck in the branches of the chestnut tree, you didn’t help me; now you’re getting what you deserve.’ And he swirled Medio Pollito over the rooftops until they reached the tallest church in the town, and there he left him tied to the top of the steeple.
And there stands Medio Pollito to this day. And if you go to Madrid, and walk through the streets till you come to the highest church, you will see Medio Pollito perched on his one leg on the steeple, with his one wing drooping at his side, and gazing sadly out of his one eye over the town.
And there stands Medio Pollito to this day. If you go to Madrid and walk through the streets until you reach the tallest church, you will see Medio Pollito perched on his one leg on the steeple, with his one wing hanging down at his side, looking sadly out of his one eye over the town.
Spanish Tradition.
Spanish Heritage.
THE STORY OF CALIPH STORK
I.
I.
Caliph Chasid, of Bagdad, was resting comfortably on his divan one fine afternoon. He was smoking a long pipe, and from time to time he sipped a little coffee which a slave handed to him, and after each sip he stroked his long beard with an air of enjoyment. In short, anyone could see that the Caliph was in an excellent humour. This was, in fact, the best time of day in which to approach him, for just now he was pretty sure to be both affable and in good spirits, and for this reason the Grand Vizier Mansor always chose this hour in which to pay his daily visit.
Caliph Chasid of Baghdad was lounging comfortably on his couch one lovely afternoon. He was puffing on a long pipe and occasionally sipping coffee that a servant brought him. After each sip, he would stroke his long beard with a satisfied expression. Overall, it was clear that the Caliph was in a great mood. This was actually the best time of day to approach him, as he was likely to be friendly and in good spirits. That’s why the Grand Vizier Mansor always chose this hour to make his daily visit.
He arrived as usual this afternoon, but, contrary to his usual custom, with an anxious face. The Caliph withdrew his pipe for a moment from his lips and asked, ‘Why do you look so anxious, Grand Vizier?’
He showed up like he always does this afternoon, but, unlike his usual self, he had a worried expression. The Caliph took the pipe out of his mouth for a moment and asked, ‘Why do you look so anxious, Grand Vizier?’
The Grand Vizier crossed his arms on his breast and bent low before his master as he answered:
The Grand Vizier crossed his arms over his chest and bowed deeply before his master as he replied:
‘Oh, my Lord! whether my countenance be anxious or not I know not, but down below, in the court of the palace, is a pedlar with such beautiful things that I cannot help feeling annoyed at having so little money to spare.’
‘Oh, my Lord! I’m not sure if my face looks worried or not, but down there, in the palace courtyard, there’s a peddler with such beautiful things that I can’t help but feel frustrated about having so little money to spend.’
The Caliph, who had wished for some time past to give his Grand Vizier a present, ordered his black slave to bring the pedlar before him at once. The slave soon returned, followed by the pedlar, a short stout man with a swarthy face, and dressed in very ragged clothes. He carried a box containing all manner of wares—strings of pearls, rings, richly mounted pistols, goblets, and combs. The Caliph and his Vizier inspected everything, and the Caliph chose some handsome pistols for himself and Mansor, and a jewelled comb for the Vizier’s wife. Just as the pedlar was about to close his box, the Caliph noticed a small drawer, and asked if there was anything else in it for sale. The pedlar opened the drawer and showed them a box containing a black powder, and a scroll written in strange characters, which neither the Caliph nor the Mansor could read.
The Caliph, who had wanted to give his Grand Vizier a gift for some time, told his black slave to bring the pedlar to him immediately. The slave soon returned with the pedlar, a short, stout man with a dark complexion, dressed in very tattered clothes. He carried a box filled with various goods—strings of pearls, rings, beautifully crafted pistols, goblets, and combs. The Caliph and his Vizier looked over everything, and the Caliph picked out some elegant pistols for himself and Mansor, along with a jeweled comb for the Vizier’s wife. Just as the pedlar was about to close his box, the Caliph noticed a small drawer and asked if there was anything else for sale inside. The pedlar opened the drawer and revealed a box containing black powder and a scroll written in unfamiliar characters that neither the Caliph nor Mansor could read.
‘I got these two articles from a merchant who had picked them up in the street at Mecca,’ said the pedlar. ‘I do not know what they may contain, but as they are of no use to me, you are welcome to have them for a trifle.’
‘I picked up these two articles from a merchant who found them on the street in Mecca,’ said the pedlar. ‘I have no idea what they contain, but since they’re of no use to me, you can have them for a small price.’
The Caliph, who liked to have old manuscripts in his library, even though he could not read them, purchased the scroll and the box, and dismissed the pedlar. Then, being anxious to know what might be the contents of the scroll, he asked the Vizier if he did not know of anyone who might be able to decipher it.
The Caliph, who enjoyed having old manuscripts in his library even though he couldn't read them, bought the scroll and the box, and sent the pedlar away. Then, eager to find out what the scroll contained, he asked the Vizier if he knew anyone who could decipher it.
‘Most gracious Lord and master,’ replied the Vizier, ‘near the great Mosque lives a man called Selim the learned, who knows every language under the sun. Send for him; it may be that he will be able to interpret these mysterious characters.’
‘Most gracious Lord and master,’ replied the Vizier, ‘near the great Mosque lives a man named Selim the learned, who knows every language in existence. Send for him; perhaps he can interpret these mysterious characters.’
The learned Selim was summoned immediately.
The educated Selim was called right away.
‘Selim,’ said the Caliph, ‘I hear you are a scholar. Look well at this scroll and see whether you can read it. If you can, I will give you a robe of honour; but if you fail, I will order you to receive twelve strokes on your cheeks, and five-and-twenty on the soles of your feet, because you have been falsely called Selim the learned.’
‘Selim,’ said the Caliph, ‘I hear you’re a scholar. Take a good look at this scroll and see if you can read it. If you can, I’ll reward you with a robe of honor; but if you can't, I will have you receive twelve strikes on your cheeks, and twenty-five on the soles of your feet, because you’ve been wrongly called Selim the learned.’
Selim prostrated himself and said, ‘Be it according to your will, oh master!’ Then he gazed long at the scroll. Suddenly he exclaimed: ‘May I die, oh, my Lord, if this isn’t Latin!’
Selim bowed down and said, ‘Let it be your way, oh master!’ Then he stared at the scroll for a while. Suddenly he shouted, ‘I’d die, oh my Lord, if this isn’t Latin!’
‘Well,’ said the Caliph, ‘if it is Latin, let us hear what it means.’
‘Well,’ said the Caliph, ‘if it’s Latin, let’s see what it means.’
So Selim began to translate: ‘Thou who mayest find this, praise Allah for his mercy. Whoever shall snuff the powder in this box, and at the same time shall pronounce the word “Mutabor!” can transform himself into any creature he likes, and will understand the language of all animals. When he wishes to resume the human form, he has only to bow three times towards the east, and to repeat the same word. Be careful, however, when wearing the shape of some beast or bird, not to laugh, or thou wilt certainly forget the magic word and remain an animal for ever.’
So Selim started to translate: ‘Whoever finds this, praise Allah for His mercy. Anyone who sniffs the powder in this box and at the same time says the word “Mutabor!” can change into any creature they want and will understand the language of all animals. When they want to return to their human form, they just need to bow three times towards the east and say the same word. However, be careful when taking the form of a beast or bird; if you laugh, you might forget the magic word and stay an animal forever.’
When Selim the learned had read this, the Caliph was delighted. He made the wise man swear not to tell the matter to anyone, gave him a splendid robe, and dismissed him. Then he said to his Vizier, ‘That’s what I call a good bargain, Mansor. I am longing for the moment when I can become some animal. To-morrow morning I shall expect you early; we will go into the country, take some snuff from my box, and then hear what is being said in air, earth, and water.’
When Selim the wise finished reading this, the Caliph was very pleased. He made the scholar promise not to share the information with anyone, gave him a beautiful robe, and sent him on his way. Then he said to his Vizier, 'Now that's what I call a great deal, Mansor. I can't wait for the moment when I can turn into an animal. Tomorrow morning, I expect you bright and early; we'll head out to the countryside, take some snuff from my box, and then listen to what’s being said in the air, earth, and water.'
II.
II.
Next morning Caliph Chasid had barely finished dressing, and breakfasting, when the Grand Vizier arrived, according to orders, to accompany him in his expedition. The Caliph stuck the snuff-box in his girdle, and, having desired his servants to remain at home, started off with the Grand Vizier only in attendance. First they walked through the palace gardens, but they looked in vain for some creature which could tempt them to try their magic power. At length the Vizier suggested going further on to a pond which lay beyond the town, and where he had often seen a variety of creatures, especially storks, whose grave, dignified appearance and constant chatter had often attracted his attention.
The next morning, Caliph Chasid had just finished getting dressed and having breakfast when the Grand Vizier arrived, as planned, to join him on his expedition. The Caliph tucked the snuff-box into his belt and, after asking his servants to stay home, set off with only the Grand Vizier by his side. They first strolled through the palace gardens but looked in vain for any creature that might tempt them to test their magical abilities. Eventually, the Vizier suggested heading to a pond just outside the town, where he had often seen various creatures, especially storks, whose serious, dignified presence and constant chatter had always caught his attention.
The Caliph consented, and they went straight to the pond. As soon as they arrived they remarked a stork strutting up and down with a stately air, hunting for frogs, and now and then muttering something to itself. At the same time they saw another stork far above in the sky flying towards the same spot.
The Caliph agreed, and they headed straight to the pond. As soon as they got there, they noticed a stork walking back and forth with a proud demeanor, searching for frogs, and occasionally mumbling to itself. At the same time, they spotted another stork high in the sky flying toward the same area.
‘I would wager my beard, most gracious master,’ said the Grand Vizier, ‘that these two long legs will have a good chat together. How would it be if we turned ourselves into storks?’
‘I would bet my beard, most gracious master,’ said the Grand Vizier, ‘that these two long legs will have a good chat together. What if we turned ourselves into storks?’
‘Well said,’ replied the Caliph; ‘but first let us remember carefully how we are to become men once more. True! Bow three times towards the east and say “Mutabor!” and I shall be Caliph and you my Grand Vizier again. But for Heaven’s sake don’t laugh or we are lost!’
‘Well said,’ replied the Caliph; ‘but first let’s remember how we’re going to become men again. It’s true! Bow three times towards the east and say “Mutabor!” and I’ll be Caliph and you’ll be my Grand Vizier once more. But for Heaven’s sake, don’t laugh or we’re doomed!’
As the Caliph spoke he saw the second stork circling round his head and gradually flying towards the earth. Quickly he drew the box from his girdle, took a good pinch of the snuff, and offered one to Mansor, who also took one, and both cried together ‘Mutabor!’
As the Caliph spoke, he noticed the second stork circling above him and gradually descending toward the ground. He quickly pulled the box from his belt, took a hearty pinch of snuff, and offered one to Mansor, who also took one, and they both shouted together, "Mutabor!"
Instantly their legs shrivelled up and grew thin and red; their smart yellow slippers turned to clumsy stork’s feet, their arms to wings; their necks began to sprout from between their shoulders and grew a yard long; their beards disappeared, and their bodies were covered with feathers.
Instantly their legs shrank and became thin and red; their stylish yellow slippers transformed into awkward stork feet, their arms became wings; their necks started to extend from between their shoulders and grew a yard long; their beards vanished, and their bodies were covered with feathers.
‘You’ve got a fine long bill, Sir Vizier,’ cried the Caliph, after standing for some time lost in astonishment. ‘By the beard of the Prophet I never saw such a thing in all my life!’
‘You have quite a long bill, Sir Vizier,’ exclaimed the Caliph, after standing in shock for a while. ‘By the Prophet's beard, I have never seen anything like this in my entire life!’
‘My very humble thanks,’ replied the Grand Vizier, as he bent his long neck; ‘but, if I may venture to say so, your Highness is even handsomer as a stork than as a Caliph. But come, if it so pleases you, let us go near our comrades there and find out whether we really do understand the language of storks.’
‘Thank you very much,’ replied the Grand Vizier, as he lowered his long neck; ‘but, if I may say so, Your Highness is even more handsome as a stork than as a Caliph. But come, if it’s okay with you, let’s go over to our friends and see if we really understand the language of storks.’
Meantime the second stork had reached the ground. It first scraped its bill with its claw, stroked down its feathers, and then advanced towards the first stork. The two newly made storks lost no time in drawing near, and to their amazement overheard the following conversation:
Meantime, the second stork landed on the ground. It first scraped its bill with its claw, smoothed down its feathers, and then moved toward the first stork. The two newly transformed storks quickly got closer and, to their surprise, overheard this conversation:
‘Good morning, Dame Longlegs. You are out early this morning!’
‘Good morning, Dame Longlegs. You're out early today!’
‘Yes, indeed, dear Chatterbill! I am getting myself a morsel of breakfast. May I offer you a joint of lizard or a frog’s thigh?’
‘Yes, indeed, dear Chatterbill! I'm getting myself a bit of breakfast. Would you like a piece of lizard or a frog’s leg?’
‘A thousand thanks, but I have really no appetite this morning. I am here for a very different purpose. I am to dance to-day before my father’s guests, and I have come to the meadow for a little quiet practice.’
‘Thank you so much, but I really don't have an appetite this morning. I'm here for a different reason. I need to dance today for my father's guests, and I came to the meadow for some quiet practice.’
Thereupon the young stork began to move about with the most wonderful steps. The Caliph and Mansor looked on in surprise for some time; but when at last she balanced herself in a picturesque attitude on one leg, and flapped her wings gracefully up and down, they could hold out no longer; a prolonged peal burst from each of their bills, and it was some time before they could recover their composure. The Caliph was the first to collect himself. ‘That was the best joke,’ said he, ‘I’ve ever seen. It’s a pity the stupid creatures were scared away by our laughter, or no doubt they would have sung next!’
Thereupon, the young stork started moving around with the most amazing steps. The Caliph and Mansor watched in surprise for a while; but when she finally balanced herself in a striking pose on one leg and flapped her wings elegantly up and down, they couldn’t hold back any longer; a prolonged burst of laughter erupted from each of them, and it took a while for them to regain their composure. The Caliph was the first to gather himself. “That was the best joke,” he said, “I’ve ever seen. It’s too bad the silly creatures got scared off by our laughter, or they probably would have sung next!”
Suddenly, however, the Vizier remembered how strictly they had been warned not to laugh during their transformation. He at once communicated his fears to the Caliph, who exclaimed, ‘By Mecca and Medina! it would indeed prove but a poor joke if I had to remain a stork for the remainder of my days! Do just try and remember the stupid word, it has slipped my memory.’
Suddenly, the Vizier recalled how firmly they had been warned not to laugh during their transformation. He quickly shared his concerns with the Caliph, who exclaimed, “By Mecca and Medina! It would truly be a terrible joke if I had to stay a stork for the rest of my life! Please, try to remember that silly word; it has slipped my mind.”
‘We must bow three times eastwards and say “Mu...mu...mu...”’
‘We must bow three times to the east and say “Mu...mu...mu...”’
They turned to the east and fell to bowing till their bills touched the ground, but, oh horror—the magic word was quite forgotten, and however often the Caliph bowed and however touchingly his Vizier cried ‘Mu...mu...’ they could not recall it, and the unhappy Chasid and Mansor remained storks as they were.
They faced east and bowed down until their beaks touched the ground, but, oh no—the magic word was completely forgotten, and no matter how many times the Caliph bowed or how desperately his Vizier cried ‘Mu...mu...’, they couldn’t remember it, and the unfortunate Chasid and Mansor stayed storks just as they were.
III.
III.
The two enchanted birds wandered sadly on through the meadows. In their misery they could not think what to do next. They could not rid themselves of their new forms; there was no use in returning to the town and saying who they were; for who would believe a stork who announced that he was a Caliph; and even if they did believe him, would the people of Bagdad consent to let a stork rule over them?
The two enchanted birds wandered sadly through the meadows. In their misery, they couldn’t figure out what to do next. They couldn’t get rid of their new forms; there was no point in going back to the town and claiming who they were, because who would believe a stork that said he was a Caliph? Even if they did believe him, would the people of Bagdad accept a stork as their ruler?
So they lounged about for several days, supporting themselves on fruits, which, however, they found some difficulty in eating with their long bills. They did not much care to eat frogs or lizards. Their one comfort in their sad plight was the power of flying, and accordingly they often flew over the roofs of Bagdad to see what was going on there.
So they hung around for several days, surviving on fruits, which they had some trouble eating with their long beaks. They weren't really interested in eating frogs or lizards. Their only comfort in their tough situation was the ability to fly, so they often flew over the rooftops of Baghdad to see what was happening there.
During the first few days they noticed signs of much disturbance and distress in the streets, but about the fourth day, as they sat on the roof of the palace, they perceived a splendid procession passing below them along the street. Drums and trumpets sounded, a man in a scarlet mantle, embroidered in gold, sat on a splendidly caparisoned horse surrounded by richly dressed slaves; half Bagdad crowded after him, and they all shouted, ‘Hail, Mirza, the Lord of Bagdad!’
During the first few days, they noticed signs of a lot of chaos and distress in the streets, but by the fourth day, as they sat on the palace roof, they saw a magnificent procession passing below them along the street. Drums and trumpets were playing, a man in a scarlet cloak, decorated with gold, sat on an elegantly adorned horse surrounded by well-dressed attendants; half of Baghdad followed him, and they all shouted, ‘Hail, Mirza, the Lord of Baghdad!’
The two storks on the palace roof looked at each other, and Caliph Chasid said, ‘Can you guess now, Grand Vizier, why I have been enchanted? This Mirza is the son of my deadly enemy, the mighty magician Kaschnur, who in an evil moment vowed vengeance on me. Still I will not despair! Come with me, my faithful friend; we will go to the grave of the Prophet, and perhaps at that sacred spot the spell may be loosed.’
The two storks on the palace roof looked at each other, and Caliph Chasid said, "Can you guess now, Grand Vizier, why I've been cursed? This Mirza is the son of my sworn enemy, the powerful magician Kaschnur, who in a moment of darkness vowed to get revenge on me. But I won't lose hope! Come with me, my loyal friend; we'll go to the grave of the Prophet, and maybe at that holy place the spell will be broken."
They rose from the palace roof, and spread their wings toward Medina.
They took off from the palace roof and spread their wings toward Medina.
But flying was not quite an easy matter, for the two storks had had but little practice as yet.
But flying wasn’t exactly easy, since the two storks had barely practiced so far.
‘Oh, my Lord!’ gasped the Vizier, after a couple of hours, ‘I can get on no longer; you really fly too quick for me. Besides, it is nearly evening, and we should do well to find some place in which to spend the night.’
‘Oh, my Lord!’ gasped the Vizier after a couple of hours, ‘I can't keep up any longer; you're really moving too fast for me. Plus, it's almost evening, and we should find somewhere to spend the night.’
Chasid listened with favour to his servant’s suggestion, and perceiving in the valley beneath them a ruin which seemed to promise shelter they flew towards it. The building in which they proposed to pass the night had apparently been formerly a castle. Some handsome pillars still stood amongst the heaps of ruins, and several rooms, which yet remained in fair preservation, gave evidence of former splendour. Chasid and his companion wandered along the passages seeking a dry spot, when suddenly Mansor stood still.
Chasid listened positively to his servant’s suggestion, and noticing a ruin in the valley below that looked like it could offer shelter, they headed toward it. The structure where they planned to spend the night had clearly once been a castle. Some beautiful pillars still stood among the piles of rubble, and several rooms that were still in decent condition showed signs of past grandeur. Chasid and his companion wandered through the hallways looking for a dry place when suddenly, Mansor stopped.
‘My Lord and master,’ he whispered, ‘if it were not absurd for a Grand Vizier, and still more for a stork, to be afraid of ghosts, I should feel quite nervous, for someone, or something close by me, has sighed and moaned quite audibly.’
‘My Lord and master,’ he whispered, ‘if it weren't ridiculous for a Grand Vizier, and even more so for a stork, to be scared of ghosts, I would feel pretty nervous, because someone or something nearby has sighed and moaned quite loudly.’
The Caliph stood still and distinctly heard a low weeping sound which seemed to proceed from a human being rather than from any animal. Full of curiosity he was about to rush towards the spot from whence the sounds of woe came, when the Vizier caught him by the wing with his bill, and implored him not to expose himself to fresh and unknown dangers. The Caliph, however, under whose stork’s breast a brave heart beat, tore himself away with the loss of a few feathers, and hurried down a dark passage. He saw a door which stood ajar, and through which he distinctly heard sighs, mingled with sobs. He pushed open the door with his bill, but remained on the threshold, astonished at the sight which met his eyes. On the floor of the ruined chamber—which was but scantily lighted by a small barred window—sat a large screech owl. Big tears rolled from its large round eyes, and in a hoarse voice it uttered its complaints through its crooked beak. As soon as it saw the Caliph and his Vizier—who had crept up meanwhile—it gave vent to a joyful cry. It gently wiped the tears from its eyes with its spotted brown wings, and to the great amazement of the two visitors, addressed them in good human Arabic.
The Caliph stood still and distinctly heard a soft weeping sound that seemed to come from a person rather than an animal. Curious, he was about to rush toward the source of the sorrowful noise when the Vizier caught him by the wing with his beak and urged him not to put himself in harm's way. However, the Caliph, who had a brave heart, pulled away despite losing a few feathers and hurried down a dark passage. He noticed a door that was slightly open, and through it, he could clearly hear sighs mixed with sobs. He pushed the door open with his beak but stayed on the threshold, astonished by what he saw. In the dimly lit, ruined chamber, a large screech owl was sitting on the floor. Big tears rolled down its large round eyes, and in a hoarse voice, it voiced its complaints through its crooked beak. As soon as it spotted the Caliph and his Vizier—who had quietly approached—it let out a joyful cry. It gently wiped the tears from its eyes with its spotted brown wings and, much to the amazement of the two visitors, addressed them in fluent human Arabic.
‘Welcome, ye storks! You are a good sign of my deliverance, for it was foretold me that a piece of good fortune should befall me through a stork.’
‘Welcome, storks! You are a good sign of my deliverance, for I was told that a piece of good fortune would come to me through a stork.’
When the Caliph had recovered from his surprise, he drew up his feet into a graceful position, bent his long neck, and said: ‘Oh, screech owl! from your words I am led to believe that we see in you a companion in misfortune. But, alas! your hope that you may attain your deliverance through us is but a vain one. You will know our helplessness when you have heard our story.’
When the Caliph had gotten over his surprise, he positioned his feet gracefully, tilted his long neck, and said: ‘Oh, screech owl! Your words make me think that we have a partner in misfortune. But, unfortunately! Your hope that you might find your freedom through us is just a wishful thought. You'll understand our inability to help once you hear our story.’
The screech owl begged him to relate it, and the Caliph accordingly told him what we already know.
The screech owl urged him to share it, and the Caliph therefore told him what we already know.
IV.
IV.
When the Caliph had ended, the owl thanked him and said: ‘You hear my story, and own that I am no less unfortunate than yourselves. My father is the King of the Indies. I, his only daughter, am named Lusa. That magician Kaschnur, who enchanted you, has been the cause of my misfortunes too. He came one day to my father and demanded my hand for his son Mirza. My father—who is rather hasty—ordered him to be thrown downstairs. The wretch not long after managed to approach me under another form, and one day, when I was in the garden, and asked for some refreshment, he brought me—in the disguise of a slave—a draught which changed me at once to this horrid shape. Whilst I was fainting with terror he transported me here, and cried to me with his awful voice: “There shall you remain, lonely and hideous, despised even by the brutes, till the end of your days, or till some one of his own free will asks you to be his wife. Thus do I avenge myself on you and your proud father.”
When the Caliph finished speaking, the owl thanked him and said, “You’ve heard my story and you can see that I'm just as unfortunate as you are. My father is the King of the Indies. I’m his only daughter, named Lusa. That magician Kaschnur, who cursed you, is also responsible for my misfortunes. He came to my father one day and asked for my hand for his son Mirza. My father, who tends to act rashly, ordered him to be thrown down the stairs. Not long after, the scoundrel managed to approach me in another form. One day, while I was in the garden and asked for some refreshments, he brought me a drink in disguise as a slave, which instantly transformed me into this disgusting shape. While I was fainting with fear, he transported me here and shouted at me with his terrifying voice: ‘You will stay here, alone and hideous, despised even by animals, until the end of your days, or until someone freely asks you to be his wife. This is how I take my revenge on you and your arrogant father.’”
‘Since then many months have passed away. Sad and lonely do I live like any hermit within these walls, avoided by the world and a terror even to animals; the beauties of nature are hidden from me, for I am blind by day, and it is only when the moon sheds her pale light on this spot that the veil falls from my eyes and I can see.’ The owl paused, and once more wiped her eyes with her wing, for the recital of her woes had drawn fresh tears from her.
‘Since then, many months have gone by. I live a sad and lonely life like any hermit within these walls, shunned by the world and even frightening to animals; the beauty of nature is hidden from me, as I am blind during the day, and it’s only when the moon casts her pale light here that the veil lifts from my eyes and I can see.’ The owl paused and wiped her eyes with her wing again, as the telling of her troubles had brought fresh tears.
The Caliph fell into deep thought on hearing this story of the Princess. ‘If I am not much mistaken,’ said he, ‘there is some mysterious connection between our misfortunes, but how to find the key to the riddle is the question.’
The Caliph fell into deep thought upon hearing the story of the Princess. ‘If I’m not mistaken,’ he said, ‘there's some mysterious link between our misfortunes, but figuring out the key to the riddle is the challenge.’
The owl answered: ‘Oh, my Lord! I too feel sure of this, for in my earliest youth a wise woman foretold that a stork would bring me some great happiness, and I think I could tell you how we might save ourselves.’ The Caliph was much surprised, and asked her what she meant.
The owl replied, “Oh, my Lord! I’m certain about this as well because in my youth, a wise woman predicted that a stork would bring me great happiness, and I think I know how we might save ourselves.” The Caliph was quite surprised and asked her what she meant.
‘The Magician who has made us both miserable,’ said she, ‘comes once a month to these ruins. Not far from this room is a large hall where he is in the habit of feasting with his companions. I have often watched them. They tell each other all about their evil deeds, and possibly the magic word which you have forgotten may be mentioned.’
‘The Magician who has made us both unhappy,’ she said, ‘comes here once a month to these ruins. Not far from this room is a big hall where he often hosts feasts with his friends. I’ve watched them many times. They share stories about their wicked actions, and maybe the magic word you forgot will come up.’
‘Oh, dearest Princess!’ exclaimed the Caliph, ‘say, when does he come, and where is the hall?’
‘Oh, dearest Princess!’ exclaimed the Caliph, ‘tell me, when will he arrive, and where is the hall?’
The owl paused a moment and then said: ‘Do not think me unkind, but I can only grant your request on one condition.’
The owl paused for a moment and then said, "Don't think I'm being unkind, but I can only grant your request if you meet one condition."
‘Speak, speak!’ cried Chasid; ‘command, I will gladly do whatever you wish!’
‘Talk, talk!’ shouted Chasid; ‘order me, and I’ll happily do whatever you ask!’
‘Well,’ replied the owl, ‘you see I should like to be free too; but this can only be if one of you will offer me his hand in marriage.’
‘Well,’ replied the owl, ‘you see I would like to be free too; but this can only happen if one of you offers me his hand in marriage.’
The storks seemed rather taken aback by this suggestion, and the Caliph beckoned to his Vizier to retire and consult with him.
The storks looked pretty surprised by this suggestion, and the Caliph signaled for his Vizier to step aside and discuss it with him.
When they were outside the door the Caliph said: ‘Grand Vizier, this is a tiresome business. However, you can take her.’
When they were outside the door, the Caliph said, "Grand Vizier, this is such a hassle. But you can go ahead and take her."
‘Indeed!’ said the Vizier; ‘so that when I go home my wife may scratch my eyes out! Besides, I am an old man, and your Highness is still young and unmarried, and a far more suitable match for a young and lovely Princess.’
‘Absolutely!’ said the Vizier; ‘so that when I get home my wife can tear my eyes out! Besides, I'm an old man, and your Highness is still young and single, and a much better match for a young and beautiful Princess.’
‘That’s just where it is,’ sighed the Caliph, whose wings drooped in a dejected manner; ‘how do you know she is young and lovely? I call it buying a pig in a poke.’
‘That's just how it is,’ sighed the Caliph, whose wings drooped in a dejected way; ‘how do you know she’s young and beautiful? I’d say that’s like buying a pig in a poke.’
They argued on for some time, but at length, when the Caliph saw plainly that his Vizier would rather remain a stork to the end of his days than marry the owl, he determined to fulfil the condition himself. The owl was delighted. She owned that they could not have arrived at a better time, as most probably the magicians would meet that very night.
They argued for a while, but eventually, when the Caliph realized that his Vizier would prefer to stay a stork for the rest of his life rather than marry the owl, he decided to fulfill the condition himself. The owl was thrilled. She acknowledged that they couldn't have shown up at a better time, since the magicians would likely gather that very night.
She then proceeded to lead the two storks to the chamber. They passed through a long dark passage till at length a bright ray of light shone before them through the chinks of a half-ruined wall. When they reached it the owl advised them to keep very quiet. Through the gap near which they stood they could with ease survey the whole of the large hall. It was adorned with splendid carved pillars; a number of coloured lamps replaced the light of day. In the middle of the hall stood a round table covered with a variety of dishes, and about the table was a divan on which eight men were seated. In one of these bad men the two recognised the pedlar who had sold the magic powder. The man next him begged him to relate all his latest doings, and amongst them he told the story of the Caliph and his Vizier.
She then led the two storks to the room. They walked through a long, dark passage until finally a bright beam of light shone in front of them through the cracks of a half-ruined wall. When they arrived, the owl told them to be very quiet. Through the gap where they stood, they could easily see the entire large hall. It was decorated with beautiful carved pillars; several colored lamps replaced the sunlight. In the center of the hall stood a round table filled with various dishes, and around the table was a couch where eight men were sitting. Among these bad men, the two recognized the peddler who had sold the magic powder. The man next to him asked him to share all his latest happenings, and among them, he recounted the story of the Caliph and his Vizier.
‘And what kind of word did you give them?’ asked another old sorcerer.
‘And what kind of promise did you make them?’ asked another old sorcerer.
‘A very difficult Latin word; it is “Mutabor.”’
‘A very challenging Latin word; it is “Mutabor.”’
V.
V.
As soon as the storks heard this they were nearly beside themselves with joy. They ran at such a pace to the door of the ruined castle that the owl could scarcely keep up with them. When they reached it the Caliph turned to the owl, and said with much feeling: ‘Deliverer of my friend and myself, as a proof of my eternal gratitude, accept me as your husband.’ Then he turned towards the east. Three times the storks bowed their long necks to the sun, which was just rising over the mountains. ‘Mutabor!’ they both cried, and in an instant they were once more transformed. In the rapture of their newly-given lives master and servant fell laughing and weeping into each other’s arms. Who shall describe their surprise when they at last turned round and beheld standing before them a beautiful lady exquisitely dressed!
As soon as the storks heard this, they were almost beside themselves with joy. They rushed to the door of the ruined castle so fast that the owl could barely keep up with them. When they arrived, the Caliph turned to the owl and said with deep emotion, "Deliverer of my friend and me, as a token of my eternal gratitude, accept me as your husband." Then he faced the east. Three times the storks bowed their long necks to the sun, which was just rising over the mountains. "Mutabor!" they both shouted, and in an instant, they were transformed again. Overwhelmed with joy in their newly-given lives, master and servant collapsed into each other's arms, laughing and crying. Who can describe their shock when they finally turned around and saw a beautiful lady standing before them, exquisitely dressed!
With a smile she held out her hand to the Caliph, and asked: ‘Do you not recognise your screech owl?’
With a smile, she extended her hand to the Caliph and asked, "Don't you recognize your screech owl?"
It was she! The Caliph was so enchanted by her grace and beauty, that he declared being turned into a stork had been the best piece of luck which had ever befallen him. The three set out at once for Bagdad. Fortunately, the Caliph found not only the box with the magic powder, but also his purse in his girdle; he was, therefore, able to buy in the nearest village all they required for their journey, and so at last they reached the gates of Bagdad.
It was her! The Caliph was so captivated by her grace and beauty that he said being turned into a stork was the best luck he had ever experienced. The three of them set out immediately for Baghdad. Luckily, the Caliph found not only the box with the magic powder but also his purse in his waistband; so, he was able to buy everything they needed for their journey from the nearest village, and finally, they arrived at the gates of Baghdad.
Here the Caliph’s arrival created the greatest sensation. He had been quite given up for dead, and the people were greatly rejoiced to see their beloved ruler again.
Here, the Caliph's arrival caused the biggest stir. People had completely lost hope that he was still alive, and they were incredibly happy to see their beloved ruler again.
Their rage with the usurper Mirza, however, was great in proportion. They marched in force to the palace and took the old magician and his son prisoners. The Caliph sent the magician to the room where the Princess had lived as an owl, and there had him hanged. As the son, however, knew nothing of his father’s acts, the Caliph gave him his choice between death and a pinch of the magic snuff. When he chose the latter, the Grand Vizier handed him the box. One good pinch, and the magic word transformed him to a stork. The Caliph ordered him to be confined in an iron cage, and placed in the palace gardens.
Their anger toward the usurper Mirza was immense. They forcefully marched to the palace and captured the old magician and his son. The Caliph sent the magician to the room where the Princess had lived as an owl, and had him hanged there. However, since the son knew nothing of his father's deeds, the Caliph offered him a choice between death and a pinch of the magic snuff. When he chose the latter, the Grand Vizier handed him the box. Just one good pinch, and the magic word turned him into a stork. The Caliph ordered that he be locked in an iron cage and placed in the palace gardens.
Caliph Chasid lived long and happily with his wife the Princess. His merriest time was when the Grand Vizier visited him in the afternoon; and when the Caliph was in particularly high spirits he would condescend to mimic the Vizier’s appearance when he was a stork. He would strut gravely, and with well-stiffened legs, up and down the room, chattering, and showing how he had vainly bowed to the east and cried ‘Mu...Mu...’ The Caliphess and her children were always much entertained by this performance; but when the Caliph went on nodding and bowing, and calling ‘Mu...mu...’ too long, the Vizier would threaten laughingly to tell the Chaliphess the subject of the discussion carried on one night outside the door of Princess Screech Owl.
Caliph Chasid lived a long and happy life with his wife, the Princess. His favorite time was when the Grand Vizier came to visit in the afternoon; when the Caliph was in particularly good spirits, he would playfully imitate the Vizier’s appearance as a stork. He would walk around the room strutting seriously, with stiff legs, chattering and pretending to bow vainly to the east while calling out 'Mu...Mu...' The Caliphess and their kids were always entertained by this act; however, when the Caliph kept nodding and bowing, calling out 'Mu...mu...' for too long, the Vizier would jokingly threaten to reveal to the Caliphess what they had discussed one night outside the door of Princess Screech Owl.
THE ENCHANTED WATCH
Once upon a time there lived a rich man who had three sons. When they grew up, he sent the eldest to travel and see the world, and three years passed before his family saw him again. Then he returned, magnificently dressed, and his father was so delighted with his behaviour, that he gave a great feast in his honour, to which all the relations and friends were invited.
Once upon a time, there was a wealthy man who had three sons. When they grew up, he sent the oldest to travel and explore the world, and three years went by before the family saw him again. When he returned, he was dressed extremely well, and his father was so pleased with his behavior that he threw a big party in his honor, inviting all their relatives and friends.
When the rejoicings were ended, the second son begged leave of his father to go in his turn to travel and mix with the world. The father was enchanted at the request, and gave him plenty of money for his expenses, saying, ‘If you behave as well as your brother, I will do honour to you as I did to him.’ The young man promised to do his best, and his conduct during three years was all that it should be. Then he went home, and his father was so pleased with him that his feast of welcome was even more splendid than the one before.
When the celebrations were over, the second son asked his father if he could also travel and experience the world. The father was thrilled by the request and gave him plenty of money for his journey, saying, “If you behave as well as your brother did, I will honor you just like I did him.” The young man promised to do his best, and for three years, he conducted himself admirably. When he returned home, his father was so impressed with him that his welcome feast was even more lavish than the last.
The third brother, whose name was Jenik, or Johnnie, was considered the most foolish of the three. He never did anything at home except sit over the stove and dirty himself with the ashes; but he also begged his father’s leave to travel for three years. ‘Go if you like, you idiot; but what good will it do you?’
The third brother, named Jenik, or Johnnie, was seen as the most foolish of the three. He did nothing at home except sit by the stove and get himself dirty with ashes; but he also asked his father for permission to travel for three years. ‘Go if you want, you fool; but what good will it do you?’
The youth paid no heed to his father’s observations as long as he obtained permission to go. The father saw him depart with joy, glad to get rid of him, and gave him a handsome sum of money for his needs.
The young man didn’t listen to his father’s advice as long as he got permission to leave. The father watched him go with relief, happy to see him off, and gave him a generous amount of money for his expenses.
Once, as he was making one of his journeys, Jenik chanced to cross a meadow where some shepherds were just about to kill a dog. He entreated them to spare it, and to give it to him instead which they willingly did, and he went on his way, followed by the dog. A little further on he came upon a cat, which someone was going to put to death. He implored its life, and the cat followed him. Finally, in another place, he saved a serpent, which was also handed over to him and now they made a party of four—the dog behind Jenik, the cat behind the dog, and the serpent behind the cat.
Once, while on one of his journeys, Jenik happened to cross a meadow where some shepherds were about to kill a dog. He begged them to spare it and give it to him instead, which they gladly did, and he continued on his way with the dog following him. A little further along, he came across a cat that someone was going to kill. He pleaded for its life, and the cat followed him too. Finally, in another spot, he saved a serpent, which was also given to him, and now they were a group of four—the dog behind Jenik, the cat behind the dog, and the serpent behind the cat.
Then the serpent said to Jenik, ‘Go wherever you see me go,’ for in the autumn, when all the serpents hide themselves in their holes, this serpent was going in search of his king, who was king of all the snakes.
Then the serpent said to Jenik, ‘Follow me wherever I go,’ because in the autumn, when all the serpents hide away in their holes, this serpent was looking for his king, who was the ruler of all the snakes.
Then he added: ‘My king will scold me for my long absence, everyone else is housed for the winter, and I am very late. I shall have to tell him what danger I have been in, and how, without your help, I should certainly have lost my life. The king will ask what you would like in return, and be sure you beg for the watch which hangs on the wall. It has all sorts of wonderful properties, you only need to rub it to get whatever you like.’
Then he added, "My king is going to be angry with me for being gone so long. Everyone else is settled in for the winter, and I’m really late. I’ll have to explain the danger I was in and how I definitely would have lost my life without your help. The king will want to know what you want in return, so make sure you ask for the watch that’s hanging on the wall. It has all kinds of amazing features; you just have to rub it to get whatever you want."
No sooner said than done. Jenik became the master of the watch, and the moment he got out he wished to put its virtues to the proof. He was hungry, and thought it would be delightful to eat in the meadow a loaf of new bread and a steak of good beef washed down by a flask of wine, so he scratched the watch, and in an instant it was all before him. Imagine his joy!
No sooner said than done. Jenik became the master of the watch, and as soon as he got out, he wanted to test its powers. He was hungry and thought it would be amazing to enjoy a loaf of fresh bread and a steak of good beef, washed down with a flask of wine, in the meadow. So he scratched the watch, and in an instant, it was all right in front of him. Can you imagine his joy!
Evening soon came, and Jenik rubbed his watch, and thought it would be very pleasant to have a room with a comfortable bed and a good supper. In an instant they were all before him. After supper he went to bed and slept till morning, as every honest man ought to do. Then he set forth for his father’s house, his mind dwelling on the feast that would be awaiting him. But as he returned in the same old clothes in which he went away, his father flew into a great rage, and refused to do anything for him. Jenik went to his old place near the stove, and dirtied himself in the ashes without anybody minding.
Evening came quickly, and Jenik checked his watch, thinking it would be really nice to have a room with a comfy bed and a good dinner. In no time, he imagined it all. After dinner, he went to bed and slept through the night, just like any decent person should. The next morning, he set off for his father’s house, his mind focused on the feast that was waiting for him. But when he returned in the same old clothes he had worn before, his father got really angry and refused to help him at all. Jenik went back to his usual spot by the stove and got dirty in the ashes while no one paid any attention.
The third day, feeling rather dull, he thought it would be nice to see a three-story house filled with beautiful furniture, and with vessels of silver and gold. So he rubbed the watch, and there it all was. Jenik went to look for his father, and said to him: ‘You offered me no feast of welcome, but permit me to give one to you, and come and let me show you my plate.’
The third day, feeling kind of down, he thought it would be nice to see a three-story house filled with beautiful furniture and silver and gold dishes. So he rubbed the watch, and there it all was. Jenik went to find his father and said to him, “You didn’t offer me any welcome feast, but let me give one to you, and come and let me show you my plate.”
The father was much astonished, and longed to know where his son had got all this wealth. Jenik did not reply, but begged him to invite all their relations and friends to a grand banquet.
The father was very surprised and wanted to know how his son had come by all this wealth. Jenik didn’t answer but asked him to invite all their relatives and friends to a big banquet.
So the father invited all the world, and everyone was amazed to see such splendid things, so much plate, and so many fine dishes on the table. After the first course Jenik prayed his father to invite the King, and his daughter the Princess. He rubbed his watch and wished for a carriage ornamented with gold and silver, and drawn by six horses, with harness glittering with precious stones. The father did not dare to sit in this gorgeous coach, but went to the palace on foot. The King and his daughter were immensely surprised with the beauty of the carriage, and mounted the steps at once to go to Jenik’s banquet. Then Jenik rubbed his watch afresh, and wished that for six miles the way to the house should be paved with marble. Who ever felt so astonished as the King? Never had he travelled over such a gorgeous road.
So the father invited everyone, and everyone was amazed to see such impressive things, so much silverware, and so many beautiful dishes on the table. After the first course, Jenik asked his father to invite the King and his daughter, the Princess. He rubbed his watch and wished for a carriage decorated with gold and silver, pulled by six horses, with harnesses sparkling with precious stones. The father didn’t dare to ride in this magnificent coach, so he walked to the palace. The King and his daughter were incredibly surprised by the beauty of the carriage and quickly went up the steps to attend Jenik’s banquet. Then, Jenik rubbed his watch again and wished that for six miles the road to the house should be paved with marble. Who could have been more astonished than the King? He had never traveled over such a spectacular road.
When Jenik heard the wheels of the carriage, he rubbed his watch and wished for a still more beautiful house, four stories high, and hung with gold, silver, and damask; filled with wonderful tables, covered with dishes such as no king had ever eaten before. The King, the Queen, and the Princess were speechless with surprise. Never had they seen such a splendid palace, nor such a high feast! At dessert the King asked Jenik’s father to give him the young man for a son-in-law. No sooner said than done! The marriage took place at once, and the King returned to his own palace, and left Jenik with his wife in the enchanted house.
When Jenik heard the carriage wheels, he checked his watch and wished for an even more beautiful house, four stories tall and adorned with gold, silver, and damask; filled with incredible tables loaded with dishes unlike anything a king had ever eaten. The King, the Queen, and the Princess were left speechless in astonishment. They had never seen such a magnificent palace or such a lavish feast! At dessert, the King asked Jenik’s father if he could have the young man as a son-in-law. As soon as he said it, it was done! The wedding happened right away, and the King went back to his own palace, leaving Jenik with his wife in the enchanted house.
Now Jenik was not a very clever man, and at the end of a very short time he began to bore his wife. She inquired how he managed to build palaces and to get so many precious things. He told her all about the watch, and she never rested till she had stolen the precious talisman. One night she took the watch, rubbed it, and wished for a carriage drawn by four horses; and in this carriage she at once set out for her father’s palace. There she called to her own attendants, bade them follow her into the carriage, and drove straight to the sea-side. Then she rubbed her watch, and wished that the sea might be crossed by a bridge, and that a magnificent palace might arise in the middle of the sea. No sooner said than done. The Princess entered the house, rubbed her watch, and in an instant the bridge was gone.
Now Jenik wasn't a very smart guy, and before long, he started to bore his wife. She asked him how he managed to build palaces and acquire so many valuable things. He told her all about the watch, and she wouldn’t rest until she stole the precious talisman. One night, she took the watch, rubbed it, and wished for a carriage pulled by four horses; she immediately set off for her father's palace in this carriage. There, she called her own attendants, told them to get in the carriage, and drove straight to the seaside. Then she rubbed her watch and wished for a bridge to cross the sea and for a grand palace to rise in the middle of the ocean. Just like that, it happened. The Princess entered the palace, rubbed her watch, and in an instant, the bridge was gone.
Left alone, Jenik felt very miserable. His father, mother, and brothers, and, indeed, everybody else, all laughed at him. Nothing remained to him but the cat and dog whose lives he had once saved. He took them with him and went far away, for he could no longer live with his family. He reached at last a great desert, and saw some crows flying towards a mountain. One of them was a long way behind, and when he arrived his brothers inquired what had made him so late. ‘Winter is here,’ they said, ‘and it is time to fly to other countries.’ He told them that he had seen in the middle of the sea the most wonderful house that ever was built.
Left alone, Jenik felt really miserable. His father, mother, brothers, and basically everyone else laughed at him. All he had left were the cat and dog whose lives he had once saved. He took them with him and went far away because he could no longer live with his family. Eventually, he reached a vast desert and saw some crows flying toward a mountain. One of them lagged behind, and when he arrived, his brothers asked what had taken him so long. "Winter is here," they said, "and it’s time to fly to warmer places." He told them that he had seen the most amazing house ever built in the middle of the sea.
On hearing this, Jenik at once concluded that this must be the hiding-place of his wife. So he proceeded directly to the shore with his dog and his cat. When he arrived on the beach, he said to the dog: ‘You are an excellent swimmer, and you, little one, are very light; jump on the dog’s back and he will take you to the palace. Once there, he will hide himself near the door, and you must steal secretly in and try to get hold of my watch.’
On hearing this, Jenik immediately thought that this must be where his wife was hiding. So he went straight to the shore with his dog and cat. When he got to the beach, he said to the dog, "You're a great swimmer, and you, little one, are really light; hop on the dog's back, and he’ll take you to the palace. Once you're there, he’ll hide by the door, and you need to sneak in and try to grab my watch."
No sooner said than done. The two animals crossed the sea; the dog hid near the house, and the cat stole into the chamber. The Princess recognised him, and guessed why he had come; and she took the watch down to the cellar and locked it in a box. But the cat wriggled its way into the cellar, and the moment the Princess turned her back, he scratched and scratched till he had made a hole in the box. Then he took the watch between his teeth, and waited quietly till the Princess came back. Scarcely had she opened the door when the cat was outside, and the watch into the bargain.
No sooner said than done. The two animals crossed the sea; the dog hid near the house, and the cat sneaked into the chamber. The Princess recognized him and guessed why he had come; she took the watch down to the cellar and locked it in a box. But the cat found a way into the cellar, and the moment the Princess turned her back, he scratched and scratched until he made a hole in the box. Then he took the watch in his mouth and waited quietly until the Princess came back. As soon as she opened the door, the cat was outside, watch in tow.
The cat was no sooner beyond the gates than she said to the dog:
The cat had just passed through the gates when she said to the dog:
‘We are going to cross the sea; be very careful not to speak to me.’
‘We’re going to cross the sea; please be careful not to talk to me.’
The dog laid this to heart and said nothing; but when they approached the shore he could not help asking, ‘Have you got the watch?’
The dog took this to heart and didn't say a word; but when they got near the shore, he couldn't help but ask, 'Do you have the watch?'
The cat did not answer—he was afraid that he might let the talisman fall. When they touched the shore the dog repeated his question.
The cat didn’t respond—he was worried he might drop the talisman. When they reached the shore, the dog asked his question again.
‘Yes,’ said the cat.
"Yep," said the cat.
And the watch fell into the sea. Then our two friends began each to accuse the other, and both looked sorrowfully at the place where their treasure had fallen in. Suddenly a fish appeared near the edge of the sea. The cat seized it, and thought it would make them a good supper.
And the watch fell into the sea. Then our two friends started blaming each other, both looking sadly at the spot where their treasure had sunk. Suddenly, a fish appeared near the shore. The cat grabbed it, thinking it would make a nice dinner for them.
‘I have nine little children,’ cried the fish. ‘Spare the father of a family!’
‘I have nine little kids,’ cried the fish. ‘Please spare the father of a family!’
‘Granted,’ replied the cat; ‘but on condition that you find our watch.’
‘Sure,’ replied the cat; ‘but only if you find our watch.’
The fish executed his commission, and they brought the treasure back to their master. Jenik rubbed the watch and wished that the palace, with the Princess and all its inhabitants, should be swallowed up in the sea. No sooner said than done. Jenik returned to his parents, and he and his watch, his cat and his dog, lived together happily to the end of their days.
The fish completed their task and returned the treasure to their master. Jenik rubbed his watch and wished that the palace, along with the Princess and everyone in it, would be swallowed by the sea. As soon as he said it, it happened. Jenik went back to his parents, and he, along with his watch, his cat, and his dog, lived happily together for the rest of their lives.
Deulin.
Deulin.
ROSANELLA
Everybody knows that though the fairies live hundreds of years they do sometimes die, and especially as they are obliged to pass one day in every week under the form of some animal, when of course they are liable to accident. It was in this way that death once overtook the Queen of the Fairies, and it became necessary to call a general assembly to elect a new sovereign. After much discussion, it appeared that the choice lay between two fairies, one called Surcantine and the other Paridamie; and their claims were so equal that it was impossible without injustice to prefer one to the other. Under these circumstances it was unanimously decided that whichever of the two could show to the world the greatest wonder should be Queen; but it was to be a special kind of wonder, no moving of mountains or any such common fairy tricks would do. Surcantine, therefore, resolved that she would bring up a Prince whom nothing could make constant. While Paridamie decided to display to admiring mortals a Princess so charming that no one could see her without falling in love with her. They were allowed to take their own time, and meanwhile the four oldest fairies were to attend to the affairs of the kingdom.
Everyone knows that even though fairies live for hundreds of years, they can still die, especially since they have to spend one day a week in the form of an animal, which puts them at risk for accidents. This is how death once caught the Queen of the Fairies, and it became necessary to call a general assembly to elect a new ruler. After much discussion, it turned out that the choice was between two fairies, one named Surcantine and the other Paridamie; their qualifications were so equal that it was impossible to favor one over the other without being unfair. Given this situation, it was unanimously decided that the fairy who could show the greatest wonder would be Queen; however, it had to be a very special kind of wonder—no moving mountains or any of those typical fairy tricks would be acceptable. Surcantine decided she would raise a Prince who would never be able to remain faithful, while Paridamie chose to present a Princess so mesmerizing that no one could see her without falling in love. They were given as much time as they needed, and in the meantime, the four oldest fairies would manage the kingdom's affairs.
Now Paridamie had for a long time been very friendly with King Bardondon, who was a most accomplished Prince, and whose court was the model of what a court should be. His Queen, Balanice, was also charming; indeed it is rare to find a husband and wife so perfectly of one mind about everything. They had one little daughter, whom they had named ‘Rosanella,’ because she had a little pink rose printed upon her white throat. From her earliest infancy she had shown the most astonishing intelligence, and the courtiers knew her smart sayings by heart, and repeated them on all occasions. In the middle of the night following the assembly of fairies, Queen Balanice woke up with a shriek, and when her maids of honour ran to see what was the matter, they found she had had a frightful dream.
Now Paridamie had been very close with King Bardondon for a long time, who was an incredibly skilled ruler, and whose court was the perfect example of what a court should be. His Queen, Balanice, was equally charming; it’s rare to find a couple so perfectly in sync on everything. They had a little daughter named ‘Rosanella,’ after the tiny pink rose printed on her pale throat. From a young age, she displayed remarkable intelligence, and the courtiers memorized her clever remarks, repeating them whenever they could. In the middle of the night after the fairy gathering, Queen Balanice woke up screaming, and when her maids of honor rushed in to see what was wrong, they found she had experienced a terrifying dream.
‘I thought,’ said she, ‘that my little daughter had changed into a bouquet of roses, and that as I held it in my hand a bird swooped down suddenly and snatched it from me and carried it away.’
‘I thought,’ she said, ‘that my little girl had turned into a bouquet of roses, and that as I held it in my hand, a bird suddenly swooped down, grabbed it from me, and flew away.’
‘Let some one run and see that all is well with the Princess,’ she added.
"Someone should go and check that everything is okay with the Princess," she said.
So they ran; but what was their dismay when they found that the cradle was empty; and though they sought high and low, not a trace of Rosanella could they discover. The Queen was inconsolable, and so, indeed, was the King, only being a man he did not say quite so much about his feelings. He presently proposed to Balanice that they should spend a few days at one of their palaces in the country; and to this she willingly agreed, since her grief made the gaiety of the capital distasteful to her. One lovely summer evening, as they sat together on a shady lawn shaped like a star, from which radiated twelve splendid avenues of trees, the Queen looked round and saw a charming peasant-girl approaching by each path, and what was still more singular was that everyone carried something in a basket which appeared to occupy her whole attention. As each drew near she laid her basket at Balanice’s feet, saying:
So they ran; but they were shocked to find the cradle empty; and even though they searched everywhere, they couldn't find any trace of Rosanella. The Queen was heartbroken, and the King was too, though since he was a man, he didn't talk about his feelings as much. He soon suggested to Balanice that they should spend a few days at one of their country palaces, and she gladly agreed since her sadness made the lively atmosphere of the city unbearable for her. One beautiful summer evening, as they sat together on a star-shaped lawn surrounded by twelve magnificent tree-lined paths, the Queen looked around and saw a lovely peasant girl coming down each path, and what was even more peculiar was that each one was carrying something in a basket that seemed to capture her full attention. As each girl approached, she placed her basket at Balanice's feet, saying:
‘Charming Queen, may this be some slight consolation to you in your unhappiness!’
‘Charming Queen, I hope this brings you some small comfort in your unhappiness!’
The Queen hastily opened the baskets, and found in each a lovely baby-girl, about the same age as the little Princess for whom she sorrowed so deeply. At first the sight of them renewed her grief; but presently their charms so gained upon her that she forgot her melancholy in providing them with nursery-maids, cradle-rockers, and ladies-in-waiting, and in sending hither and thither for swings and dolls and tops, and bushels of the finest sweetmeats.
The Queen quickly opened the baskets and found a beautiful baby girl in each, around the same age as the little Princess she mourned so profoundly. At first, seeing them brought back her sorrow; but soon, their charm captivated her, and she forgot her sadness as she arranged for nursery maids, cradle rockers, and ladies-in-waiting, and sent out for swings, dolls, tops, and loads of the best sweets.
Oddly enough, every baby had upon its throat a tiny pink rose. The Queen found it so difficult to decide on suitable names for all of them, that until she could settle the matter she chose a special colour for everyone, by which it was known, so that when they were all together they looked like nothing so much as a nosegay of gay flowers. As they grew older it became evident that though they were all remarkably intelligent, and profited equally by the education they received, yet they differed one from another in disposition, so much so that they gradually ceased to be known as ‘Pearl,’ or ‘Primrose,’ or whatever might have been their colour, and the Queen instead would say:
Strangely enough, each baby had a small pink rose on its throat. The Queen found it so hard to come up with fitting names for all of them that, until she could figure it out, she picked a specific color for each one, which is how they were known. So, when they were all together, they looked like a bunch of colorful flowers. As they got older, it became clear that even though they were all really intelligent and benefited equally from their education, they each had different personalities. Because of this, they slowly stopped being called ‘Pearl,’ or ‘Primrose,’ or whatever their color was, and the Queen instead would say:
‘Where is my Sweet?’ or ‘my Beautiful,’ or ‘my Gay.’
‘Where is my Sweet?’ or ‘my Beautiful,’ or ‘my Gay.’
Of course, with all these charms they had lovers by the dozen. Not only in their own court, but princes from afar, who were constantly arriving, attracted by the reports which were spread abroad; but these lovely girls, the first Maids of Honour, were as discreet as they were beautiful, and favoured no one.
Of course, with all these charms, they had lovers coming out of the woodwork. Not just from their own court, but princes from far away, who were always arriving, drawn in by the rumors that circulated; but these beautiful girls, the top Maids of Honour, were just as discreet as they were stunning, and showed no favoritism.
But let us return to Surcantine. She had fixed upon the son of a king who was cousin to Bardondon, to bring up as her fickle Prince. She had before, at his christening, given him all the graces of mind and body that a prince could possibly require; but now she redoubled her efforts, and spared no pains in adding every imaginable charm and fascination. So that whether he happened to be cross or amiable, splendidly or simply attired, serious or frivolous, he was always perfectly irresistible! In truth, he was a charming young fellow, since the Fairy had given him the best heart in the world as well as the best head, and had left nothing to be desired but—constancy. For it cannot be denied that Prince Mirliflor was a desperate flirt, and as fickle as the wind; so much so, that by the time he arrived at his eighteenth birthday there was not a heart left for him to conquer in his father’s kingdom—they were all his own, and he was tired of everyone! Things were in this state when he was invited to visit the court of his father’s cousin, King Bardondon.
But let's go back to Surcantine. She had chosen the son of a king, who was a cousin of Bardondon, to raise as her unpredictable Prince. At his christening, she had already blessed him with all the qualities of mind and body that a prince could possibly want; but now she intensified her efforts, doing everything she could to add every imaginable charm and appeal. So whether he was in a bad mood or a good one, dressed up or dressed down, serious or carefree, he was always completely irresistible! In fact, he was a charming young man, since the Fairy had given him the best heart in the world as well as great intelligence, leaving nothing to be desired except—loyalty. Prince Mirliflor couldn’t be denied as a hopeless flirt, and he was as changeable as the wind; by the time he turned eighteen, there wasn't a heart left in his father's kingdom for him to win over—they were all claimed, and he was bored of everyone! This was how things stood when he was invited to visit his father’s cousin, King Bardondon.
Imagine his feelings when he arrived and was presented at once to twelve of the loveliest creatures in the world, and his embarrassment was heightened by the fact that they all liked him as much as he liked each one of them, so that things came to such a pass that he was never happy a single instant without them. For could he not whisper soft speeches to Sweet, and laugh with Joy, while he looked at Beauty? And in his more serious moments what could be pleasanter than to talk to Grave upon some shady lawn, while he held the hand of Loving in his own, and all the others lingered near in sympathetic silence? For the first time in his life he really loved, though the object of his devotion was not one person, but twelve, to whom he was equally attached, and even Surcantine was deceived into thinking that this was indeed the height of inconstancy. But Paridamie said not a word.
Imagine how he felt when he arrived and was introduced to twelve of the most beautiful people in the world, and his embarrassment increased because they all liked him just as much as he liked each of them. It got to the point where he couldn't be happy for a single moment without them. After all, how could he not whisper sweet nothings to Sweet, and laugh with Joy, while looking at Beauty? And during his more serious moments, what could be better than talking to Grave on a shady lawn, holding Loving's hand, while the others stood nearby in supportive silence? For the first time in his life, he truly loved, even though the object of his affection wasn't just one person but twelve, to whom he felt equally attached. Even Surcantine was fooled into thinking this was the ultimate in inconsistency. But Paridamie said nothing.
In vain did Prince Mirliflor’s father write commanding him to return, and proposing for him one good match after another. Nothing in the world could tear him from his twelve enchantresses.
In vain did Prince Mirliflor’s father write to him, demanding his return and suggesting one good marriage prospect after another. Nothing in the world could pull him away from his twelve enchantresses.
One day the Queen gave a large garden-party, and just as the guests were all assembled, and Prince Mirliflor was as usual dividing his attentions between the twelve beauties, a humming of bees was heard. The Rose-maidens, fearing their stings, uttered little shrieks, and fled all together to a distance from the rest of the company. Immediately, to the horror of all who were looking on, the bees pursued them, and, growing suddenly to an enormous size, pounced each upon a maiden and carried her off into the air, and in an instant they were all lost to view. This amazing occurrence plunged the whole court into the deepest affliction, and Prince Mirliflor, after giving way to the most violent grief at first, fell gradually into a state of such deep dejection that it was feared if nothing could rouse him he would certainly die. Surcantine came in all haste to see what she could do for her darling, but he rejected with scorn all the portraits of lovely princesses which she offered him for his collection. In short, it was evident that he was in a bad way, and the Fairy was at her wits’ end. One day, as he wandered about absorbed in melancholy reflections, he heard sudden shouts and exclamations of amazement, and if he had taken the trouble to look up he could not have helped being as astonished as everyone else, for through the air a chariot of crystal was slowly approaching which glittered in the sunshine. Six lovely maidens with shining wings drew it by rose-coloured ribbons, while a whole flight of others, equally beautiful, were holding long garlands of roses crossed above it, so as to form a complete canopy. In it sat the Fairy Paridamie, and by her side a Princess whose beauty positively dazzled all who saw her. At the foot of the great staircase they descended, and proceeded to the Queen’s apartments, though everyone had run together to see this marvel, till it was quite difficult to make a way through the crowd; and exclamations of wonder rose on all sides at the loveliness of the strange Princess. ‘Great Queen,’ said Paridamie, ‘permit me to restore to you your daughter Rosanella, whom I stole out of her cradle.’
One day, the Queen hosted a big garden party, and just as all the guests were gathered, Prince Mirliflor was, as usual, splitting his attention among the twelve beauties. Suddenly, a buzzing of bees was heard. The Rose-maidens, scared of being stung, let out little shrieks and ran away, distancing themselves from the rest of the guests. To everyone’s horror, the bees chased them and unexpectedly grew to a massive size, each one grabbing a maiden and lifting her into the air, quickly disappearing from sight. This astonishing event plunged the entire court into deep sorrow, and Prince Mirliflor, after initially expressing intense grief, gradually fell into such a deep despair that everyone feared he might die if something didn’t lift his spirits. Surcantine hurried over to find a way to help her beloved, but he disdainfully rejected all the portraits of beautiful princesses she offered for his collection. Clearly, he was in a bad place, and the Fairy was at her wit's end. One day, as he wandered around lost in sad thoughts, he heard sudden shouts and gasps of amazement. If he had looked up, he would have been just as astonished as everyone else because a crystal chariot was slowly approaching through the air, sparkling in the sunlight. Six lovely maidens with shining wings pulled it with rose-colored ribbons, while a group of equally beautiful maidens held long garlands of roses above it, creating a complete canopy. Inside sat Fairy Paridamie, alongside a Princess whose beauty dazzled everyone who laid eyes on her. They descended at the base of the grand staircase and made their way to the Queen’s rooms, while everyone rushed to witness this wonder, making it hard to navigate through the crowd; exclamations of awe erupted from all sides at the beauty of the mysterious Princess. “Great Queen,” said Paridamie, “allow me to return to you your daughter Rosanella, whom I took from her cradle.”
After the first transports of joy were over the Queen said to Paridamie:
After the initial excitement faded, the Queen said to Paridamie:
‘But my twelve lovely ones, are they lost to me for ever? Shall I never see them again?’
‘But my twelve beautiful ones, are they lost to me forever? Will I never see them again?’
But Paridamie only said:
But Paridamie just said:
‘Very soon you will cease to miss them!’ in a tone that evidently meant ‘Don’t ask me any more questions.’ And then mounting again into her chariot she swiftly disappeared.
‘You won’t miss them soon!’ she said in a tone that clearly meant ‘Stop asking me questions.’ Then she got back into her chariot and quickly vanished.
The news of his beautiful cousin’s arrival was soon carried to the Prince, but he had hardly the heart to go and see her. However, it became absolutely necessary that he should pay his respects, and he had scarcely been five minutes in her presence before it seemed to him that she combined in her own charming person all the gifts and graces which had so attracted him in the twelve Rose-maidens whose loss he had so truly mourned; and after all it is really more satisfactory to make love to one person at a time. So it came to pass that before he knew where he was he was entreating his lovely cousin to marry him, and the moment the words had left his lips, Paridamie appeared, smiling and triumphant, in the chariot of the Queen of the Fairies, for by that time they had all heard of her success, and declared her to have earned the kingdom. She had to give a full account of how she had stolen Rosanella from her cradle, and divided her character into twelve parts, that each might charm Prince Mirliflor, and when once more united might cure him of his inconstancy once and for ever.
The news of his beautiful cousin’s arrival quickly reached the Prince, but he could hardly bring himself to go see her. Still, it became absolutely necessary for him to pay his respects, and he had barely spent five minutes in her company before he felt that she embodied all the gifts and charms that had so captivated him in the twelve Rose-maidens he had truly mourned; and honestly, it's really more satisfying to be in love with one person at a time. So, before he realized what was happening, he found himself asking his lovely cousin to marry him, and as soon as the words left his mouth, Paridamie appeared, smiling and triumphant, in the chariot of the Queen of the Fairies. By then, everyone had heard of her success and declared her worthy of the kingdom. She had to explain how she had taken Rosanella from her cradle and split her character into twelve parts so that each would charm Prince Mirliflor, and when they were reunited, it would cure him of his inconsistency for good.
And as one more proof of the fascination of the whole Rosanella, I may tell you that even the defeated Surcantine sent her a wedding gift, and was present at the ceremony which took place as soon as the guests could arrive. Prince Mirliflor was constant for the rest of his life. And indeed who would not have been in his place? As for Rosanella, she loved him as much as all the twelve beauties put together, so they reigned in peace and happiness to the end of their long lives.
And as another proof of the charm of the whole Rosanella story, I can tell you that even the defeated Surcantine sent her a wedding gift and attended the ceremony that happened as soon as the guests could arrive. Prince Mirliflor remained devoted for the rest of his life. And really, who wouldn’t have been in his position? As for Rosanella, she loved him more than all twelve beauties combined, so they ruled in peace and happiness until the end of their long lives.
By the Comte de Caylus.
By Comte de Caylus.
SYLVAIN AND JOCOSA
Once upon a time there lived in the same village two children, one called Sylvain and the other Jocosa, who were both remarkable for beauty and intelligence. It happened that their parents were not on terms of friendship with one another, on account of some old quarrel, which had, however, taken place so long ago, that they had quite forgotten what it was all about, and only kept up the feud from force of habit. Sylvain and Jocosa for their parts were far from sharing this enmity, and indeed were never happy when apart. Day after day they fed their flocks of sheep together, and spent the long sunshiny hours in playing, or resting upon some shady bank. It happened one day that the Fairy of the Meadows passed by and saw them, and was so much attracted by their pretty faces and gentle manners that she took them under her protection, and the older they grew the dearer they became to her. At first she showed her interest by leaving in their favourite haunts many little gifts such as they delighted to offer one to the other, for they loved each other so much that their first thought was always, ‘What will Jocosa like?’ or, ‘What will please Sylvain?’ And the Fairy took a great delight in their innocent enjoyment of the cakes and sweetmeats she gave them nearly every day. When they were grown up she resolved to make herself known to them, and chose a time when they were sheltering from the noonday sun in the deep shade of a flowery hedgerow. They were startled at first by the sudden apparition of a tall and slender lady, dressed all in green, and crowned with a garland of flowers. But when she spoke to them sweetly, and told them how she had always loved them, and that it was she who had given them all the pretty things which it had so surprised them to find, they thanked her gratefully, and took pleasure in answering the questions she put to them. When she presently bade them farewell, she told them never to tell anyone else that they had seen her. ‘You will often see me again,’ added she, ‘and I shall be with you frequently, even when you do not see me.’ So saying she vanished, leaving them in a state of great wonder and excitement. After this she came often, and taught them numbers of things, and showed them many of the marvels of her beautiful kingdom, and at last one day she said to them, ‘You know that I have always been kind to you; now I think it is time you did something for me in your turn. You both remember the fountain I call my favourite? Promise me that every morning before the sun rises you will go to it and clear away every stone that impedes its course, and every dead leaf or broken twig that sullies its clear waters. I shall take it as a proof of your gratitude to me if you neither forget nor delay this duty, and I promise that so long as the sun’s earliest rays find my favourite spring the clearest and sweetest in all my meadows, you two shall not be parted from one another.’
Once upon a time, in the same village, there were two children named Sylvain and Jocosa, both known for their beauty and intelligence. Their parents weren’t friends due to an old feud that had happened so long ago that they had forgotten what it was about, yet they continued the conflict out of habit. Sylvain and Jocosa, however, didn’t share this hostility and were never happy when they were apart. Day after day, they herded their sheep together and enjoyed the long sunny hours playing or relaxing on a shady bank. One day, the Fairy of the Meadows passed by and was so taken by their lovely faces and gentle nature that she decided to protect them. As they grew older, she grew fonder of them. Initially, she showed her interest by leaving little gifts in their favorite spots, which they loved to exchange with each other, always thinking, "What would Jocosa like?" or "What would please Sylvain?" The Fairy delighted in their innocent enjoyment of the cakes and treats she gave them almost every day. Once they were grown, she decided to reveal herself and chose a moment when they were hiding from the midday sun under a flower-filled hedgerow. They were surprised by the sudden appearance of a tall, slender lady in green, crowned with a flower crown. But when she spoke sweetly and told them how much she had always loved them—and that she was the one who gifted them the lovely items they had been so surprised to find—they thanked her warmly and enjoyed answering her questions. When she eventually said goodbye, she instructed them not to tell anyone about their encounter. "You’ll see me often again," she added, "and I will be with you frequently, even when you don’t see me." With that, she vanished, leaving them in awe and excitement. After that, she visited often, teaching them many things and showing them the wonders of her beautiful kingdom. Finally, one day, she said, "You know I’ve always been kind to you; I think it's time for you to do something for me in return. Do you remember the fountain I call my favorite? Promise me that every morning before sunrise, you will go to it and clear away every stone blocking its path and any dead leaves or broken twigs that dirty its clear waters. I will take it as proof of your gratitude if you neither forget nor delay this task, and I promise that as long as the sun’s earliest rays find my favorite spring to be the clearest and sweetest in all my meadows, you two shall never be separated."
Sylvain and Jocosa willingly undertook this service, and indeed felt that it was but a very small thing in return for all that the fairy had given and promised to them. So for a long time the fountain was tended with the most scrupulous care, and was the clearest and prettiest in all the country round. But one morning in the spring, long before the sun rose, they were hastening towards it from opposite directions, when, tempted by the beauty of the myriads of gay flowers which grew thickly on all sides, they paused each to gather some for the other.
Sylvain and Jocosa happily took on this task, feeling it was just a small way to give back for everything the fairy had done and promised them. So, for a long time, they looked after the fountain with great care, making it the clearest and prettiest in the entire area. But one spring morning, long before the sun came up, they were rushing toward it from different directions when, tempted by the beauty of the countless colorful flowers blooming all around, they each stopped to pick some for the other.
‘I will make Sylvain a garland,’ said Jocosa, and ‘How pretty Jocosa will look in this crown!’ thought Sylvain.
‘I’m going to make Sylvain a garland,’ said Jocosa, and ‘How pretty Jocosa will look in this crown!’ thought Sylvain.
Hither and thither they strayed, led ever farther and farther, for the brightest flowers seemed always just beyond them, until at last they were startled by the first bright rays of the rising sun. With one accord they turned and ran towards the fountain, reaching it at the same moment, though from opposite sides. But what was their horror to see its usually tranquil waters seething and bubbling, and even as they looked down rushed a mighty stream, which entirely engulfed it, and Sylvain and Jocosa found themselves parted by a wide and swiftly-rushing river. All this had happened with such rapidity that they had only time to utter a cry, and each to hold up to the other the flowers they had gathered; but this was explanation enough. Twenty times did Sylvain throw himself into the turbulent waters, hoping to be able to swim to the other side, but each time an irresistible force drove him back upon the bank he had just quitted, while, as for Jocosa, she even essayed to cross the flood upon a tree which came floating down torn up by the roots, but her efforts were equally useless. Then with heavy hearts they set out to follow the course of the stream, which had now grown so wide that it was only with difficulty they could distinguish each other. Night and day, over mountains and through valleys, in cold or in heat, they struggled on, enduring fatigue and hunger and every hardship, and consoled only by the hope of meeting once more—until three years had passed, and at last they stood upon the cliffs where the river flowed into the mighty sea.
They wandered around aimlessly, drawn further and further in, as the brightest flowers seemed always just out of reach. Finally, they were jolted by the first bright rays of the rising sun. Together, they turned and ran towards the fountain, arriving at the same moment from opposite sides. But to their horror, they saw that its normally calm waters were churning and bubbling. Just as they looked down, a powerful current surged, completely swallowing it up, and Sylvain and Jocosa found themselves separated by a wide, rushing river. This all happened so quickly that they only had time to shout and hold up the flowers they had picked for each other; but that was explanation enough. Sylvain threw himself into the turbulent water twenty times, desperately trying to swim to the other side, but each time an unstoppable force pushed him back to the bank he had just left. Jocosa even tried to cross the flood on a tree that was floating by, uprooted, but her attempts were just as futile. With heavy hearts, they began to follow the river's course, which had widened so much that it was hard to see each other. Day and night, over mountains and through valleys, in cold and heat, they pressed on, facing fatigue, hunger, and every hardship, comforted only by the hope of reuniting—until three years had passed, and at last, they stood on the cliffs where the river met the vast sea.
And now they seemed farther apart than ever, and in despair they tried once more to throw themselves into the foaming waves. But the Fairy of the Meadows, who had really never ceased to watch over them, did not intend that they should be drowned at last, so she hastily waved her wand, and immediately they found themselves standing side by side upon the golden sand. You may imagine their joy and delight when they realised that their weary struggle was ended, and their utter contentment as they clasped each other by the hand. They had so much to say that they hardly knew where to begin, but they agreed in blaming themselves bitterly for the negligence which had caused all their trouble; and when she heard this the Fairy immediately appeared to them. They threw themselves at her feet and implored her forgiveness, which she granted freely, and promised at the same time that now their punishment was ended she would always befriend them. Then she sent for her chariot of green rushes, ornamented with May dewdrops, which she particularly valued and always collected with great care; and ordered her six short-tailed moles to carry them all back to the well-known pastures, which they did in a remarkably short time; and Sylvain and Jocosa were overjoyed to see their dearly-loved home once more after all their toilful wanderings. The Fairy, who had set her mind upon securing their happiness, had in their absence quite made up the quarrel between their parents, and gained their consent to the marriage of the faithful lovers; and now she conducted them to the most charming little cottage that can be imagined, close to the fountain, which had once more resumed its peaceful aspect, and flowed gently down into the little brook which enclosed the garden and orchard and pasture which belonged to the cottage. Indeed, nothing more could have been thought of, either for Sylvain and Jocosa or for their flocks; and their delight satisfied even the Fairy who had planned it all to please them. When they had explored and admired until they were tired they sat down to rest under the rose-covered porch, and the Fairy said that to pass the time until the wedding guests whom she had invited could arrive she would tell them a story. This is it:
And now they seemed farther apart than ever, and in despair, they tried once more to throw themselves into the foaming waves. But the Fairy of the Meadows, who had never really stopped watching over them, didn't want them to drown at last, so she quickly waved her wand, and suddenly they found themselves standing side by side on the golden sand. You can imagine their joy and delight when they realized their weary struggle was over, and their complete happiness as they held each other’s hands. They had so much to say that they hardly knew where to start, but they both blamed themselves bitterly for the carelessness that led to all their troubles; and when the Fairy heard this, she immediately appeared to them. They fell at her feet and begged for her forgiveness, which she granted freely, promising that now their punishment was over, she would always protect them. Then she called for her chariot made of green rushes, decorated with May dewdrops, which she particularly cherished and always gathered with great care; and instructed her six short-tailed moles to carry them all back to their familiar pastures, which they did in no time at all; and Sylvain and Jocosa were overjoyed to see their beloved home once again after all their exhausting travels. The Fairy, who was focused on ensuring their happiness, had in their absence resolved the quarrel between their parents and gained their consent for the marriage of the devoted lovers; and now she led them to the most charming little cottage you can imagine, near the fountain, which had once again taken on its peaceful appearance, flowing gently into the little brook that surrounded the garden, orchard, and pasture belonging to the cottage. Indeed, nothing more could have been imagined for either Sylvain and Jocosa or for their flocks; and their delight even satisfied the Fairy who had planned it all to make them happy. After they explored and admired until they were tired, they sat down to rest under the rose-covered porch, and the Fairy said that while they waited for the wedding guests she had invited to arrive, she would tell them a story. This is it:
The Yellow Bird
The Yellow Bird
Once upon a time a Fairy, who had somehow or other got into mischief, was condemned by the High Court of Fairyland to live for several years under the form of some creature, and at the moment of resuming her natural appearance once again to make the fortune of two men. It was left to her to choose what form she would take, and because she loved yellow she transformed herself into a lovely bird with shining golden feathers such as no one had ever seen before. When the time of her punishment was at an end the beautiful yellow bird flew to Bagdad, and let herself be caught by a Fowler at the precise moment when Badi-al-Zaman was walking up and down outside his magnificent summer palace. This Badi-al-Zaman—whose name means ‘Wonder-of-the-World’—was looked upon in Bagdad as the most fortunate creature under the sun, because of his vast wealth. But really, what with anxiety about his riches and being weary of everything, and always desiring something he had not, he never knew a moment’s real happiness. Even now he had come out of his palace, which was large and splendid enough for fifty kings, weary and cross because he could find nothing new to amuse him. The Fowler thought that this would be a favourable opportunity for offering him the marvellous bird, which he felt certain he would buy the instant he saw it. And he was not mistaken, for when Badi-al-Zaman took the lovely prisoner into his own hands, he saw written under its right wing the words, ‘He who eats my head will become a king,’ and under its left wing, ‘He who eats my heart will find a hundred gold pieces under his pillow every morning.’ In spite of all his wealth he at once began to desire the promised gold, and the bargain was soon completed. Then the difficulty arose as to how the bird was to be cooked; for among all his army of servants not one could Badi-al-Zaman trust. At last he asked the Fowler if he were married, and on hearing that he was he bade him take the bird home with him and tell his wife to cook it.
Once upon a time, a Fairy who had gotten into some trouble was sentenced by the High Court of Fairyland to live as a creature for several years. At the moment she returned to her true form, she was supposed to help two men find fortune. She could choose what creature to become, and because she loved yellow, she transformed into a beautiful bird with shiny golden feathers unlike anything anyone had ever seen. When her punishment ended, the stunning yellow bird flew to Baghdad and allowed itself to be caught by a bird catcher right as Badi-al-Zaman was pacing outside his lavish summer palace. Badi-al-Zaman—whose name means ‘Wonder-of-the-World’—was considered the luckiest person in Baghdad due to his immense wealth. But in reality, between worrying about his riches and being tired of everything while constantly wanting what he didn't have, he never experienced true happiness. Even then, he stepped outside his palace, which was grand enough for fifty kings, feeling exhausted and irritable because he couldn’t find anything new to entertain himself. The bird catcher thought this was the perfect chance to present the remarkable bird to him, confident that Badi-al-Zaman would buy it the moment he saw it. He was right; when Badi-al-Zaman held the beautiful captive, he read the words written under its right wing: ‘He who eats my head will become a king,’ and under its left wing, ‘He who eats my heart will find a hundred gold pieces under his pillow every morning.’ Despite all his wealth, he immediately started to crave the gold that was promised, and the deal was quickly struck. Then the challenge arose regarding how to cook the bird; none of his many servants were trustworthy. Finally, he asked the bird catcher if he was married, and upon learning that he was, he told him to take the bird home and have his wife prepare it.
‘Perhaps,’ said he, ‘this will give me an appetite, which I have not had for many a long day, and if so your wife shall have a hundred pieces of silver.’
"Maybe," he said, "this will get my appetite going, which I haven't had in a long time, and if it does, your wife will receive a hundred pieces of silver."
The Fowler with great joy ran home to his wife, who speedily made a savoury stew of the Yellow Bird. But when Badi-al-Zaman reached the cottage and began eagerly to search in the dish for its head and its heart he could not find either of them, and turned to the Fowler’s wife in a furious rage. She was so terrified that she fell upon her knees before him and confessed that her two children had come in just before he arrived, and had so teased her for some of the dish she was preparing that she had presently given the head to one and the heart to the other, since these morsels are not generally much esteemed; and Badi-al-Zaman rushed from the cottage vowing vengeance against the whole family. The wrath of a rich man is generally to be feared, so the Fowler and his wife resolved to send their children out of harm’s way; but the wife, to console her husband, confided to him that she had purposely given them the head and heart of the bird because she had been able to read what was written under its wings. So, believing that their children’s fortunes were made, they embraced them and sent them forth, bidding them get as far away as possible, to take different roads, and to send news of their welfare. For themselves, they remained hidden and disguised in the town, which was really rather clever of them; but very soon afterwards Badi-al-Zaman died of vexation and annoyance at the loss of the promised treasure, and then they went back to their cottage to wait for news of their children. The younger, who had eaten the heart of the Yellow Bird, very soon found out what it had done for him, for each morning when he awoke he found a purse containing a hundred gold pieces under his pillow. But, as all poor people may remember for their consolation, nothing in the world causes so much trouble or requires so much care as a great treasure. Consequently, the Fowler’s son, who spent with reckless profusion and was supposed to be possessed of a great hoard of gold, was before very long attacked by robbers, and in trying to defend himself was so badly wounded that he died.
The Fowler happily ran home to his wife, who quickly made a delicious stew with the Yellow Bird. But when Badi-al-Zaman got to the cottage and eagerly searched the dish for its head and heart, he couldn't find either of them and turned to the Fowler’s wife in a furious rage. She was so frightened that she fell to her knees and confessed that her two children had come in just before he arrived and had teased her for some of the stew she was making, so she had given the head to one and the heart to the other, since those parts aren’t usually that valued; and Badi-al-Zaman stormed out of the cottage, vowing revenge on the whole family. The anger of a wealthy man is usually something to fear, so the Fowler and his wife decided to send their children to safety; but the wife, to comfort her husband, revealed that she had deliberately given them the head and heart of the bird because she had read what was written under its wings. So, believing their children's futures were secured, they embraced them and sent them on their way, telling them to get as far away as possible, to take different paths, and to keep them updated on how they were doing. As for themselves, they stayed hidden and disguised in the town, which was pretty smart of them; but shortly after, Badi-al-Zaman died from the frustration and annoyance of losing the promised treasure, and then they returned to their cottage to wait for news of their children. The younger one, who had eaten the heart of the Yellow Bird, quickly discovered what it had done for him, because every morning when he woke up, he found a purse with a hundred gold coins under his pillow. However, as all poor people may remember for their comfort, nothing in the world causes more trouble or requires more care than a large treasure. Consequently, the Fowler’s son, who spent money extravagantly and was thought to have a vast fortune of gold, was soon attacked by robbers, and in trying to defend himself, he was so badly hurt that he died.
The elder brother, who had eaten the Yellow Bird’s head, travelled a long way without meeting with any particular adventure, until at last he reached a large city in Asia, which was all in an uproar over the choosing of a new Emir. All the principal citizens had formed themselves into two parties, and it was not until after a prolonged squabble that they agreed that the person to whom the most singular thing happened should be Emir. Our young traveller entered the town at this juncture, with his agreeable face and jaunty air, and all at once felt something alight upon his head, which proved to be a snow-white pigeon. Thereupon all the people began to stare, and to run after him, so that he presently reached the palace with the pigeon upon his head and all the inhabitants of the city at his heels, and before he knew where he was they made him Emir, to his great astonishment.
The older brother, who had eaten the Yellow Bird’s head, traveled a long way without having any notable adventures, until he finally arrived at a large city in Asia, which was in chaos over the selection of a new Emir. All the key citizens had split into two factions, and it wasn’t until after a lengthy argument that they decided the person who experienced the most unusual occurrence would be named Emir. Our young traveler entered the city at this moment, sporting an attractive face and a confident demeanor, when suddenly something landed on his head, which turned out to be a snow-white pigeon. At this, everyone began to stare and chase after him, so he quickly made his way to the palace with the pigeon on his head and the entire city’s population following him. Before he could grasp what was happening, they declared him Emir, much to his surprise.
As there is nothing more agreeable than to command, and nothing to which people get accustomed more quickly, the young Emir soon felt quite at his ease in his new position; but this did not prevent him from making every kind of mistake, and so misgoverning the kingdom that at last the whole city rose in revolt and deprived him at once of his authority and his life—a punishment which he richly deserved, for in the days of his prosperity he disowned the Fowler and his wife, and allowed them to die in poverty.
As nothing is more enjoyable than having power, and people adapt to it quickly, the young Emir soon felt comfortable in his new role; however, this didn’t stop him from making all sorts of mistakes, ultimately mismanaging the kingdom so badly that the entire city rebelled and took away his power and his life—a consequence he fully earned, because during his successful days, he turned his back on the Fowler and his wife, allowing them to suffer in poverty.
‘I have told you this story, my dear Sylvain and Jocosa,’ added the Fairy, ‘to prove to you that this little cottage and all that belongs to it is a gift more likely to bring you happiness and contentment than many things that would at first seem grander and more desirable. If you will faithfully promise me to till your fields and feed your flocks, and will keep your word better than you did before, I will see that you never lack anything that is really for your good.’
‘I have shared this story with you, my dear Sylvain and Jocosa,’ added the Fairy, ‘to show you that this little cottage and everything that comes with it is a gift more likely to bring you happiness and satisfaction than many things that might seem fancier and more appealing at first. If you promise me sincerely to work your fields and take care of your flocks, and if you keep your promises better than you did before, I will make sure you always have what you need for your well-being.’
Sylvain and Jocosa gave their faithful promise, and as they kept it they always enjoyed peace and prosperity. The Fairy had asked all their friends and neighbours to their wedding, which took place at once with great festivities and rejoicings, and they lived to a good old age, always loving one another with all their hearts.
Sylvain and Jocosa made a sincere promise, and as they honored it, they consistently experienced peace and prosperity. The Fairy invited all their friends and neighbors to their wedding, which happened immediately with lots of celebrations and joy, and they lived happily to a ripe old age, always loving each other with all their hearts.
By the Comte de Caylus.
By Comte de Caylus.
FAIRY GIFTS
It generally happens that people’s surroundings reflect more or less accurately their minds and dispositions, so perhaps that is why the Flower Fairy lived in a lovely palace, with the most delightful garden you can imagine, full of flowers, and trees, and fountains, and fish-ponds, and everything nice. For the Fairy herself was so kind and charming that everybody loved her, and all the young princes and princesses who formed her court, were as happy as the day was long, simply because they were near her. They came to her when they were quite tiny, and never left her until they were grown up and had to go away into the great world; and when that time came she gave to each whatever gift he asked of her. But it is chiefly of the Princess Sylvia that you are going to hear now. The Fairy loved her with all her heart, for she was at once original and gentle, and she had nearly reached the age at which the gifts were generally bestowed. However, the Fairy had a great wish to know how the other princesses who had grown up and left her, were prospering, and before the time came for Sylvia to go herself, she resolved to send her to some of them. So one day her chariot, drawn by butterflies, was made ready, and the Fairy said: ‘Sylvia, I am going to send you to the court of Iris; she will receive you with pleasure for my sake as well as for your own. In two months you may come back to me again, and I shall expect you to tell me what you think of her.’
It usually happens that people’s surroundings reflect their thoughts and feelings pretty accurately, which is probably why the Flower Fairy lived in a beautiful palace, with the most amazing garden you can imagine, full of flowers, trees, fountains, and fish ponds, everything nice. The Fairy was so kind and charming that everyone loved her, and all the young princes and princesses in her court were as happy as could be, simply because they were around her. They came to her when they were little and never left until they grew up and had to venture out into the wider world; when that time came, she gave each of them whatever gift they asked for. But now you’re going to hear primarily about Princess Sylvia. The Fairy adored her with all her heart, as she was both unique and gentle, and she was almost old enough to receive her gifts. However, the Fairy really wanted to know how the other princesses who had grown up and left her were doing, so before it was time for Sylvia to go, she decided to send her to visit some of them. One day, her chariot, drawn by butterflies, was prepared, and the Fairy said: ‘Sylvia, I’m going to send you to the court of Iris; she will welcome you with pleasure for my sake as well as your own. In two months, you can come back to me, and I’ll expect you to tell me what you think of her.’
Sylvia was very unwilling to go away, but as the Fairy wished it she said nothing—only when the two months were over she stepped joyfully into the butterfly chariot, and could not get back quickly enough to the Flower-Fairy, who, for her part, was equally delighted to see her again.
Sylvia really didn’t want to leave, but since the Fairy wanted her to, she kept quiet—only when the two months were up did she happily step into the butterfly chariot, eager to return to the Flower-Fairy, who was just as thrilled to see her again.
‘Now, child,’ said she, ‘tell me what impression you have received.’
‘Now, kid,’ she said, ‘tell me what you've thought of it.’
‘You sent me, madam,’ answered Sylvia, ‘to the Court of Iris, on whom you had bestowed the gift of beauty. She never tells anyone, however, that it was your gift, though she often speaks of your kindness in general. It seemed to me that her loveliness, which fairly dazzled me at first, had absolutely deprived her of the use of any of her other gifts or graces. In allowing herself to be seen, she appeared to think that she was doing all that could possibly be required of her. But, unfortunately, while I was still with her she became seriously ill, and though she presently recovered, her beauty is entirely gone, so that she hates the very sight of herself, and is in despair. She entreated me to tell you what had happened, and to beg you, in pity, to give her beauty back to her. And, indeed, she does need it terribly, for all the things in her that were tolerable, and even agreeable, when she was so pretty, seem quite different now she is ugly, and it is so long since she thought of using her mind or her natural cleverness, that I really don’t think she has any left now. She is quite aware of all this herself, so you may imagine how unhappy she is, and how earnestly she begs for your aid.’
‘You sent me, ma'am,’ replied Sylvia, ‘to the Court of Iris, the one you blessed with the gift of beauty. However, she never reveals that it was your gift, even though she often talks about your kindness in general. It seemed to me that her beauty, which dazzled me at first, completely overshadowed any of her other talents or charms. By allowing herself to be seen, she seemed to think she was fulfilling all possible expectations. Unfortunately, while I was still with her, she became seriously ill, and even though she recovered, her beauty is completely gone. Now she despises looking at herself and is in despair. She urged me to tell you what happened and to ask you, out of pity, to restore her beauty. And, honestly, she desperately needs it, because all the traits in her that were tolerable or even pleasant when she was beautiful seem completely different now that she is not. It's been so long since she relied on her intellect or her natural cleverness that I honestly don’t think she has any left now. She is fully aware of all this, so you can imagine how unhappy she is and how earnestly she pleads for your help.’
‘You have told me what I wanted to know,’ cried the Fairy, ‘but alas! I cannot help her; my gifts can be given but once.’
‘You’ve told me what I wanted to know,’ cried the Fairy, ‘but unfortunately! I can’t help her; my gifts can only be given once.’
Some time passed in all the usual delights of the Flower-Fairy’s palace, and then she sent for Sylvia again, and told her she was to stay for a little while with the Princess Daphne, and accordingly the butterflies whisked her off, and set her down in quite a strange kingdom. But she had only been there a very little time before a wandering butterfly brought a message from her to the Fairy, begging that she might be sent for as soon as possible, and before very long she was allowed to return.
Some time went by in all the usual joys of the Flower-Fairy’s palace, and then she called for Sylvia again, telling her she would be staying for a bit with Princess Daphne. So, the butterflies whisked her away and dropped her off in a completely different kingdom. However, it wasn’t long before a wandering butterfly brought a message from her to the Fairy, asking to be sent for as soon as possible, and before too long, she was allowed to go back.
‘Ah! madam,’ cried she, ‘what a place you sent me to that time!’
‘Oh! ma'am,’ she exclaimed, ‘what a place you sent me to that time!’
‘Why, what was the matter?’ asked the Fairy. ‘Daphne was one of the princesses who asked for the gift of eloquence, if I remember rightly.’
‘What’s going on?’ asked the Fairy. ‘Daphne was one of the princesses who wished for the gift of eloquence, if I remember correctly.’
‘And very ill the gift of eloquence becomes a woman,’ replied Sylvia, with an air of conviction. ‘It is true that she speaks well, and her expressions are well chosen; but then she never leaves off talking, and though at first one may be amused, one ends by being wearied to death. Above all things she loves any assembly for settling the affairs of her kingdom, for on those occasions she can talk and talk without fear of interruption; but, even then, the moment it is over she is ready to begin again about anything or nothing, as the case may be. Oh! how glad I was to come away I cannot tell you.’
‘And the gift of eloquence really doesn’t suit a woman,’ Sylvia replied confidently. ‘It’s true that she speaks well and uses good expressions; but she never stops talking, and while it might be amusing at first, it eventually becomes exhausting. Above all, she loves any gathering where she can discuss her kingdom’s affairs, because in those moments, she can talk endlessly without interruptions; but even after that, the moment it’s over, she’s ready to start again about anything or nothing, depending on the situation. Oh! I can’t tell you how relieved I was to leave.’
The Fairy smiled at Sylvia’s unfeigned disgust at her late experience; but after allowing her a little time to recover she sent her to the Court of the Princess Cynthia, where she left her for three months. At the end of that time Sylvia came back to her with all the joy and contentment that one feels at being once more beside a dear friend. The Fairy, as usual, was anxious to hear what she thought of Cynthia, who had always been amiable, and to whom she had given the gift of pleasing.
The Fairy smiled at Sylvia’s genuine disgust at her recent experience; after giving her some time to recover, she sent her to the Court of Princess Cynthia, where she stayed for three months. When Sylvia returned, she was filled with the joy and contentment that comes from being with a dear friend again. The Fairy, as always, was eager to hear what she thought of Cynthia, who had always been kind and to whom she had given the gift of charm.
‘I thought at first,’ said Sylvia, ‘that she must be the happiest Princess in the world; she had a thousand lovers who vied with one another in their efforts to please and gratify her. Indeed, I had nearly decided that I would ask a similar gift.’
‘I thought at first,’ said Sylvia, ‘that she must be the happiest princess in the world; she had a thousand admirers who competed with each other to make her happy and fulfill her desires. Honestly, I almost decided that I would ask for something like that too.’
‘Have you altered your mind, then?’ interrupted the Fairy.
"Have you changed your mind, then?" interrupted the Fairy.
‘Yes, indeed, madam,’ replied Sylvia; ‘and I will tell you why. The longer I stayed the more I saw that Cynthia was not really happy. In her desire to please everyone she ceased to be sincere, and degenerated into a mere coquette; and even her lovers felt that the charms and fascinations which were exercised upon all who approached her without distinction were valueless, so that in the end they ceased to care for them, and went away disdainfully.’
‘Yes, definitely, ma'am,’ replied Sylvia; ‘and I'll explain why. The longer I stayed, the more I realized that Cynthia wasn't truly happy. In her effort to please everyone, she stopped being genuine and turned into a shallow flirt; even her lovers sensed that the allure she cast on everyone who came near her was worthless, so eventually, they lost interest and walked away with disdain.’
‘I am pleased with you, child,’ said the Fairy; ‘enjoy yourself here for awhile and presently you shall go to Phyllida.’
‘I’m happy with you, kid,’ said the Fairy; ‘have some fun here for a bit and soon you’ll go to Phyllida.’
Sylvia was glad to have leisure to think, for she could not make up her mind at all what she should ask for herself, and the time was drawing very near. However, before very long the Fairy sent her to Phyllida, and waited for her report with unabated interest.
Sylvia was happy to have some free time to think because she couldn't decide at all what she should ask for herself, and the deadline was approaching fast. However, it wasn't long before the Fairy sent her to Phyllida and waited for her update with great interest.
‘I reached her court safely,’ said Sylvia, ‘and she received me with much kindness, and immediately began to exercise upon me that brilliant wit which you had bestowed upon her. I confess that I was fascinated by it, and for a week thought that nothing could be more desirable; the time passed like magic, so great was the charm of her society. But I ended by ceasing to covet that gift more than any of the others I have seen, for, like the gift of pleasing, it cannot really give satisfaction. By degrees I wearied of what had so delighted me at first, especially as I perceived more and more plainly that it is impossible to be constantly smart and amusing without being frequently ill-natured, and too apt to turn all things, even the most serious, into mere occasions for a brilliant jest.’
‘I reached her court safely,’ said Sylvia, ‘and she welcomed me warmly, immediately showing off that sharp wit you had given her. I have to admit that I was captivated by it, and for a week, I thought nothing could be better; the days flew by, so enchanting was her company. But eventually, I stopped wanting that trait more than any of the others I've encountered, because, like the ability to please, it doesn’t really provide true satisfaction. Gradually, I grew tired of what had initially thrilled me, especially as I began to notice more clearly that it’s impossible to be constantly clever and entertaining without often being mean-spirited and likely to turn everything, even the most serious matters, into mere opportunities for a clever joke.’
The Fairy in her heart agreed with Sylvia’s conclusions, and felt pleased with herself for having brought her up so well.
The Fairy in her heart agreed with Sylvia’s conclusions and felt proud of herself for having raised her so well.
But now the time was come for Sylvia to receive her gift, and all her companions were assembled; the Fairy stood in the midst and in the usual manner asked what she would take with her into the great world.
But now it was time for Sylvia to receive her gift, and all her friends were gathered together; the Fairy stood in the middle and, as usual, asked what she wanted to take with her into the big world.
Sylvia paused for a moment, and then answered: ‘A quiet spirit.’ And the Fairy granted her request.
Sylvia paused for a moment and then replied, “A calm spirit.” And the Fairy granted her wish.
This lovely gift makes life a constant happiness to its possessor, and to all who are brought into contact with her. She has all the beauty of gentleness and contentment in her sweet face; and if at times it seems less lovely through some chance grief or disquietude, the hardest thing that one ever hears said is:
This beautiful gift brings constant joy to its owner and to everyone she meets. She radiates gentleness and contentment in her sweet face; and if sometimes she appears less lovely due to a moment of sadness or worry, the toughest thing you ever hear is:
‘Sylvia’s dear face is pale to-day. It grieves one to see her so.’
‘Sylvia’s sweet face is pale today. It’s distressing to see her like this.’
And when, on the contrary, she is gay and joyful, the sunshine of her presence rejoices all who have the happiness of being near her.
And when she is happy and cheerful, the warmth of her presence brings joy to everyone lucky enough to be around her.
By the Comte de Caylus.
By the Count de Caylus.
PRINCE NARCISSUS AND THE PRINCESS POTENTILLA
Once upon a time there lived a King and Queen who, though it is a very long while since they died, were much the same in their tastes and pursuits as people nowadays. The King, who was called Cloverleaf, liked hunting better than anything else; but he nevertheless bestowed as much care upon his kingdom as he felt equal to—that is to say, he never made an end of folding and unfolding the State documents. As to the Queen, she had once been very pretty, and she liked to believe that she was so still, which is, of course, always made quite easy for queens. Her name was Frivola, and her one occupation in life was the pursuit of amusement. Balls, masquerades, and picnics followed one another in rapid succession, as fast as she could arrange them, and you may imagine that under these circumstances the kingdom was somewhat neglected. As a matter of fact, if anyone had a fancy for a town, or a province, he helped himself to it; but as long as the King had his horses and dogs, and the Queen her musicians and her actors, they did not trouble themselves about the matter. King Cloverleaf and Queen Frivola had but one child, and this Princess had from her very babyhood been so beautiful, that by the time she was four years old the Queen was desperately jealous of her, and so fearful that when she was grown up she would be more admired than herself, that she resolved to keep her hidden away out of sight. To this end she caused a little house to be built not far beyond the Palace gardens, on the bank of a river. This was surrounded by a high wall, and in it the charming Potentilla was imprisoned. Her nurse, who was dumb, took care of her, and the necessaries of life were conveyed to her through a little window in the wall, while guards were always pacing to and fro outside, with orders to cut off the head of anyone who tried to approach, which they would certainly have done without thinking twice about it. The Queen told everyone, with much pretended sorrow, that the Princess was so ugly, and so troublesome, and altogether so impossible to love, that to keep her out of sight was the only thing that could be done for her. And this tale she repeated so often, that at last the whole court believed it. Things were in this state, and the Princess was about fifteen years old, when Prince Narcissus, attracted by the report of Queen Frivola’s gay doings, presented himself at the court. He was not much older than the Princess, and was as handsome a Prince as you would see in a day’s journey, and really, for his age, not so very scatter-brained. His parents were a King and Queen, whose story you will perhaps read some day. They died almost at the same time, leaving their kingdom to the eldest of their children, and commending their youngest son, Prince Narcissus, to the care of the Fairy Melinette. In this they did very well for him, for the Fairy was as kind as she was powerful, and she spared no pains in teaching the little Prince everything it was good for him to know, and even imparted to him some of her own Fairy lore. But as soon as he was grown up she sent him out to see the world for himself, though all the time she was secretly keeping watch over him, ready to help in any time of need. Before he started she gave him a ring which would render him invisible when he put it on his finger. These rings seem to be quite common; you must often have heard of them, even if you have never seen one. It was in the course of the Prince’s wanderings, in search of experience of men and things, that he came to the court of Queen Frivola, where he was extremely well received. The Queen was delighted with him, so were all her ladies; and the King was very polite to him, though he did not quite see why the whole court was making such a fuss over him.
Once upon a time, there was a King and Queen who, although it's been a long time since they passed away, had tastes and interests similar to people today. The King, named Cloverleaf, loved hunting more than anything else; however, he still cared for his kingdom as best as he could—meaning he never quite finished sorting the State documents. As for the Queen, she had once been very attractive, and she liked to think she still was, which, of course, is always easy for queens. Her name was Frivola, and her sole focus in life was seeking entertainment. Balls, masquerades, and picnics came one after another as fast as she could organize them, and you can imagine that, in these circumstances, the kingdom was somewhat neglected. In fact, if anyone fancied a town or a province, they would just take it; but as long as the King had his horses and dogs, and the Queen had her musicians and actors, they didn’t concern themselves with it. King Cloverleaf and Queen Frivola had only one child, and this Princess had been so beautiful since she was a baby that by the time she turned four, the Queen was incredibly jealous of her, fearing that when she grew up, she would be more admired than herself. So, she decided to keep her hidden away. To do this, she had a small house built not far from the Palace gardens, on the bank of a river. It was surrounded by a high wall, and in it, the lovely Potentilla was confined. Her nurse, who was mute, took care of her, and what she needed was passed to her through a small window in the wall, while guards constantly patrolled outside, ordered to execute anyone who tried to get too close, which they would have done without a second thought. The Queen told everyone, with feigned sorrow, that the Princess was so ugly, so troublesome, and altogether so impossible to love that keeping her out of sight was the best option. She repeated this story so often that eventually the whole court believed it. This was the situation when the Princess was about fifteen years old, and Prince Narcissus, drawn by the rumors of Queen Frivola’s lavish parties, arrived at the court. He was not much older than the Princess, and was as handsome a Prince as you’d see in a day’s journey, and for his age, not too foolish. His parents were a King and Queen, whose story you might read someday. They died almost simultaneously, leaving their kingdom to their eldest child and entrusting their youngest son, Prince Narcissus, to the care of the Fairy Melinette. They did well for him, as the Fairy was as kind as she was powerful, and she took great care in teaching the little Prince everything he needed to know, even sharing some of her own Fairy wisdom. But as soon as he grew up, she sent him out to explore the world for himself, while secretly keeping an eye on him, ready to assist him in times of need. Before he left, she gave him a ring that would make him invisible when he wore it. These rings seem to be quite common; you’ve probably heard of them, even if you’ve never seen one. During the Prince’s travels, while seeking knowledge of people and their ways, he arrived at the court of Queen Frivola, where he was warmly welcomed. The Queen was thrilled to see him, as were all her ladies; the King was very courteous to him, though he didn’t quite understand why the entire court was making such a big deal over him.
Prince Narcissus enjoyed all that went on, and found the time pass very pleasantly. Before long, of course, he heard the story about the Princess Potentilla, and, as it had by that time been repeated many times, and had been added to here and there, she was represented as such a monster of ugliness that he was really quite curious to see her, and resolved to avail himself of the magic power of his ring to accomplish his design. So he made himself invisible, and passed the guard without their so much as suspecting that anyone was near. Climbing the wall was rather a difficulty, but when he at length found himself inside it he was charmed with the peaceful beauty of the little domain it enclosed, and still more delighted when he perceived a slender, lovely maiden wandering among the flowers. It was not until he had sought vainly for the imaginary monster that he realised that this was the Princess herself, and by that time he was deeply in love with her, for indeed it would have been hard to find anyone prettier than Potentilla, as she sat by the brook, weaving a garland of blue forget-me-nots to crown her waving golden locks, or to imagine anything more gentle than the way she tended all the birds and beasts who inhabited her small kingdom, and who all loved and followed her. Prince Narcissus watched her every movement, and hovered near her in a dream of delight, not daring as yet to appear to her, so humble had he suddenly become in her presence. And when evening came, and the nurse fetched the Princess into her little house, he felt obliged to go back to Frivola’s palace, for fear his absence should be noticed and someone should discover his new treasure. But he forgot that to go back absent, and dreamy, and indifferent, when he had before been gay and ardent about everything, was the surest way of awakening suspicion; and when, in response to the jesting questions which were put to him upon the subject, he only blushed and returned evasive answers, all the ladies were certain that he had lost his heart, and did their utmost to discover who was the happy possessor of it. As to the Prince, he was becoming day by day more attached to Potentilla, and his one thought was to attend her, always invisible, and help her in everything she did, and provide her with everything that could possibly amuse or please her. And the Princess, who had learnt to find diversion in very small things in her quiet life, was in a continual state of delight over the treasures which the Prince constantly laid where she must find them. Then Narcissus implored his faithful friend Melinette to send the Princess such dreams of him as should make her recognise him as a friend when he actually appeared before her eyes; and this device was so successful that the Princess quite dreaded the cessation of these amusing dreams, in which a certain Prince Narcissus was such a delightful lover and companion. After that he went a step further and began to have long talks with the Princess—still, however, keeping himself invisible, until she begged him so earnestly to appear to her that he could no longer resist, and after making her promise that, no matter what he was like, she would still love him, he drew the ring from his finger, and the Princess saw with delight that he was as handsome as he was agreeable. Now, indeed, they were perfectly happy, and they passed the whole long summer day in Potentilla’s favourite place by the brook, and when at last Prince Narcissus had to leave her it seemed to them both that the hours had gone by with the most amazing swiftness. The Princess stayed where she was, dreaming of her delightful Prince, and nothing could have been further from her thoughts than any trouble or misfortune, when suddenly, in a cloud of dust and shavings, by came the enchanter Grumedan, and unluckily he chanced to catch sight of Potentilla. Down he came straightway and alighted at her feet, and one look at her charming blue eyes and smiling lips quite decided him that he must appear to her at once, though he was rather annoyed to remember that he had on only his second-best cloak. The Princess sprang to her feet with a cry of terror at this sudden apparition, for really the Enchanter was no beauty. To begin with, he was very big and clumsy, then he had but one eye, and his teeth were long, and he stammered badly; nevertheless, he had an excellent opinion of himself, and mistook the Princess’s cry of terror for an exclamation of delighted surprise. After pausing a moment to give her time to admire him, the Enchanter made her the most complimentary speech he could invent, which, however, did not please her at all, though he was extremely delighted with it himself. Poor Potentilla only shuddered and cried:
Prince Narcissus enjoyed everything happening around him and found the time passing very pleasantly. Soon enough, he heard the story about Princess Potentilla. By then, it had been told and retold so many times, with a few embellishments, that she was described as such a hideous monster that he became genuinely curious to see her. He decided to use the magic of his ring to fulfill this desire. So, he made himself invisible and slipped past the guards without them suspecting anyone was near. Climbing over the wall was a bit challenging, but once he was inside, he was enchanted by the serene beauty of the small area it enclosed. He was even more delighted when he spotted a slender, lovely maiden wandering among the flowers. It wasn't until he had searched in vain for the supposed monster that he realized this was actually the Princess herself. By then, he had fallen deeply in love with her, for it would have been hard to find anyone prettier than Potentilla as she sat by the brook weaving a garland of blue forget-me-nots to crown her flowing golden hair. It was also hard to imagine anything more tender than how she cared for all the birds and animals in her small kingdom, which all loved and followed her. Prince Narcissus watched her every move, lingering nearby in a blissful dream, too humble now to approach her. As evening came and the nurse took the Princess into her little house, he felt compelled to return to Frivola’s palace, fearing his absence might attract attention and reveal his new treasure. But he forgot that coming back distracted and distant after previously being lively and passionate was the best way to raise suspicion. When he responded to playful questions about this with blushes and evasive answers, the ladies were convinced he had fallen in love and did their best to find out who the lucky girl was. As for the Prince, he grew more attached to Potentilla every day, focused solely on attending to her needs while remaining invisible and providing her with everything that might amuse or please her. The Princess, who had learned to find joy in small things in her quiet life, was constantly delighted by the surprises the Prince left for her to find. Then Narcissus asked his loyal friend Melinette to send the Princess dreams of him that would help her recognize him as a friend when he finally revealed himself; this plan worked so well that Potentilla began to dread waking up from the delightful dreams in which Prince Narcissus was her charming lover and companion. Eventually, he took it a step further and started having long conversations with the Princess—still remaining invisible—until she begged him so earnestly to show himself that he could no longer say no. After making her promise that she would love him regardless of his appearance, he took off his ring, and the Princess joyfully saw that he was just as handsome as he was charming. They were truly happy now, spending the entire long summer day by the brook in Potentilla’s favorite spot. When Prince Narcissus eventually had to leave her, it felt like time had flown by. The Princess remained, dreaming of her delightful Prince, completely unaware of any trouble or misfortune when suddenly, in a cloud of dust and shavings, the enchanter Grumedan appeared and unfortunately happened to spot Potentilla. He descended right away and landed at her feet, and one look into her beautiful blue eyes and charming smile convinced him he needed to present himself instantly, even though he was slightly annoyed that he was wearing only his second-best cloak. The Princess jumped up with a scream of terror at this unexpected sight because the Enchanter was far from handsome. He was very large and awkward, had only one eye, long teeth, and struggled to speak clearly. Nonetheless, he held a high opinion of himself and misinterpreted the Princess’s terrified scream as one of genuine admiration. After pausing to give her a moment to appreciate him, the Enchanter made her the most flattering speech he could come up with, which, unfortunately, only displeased her, though he was quite pleased with it himself. Poor Potentilla simply shuddered and cried:
‘Oh! where is my Narcissus?’
‘Oh! where's my Narcissus?’
To which he replied with a self-satisfied chuckle: ‘You want a narcissus, madam? Well, they are not rare; you shall have as many as you like.’
To which he responded with a pleased chuckle: ‘You want a daffodil, ma'am? Well, they're not hard to find; you can have as many as you want.’
Whereupon he waved his wand, and the Princess found herself surrounded and half buried in the fragrant flowers. She would certainly have betrayed that this was not the kind of narcissus she wanted, but for the Fairy Melinette, who had been anxiously watching the interview, and now thought it quite time to interfere. Assuming the Prince’s voice, she whispered in Potentilla’s ear:
Whereupon he waved his wand, and the Princess found herself surrounded and half buried in the fragrant flowers. She would definitely have revealed that this was not the kind of narcissus she wanted, but for the Fairy Melinette, who had been anxiously watching the encounter and now figured it was the right moment to step in. Taking on the Prince’s voice, she whispered in Potentilla’s ear:
‘We are menaced by a great danger, but my only fear is for you, my Princess. Therefore I beg you to hide what you really feel, and we will hope that some way out of the difficulty may present itself.’
‘We are threatened by a serious danger, but my only concern is for you, my Princess. So I ask you to conceal your true feelings, and we will hope that a solution to the problem will come to light.’
The Princess was much agitated by this speech, and feared lest the Enchanter should have overheard it; but he had been loudly calling her attention to the flowers, and chuckling over his own smartness in getting them for her; and it was rather a blow to him when she said very coldly that they were not the sort she preferred, and she would be glad if he would send them all away. This he did, but afterwards wished to kiss the Princess’s hand as a reward for having been so obliging; but the Fairy Melinette was not going to allow anything of that kind. She appeared suddenly, in all her splendour, and cried:
The Princess was very upset by what was said and worried that the Enchanter might have overheard it; however, he was loudly drawing her attention to the flowers and laughing at his own cleverness in getting them for her. It was quite a blow to him when she coldly remarked that they weren’t her favorite and that she would be happy if he took them all away. He did this, but later wanted to kiss the Princess’s hand as a thank you for being so accommodating; however, the Fairy Melinette wasn’t going to let that happen. She suddenly appeared in all her glory and shouted:
‘Stay, Grumedan; this Princess is under my protection, and the smallest impertinence will cost you a thousand years of captivity. If you can win Potentilla’s heart by the ordinary methods I cannot oppose you, but I warn you that I will not put up with any of your usual tricks.’
‘Hold on, Grumedan; this Princess is under my protection, and even the slightest rudeness will get you a thousand years of imprisonment. If you can win Potentilla’s heart through standard means, I won't be able to stop you, but I warn you that I won't tolerate any of your usual schemes.’
This declaration was not at all to the Enchanter’s taste; but he knew that there was no help for it, and that he would have to behave well, and pay the Princess all the delicate attentions he could think of; though they were not at all the sort of thing he was used to. However, he decided that to win such a beauty it was quite worth while; and Melinette, feeling that she could now leave the Princess in safety, hurried off to tell Prince Narcissus what was going forward. Of course, at the very mention of the Enchanter as a rival he was furious, and I don’t know what foolish things he would not have done if Melinette had not been there to calm him down. She represented to him what a powerful enchanter Grumedan was, and how, if he were provoked, he might avenge himself upon the Princess, since he was the most unjust and churlish of all the enchanters, and had often before had to be punished by the Fairy Queen for some of his ill-deeds. Once he had been imprisoned in a tree, and was only released when it was blown down by a furious wind; another time he was condemned to stay under a big stone at the bottom of a river, until by some chance the stone should be turned over; but nothing could ever really improve him. The Fairy finally made Narcissus promise that he would remain invisible when he was with the Princess, since she felt sure that this would make things easier for all of them. Then began a struggle between Grumedan and the Prince, the latter under the name of Melinette, as to which could best delight and divert the Princess and win her approbation. Prince Narcissus first made friends with all the birds in Potentilla’s little domain, and taught them to sing her name and her praises, with all their sweetest trills and most touching melodies, and all day long to tell her how dearly he loved her. Grumedan, thereupon, declared that there was nothing new about that, since the birds had sung since the world began, and all lovers had imagined that they sang for them alone. Therefore he said he would himself write an opera that should be absolutely a novelty and something worth hearing. When the time came for the performance (which lasted five weary hours) the Princess found to her dismay that the ‘opera’ consisted of this more than indifferent verse, chanted with all their might by ten thousand frogs:
This declaration wasn't at all to the Enchanter’s liking; but he realized that there was no way around it and that he would have to be on his best behavior and pay the Princess as much attention as he could think of, even though it wasn't at all his style. Still, he decided it was worth it to win over such a beauty; and Melinette, feeling that she could now leave the Princess in safety, rushed off to inform Prince Narcissus about what was happening. Naturally, just the mention of the Enchanter as a rival made him furious, and I can only imagine what crazy things he might have done if Melinette hadn't been there to calm him down. She reminded him of how powerful Grumedan was and how, if provoked, he could take revenge on the Princess since he was the most unjust and rude of all the enchanters, and had often been punished by the Fairy Queen for his misdeeds. Once, he had been locked up in a tree and was only freed when a strong wind blew it down; another time he was sentenced to stay under a big rock at the bottom of a river until by some chance the rock was turned over; but nothing could ever really change him for the better. The Fairy finally made Narcissus promise to stay invisible when he was with the Princess, believing that it would make things easier for all of them. Thus began a competition between Grumedan and the Prince, the latter disguised as Melinette, to see who could best entertain the Princess and win her approval. Prince Narcissus first befriended all the birds in Potentilla’s little territory and taught them to sing her name and praise her with all their sweetest melodies, telling her all day long how dearly he loved her. In response, Grumedan claimed that there was nothing new about that, since birds have been singing since time began, and all lovers imagined that they sang only for them. So, he declared he would write an opera that would be completely original and worth listening to. When the time came for the performance (which lasted five long hours), the Princess was dismayed to find that the ‘opera’ consisted of rather dull verses chanted at the top of their lungs by ten thousand frogs:
‘Admirable Potentilla, Do you think it kind or wise In this sudden way to kill a Poor Enchanter with your eyes?’
‘Admirable Potentilla, do you think it's kind or wise to suddenly kill a poor enchanter with just your gaze?’
Really, if Narcissus had not been there to whisper in her ear and divert her attention, I don’t know what would have become of poor Potentilla, for though the first repetition of this absurdity amused her faintly, she nearly died of weariness before the time was over. Luckily Grumedan did not perceive this, as he was too much occupied in whipping up the frogs, many of whom perished miserably from fatigue, since he did not allow them to rest for a moment. The Prince’s next idea for Potentilla’s amusement was to cause a fleet of boats exactly like those of Cleopatra, of which you have doubtless read in history, to come up the little river, and upon the most gorgeously decorated of these reclined the great Queen herself, who, as soon as she reached the place where Potentilla sat in rapt attention, stepped majestically on shore and presented the Princess with that celebrated pearl of which you have heard so much, saying:
Really, if Narcissus hadn't been there to whisper in her ear and distract her, I don't know what would have happened to poor Potentilla. Although the first round of this nonsense barely amused her, she was almost dying of boredom by the end. Fortunately, Grumedan didn't notice because he was too busy trying to get the frogs to move, many of whom ended up exhausted and suffering since he didn't let them rest at all. The Prince's next plan for Potentilla's entertainment was to send a fleet of boats just like Cleopatra's, which you’ve probably read about in history. On the most beautifully decorated of these boats reclined the great Queen herself, who, as soon as she arrived where Potentilla was sitting in rapt attention, stepped gracefully ashore and presented the Princess with that famous pearl you've heard so much about, saying:
‘You are more beautiful than I ever was. Let my example warn you to make a better use of your beauty!’
‘You’re more beautiful than I ever was. Let my experience serve as a warning for you to make better use of your beauty!’
And then the little fleet sailed on, until it was lost to view in the windings of the river. Grumedan was also looking on at the spectacle, and said very contemptuously:
And then the small fleet continued sailing until it disappeared from sight in the twists of the river. Grumedan was also watching the scene and said very disdainfully:
‘I cannot say I think these marionettes amusing. What a to-do to make over a single pearl! But if you like pearls, madam, why, I will soon gratify you.’
‘I can’t say I find these marionettes entertaining. What a fuss to remake a single pearl! But if you like pearls, ma'am, I’ll make sure to satisfy you soon.’
So saying, he drew a whistle from his pocket, and no sooner had he blown it than the Princess saw the water of the river bubble and grow muddy, and in another instant up came hundreds of thousands of great oysters, who climbed slowly and laboriously towards her and laid at her feet all the pearls they contained.
So saying, he pulled out a whistle from his pocket, and as soon as he blew it, the Princess saw the river water bubble and turn muddy, and in no time at all, hundreds of thousands of big oysters surfaced, slowly and laboriously making their way towards her, laying all the pearls they had at her feet.
‘Those are what I call pearls,’ cried Grumedan in high glee. And truly there were enough of them to pave every path in Potentilla’s garden and leave some to spare! The next day Prince Narcissus had prepared for the Princess’s pleasure a charming arbour of leafy branches, with couches of moss and grassy floor and garlands everywhere, with her name written in different coloured blossoms. Here he caused a dainty little banquet to be set forth, while hidden musicians played softly, and the silvery fountains plashed down into their marble basins, and when presently the music stopped a single nightingale broke the stillness with his delicious chant.
‘Those are what I call pearls,’ exclaimed Grumedan with great joy. And indeed, there were enough of them to cover every path in Potentilla’s garden and still have some left over! The next day, Prince Narcissus created a lovely arbor made of leafy branches for the Princess’s enjoyment, featuring mossy seating, a grassy floor, and garlands everywhere, with her name spelled out in different colored flowers. He had a delightful little banquet arranged while hidden musicians played softly, and the silver fountains trickled into their marble basins. When the music eventually stopped, a single nightingale filled the silence with its beautiful song.
‘Ah!’ cried the Princess, recognizing the voice of one of her favourites, ‘Philomel, my sweet one, who taught you that new song?’
‘Ah!’ cried the Princess, recognizing the voice of one of her favorites, ‘Philomel, my dear, who taught you that new song?’
And he answered: ‘Love, my Princess.’
And he replied, “Love, my Princess.”
Meanwhile the Enchanter was very ill-pleased with the entertainment, which he declared was dulness itself.
Meanwhile, the Enchanter was really unhappy with the entertainment, which he said was completely boring.
‘You don’t seem to have any idea in these parts beyond little squeaking birds!’ said he. ‘And fancy giving a banquet without so much as an ounce of plate!’
‘You don’t seem to know anything around here except for tiny chirping birds!’ he said. ‘And can you believe throwing a banquet without even a single plate!’
So the next day, when the Princess went out into her garden, there stood a summer-house built of solid gold, decorated within and without with her initials and the Enchanter’s combined. And in it was spread an enormous repast, while the table so glittered with golden cups and plates, flagons and dishes, candlesticks and a hundred other things beside, that it was hardly possible to look steadily at it. The Enchanter ate like six ogres, but the Princess could not touch a morsel. Presently Grumedan remarked with a grin:
So the next day, when the Princess went out into her garden, there was a summer house made of solid gold, decorated inside and out with her initials and those of the Enchanter combined. Inside, there was a huge feast laid out, and the table sparkled with golden cups and plates, pitchers and dishes, candlesticks, and a hundred other things, making it hard to look at it for long. The Enchanter ate like six ogres, but the Princess couldn’t eat a single bite. Soon, Grumedan commented with a grin:
‘I have provided neither musicians nor singers; but as you seem fond of music I will sing to you myself.’
‘I haven't provided any musicians or singers, but since you seem to enjoy music, I’ll sing for you myself.’
Whereupon he began, with a voice like a screech-owl’s, to chant the words of his ‘opera,’ only this time happily not at such a length, and without the frog accompaniment. After this the Prince again asked the aid of his friends the birds, and when they had assembled from all the country round he tied about the neck of each one a tiny lamp of some brilliant colour, and when darkness fell he made them go through a hundred pretty tricks before the delighted Potentilla, who clapped her little hands with delight when she saw her own name traced in points of light against the dark trees, or when the whole flock of sparks grouped themselves into bouquets of different colours, like living flowers. Grumedan leaning back in his arm-chair, with one knee crossed over the other and his nose in the air, looked on disdainfully.
Then he started to sing the words of his ‘opera’ with a voice like a screech owl, but thankfully this time it wasn't so long and there was no frog accompaniment. After that, the Prince asked his bird friends for help again. Once they had gathered from all around the area, he tied a tiny lamp of bright color around each of their necks. When night fell, he had them perform a hundred lovely tricks for the delighted Potentilla, who clapped her little hands in excitement when she saw her name lit up in points of light against the dark trees, or when the whole group of sparks formed bouquets of different colors, like living flowers. Grumedan leaned back in his armchair, one knee crossed over the other and his nose in the air, watching disdainfully.
‘Oh! if you like fireworks, Princess,’ said he; and the next night all the will-o’-the-wisps in the country came and danced on the plain, which could be seen from the Princess’s windows, and as she was looking out, and rather enjoying the sight, up sprang a frightful volcano, pouring out smoke and flames which terrified her greatly, to the intense amusement of the Enchanter, who laughed like a pack of wolves quarrelling. After this, as many of the will-o’-the-wisps as could get in crowded into Potentilla’s garden, and by their light the tall yew-trees danced minuets until the Princess was weary and begged to be excused from looking at anything more that night. But, in spite of Potentilla’s efforts to behave politely to the tiresome old Enchanter, whom she detested, he could not help seeing that he failed to please her, and then he began to suspect very strongly that she must love someone else, and that somebody besides Melinette was responsible for all the festivities he had witnessed. So after much consideration he devised a plan for finding out the truth. He went to the Princess suddenly, and announced that he was most unwillingly forced to leave her, and had come to bid her farewell. Potentilla could scarcely hide her delight when she heard this, and his back was hardly turned before she was entreating Prince Narcissus to make himself visible once more. The poor Prince had been getting quite thin with anxiety and annoyance, and was only too delighted to comply with her request. They greeted one another rapturously, and were just sitting down to talk over everything cosily, and enjoy the Enchanter’s discomfiture together, when out he burst in a fury from behind a bush. With his huge club he aimed a terrific blow at Narcissus, which must certainly have killed him but for the adroitness of the Fairy Melinette, who arrived upon the scene just in time to snatch him up and carry him off at lightning speed to her castle in the air. Poor Potentilla, however, had not the comfort of knowing this, for at the sight of the Enchanter threatening her beloved Prince she had given one shriek and fallen back insensible. When she recovered her senses she was more than ever convinced that he was dead, since even Melinette was no longer near her, and no one was left to defend her from the odious old Enchanter.
“Oh! If you like fireworks, Princess,” he said; and the next night all the will-o'-the-wisps in the area came and danced on the plain, which was visible from the Princess's windows. As she looked out and started to enjoy the sight, a terrifying volcano suddenly erupted, spewing smoke and flames that frightened her greatly, much to the delight of the Enchanter, who laughed like a pack of wolves fighting. After that, as many of the will-o'-the-wisps as could fit crowded into Potentilla’s garden, and by their light the tall yew trees danced minuets until the Princess was exhausted and asked to be excused from watching anything else that night. But despite Potentilla’s efforts to be polite to the annoying old Enchanter, whom she despised, he couldn’t help noticing that he was failing to impress her, and then he began to suspect that she must love someone else, and that there was someone other than Melinette responsible for all the festivities he had seen. So after much thought, he came up with a plan to find out the truth. He approached the Princess suddenly and announced that he was reluctantly forced to leave her and had come to say goodbye. Potentilla could barely hide her joy when she heard this, and as soon as his back was turned, she urged Prince Narcissus to make himself visible again. The poor Prince had been getting quite thin with worry and irritation, and was more than happy to oblige her. They greeted each other with excitement, and were just sitting down to chat comfortably and enjoy the Enchanter's embarrassment together when he burst out in anger from behind a bush. With his massive club, he aimed a devastating blow at Narcissus, which would have surely killed him if not for the quick thinking of Fairy Melinette, who arrived just in time to snatch him up and carry him off at lightning speed to her castle in the sky. Poor Potentilla, however, didn’t have the comfort of knowing this, as at the sight of the Enchanter threatening her beloved Prince, she let out a scream and collapsed, losing consciousness. When she regained her senses, she was even more convinced that he was dead, since even Melinette was no longer with her, and no one was left to protect her from the loathsome old Enchanter.
To make matters worse, he seemed to be in a very bad temper, and came blustering and raging at the poor Princess.
To make things worse, he appeared to be in a really bad mood and burst in, ranting and fuming at the poor Princess.
‘I tell you what it is, madam,’ said he: ‘whether you love this whipper-snapper Prince or not doesn’t matter in the least. You are going to marry me, so you may as well make up your mind to it; and I am going away this very minute to make all the arrangements. But in case you should get into mischief in my absence, I think I had better put you to sleep.’
‘I’ll tell you what it is, ma’am,’ he said. ‘Whether you love this arrogant Prince or not doesn’t matter at all. You’re going to marry me, so you might as well accept that; and I’m leaving right now to make all the arrangements. But just in case you get into trouble while I’m gone, I think it’s best to put you to sleep.’
So saying, he waved his wand over her, and in spite of her utmost efforts to keep awake she sank into a profound and dreamless slumber.
So saying, he waved his wand over her, and despite her best efforts to stay awake, she fell into a deep and dreamless sleep.
As he wished to make what he considered a suitable entry into the King’s palace, he stepped outside the Princess’s little domain, and mounted upon an immense chariot with great solid wheels, and shafts like the trunk of an oak-tree, but all of solid gold. This was drawn with great difficulty by forty-eight strong oxen; and the Enchanter reclined at his ease, leaning upon his huge club, and holding carelessly upon his knee a tawny African lion, as if it had been a little lapdog. It was about seven o’clock in the morning when this extraordinary chariot reached the palace gates; the King was already astir, and about to set off on a hunting expedition; as for the Queen, she had only just gone off into her first sleep, and it would have been a bold person indeed who ventured to wake her.
As he wanted to make what he thought was a fitting entrance into the King’s palace, he stepped outside the Princess’s small realm and climbed onto a huge chariot with strong, solid wheels and shafts as thick as an oak tree, all made of solid gold. It was pulled with great effort by forty-eight powerful oxen. The Enchanter relaxed comfortably, leaning on his enormous club, while casually resting a tawny African lion on his knee as though it were a small lapdog. It was around seven in the morning when this extraordinary chariot arrived at the palace gates; the King was already awake and getting ready for a hunting trip, while the Queen had just fallen into her first sleep, and it would have taken a brave person to wake her.
The King was greatly annoyed at having to stay and see a visitor at such a time, and pulled off his hunting boots again with many grimaces. Meantime the Enchanter was stumping about in the hall, crying:
The King was really frustrated about having to wait for a visitor at such a time, and he took off his hunting boots again, making a lot of faces. Meanwhile, the Enchanter was pacing around in the hall, shouting:
‘Where is this King? Let him be told that I must see him and his wife also.’
‘Where is this king? Let him know that I need to see him and his wife too.’
The King, who was listening at the top of the staircase, thought this was not very polite; however, he took counsel with his favourite huntsman, and, following his advice, presently went down to see what was wanted of him. He was struck with astonishment at the sight of the chariot, and was gazing at it, when the Enchanter strode up to him, exclaiming:
The King, who was eavesdropping at the top of the stairs, found this quite rude; however, he consulted with his favorite huntsman and, following his suggestion, soon went down to find out what was needed from him. He was amazed by the sight of the chariot and was staring at it when the Enchanter walked up to him, exclaiming:
‘Shake hands, Cloverleaf, old fellow! Don’t you know me?’
‘Shake hands, Cloverleaf, my old friend! Don’t you recognize me?’
‘No, I can’t say I do,’ replied the King, somewhat embarrassed.
‘No, I can’t say I do,’ replied the King, a bit embarrassed.
‘Why, I am Grumedan, the Enchanter,’ said he, ‘and I am come to make your fortune. Let us come in and talk things over a bit.’
‘Why, I’m Grumedan, the Enchanter,’ he said, ‘and I’ve come to make your fortune. Let’s go inside and discuss things for a bit.’
Thereupon he ordered the oxen to go about their business, and they bounded off like stags, and were out of sight in a moment. Then, with one blow of his club, he changed the massive chariot into a perfect mountain of gold pieces.
Thereupon he told the oxen to get back to work, and they raced away like deer, disappearing in an instant. Then, with a single swing of his club, he transformed the huge chariot into a magnificent mountain of gold coins.
‘Those are for your lackeys,’ said he to the King, ‘that they may drink my health.’
‘Those are for your servants,’ he said to the King, ‘so they can drink to my health.’
Naturally a great scramble ensued, and at last the laughter and shouting awoke the Queen, who rang for her maids to ask the reason of such an unwonted hurry-burly. When they said that a visitor was asking for her, and then proceeded each one to tell breathlessly a different tale of wonder, in which she could only distinguish the words, ‘oxen,’ ‘gold,’ ‘club,’ ‘giant,’ ‘lion,’ she thought they were all out of their minds. Meanwhile the King was asking the Enchanter to what he was indebted for the honour of this visit, and on his replying that he would not say until the Queen was also present, messenger after messenger was dispatched to her to beg her immediate attendance. But Frivola was in a very bad humour at having been so unceremoniously awakened, and declared that she had a pain in her little finger, and that nothing should induce her to come.
Naturally, a big commotion followed, and finally, the laughter and shouting woke the Queen, who rang for her maids to find out what was causing such an unusual ruckus. When they said a visitor was asking for her, each one excitedly began to share a different story full of wonder, mentioning words like ‘oxen,’ ‘gold,’ ‘club,’ ‘giant,’ and ‘lion,’ making her think they had all lost their minds. Meanwhile, the King was asking the Enchanter why he was honored with this visit, and when he replied that he wouldn't say until the Queen was also present, messenger after messenger was sent to her to request her immediate presence. However, Frivola was in a terrible mood about being abruptly woken up, claiming she had a pain in her little finger and that nothing would persuade her to come.
When the Enchanter heard this he insisted that she must come.
When the Enchanter heard this, he insisted that she had to come.
‘Take my club to her Majesty,’ said he, ‘and tell her that if she smells the end of it she will find it wonderfully reviving.’
‘Take my club to her Majesty,’ he said, ‘and let her know that if she takes a whiff of it, she’ll find it incredibly refreshing.’
So four of the King’s strongest men-at-arms staggered off with it; and after some persuasion the Queen consented to try this novel remedy. She had hardly smelt it for an instant when she declared herself to be perfectly restored; but whether that was due to the scent of the wood or to the fact that as soon as she touched it out fell a perfect shower of magnificent jewels, I leave you to decide. At any rate, she was now all eagerness to see the mysterious stranger, and hastily throwing on her royal mantle, popped her second-best diamond crown over her night-cap, put a liberal dab of rouge upon each cheek, and holding up her largest fan before her nose—for she was not used to appearing in broad daylight—she went mincing into the great hall. The Enchanter waited until the King and Queen had seated themselves upon their throne, and then, taking his place between them, he began solemnly:
So four of the King’s strongest soldiers staggered off with it; and after some convincing, the Queen agreed to try this new remedy. She had hardly smelled it for a second when she said she felt completely better; but whether that was because of the fragrance of the wood or because as soon as she touched it, a stunning shower of magnificent jewels fell out, I’ll let you decide. Either way, she was now eager to meet the mysterious stranger, and quickly throwing on her royal cloak, she popped her second-best diamond crown over her nightcap, added a generous amount of blush to each cheek, and holding up her largest fan in front of her face—since she wasn’t used to being seen in broad daylight—she strutted into the grand hall. The Enchanter waited until the King and Queen had taken their seats on the throne, and then, positioning himself between them, he began solemnly:
‘My name is Grumedan. I am an extremely well-connected Enchanter; my power is immense. In spite of all this, the charms of your daughter Potentilla have so fascinated me that I cannot live without her. She fancies that she loves a certain contemptible puppy called Narcissus; but I have made very short work with him. I really do not care whether you consent to my marriage with your daughter or not, but I am bound to ask your consent, on account of a certain meddling Fairy called Melinette, with whom I have reason for wishing to keep on good terms.’
‘My name is Grumedan. I’m a highly connected Enchanter; my power is vast. Despite all this, your daughter Potentilla’s charms have captivated me to the point where I can’t imagine living without her. She thinks she loves a certain ridiculous guy named Narcissus, but I’ve dealt with him quickly. I honestly don’t care if you agree to my marriage with your daughter or not, but I have to ask for your consent because of a meddlesome Fairy named Melinette, with whom I’d like to stay on good terms.’
The King and Queen were somewhat embarrassed to know what answer to make to this terrible suitor, but at last they asked for time to talk over the matter: since, they said, their subjects might think that the heir to the throne should not be married with as little consideration as a dairymaid.
The King and Queen felt awkward about how to respond to this awful suitor, but eventually, they requested some time to discuss the issue: they said that their subjects might believe that the heir to the throne shouldn't marry someone with as little thought as a dairymaid.
‘Oh! take a day or two if you like,’ said the Enchanter; ‘but in the meantime, I am going to send for your daughter. Perhaps you will be able to induce her to be reasonable.’
‘Oh! take a day or two if you want,’ said the Enchanter; ‘but in the meantime, I’m going to send for your daughter. Maybe you can convince her to be reasonable.’
So saying, he drew out his favourite whistle, and blew one ear-piercing note—whereupon the great lion, who had been dozing in the sunny courtyard, come bounding in on his soft, heavy feet. ‘Orion,’ said the Enchanter, ‘go and fetch me the Princess, and bring her here at once. Be gentle now!’
So saying, he took out his favorite whistle and blew one loud note—whereupon the great lion, who had been dozing in the sunny courtyard, came bounding in on his soft, heavy feet. ‘Orion,’ said the Enchanter, ‘go and get the Princess and bring her here right away. Be gentle now!’
At these words Orion went off at a great pace, and was soon at the other end of the King’s gardens. Scattering the guards right and left, he cleared the wall at a bound, and seizing the sleeping Princess, he threw her on to his back, where he kept her by holding her robe in his teeth. Then he trotted gently back, and in less than five minutes stood in the great hall before the astonished King and Queen.
At these words, Orion took off quickly and soon reached the far end of the King's gardens. Pushing aside the guards, he jumped over the wall in one leap, grabbed the sleeping Princess, and tossed her onto his back, keeping her secure by holding onto her robe with his teeth. Then he walked back gently, and in under five minutes, arrived in the great hall in front of the astonished King and Queen.
The Enchanter held his club close to the Princess’s charming little nose, whereupon she woke up and shrieked with terror at finding herself in a strange place with the detested Grumedan. Frivola, who had stood by, stiff with displeasure at the sight of the lovely Princess, now stepped forward, and with much pretended concern proposed to carry off Potentilla to her own apartments that she might enjoy the quiet she seemed to need. Really her one idea was to let the Princess be seen by as few people as possible; so, throwing a veil over her head, she led her away and locked her up securely. All this time Prince Narcissus, gloomy and despairing, was kept a prisoner by Melinette in her castle in the air, and in spite of all the splendour by which he was surrounded, and all the pleasures which he might have enjoyed, his one thought was to get back to Potentilla. The Fairy, however, left him there, promising to do her very best for him, and commanding all her swallows and butterflies to wait upon him and do his bidding. One day, as he paced sadly to and fro, he thought he heard a voice he knew calling to him, and sure enough there was the faithful Philomel, Potentilla’s favourite, who told him all that had passed, and how the sleeping Princess had been carried off by the Lion to the great grief of all her four-footed and feathered subjects, and how, not knowing what to do, he had wandered about until he heard the swallows telling one another of the Prince who was in their airy castle and had come to see if it could be Narcissus. The Prince was more distracted than ever, and tried vainly to escape from the castle, by leaping from the roof into the clouds; but every time they caught him, and rolling softly up, brought him back to the place from which he started, so at last he gave up the attempt and waited with desperate patience for the return of Melinette. Meanwhile matters were advancing rapidly in the court of King Cloverleaf, for the Queen quite made up her mind that such a beauty as Potentilla must be got out of the way as quickly as possible. So she sent for the Enchanter secretly, and after making him promise that he would never turn herself and King Cloverleaf out of their kingdom, and that he would take Potentilla far away, so that never again might she set eyes upon her, she arranged the wedding for the next day but one.
The Enchanter held his club close to the Princess’s cute little nose, which made her wake up and scream in fear at finding herself in a strange place with the hated Grumedan. Frivola, who had been standing nearby, stiff with annoyance at the sight of the beautiful Princess, stepped forward and, with feigned concern, offered to take Potentilla to her own rooms so she could enjoy the peace she seemed to need. Her real intention was to keep the Princess away from as many people as possible; so, throwing a veil over her head, she led her away and locked her up tight. Meanwhile, Prince Narcissus, feeling gloomy and hopeless, was held prisoner by Melinette in her castle in the sky, and despite all the luxury surrounding him and the pleasures he could have indulged in, his only thought was to return to Potentilla. The Fairy, however, left him there, promising to do her best for him and commanding all her swallows and butterflies to attend to him and fulfill his wishes. One day, as he walked sadly back and forth, he thought he heard a voice he recognized calling him, and sure enough, there was the loyal Philomel, Potentilla’s favorite, who told him everything that had happened, including how the sleeping Princess had been taken by the Lion to the great sorrow of all her four-legged and feathered subjects, and how, in despair, he had wandered until he overheard the swallows discussing the Prince in their airy castle and wondering if it could be Narcissus. The Prince was more distressed than ever and tried unsuccessfully to escape from the castle by jumping from the roof into the clouds; but each time they caught him, gently floated him back, and returned him to where he started, so eventually he gave up and waited with desperate patience for Melinette to return. Meanwhile, events were moving quickly in King Cloverleaf's court, as the Queen had firmly decided that such beauty as Potentilla needed to be dealt with immediately. So, she secretly summoned the Enchanter and, after ensuring he promised never to oust her and King Cloverleaf from their kingdom, and that he would take Potentilla far away so she would never see her again, she arranged the wedding for the day after tomorrow.
You may imagine how Potentilla lamented her sad fate, and entreated to be spared. All the comfort she could get out of Frivola was, that if she preferred a cup of poison to a rich husband she would certainly provide her with one.
You can imagine how Potentilla cried over her unfortunate situation and begged to be saved. The only comfort she got from Frivola was that if she would rather have a cup of poison than a wealthy husband, she'd definitely make sure to get her one.
When, then, the fatal day came the unhappy Potentilla was led into the great hall between the King and Queen, the latter wild with envy at the murmurs of admiration which rose on all sides at the loveliness of the Princess. An instant later in came Grumedan by the opposite door. His hair stood on end, and he wore a huge bag-purse and a cravat tied in a bow, his mantle was made of a shower of silver coins with a lining of rose colour, and his delight in his own appearance knew no bounds. That any Princess could prefer a cup of poison to himself never for an instant occurred to him. Nevertheless, that was what did happen, for when Queen Frivola in jest held out the fatal cup to the Princess, she took it eagerly, crying:
When the dreadful day finally arrived, the unfortunate Potentilla was brought into the grand hall between the King and Queen, the latter seething with jealousy at the whispers of admiration coming from all around for the beauty of the Princess. Moments later, Grumedan entered through the opposite door. His hair was wild, he had a large bag-purse, and his cravat was tied in a bow. His cloak was made of shimmering silver coins with a rose-colored lining, and he was completely thrilled with his own appearance. He could never imagine that any Princess would choose a cup of poison over him. However, that’s exactly what happened when Queen Frivola jokingly offered the deadly cup to the Princess, who eagerly took it, exclaiming:
‘Ah! beloved Narcissus, I come to thee!’ and was just raising it to her lips when the window of the great hall burst open, and the Fairy Melinette floated in upon a glowing sunset cloud, followed by the Prince himself:
‘Ah! beloved Narcissus, I come to you!’ and was just bringing it to her lips when the window of the grand hall flew open, and the Fairy Melinette floated in on a glowing sunset cloud, followed by the Prince himself:
All the court looked on in dazzled surprise, while Potentilla, catching sight of her lover, dropped the cup and ran joyfully to meet him.
All the people in the court stared in amazed surprise, while Potentilla, seeing her lover, dropped the cup and happily ran to meet him.
The Enchanter’s first thought was to defend himself when he saw Melinette appear, but she slipped round his blind side, and catching him by the eyelashes dragged him off to the ceiling of the hall, where she held him kicking for a while just to give him a lesson, and then touching him with her wand she imprisoned him for a thousand years in a crystal ball which hung from the roof. ‘Let this teach you to mind what I tell you another time,’ she remarked severely. Then turning to the King and Queen, she begged them to proceed with the wedding, since she had provided a much more suitable bridegroom. She also deprived them of their kingdom, for they had really shown themselves unfit to manage it, and bestowed it upon the Prince and Princess, who, though they were unwilling to take it, had no choice but to obey the Fairy. However, they took care that the King and Queen were always supplied with everything they could wish for.
The Enchanter’s first instinct was to defend himself when he saw Melinette appear, but she quickly moved around his blind side, grabbed him by the eyelashes, and pulled him up to the ceiling of the hall. She held him there, kicking for a bit to teach him a lesson, and then with a touch of her wand, she trapped him in a crystal ball that hung from the ceiling for a thousand years. “Let this be a lesson to pay attention to what I tell you next time,” she said sternly. Then, turning to the King and Queen, she asked them to continue with the wedding, having arranged a much more suitable groom. She also took their kingdom away from them, as they had proven themselves unfit to rule, and gave it to the Prince and Princess, who, though reluctant, had no choice but to follow the Fairy's orders. Nevertheless, they made sure that the King and Queen were always provided with everything they might desire.
Prince Narcissus and Princess Potentilla lived long and happily, beloved by all their subjects. As for the Enchanter, I don’t believe he has been let out yet.
Prince Narcissus and Princess Potentilla lived long and happily, loved by all their subjects. As for the Enchanter, I don’t think he’s been released yet.
La Princesse Pimprenella et Le Prince Romarin.
La Princesse Pimprenella et Le Prince Romarin.
PRINCE FEATHERHEAD AND THE PRINCESS CELANDINE
Once upon a time there lived a King and Queen, who were the best creatures in the world, and so kind-hearted that they could not bear to see their subjects want for anything. The consequence was that they gradually gave away all their treasures, till they positively had nothing left to live upon; and this coming to the ears of their neighbour, King Bruin, he promptly raised a large army and marched into their country. The poor King, having no means of defending his kingdom, was forced to disguise himself with a false beard, and carrying his only son, the little Prince Featherhead, in his arms, and accompanied only by the Queen, to make the best of his way into the wild country. They were lucky enough to escape the soldiers of King Bruin, and at last, after unheard-of fatigues and adventures, they found themselves in a charming green valley, through which flowed a stream clear as crystal and overshadowed by beautiful trees. As they looked round them with delight, a voice said suddenly: ‘Fish, and see what you will catch.’ Now the King had always loved fishing, and never went anywhere without a fish-hook or two in his pocket, so he drew one out hastily, and the Queen lent him her girdle to fasten it to, and it had hardly touched the water before it caught a big fish, which made them an excellent meal—and not before they needed it, for they had found nothing until then but a few wild berries and roots. They thought that for the present they could not do better than stay in this delightful place, and the King set to work, and soon built a bower of branches to shelter them; and when it was finished the Queen was so charmed with it that she declared nothing was lacking to complete her happiness but a flock of sheep, which she and the little Prince might tend while the King fished. They soon found that the fish were not only abundant and easily caught, but also very beautiful, with glittering scales of every imaginable hue; and before long the King discovered that he could teach them to talk and whistle better than any parrot. Then he determined to carry some to the nearest town and try to sell them; and as no one had ever before seen any like them the people flocked about him eagerly and bought all he had caught, so that presently not a house in the city was considered complete without a crystal bowl full of fish, and the King’s customers were very particular about having them to match the rest of the furniture, and gave him a vast amount of trouble in choosing them. However, the money he obtained in this way enabled him to buy the Queen her flock of sheep, as well as many of the other things which go to make life pleasant, so that they never once regretted their lost kingdom. Now it happened that the Fairy of the Beech-Woods lived in the lovely valley to which chance had led the poor fugitives, and it was she who had, in pity for their forlorn condition, sent the King such good luck to his fishing, and generally taken them under her protection. This she was all the more inclined to do as she loved children, and little Prince Featherhead, who never cried and grew prettier day by day, quite won her heart. She made the acquaintance of the King and the Queen without at first letting them know that she was a fairy, and they soon took a great fancy to her, and even trusted her with the precious Prince, whom she carried off to her palace, where she regaled him with cakes and tarts and every other good thing. This was the way she chose of making him fond of her; but afterwards, as he grew older, she spared no pains in educating and training him as a prince should be trained. But unfortunately, in spite of all her care, he grew so vain and frivolous that he quitted his peaceful country life in disgust, and rushed eagerly after all the foolish gaieties of the neighbouring town, where his handsome face and charming manners speedily made him popular. The King and Queen deeply regretted this alteration in their son, but did not know how to mend matters, since the good old Fairy had made him so self-willed.
Once upon a time, there was a King and Queen who were the best people in the world, so kind-hearted that they couldn’t stand to see their subjects lacking anything. As a result, they gradually gave away all their treasures until they literally had nothing left to live on. When this reached the ears of their neighbor, King Bruin, he quickly assembled a large army and marched into their land. The poor King, unable to defend his kingdom, had to disguise himself with a fake beard, carrying his only son, the little Prince Featherhead, in his arms, and, along with the Queen, made his way into the wild. They managed to escape King Bruin's soldiers and, after a lot of fatigue and adventures, found themselves in a beautiful green valley with a stream crystal clear and shaded by lovely trees. As they looked around with delight, a voice suddenly said: ‘Fish, and see what you can catch.’ The King had always enjoyed fishing and never left home without a couple of fish hooks in his pocket, so he quickly pulled one out, and the Queen lent him her girdle to attach it to. It had barely touched the water before it caught a big fish, which made for an excellent meal—and they needed it, as they had only found a few wild berries and roots until then. They thought they could not do better than stay in this lovely spot, so the King got to work and soon built a shelter out of branches for them. When it was done, the Queen was so pleased that she said nothing would complete her happiness but a flock of sheep for her and the little Prince to tend while the King fished. They soon realized that the fish were not only plentiful and easy to catch but also very beautiful, with shimmering scales of every color imaginable. Before long, the King discovered he could teach them to talk and whistle better than any parrot. He decided to take some to the nearest town to try and sell them. Since no one had ever seen anything like them before, people flocked around eagerly and bought every single one he caught, so that soon no household in the city was complete without a crystal bowl full of fish, and the King’s customers were quite particular about having fish that matched their other decor, which gave him a lot of trouble in choosing them. However, the money he made allowed him to buy the Queen her flock of sheep, along with many other things that made life enjoyable, so they never once regretted their lost kingdom. Now, it happened that the Fairy of the Beech-Woods lived in the lovely valley where chance had brought the unfortunate fugitives, and it was she who, out of pity for their sad situation, had sent the King such good luck in his fishing and generally taken them under her care. She was particularly inclined to help them because she loved children, and little Prince Featherhead, who never cried and grew prettier every day, completely won her heart. She got to know the King and the Queen without revealing at first that she was a fairy, and they quickly grew fond of her, even trusting her with their precious Prince, whom she took to her palace, where she treated him to cakes, tarts, and every other delightful treat. This was her way of making him fond of her; but as he grew older, she devoted her time to educating and training him as a prince should be. Unfortunately, despite all her care, he became so vain and frivolous that he left his peaceful country life in disgust and eagerly pursued all the silly distractions of the neighboring town, where his handsome face and charming manners quickly made him popular. The King and Queen deeply regretted this change in their son but didn't know how to improve the situation, as the good old Fairy had made him so headstrong.
Just at this time the Fairy of the Beech-Woods received a visit from an old friend of hers called Saradine, who rushed into her house so breathless with rage that she could hardly speak.
Just then, the Fairy of the Beech-Woods got a visit from an old friend named Saradine, who burst into her house so furious that she could barely get the words out.
‘Dear, dear! what is the matter?’ said the Fairy of the Beech-Woods soothingly.
‘Oh dear! What’s the matter?’ said the Fairy of the Beech-Woods soothingly.
‘The matter!’ cried Saradine. ‘You shall soon hear all about it. You know that, not content with endowing Celandine, Princess of the Summer Islands, with everything she could desire to make her charming, I actually took the trouble to bring her up myself; and now what does she do but come to me with more coaxings and caresses than usual to beg a favour. And what do you suppose this favour turns out to be—when I have been cajoled into promising to grant it? Nothing more nor less than a request that I will take back all my gifts—“since,” says my young madam, “if I have the good fortune to please you, how am I to know that it is really I, myself? And that’s how it will be all my life long, whenever I meet anybody. You see what a weariness my life will be to me under these circumstances, and yet I assure you I am not ungrateful to you for all your kindness!” I did all I could,’ continued Saradine, ‘to make her think better of it, but in vain; so after going through the usual ceremony for taking back my gifts, I’m come to you for a little peace and quietness. But, after all, I have not taken anything of consequence from this provoking Celandine. Nature had already made her so pretty, and given her such a ready wit of her own, that she will do perfectly well without me. However, I thought she deserved a little lesson, so to begin with I have whisked her off into the desert, and there left her!’
‘The matter!’ Saradine exclaimed. ‘You’ll hear all about it soon. You know that, not satisfied with giving Celandine, Princess of the Summer Islands, everything she could want to be charming, I even took the time to raise her myself; and now what does she do but come to me with more flattery and affection than usual to ask for a favor. And guess what this favor turns out to be—after I've been sweet-talked into saying yes? Nothing more than a request for me to take back all my gifts—“since,” says my young lady, “if I have the luck to please you, how am I to know that it’s really me? And that’s how it will be for my whole life, every time I meet someone new. You can see how tiring my life will be under these conditions, and yet I assure you I'm not ungrateful for all your kindness!” I did everything I could,’ Saradine continued, ‘to make her reconsider, but it was useless; so after going through the usual process of taking back my gifts, I came to you for a bit of peace and quiet. But honestly, I haven’t taken anything significant from that annoying Celandine. Nature has already made her so beautiful and given her such quick wit that she’ll be just fine without me. However, I thought she could use a little lesson, so to start, I whisked her off into the desert and left her there!’
‘What! all alone, and without any means of existence?’ cried the kind-hearted old Fairy. ‘You had better hand her over to me. I don’t think so very badly of her after all. I’ll just cure her vanity by making her love someone better than herself. Really, when I come to consider of it, I declare the little minx has shown more spirit and originality in the matter than one expects of a princess.’
‘What! all alone, without any way to survive?’ exclaimed the compassionate old Fairy. ‘You should just give her to me. I don’t actually think so poorly of her after all. I’ll just fix her vanity by making her fall in love with someone better than herself. Honestly, when I think about it, I must say the little minx has shown more spirit and creativity in this situation than you would expect from a princess.’
Saradine willingly consented to this arrangement, and the old Fairy’s first care was to smooth away all the difficulties which surrounded the Princess, and lead her by the mossy path overhung with trees to the bower of the King and Queen, who still pursued their peaceful life in the valley.
Saradine agreed to this arrangement, and the old Fairy’s first task was to remove all the obstacles that surrounded the Princess and guide her along the mossy path shaded by trees to the home of the King and Queen, who continued to live their peaceful life in the valley.
They were immensely surprised at her appearance, but her charming face, and the deplorably ragged condition to which the thorns and briers had reduced her once elegant attire, speedily won their compassion; they recognised her as a companion in misfortune, and the Queen welcomed her heartily, and begged her to share their simple repast. Celandine gracefully accepted their hospitality, and soon told them what had happened to her. The King was charmed with her spirit, while the Queen thought she had indeed been daring thus to go against the Fairy’s wishes.
They were really surprised by her appearance, but her lovely face and the sadly tattered state of her once elegant clothes, ruined by thorns and brambles, quickly won their sympathy. They recognized her as someone who had also suffered, and the Queen welcomed her warmly, asking her to join their simple meal. Celandine graciously accepted their hospitality and soon shared her story. The King was taken with her spirit, while the Queen thought it was quite bold of her to defy the Fairy’s wishes.
‘Since it has ended in my meeting you,’ said the Princess, ‘I cannot regret the step I have taken, and if you will let me stay with you, I shall be perfectly happy.’
‘Now that I've met you,’ said the Princess, ‘I can’t regret the decision I made, and if you’ll let me stay with you, I’ll be completely happy.’
The King and Queen were only too delighted to have this charming Princess to supply the place of Prince Featherhead, whom they saw but seldom, since the Fairy had provided him with a palace in the neighbouring town, where he lived in the greatest luxury, and did nothing but amuse himself from morning to night. So Celandine stayed, and helped the Queen to keep house, and very soon they loved her dearly. When the Fairy of the Beech-Woods came to them, they presented the Princess to her, and told her story, little thinking that the Fairy knew more about Celandine than they did. The old Fairy was equally delighted with her, and often invited her to visit her Leafy Palace, which was the most enchanting place that could be imagined, and full of treasures. Often she would say to the Princess, when showing her some wonderful thing:
The King and Queen were thrilled to have this delightful Princess to take the place of Prince Featherhead, whom they rarely saw since the Fairy had given him a palace in the nearby town, where he lived in luxury and spent his days just enjoying himself. So, Celandine stayed and helped the Queen with household tasks, and before long, they loved her very much. When the Fairy of the Beech-Woods came to visit, they introduced the Princess to her and shared her story, not realizing that the Fairy knew more about Celandine than they did. The old Fairy was just as pleased with her and often invited her to visit her Leafy Palace, which was the most magical place one could imagine, filled with treasures. Frequently, she would show the Princess some amazing thing and say:
‘This will do for a wedding gift some day.’ And Celandine could not help thinking that it was to her that the Fairy meant to give the two blue wax-torches which burned without ever getting smaller, or the diamond from which more diamonds were continually growing, or the boat that sailed under water, or whatever beautiful or wonderful thing they might happen to be looking at. It is true that she never said so positively, but she certainly allowed the Princess to believe it, because she thought a little disappointment would be good for her. But the person she really relied upon for curing Celandine of her vanity was Prince Featherhead. The old Fairy was not at all pleased with the way he had been going on for some time, but her heart was so soft towards him that she was unwilling to take him away from the pleasures he loved, except by offering him something better, which is not the most effectual mode of correction, though it is without doubt the most agreeable.
‘This will work as a wedding gift someday.’ And Celandine couldn’t help but think that the Fairy intended to give her the two blue wax torches that burned without ever getting smaller, or the diamond from which more diamonds constantly grew, or the boat that sailed underwater, or whatever beautiful or amazing thing they might be looking at. It’s true that she never explicitly said so, but she definitely let the Princess believe it, because she thought a little disappointment would be good for her. However, the person she really counted on to help Celandine with her vanity was Prince Featherhead. The old Fairy was not at all pleased with his behavior for a while, but her heart was so soft towards him that she didn’t want to take him away from the pleasures he loved, except by offering him something better, which is not the most effective way of correction, though it is certainly the most agreeable.
However, she did not even hint to the Princess that Featherhead was anything but absolutely perfect, and talked of him so much that when at last she announced that he was coming to visit her, Celandine made up her mind that this delightful Prince would be certain to fall in love with her at once, and was quite pleased at the idea. The old Fairy thought so too, but as this was not at all what she wished, she took care to throw such an enchantment over the Princess that she appeared to Featherhead quite ugly and awkward, though to every one else she looked just as usual. So when he arrived at the Leafy Palace, more handsome and fascinating even than ever she had been led to expect, he hardly so much as glanced at the Princess, but bestowed all his attention upon the old Fairy, to whom he seemed to have a hundred things to say. The Princess was immensely astonished at his indifference, and put on a cold and offended air, which, however, he did not seem to observe. Then as a last resource she exerted all her wit and gaiety to amuse him, but with no better success, for he was of an age to be more attracted by beauty than by anything else, and though he responded politely enough, it was evident that his thoughts were elsewhere. Celandine was deeply mortified, since for her part the Prince pleased her very well, and for the first time she bitterly regretted the fairy gifts she had been anxious to get rid of. Prince Featherhead was almost equally puzzled, for he had heard nothing from the King and Queen but the praises of this charming Princess, and the fact that they had spoken of her as so very beautiful only confirmed his opinion that people who live in the country have no taste. He talked to them of his charming acquaintances in the town, the beauties he had admired, did admire, or thought he was going to admire, until Celandine, who heard it all, was ready to cry with vexation. The Fairy too was quite shocked at his conceit, and hit upon a plan for curing him of it. She sent to him by an unknown messenger a portrait of Princess Celandine as she really was, with this inscription: ‘All this beauty and sweetness, with a loving heart and a great kingdom, might have been yours but for your well-known fickleness.’
However, she didn’t even suggest to the Princess that Featherhead was anything less than perfect. She talked about him so much that when she finally announced he was coming to visit, Celandine was convinced this charming Prince would instantly fall in love with her, and she felt pleased by the thought. The old Fairy thought so too, but since that wasn’t at all what she wanted, she made sure to cast a spell on the Princess so that Featherhead saw her as ugly and clumsy, while everyone else saw her as usual. So when he arrived at the Leafy Palace, looking even more handsome and charming than she had anticipated, he hardly glanced at the Princess and instead focused all his attention on the old Fairy, having what seemed like a hundred things to say to her. The Princess was extremely shocked by his disregard and put on a cold, offended expression, which he didn’t appear to notice. As a last resort, she used all her wit and charm to entertain him, but it didn’t work; he was at an age where he was more drawn to beauty than anything else, and although he responded politely, it was clear his mind was elsewhere. Celandine felt deeply embarrassed since she thought the Prince was quite appealing, and for the first time, she regretted the fairy gifts she had wanted to get rid of. Prince Featherhead was almost equally confused, as he had only heard praise about this lovely Princess from the King and Queen, and the fact that they spoke of her as extremely beautiful only confirmed his belief that people in the countryside lack taste. He talked about his charming friends in town, the beauties he had admired, liked, or anticipated admiring, until Celandine, who listened to it all, was on the verge of tears from frustration. The Fairy was also taken aback by his arrogance and came up with a plan to cure him. She sent him a portrait of Princess Celandine as she truly was, with this inscription: ‘All this beauty and sweetness, along with a loving heart and a great kingdom, could have been yours if not for your well-known fickleness.’
This message made a great impression upon the Prince, but not so much as the portrait. He positively could not tear his eyes away from it, and exclaimed aloud that never, never had he seen anything so lovely and so graceful. Then he began to think that it was too absurd that he, the fascinating Featherhead, should fall in love with a portrait; and, to drive away the recollections of its haunting eyes, he rushed back to the town; but somehow everything seemed changed. The beauties no longer pleased him, their witty speeches had ceased to amuse; and indeed, for their parts, they found the Prince far less amiable than of yore, and were not sorry when he declared that, after all, a country life suited him best, and went back to the Leafy Palace. Meanwhile, the Princess Celandine had been finding the time pass but slowly with the King and Queen, and was only too pleased when Featherhead reappeared. She at once noticed the change in him, and was deeply curious to find the reason of it. Far from avoiding her, he now sought her company and seemed to take pleasure in talking to her, and yet the Princess did not for a moment flatter herself with the idea that he was in love with her, though it did not take her long to decide that he certainly loved someone. But one day the Princess, wandering sadly by the river, spied Prince Featherhead fast asleep in the shade of a tree, and stole nearer to enjoy the delight of gazing at his dear face unobserved. Judge of her astonishment when she saw that he was holding in his hand a portrait of herself! In vain did she puzzle over the apparent contradictoriness of his behaviour. Why did he cherish her portrait while he was so fatally indifferent to herself? At last she found an opportunity of asking him the name of the Princess whose picture he carried about with him always.
This message made a strong impact on the Prince, but not as much as the portrait. He couldn’t take his eyes off it and exclaimed that he had never seen anything so beautiful and graceful. Then he thought it was ridiculous that he, the captivating Featherhead, could fall in love with a portrait; to shake off the memories of its enchanting eyes, he rushed back to the town. However, everything felt different. The beautiful people no longer amused him, and their witty remarks lost their charm; for their part, they found the Prince far less charming than before and weren’t upset when he declared that, after all, country life suited him better, and he returned to the Leafy Palace. Meanwhile, Princess Celandine was finding time dragged on with the King and Queen, and was more than happy when Featherhead came back. She immediately noticed the change in him and was deeply curious about the reason behind it. Instead of avoiding her, he now sought her out and seemed to enjoy their conversations, yet the Princess didn’t delude herself into thinking he was in love with her; it didn’t take long for her to conclude that he must love someone. One day, as the Princess strolled sadly by the river, she spotted Prince Featherhead fast asleep in the shade of a tree and crept closer to enjoy the pleasure of gazing at his dear face unnoticed. Imagine her surprise when she saw that he was holding a portrait of her! She puzzled over the contradiction of his behavior. Why did he treasure her portrait while being so indifferent to her? Finally, she found an opportunity to ask him the name of the Princess whose picture he always carried with him.
‘Alas! how can I tell you?’ replied he.
‘Oh no! How can I explain this to you?’ he replied.
‘Why should you not?’ said the Princess timidly. ‘Surely there is nothing to prevent you.’
‘Why shouldn't you?’ said the Princess shyly. ‘There's really nothing stopping you.’
‘Nothing to prevent me!’ repeated he, ‘when my utmost efforts have failed to discover the lovely original. Should I be so sad if I could but find her? But I do not even know her name.’
‘Nothing can stop me!’ he repeated, ‘when my best efforts haven’t found the beautiful original. Would I feel so sad if I could just find her? But I don’t even know her name.’
More surprised than ever, the Princess asked to be allowed to see the portrait, and after examining it for a few minutes returned it, remarking shyly that at least the original had every cause to be satisfied with it.
More surprised than ever, the Princess asked to see the portrait, and after looking at it for a few minutes, she handed it back, shyly noting that at least the original had every reason to be pleased with it.
‘That means that you consider it flattered,’ said the Prince severely. ‘Really, Celandine, I thought better of you, and should have expected you to be above such contemptible jealousy. But all women are alike!’
‘That means you find it flattering,’ the Prince said sternly. ‘Honestly, Celandine, I had higher hopes for you and expected you to rise above such petty jealousy. But all women are the same!’
‘Indeed, I meant only that it was a good likeness,’ said the Princess meekly.
‘I really just meant that it was a good likeness,’ said the Princess humbly.
‘Then you know the original,’ cried the Prince, throwing himself on his knees beside her. ‘Pray tell me at once who it is, and don’t keep me in suspense!’
‘Then you know the original,’ cried the Prince, dropping to his knees beside her. ‘Please tell me right away who it is, and don’t keep me in suspense!’
‘Oh! don’t you see that it is meant for me?’ cried Celandine.
'Oh! Don't you see that it's meant for me?' cried Celandine.
The Prince sprang to his feet, hardly able to refrain from telling her that she must be blinded by vanity to suppose she resembled the lovely portrait even in the slightest degree; and after gazing at her for an instant with icy surprise, turned and left her without another word, and in a few hours quitted the Leafy Palace altogether.
The Prince jumped to his feet, barely able to stop himself from telling her that she must be blinded by vanity to think she looked anything like the beautiful portrait, even a little bit; and after staring at her for a moment in shock, he turned and left her without saying another word, and a few hours later, he left the Leafy Palace for good.
Now the Princess was indeed unhappy, and could no longer bear to stay in a place where she had been so cruelly disdained. So, without even bidding farewell to the King and Queen, she left the valley behind her, and wandered sadly away, not caring whither. After walking until she was weary, she saw before her a tiny house, and turned her slow steps towards it. The nearer she approached the more miserable it appeared, and at length she saw a little old woman sitting upon the door-step, who said grimly:
Now the Princess was truly unhappy and could no longer stand being in a place where she had been so harshly mistreated. So, without even saying goodbye to the King and Queen, she left the valley behind and wandered off, not caring where she went. After walking until she was exhausted, she spotted a small house ahead and slowly made her way toward it. The closer she got, the more miserable it looked, and eventually, she saw a little old woman sitting on the doorstep, who said grimly:
‘Here comes one of these fine beggars who are too idle to do anything but run about the country!’
‘Here comes one of those lazy beggars who are too idle to do anything but roam around the country!’
‘Alas! madam,’ said Celandine, with tears in her pretty eyes, ‘a sad fate forces me to ask you for shelter.’
‘Oh no! Ma'am,’ said Celandine, with tears in her beautiful eyes, ‘a tragic fate makes me ask you for shelter.’
‘Didn’t I tell you what it would be?’ growled the old hag. ‘From shelter we shall proceed to demand supper, and from supper money to take us on our way. Upon my word, if I could be sure of finding some one every day whose head was as soft as his heart, I wouldn’t wish for a more agreeable life myself! But I have worked hard to build my house and secure a morsel to eat, and I suppose you think that I am to give away everything to the first passer-by who chooses to ask for it. Not at all! I wager that a fine lady like you has more money than I have. I must search her, and see if it is not so,’ she added, hobbling towards Celandine with the aid of her stick.
“Didn’t I tell you what it would be?” growled the old hag. “We’ll start by asking for a place to stay, then we’ll ask for dinner, and from dinner, we’ll get money to keep us going. Honestly, if I could find someone every day whose head was as soft as their heart, I wouldn’t want anything more from life! But I’ve worked hard to build my home and put food on the table, and I bet you think I should just give everything away to the first person who asks. Not at all! I bet a fancy lady like you has more money than I do. I need to check her pockets and see if I’m right,” she added, hobbling toward Celandine with the help of her stick.
‘Alas! madam,’ replied the Princess, ‘I only wish I had. I would give it to you with all the pleasure in life.’
‘Oh! madam,’ replied the Princess, ‘I really wish I had. I would give it to you with all the pleasure in the world.’
‘But you are very smartly dressed for the kind of life you lead,’ continued the old woman.
‘But you’re dressed really smartly for the kind of life you live,’ continued the old woman.
‘What!’ cried the Princess, ‘do you think I am come to beg of you?’
‘What!’ cried the Princess, ‘do you think I came here to beg from you?’
‘I don’t know about that,’ answered she; ‘but at any rate you don’t seem to have come to bring me anything. But what is it that you do want? Shelter? Well, that does not cost much; but after that comes supper, and that I can’t hear of. Oh dear no! Why, at your age one is always ready to eat; and now you have been walking, and I suppose you are ravenous?’
"I don’t know about that," she replied, "but it seems like you didn’t come to bring me anything. So what do you really want? Shelter? That doesn’t cost much; but then there’s dinner, and I can’t agree to that. Oh no! At your age, you’re always ready to eat, and you’ve been walking, so I bet you’re starving?"
‘Indeed no, madam,’ answered the poor Princess, ‘I am too sad to be hungry.’
‘Actually, no, ma'am,’ replied the poor Princess, ‘I'm too upset to feel hungry.’
‘Oh, well! if you will promise to go on being sad, you may stay for the night,’ said the old woman mockingly.
‘Oh, well! if you promise to keep being sad, you can stay for the night,’ the old woman said mockingly.
Thereupon she made the Princess sit down beside her, and began fingering her silken robe, while she muttered ‘Lace on top, lace underneath! This must have cost you a pretty penny! It would have been better to save enough to feed yourself, and not come begging to those who want all they have for themselves. Pray, what may you have paid for these fine clothes?’
Thereupon she had the Princess sit down next to her and started touching her silky robe while muttering, "Lace on top, lace underneath! This must have cost you a lot! You would have been better off saving enough to feed yourself instead of coming here begging from those who want everything for themselves. So, how much did you pay for these nice clothes?"
‘Alas! madam,’ answered the Princess, ‘I did not buy them, and I know nothing about money.’
‘Oh no! Ma'am,’ the Princess replied, ‘I didn't buy them, and I don't know anything about money.’
‘What do you know, if I may ask?’ said the old dame.
‘What do you know, if I can ask?’ said the old woman.
‘Not much; but indeed I am very unhappy,’ cried Celandine, bursting into tears, ‘and if my services are any good to you—’
‘Not much; but I’m really unhappy,’ cried Celandine, bursting into tears, ‘and if my help is any good to you—’
‘Services!’ interrupted the hag crossly. ‘One has to pay for services, and I am not above doing my own work.’
‘Services!’ interrupted the witch angrily. ‘You have to pay for services, and I’m all about doing my own work.’
‘Madam, I will serve you for nothing,’ said the poor Princess, whose spirits were sinking lower and lower. ‘I will do anything you please; all I wish is to live quietly in this lonely spot.’
‘Ma'am, I'll work for free,’ said the poor Princess, whose spirits were dropping lower and lower. ‘I'll do whatever you want; all I want is to live peacefully in this quiet place.’
‘Oh! I know you are only trying to take me in,’ answered she; ‘and if I do let you serve me, is it fitting that you should be so much better dressed I am? If I keep you, will you give me your clothes and wear some that I will provide you with? It is true that I am getting old and may want someone to take care of me some day.’
‘Oh! I know you’re just trying to trick me,’ she replied. ‘And if I let you help me, is it right that you’re dressed so much better than I am? If I keep you around, will you give me your clothes and wear what I pick out for you? It’s true that I’m getting old and might need someone to take care of me someday.’
‘Oh! for pity’s sake, do what you please with my clothes,’ cried poor Celandine miserably.
‘Oh! for goodness’ sake, do whatever you want with my clothes,’ cried poor Celandine miserably.
And the old woman hobbled off with great alacrity, and fetched a little bundle containing a wretched dress, such as the Princess had never even seen before, and nimbly skipped round, helping her to put it on instead of her own rich robe, with many exclamations of:
And the old woman hobbled away quickly and brought back a small bundle with a shabby dress that the Princess had never seen before. She cheerfully helped her put it on instead of her fancy robe, saying many excited things like:
‘Saints!—what a magnificent lining! And the width of it! It will make me four dresses at least. Why, child, I wonder you could walk under such a weight, and certainly in my house you would not have had room to turn round.’
‘Wow!—what a stunning fabric! And the size of it! It will make me at least four dresses. Honestly, darling, I’m surprised you could walk around with such a burden, and there’s no way you would have had space to move in my house.’
So saying, she folded up the robe, and put it by with great care, while she remarked to Celandine:
So saying, she carefully folded up the robe and set it aside, while she said to Celandine:
‘That dress of mine certainly suits you to a marvel; be sure you take great care of it.’
‘That dress of mine really looks amazing on you; make sure you take good care of it.’
When supper-time came she went into the house, declining all the Princess’s offers of assistance, and shortly afterwards brought out a very small dish, saying:
When dinner time arrived, she went into the house, politely refusing all of the Princess's offers to help, and shortly after came out with a very small dish, saying:
‘Now let us sup.’
‘Now let’s eat.’
Whereupon she handed Celandine a small piece of black bread and uncovered the dish, which contained two dried plums.
Whereupon she gave Celandine a small piece of black bread and uncovered the dish, which had two dried plums in it.
‘We will have one between us,’ continued the old dame; ‘and as you are the visitor, you shall have the half which contains the stone; but be very careful that you don’t swallow it, for I keep them against the winter, and you have no idea what a good fire they make. Now, you take my advice—which won’t cost you anything—and remember that it is always more economical to buy fruit with stones on this account.’
‘We’ll share one,’ the old woman continued; ‘and since you’re the guest, you can have the half with the pit in it; but be very careful not to swallow it, because I save those for the winter, and you have no idea how good they are for starting a fire. Now, take my advice—which won’t cost you a thing—and remember that it’s always cheaper to buy fruit with pits for this reason.’
Celandine, absorbed in her own sad thoughts, did not even hear this prudent counsel, and quite forgot to eat her share of the plum, which delighted the old woman, who put it by carefully for her breakfast, saying:
Celandine, lost in her own gloomy thoughts, didn’t even notice this wise advice and completely forgot to eat her portion of the plum, which pleased the old woman, who set it aside carefully for her breakfast, saying:
‘I am very much pleased with you, and if you go on as you have begun, we shall do very well, and I can teach you many useful things which people don’t generally know. For instance, look at my house! It is built entirely of the seeds of all the pears I have eaten in my life. Now, most people throw them away, and that only shows what a number of things are wasted for want of a little patience and ingenuity.’
‘I’m really pleased with you, and if you keep this up, we’ll do great, and I can teach you a lot of useful things that most people don’t know. For example, look at my house! It’s built entirely from the seeds of all the pears I’ve eaten in my life. Most people just toss them away, and that just goes to show how many things are wasted due to a lack of patience and creativity.’
But Celandine did not find it possible to be interested in this and similar pieces of advice. And the old woman soon sent her to bed, for fear the night air might give her an appetite. She passed a sleepless night; but in the morning the old dame remarked:
But Celandine couldn’t find it in herself to care about this or similar advice. The old woman quickly sent her to bed, worried that the night air might give her an appetite. She spent a restless night; but in the morning, the old lady said:
‘I heard how well you slept. After such a night you cannot want any breakfast; so while I do my household tasks you had better stay in bed, since the more one sleeps the less one need eat; and as it is market-day I will go to town and buy a pennyworth of bread for the week’s eating.’
‘I heard you slept really well. After a night like that, you probably don’t want any breakfast; so while I take care of my chores, you might as well stay in bed, because the more you sleep, the less you need to eat. Since it’s market day, I’ll go to town and get a penny’s worth of bread for the week.’
And so she chattered on, but poor Celandine did not hear or heed her; she wandered out into the desolate country to think over her sad fate. However, the good Fairy of the Beech-Woods did not want her to be starved, so she sent her an unlooked for relief in the shape of a beautiful white cow, which followed her back to the tiny house. When the old woman saw it her joy knew no bounds.
And so she kept talking, but poor Celandine didn’t hear or pay attention; she wandered out into the barren countryside to reflect on her unfortunate situation. However, the kind Fairy of the Beech-Woods didn’t want her to go hungry, so she sent unexpected help in the form of a beautiful white cow, which followed her back to the small house. When the old woman saw it, she was overjoyed.
‘Now we can have milk and cheese and butter!’ cried she. ‘Ah! how good milk is! What a pity it is so ruinously expensive!’ So they made a little shelter of branches for the beautiful creature which was quite gentle, and followed Celandine about like a dog when she took it out every day to graze. One morning as she sat by a little brook, thinking sadly, she suddenly saw a young stranger approaching, and got up quickly, intending to avoid him. But Prince Featherhead, for it was he, perceiving her at the same moment, rushed towards her with every demonstration of joy: for he had recognised her, not as the Celandine whom he had slighted, but as the lovely Princess whom he had sought vainly for so long. The fact was that the Fairy of the Beech-Woods, thinking she had been punished enough, had withdrawn the enchantment from her, and transferred it to Featherhead, thereby in an instant depriving him of the good looks which had done so much towards making him the fickle creature he was. Throwing himself down at the Princess’s feet, he implored her to stay, and at least speak to him, and she at last consented, but only because he seemed to wish it so very much. After that he came every day in the hope of meeting her again, and often expressed his delight at being with her. But one day, when he had been begging Celandine to love him, she confided to him that it was quite impossible, since her heart was already entirely occupied by another.
“Now we can have milk and cheese and butter!” she exclaimed. “Ah! How good milk is! What a shame it’s so ridiculously expensive!” So they built a little shelter out of branches for the beautiful creature, which was very gentle and followed Celandine around like a dog whenever she took it out to graze each day. One morning, as she sat by a small stream, lost in her sad thoughts, she suddenly saw a young stranger coming towards her and quickly got up, planning to avoid him. But Prince Featherhead, recognizing her at the same moment, rushed toward her, bursting with joy. He saw her not as the Celandine he had overlooked but as the beautiful Princess he had been searching for in vain for so long. The truth was that the Fairy of the Beech-Woods, believing she had suffered enough, had lifted the enchantment from her and placed it onto Featherhead, instantly robbing him of the good looks that had contributed so much to his fickle nature. Throwing himself at the Princess’s feet, he begged her to stay and at least talk to him, and she finally agreed, but only because he seemed to want it so badly. After that, he visited her every day, hoping to see her again, and often expressed how happy he was to be with her. But one day, when he had been pleading with Celandine to love him, she confided that it was completely impossible since her heart was already devoted to someone else.
‘I have,’ said she, ‘the unhappiness of loving a Prince who is fickle, frivolous, proud, incapable of caring for anyone but himself, who has been spoilt by flattery, and, to crown all, who does not love me.’
‘I have,’ she said, ‘the misfortune of loving a Prince who is unreliable, shallow, arrogant, unable to care for anyone but himself, who has been spoiled by praise, and, to make matters worse, doesn’t love me.’
‘But,’ cried Prince Featherhead, ‘surely you cannot care for so contemptible and worthless a creature as that.’
‘But,’ cried Prince Featherhead, ‘you can’t really care for such a despicable and useless creature as that.’
‘Alas! but I do care,’ answered the Princess, weeping.
‘Oh no! But I do care,’ answered the Princess, crying.
‘But where can his eyes be,’ said the Prince, ‘that your beauty makes no impression upon him? As for me, since I have possessed your portrait I have wandered over the whole world to find you, and, now we have met, I see that you are ten times lovelier than I could have imagined, and I would give all I own to win your love.’
‘But where can his eyes be,’ said the Prince, ‘that your beauty has no effect on him? As for me, ever since I got your portrait, I’ve traveled all over the world to find you, and now that we’ve met, I see that you’re ten times more beautiful than I could have ever imagined, and I would give everything I have to win your love.’
‘My portrait?’ cried Celandine with sudden interest. ‘Is it possible that Prince Featherhead can have parted with it?’
‘My portrait?’ Celandine exclaimed with sudden interest. ‘Is it possible that Prince Featherhead could have given it away?’
‘He would part with his life sooner, lovely Princess,’ answered he; ‘I can assure you of that, for I am Prince Featherhead.’
‘He would give up his life sooner, beautiful Princess,’ he replied; ‘I can assure you of that, because I am Prince Featherhead.’
At the same moment the Fairy of the Beech-Woods took away the enchantment, and the happy Princess recognised her lover, now truly hers, for the trials they had both undergone had so changed and improved them that they were capable of a real love for each other. You may imagine how perfectly happy they were, and how much they had to hear and to tell. But at length it was time to go back to the little house, and as they went along Celandine remembered for the first time what a ragged old dress she was wearing, and what an odd appearance she must present. But the Prince declared that it became her vastly, and that he thought it most picturesque. When they reached the house the old woman received them very crossly.
At that moment, the Fairy of the Beech-Woods lifted the enchantment, and the joyful Princess recognized her lover, who was now truly hers. The challenges they had both faced had changed and matured them, making them capable of real love for each other. You can imagine how completely happy they were and how much they had to share. But eventually, it was time to return to the little house, and as they walked, Celandine realized for the first time how ragged her old dress was and how strange she must look. However, the Prince insisted that it suited her perfectly and that he found it very charming. When they arrived at the house, the old woman greeted them quite angrily.
‘I declare,’ said she, ‘that it’s perfectly true: wherever there is a girl you may be sure that a young man will appear before long! But don’t imagine that I’m going to have you here—not a bit of it, be off with you, my fine fellow!’
‘I declare,’ she said, ‘that it’s totally true: wherever there’s a girl, you can be sure a young man will show up soon! But don’t think for a second that I’m going to let you stay here—not a chance, get out of here, my fine fellow!’
Prince Featherhead was inclined to be angry at this uncivil reception, but he was really too happy to care much, so he only demanded, on Celandine’s behalf, that the old dame should give her back her own attire, that she might go away suitably dressed.
Prince Featherhead was annoyed by this rude welcome, but he was too happy to let it bother him much, so he just insisted, on Celandine’s behalf, that the old woman return her clothes so she could leave dressed properly.
This request roused her to fury, since she had counted upon the Princess’s fine robes to clothe her for the rest of her life, so that it was some time before the Prince could make himself heard to explain that he was willing to pay for them. The sight of a handful of gold pieces somewhat mollified her, however, and after making them both promise faithfully that on no consideration would they ask for the gold back again, she took the Princess into the house and grudgingly doled out to her just enough of her gay attire to make her presentable, while the rest she pretended to have lost. After this they found that they were very hungry, for one cannot live on love, any more than on air, and then the old woman’s lamentations were louder than before. ‘What!’ she cried, ‘feed people who were as happy as all that! Why, it was simply ruinous!’
This request sparked her anger, as she had relied on the Princess’s beautiful clothes to provide for her for the rest of her life. It took some time for the Prince to get a word in to explain that he was willing to pay for them. However, seeing a handful of gold coins calmed her a bit, and after making them both promise that they would never ask for the gold back, she took the Princess into the house and reluctantly gave her just enough of her fancy clothes to make her look decent, pretending to have lost the rest. After this, they realized they were very hungry because you can't survive on love any more than you can on air, and the old woman’s complaints were even louder than before. “What!” she exclaimed, “feed people who were so happy? That would be downright ruinous!”
But as the Prince began to look angry, she, with many sighs and mutterings, brought out a morsel of bread, a bowl of milk, and six plums, with which the lovers were well content: for as long as they could look at one another they really did not know what they were eating. It seemed as if they would go on for ever with their reminiscences, the Prince telling how he had wandered all over the world from beauty to beauty, always to be disappointed when he found that no one resembled the portrait; the Princess wondering how it was he could have been so long with her and yet never have recognised her, and over and over again pardoning him for his cold and haughty behaviour to her.
But as the Prince started to look angry, she sighed a lot and muttered as she brought out a piece of bread, a bowl of milk, and six plums, which made the lovers happy: because as long as they could gaze at each other, they really had no idea what they were eating. It felt like they could keep reminiscing forever, with the Prince sharing stories about his travels across the world, chasing one beautiful face after another, only to be let down each time he found that none looked like the portrait. The Princess wondered how he could spend so much time with her and still not recognize her, repeatedly forgiving him for his cold and aloof behavior towards her.
‘For,’ she said, ‘you see, Featherhead, I love you, and love makes everything right! But we cannot stay here,’ she added; ‘what are we to do?’
‘Because,’ she said, ‘you see, Featherhead, I love you, and love makes everything right! But we can’t stay here,’ she added; ‘what are we supposed to do?’
The Prince thought they had better find their way to the Fairy of the Beech-Woods and put themselves once more under her protection, and they had hardly agreed upon this course when two little chariots wreathed with jasmine and honeysuckle suddenly appeared, and, stepping into them, they were whirled away to the Leafy Palace. Just before they lost sight of the little house they heard loud cries and lamentations from the miserly old dame, and, looking round, perceived that the beautiful cow was vanishing in spite of her frantic efforts to hold it fast. And they afterwards heard that she spent the rest of her life in trying to put the handful of gold the Prince had thrown to her into her money-bag. For the Fairy, as a punishment for her avarice, caused it to slip out again as fast as she dropped it in.
The Prince thought it would be best to head to the Fairy of the Beech-Woods and seek her protection once again. They had barely decided on this plan when two small chariots, decorated with jasmine and honeysuckle, suddenly appeared. They climbed in and were quickly whisked away to the Leafy Palace. Just before they lost sight of the little house, they heard loud cries and lamentations from the miserly old woman, and when they looked back, they saw the beautiful cow disappearing despite her frantic attempts to hold on to it. Later, they learned that she spent the rest of her life trying to shove the handful of gold the Prince had thrown her way into her money-bag. As punishment for her greed, the Fairy caused it to slip out again as fast as she dropped it in.
The Fairy of the Beech-Woods ran to welcome the Prince and Princess with open arms, only too delighted to find them so much improved that she could, with a clear conscience, begin to spoil them again. Very soon the Fairy Saradine also arrived, bringing the King and Queen with her. Princess Celandine implored her pardon, which she graciously gave; indeed the Princess was so charming she could refuse her nothing. She also restored to her the Summer Islands, and promised her protection in all things. The Fairy of the Beech-Woods then informed the King and Queen that their subjects had chased King Bruin from the throne, and were waiting to welcome them back again; but they at once abdicated in favour of Prince Featherhead, declaring that nothing could induce them to forsake their peaceful life, and the Fairies undertook to see the Prince and Princess established in their beautiful kingdoms. Their marriage took place the next day, and they lived happily ever afterwards, for Celandine was never vain and Featherhead was never fickle any more.
The Fairy of the Beech-Woods ran to welcome the Prince and Princess with open arms, thrilled to see how much they had improved, allowing her to spoil them again with a clear conscience. Before long, the Fairy Saradine showed up, bringing the King and Queen along. Princess Celandine begged her forgiveness, which she graciously granted; in fact, the Princess was so delightful that she couldn’t deny her anything. She also returned the Summer Islands to her and promised protection in all matters. The Fairy of the Beech-Woods then informed the King and Queen that their subjects had ousted King Bruin from the throne and were ready to welcome them back; however, they immediately abdicated in favor of Prince Featherhead, stating that nothing could persuade them to abandon their peaceful life. The Fairies promised to help the Prince and Princess settle in their beautiful kingdoms. Their wedding took place the next day, and they lived happily ever after, as Celandine was never vain and Featherhead was never fickle again.
Le Prince Muguet et la Princesse Zaza.
Le Prince Muguet et la Princesse Zaza.
THE THREE LITTLE PIGS
There was once upon a time a pig who lived with her three children on a large, comfortable, old-fashioned farmyard. The eldest of the little pigs was called Browny, the second Whitey, and the youngest and best looking Blacky. Now Browny was a very dirty little pig, and I am sorry to say spent most of his time rolling and wallowing about in the mud. He was never so happy as on a wet day, when the mud in the farmyard got soft, and thick, and slab. Then he would steal away from his mother’s side, and finding the muddiest place in the yard, would roll about in it and thoroughly enjoy himself. His mother often found fault with him for this, and would shake her head sadly and say: ‘Ah, Browny! some day you will be sorry that you did not obey your old mother.’ But no words of advice or warning could cure Browny of his bad habits.
Once upon a time, there was a pig who lived with her three piglets on a large, cozy, old-fashioned farm. The oldest of the little pigs was named Browny, the second was Whitey, and the youngest and most handsome was Blacky. Now, Browny was a very dirty little pig, and sadly, he spent most of his time rolling around in the mud. He was never happier than on a rainy day when the mud in the yard became soft, thick, and messy. Then he would sneak away from his mother’s side, find the muddiest spot in the yard, and roll around in it, enjoying every moment. His mother often scolded him for this, shaking her head sadly and saying, “Ah, Browny! One day, you’ll regret not listening to your old mother.” But no amount of advice or warnings could change Browny’s bad habits.
Whitey was quite a clever little pig, but she was greedy. She was always thinking of her food, and looking forward to her dinner; and when the farm girl was seen carrying the pails across the yard, she would rise up on her hind legs and dance and caper with excitement. As soon as the food was poured into the trough she jostled Blacky and Browny out of the way in her eagerness to get the best and biggest bits for herself. Her mother often scolded her for her selfishness, and told her that some day she would suffer for being so greedy and grabbing.
Whitey was a pretty smart little pig, but she was greedy. She was always thinking about her food and looking forward to dinner. When the farm girl was seen carrying the buckets across the yard, she would jump up on her hind legs and dance around in excitement. As soon as the food was poured into the trough, she'd shove Blacky and Browny aside in her eagerness to grab the best and biggest bites for herself. Her mom often scolded her for being selfish and warned her that one day she would pay for being so greedy and snatchy.
Blacky was a good, nice little pig, neither dirty nor greedy. He had nice dainty ways (for a pig), and his skin was always as smooth and shining as black satin. He was much cleverer than Browny and Whitey, and his mother’s heart used to swell with pride when she heard the farmer’s friends say to each other that some day the little black fellow would be a prize pig.
Blacky was a good, sweet little pig, neither dirty nor greedy. He had charming manners (for a pig), and his skin was always smooth and shiny like black satin. He was much smarter than Browny and Whitey, and his mother's heart would swell with pride when she heard the farmer's friends saying to each other that someday the little black guy would be a prize pig.
Now the time came when the mother pig felt old and feeble and near her end. One day she called the three little pigs round her and said:
Now the time had come when the mother pig felt old and weak and close to her end. One day she gathered the three little pigs around her and said:
‘My children, I feel that I am growing odd and weak, and that I shall not live long. Before I die I should like to build a house for each of you, as this dear old sty in which we have lived so happily will be given to a new family of pigs, and you will have to turn out. Now, Browny, what sort of a house would you like to have?’
‘My children, I feel like I'm getting strange and weak, and that I won't live much longer. Before I die, I want to build a house for each of you, since this beloved old sty where we've lived so happily will be given to a new family of pigs, and you'll have to move out. Now, Browny, what kind of house would you like to have?’
‘A house of mud,’ replied Browny, looking longingly at a wet puddle in the corner of the yard.
‘A house of mud,’ replied Browny, gazing wistfully at a wet puddle in the corner of the yard.
‘And you, Whitey?’ said the mother pig in rather a sad voice, for she was disappointed that Browny had made so foolish a choice.
‘And you, Whitey?’ said the mother pig in a rather sad voice, as she was disappointed that Browny had made such a foolish choice.
‘A house of cabbage,’ answered Whitey, with a mouth full, and scarcely raising her snout out of the trough in which she was grubbing for some potato-parings.
‘A house of cabbage,’ answered Whitey, with her mouth full, barely lifting her snout out of the trough where she was digging for some potato scraps.
‘Foolish, foolish child!’ said the mother pig, looking quite distressed. ‘And you, Blacky?’ turning to her youngest son, ‘what sort of a house shall I order for you?’
‘Foolish, foolish child!’ the mother pig said, looking very upset. ‘And you, Blacky?’ she turned to her youngest son, ‘what kind of house should I get for you?’
‘A house of brick, please mother, as it will be warm in winter, and cool in summer, and safe all the year round.’
‘A brick house, please mom, because it will be warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and safe year-round.’
‘That is a sensible little pig,’ replied his mother, looking fondly at him. ‘I will see that the three houses are got ready at once. And now one last piece of advice. You have heard me talk of our old enemy the fox. When he hears that I am dead, he is sure to try and get hold of you, to carry you off to his den. He is very sly and will no doubt disguise himself, and pretend to be a friend, but you must promise me not to let him enter your houses on any pretext whatever.’
‘That’s a smart little pig,’ his mother said, looking at him affectionately. ‘I’ll make sure the three houses are ready right away. And here’s one last piece of advice. You know our old enemy, the fox. When he hears that I’m dead, he will definitely try to get to you and take you to his den. He’s very sneaky and will probably disguise himself, pretending to be your friend, but you must promise me not to let him into your houses for any reason at all.’
And the little pigs readily promised, for they had always had a great fear of the fox, of whom they had heard many terrible tales. A short time afterwards the old pig died, and the little pigs went to live in their own houses.
And the little pigs quickly agreed, as they had always been really afraid of the fox, about whom they had heard many frightening stories. Shortly after, the old pig died, and the little pigs moved into their own houses.
Browny was quite delighted with his soft mud walls and with the clay floor, which soon looked like nothing but a big mud pie. But that was what Browny enjoyed, and he was as happy as possible, rolling about all day and making himself in such a mess. One day, as he was lying half asleep in the mud, he heard a soft knock at his door, and a gentle voice said:
Browny was really happy with his soft mud walls and the clay floor, which quickly looked just like a giant mud pie. But that’s exactly what Browny loved, and he was as content as could be, rolling around all day and getting himself all messy. One day, while he was lying half asleep in the mud, he heard a gentle knock at his door, and a soft voice said:
‘May I come in, Master Browny? I want to see your beautiful new house.’
‘Can I come in, Master Browny? I want to see your beautiful new house.’
‘Who are you?’ said Browny, starting up in great fright, for though the voice sounded gentle, he felt sure it was a feigned voice, and he feared it was the fox.
‘Who are you?’ Browny said, jumping up in fear. Even though the voice sounded soft, he was certain it was pretending to be gentle, and he was afraid it was the fox.
‘I am a friend come to call on you,’ answered the voice.
‘I’m a friend here to see you,’ answered the voice.
‘No, no,’ replied Browny, ‘I don’t believe you are a friend. You are the wicked fox, against whom our mother warned us. I won’t let you in.’
‘No, no,’ replied Browny, ‘I don’t believe you’re a friend. You’re the bad fox our mother warned us about. I won’t let you in.’
‘Oho! is that the way you answer me?’ said the fox, speaking very roughly in his natural voice. ‘We shall soon see who is master here,’ and with his paws he set to work and scraped a large hole in the soft mud walls. A moment later he had jumped through it, and catching Browny by the neck, flung him on his shoulders and trotted off with him to his den.
‘Whoa! Is that how you're gonna answer me?’ said the fox, speaking quite harshly in his usual tone. ‘We'll see who’s in charge here,’ and with his paws, he began to dig a big hole in the soft mud walls. A moment later, he jumped through it, grabbed Browny by the neck, threw him over his shoulders, and trotted off to his den.
The next day, as Whitey was munching a few leaves of cabbage out of the corner of her house, the fox stole up to her door, determined to carry her off to join her brother in his den. He began speaking to her in the same feigned gentle voice in which he had spoken to Browny; but it frightened her very much when he said:
The next day, as Whitey was nibbling on some cabbage leaves near her house, the fox crept up to her door, set on taking her back to his den with her brother. He started talking to her in the same fake gentle tone he had used with Browny, but it scared her a lot when he said:
‘I am a friend come to visit you, and to have some of your good cabbage for my dinner.’
‘I’m a friend here to visit you and to have some of your delicious cabbage for my dinner.’
‘Please don’t touch it,’ cried Whitey in great distress. ‘The cabbages are the walls of my house, and if you eat them you will make a hole, and the wind and rain will come in and give me a cold. Do go away; I am sure you are not a friend, but our wicked enemy the fox.’ And poor Whitey began to whine and to whimper, and to wish that she had not been such a greedy little pig, and had chosen a more solid material than cabbages for her house. But it was too late now, and in another minute the fox had eaten his way through the cabbage walls, and had caught the trembling, shivering Whitey, and carried her off to his den.
“Please don’t touch it,” Whitey cried in distress. “The cabbages are the walls of my house, and if you eat them, you’ll create a hole that lets in wind and rain and I’ll catch a cold. Please go away; I’m sure you’re not a friend but our wicked enemy, the fox.” And poor Whitey began to whine and whimper, wishing she hadn’t been such a greedy little pig and had chosen something more sturdy than cabbages for her house. But it was too late now, and in another minute, the fox had eaten through the cabbage walls and caught the trembling, shivering Whitey, carrying her off to his den.
The next day the fox started off for Blacky’s house, because he had made up his mind that he would get the three little pigs together in his den, and then kill them, and invite all his friends to a feast. But when he reached the brick house, he found that the door was bolted and barred, so in his sly manner he began, ‘Do let me in, dear Blacky. I have brought you a present of some eggs that I picked up in a farmyard on my way here.’
The next day, the fox headed over to Blacky’s house because he had decided he would gather the three little pigs in his den, then kill them and invite all his friends for a feast. But when he got to the brick house, he found the door was locked and secured, so in his sneaky way, he started, ‘Please let me in, dear Blacky. I have brought you a gift of some eggs I found in a farmyard on my way here.’
‘No, no, Mister Fox,’ replied Blacky, ‘I am not going to open my door to you. I know your cunning ways. You have carried off poor Browny and Whitey, but you are not going to get me.’
‘No, no, Mr. Fox,’ Blacky replied, ‘I’m not going to open my door for you. I know your sneaky tricks. You’ve taken poor Browny and Whitey, but you’re not going to get me.’
At this the fox was so angry that he dashed with all his force against the wall, and tried to knock it down. But it was too strong and well-built; and though the fox scraped and tore at the bricks with his paws he only hurt himself, and at last he had to give it up, and limp away with his fore-paws all bleeding and sore.
At this, the fox was so angry that he charged at the wall with all his might, trying to knock it down. But it was too strong and well-made; even though the fox clawed and scratched at the bricks with his paws, he only ended up injuring himself. Eventually, he had to give up and walk away with his front paws all bleeding and sore.
‘Never mind!’ he cried angrily as he went off, ‘I’ll catch you another day, see if I don’t, and won’t I grind your bones to powder when I have got you in my den!’ and he snarled fiercely and showed his teeth.
“Forget it!” he shouted angrily as he stormed off. “I’ll get you another day, just wait and see, and I’ll grind your bones to dust once I have you in my lair!” He snarled fiercely and bared his teeth.
Next day Blacky had to go into the neighbouring town to do some marketing and to buy a big kettle. As he was walking home with it slung over his shoulder, he heard a sound of steps stealthily creeping after him. For a moment his heart stood still with fear, and then a happy thought came to him. He had just reached the top of a hill, and could see his own little house nestling at the foot of it among the trees. In a moment he had snatched the lid off the kettle and had jumped in himself. Coiling himself round he lay quite snug in the bottom of the kettle, while with his fore-leg he managed to put the lid on, so that he was entirely hidden. With a little kick from the inside he started the kettle off, and down the hill it rolled full tilt; and when the fox came up, all that he saw was a large black kettle spinning over the ground at a great pace. Very much disappointed, he was just going to turn away, when he saw the kettle stop close to the little brick house, and in a moment later Blacky jumped out of it and escaped with the kettle into the house, when he barred and bolted the door, and put the shutter up over the window.
The next day, Blacky had to head into the nearby town to do some shopping and buy a big kettle. As he was walking home with it slung over his shoulder, he heard footsteps quietly creeping up behind him. For a moment, his heart stopped in fear, and then a clever idea struck him. He had just reached the top of a hill and could see his little house nestled at the bottom among the trees. In an instant, he quickly removed the lid from the kettle and jumped inside. Curling up, he lay snug in the bottom of the kettle while managing to put the lid on with his front leg, completely hiding himself. With a little push from the inside, he set the kettle rolling down the hill; and when the fox arrived, all he saw was a large black kettle spinning across the ground at full speed. Quite disappointed, the fox was about to turn away when he noticed the kettle stop right next to the little brick house. A moment later, Blacky jumped out of the kettle and quickly rushed into the house, where he barred and bolted the door and shut the window.
‘Oho!’ exclaimed the fox to himself, ‘you think you will escape me that way, do you? We shall soon see about that, my friend,’ and very quietly and stealthily he prowled round the house looking for some way to climb on to the roof.
‘Oh!’ the fox said to himself, ‘you think you can get away from me like that, huh? We’ll see about that, my friend,’ and very quietly and stealthily, he prowled around the house looking for a way to climb onto the roof.
In the meantime Blacky had filled the kettle with water, and having put it on the fire, sat down quietly waiting for it to boil. Just as the kettle was beginning to sing, and steam to come out of the spout, he heard a sound like a soft, muffled step, patter, patter, patter overhead, and the next moment the fox’s head and fore-paws were seen coming down the chimney. But Blacky very wisely had not put the lid on the kettle, and, with a yelp of pain, the fox fell into the boiling water, and before he could escape, Blacky had popped the lid on, and the fox was scalded to death.
In the meantime, Blacky had filled the kettle with water, and after putting it on the fire, he sat down quietly, waiting for it to boil. Just as the kettle was starting to whistle and steam was coming out of the spout, he heard a sound like a soft, muffled step—patter, patter, patter—overhead. The next moment, the fox’s head and front paws came down the chimney. But Blacky, being very clever, hadn’t put the lid on the kettle, and with a yelp of pain, the fox fell into the boiling water. Before he could escape, Blacky quickly put the lid on, and the fox was scalded to death.
As soon as he was sure that their wicked enemy was really dead, and could do them no further harm, Blacky started off to rescue Browny and Whitey. As he approached the den he heard piteous grunts and squeals from his poor little brother and sister who lived in constant terror of the fox killing and eating them. But when they saw Blacky appear at the entrance to the den their joy knew no bounds. He quickly found a sharp stone and cut the cords by which they were tied to a stake in the ground, and then all three started off together for Blacky’s house, where they lived happily ever after; and Browny quite gave up rolling in the mud, and Whitey ceased to be greedy, for they never forgot how nearly these faults had brought them to an untimely end.
As soon as he was sure their wicked enemy was really dead and could do them no more harm, Blacky set off to rescue Browny and Whitey. As he approached the den, he heard pitiful grunts and squeals from his poor little brother and sister, who lived in constant fear of the fox killing and eating them. But when they saw Blacky appear at the entrance to the den, their joy was overwhelming. He quickly found a sharp stone and cut the cords that tied them to a stake in the ground, and then all three headed back to Blacky’s house, where they lived happily ever after. Browny completely stopped rolling in the mud, and Whitey stopped being greedy, as they never forgot how close these flaws had come to bringing them to an untimely end.
HEART OF ICE
Once upon a time there lived a King and Queen who were foolish beyond all telling, but nevertheless they were vastly fond of one another. It is true that certain spiteful people were heard to say that this was only one proof the more of their exceeding foolishness, but of course you will understand that these were not their own courtiers, since, after all, they were a King and Queen, and up to this time all things had prospered with them. For in those days the one thing to be thought of in governing a kingdom was to keep well with all the Fairies and Enchanters, and on no account to stint them of the cakes, the ells of ribbon, and similar trifles which were their due, and, above all things, when there was a christening, to remember to invite every single one, good, bad, or indifferent, to the ceremony. Now, the foolish Queen had one little son who was just going to be christened, and for several months she had been hard at work preparing an enormous list of the names of those who were to be invited, but she quite forgot that it would take nearly as long to read it over as it had taken to write it out. So, when the moment of the christening arrived the King—to whom the task had been entrusted—had barely reached the end of the second page and his tongue was tripping with fatigue and haste as he repeated the usual formula: ‘I conjure and pray you, Fairy so-and-so’—or ‘Enchanter such-a-one’—‘to honour me with a visit, and graciously bestow your gifts upon my son.’
Once upon a time, there was a King and Queen who were incredibly foolish, but they still loved each other a lot. Some spiteful people said this was just another example of their extreme foolishness, but you should know that these people weren't their own courtiers since they were the King and Queen, and until that point, everything had gone well for them. Back in those days, the most important thing in running a kingdom was to stay on good terms with all the Fairies and Enchanters, and never skimp on the cakes, yards of ribbon, and other little things they deserved. Above all, whenever there was a christening, you had to invite every single one, whether they were good, bad, or neutral, to the ceremony. Now, the foolish Queen had a little son who was about to be baptized, and for months she had been busy preparing a huge list of guests to invite. However, she completely forgot that it would take almost as long to read it as it did to write it. So, when the big day arrived, the King—who had been given the task—barely made it through the second page, and his tongue was stumbling with exhaustion and urgency as he repeated the usual words: ‘I conjure and pray you, Fairy so-and-so’—or ‘Enchanter such-and-such’—‘to honor me with a visit, and graciously bestow your gifts upon my son.’
To make matters worse, word was brought to him that the Fairies asked on the first page had already arrived and were waiting impatiently in the Great Hall, and grumbling that nobody was there to receive them. Thereupon he gave up the list in despair and hurried to greet those whom he had succeeded in asking, imploring their goodwill so humbly that most of them were touched, and promised that they would do his son no harm. But there happened to be among them a Fairy from a far country about whom they knew nothing, though her name had been written on the first page of the list. This Fairy was annoyed that after having taken the trouble to come so quickly, there had been no one to receive her, or help her to alight from the great ostrich on which she had travelled from her distant home, and now she began to mutter to herself in the most alarming way.
To make things worse, he was informed that the Fairies mentioned on the first page had already arrived and were waiting impatiently in the Great Hall, complaining that no one was there to greet them. He then gave up the list in frustration and rushed to welcome those he had invited, begging for their goodwill so earnestly that most of them were moved and promised not to hurt his son. However, among them was a Fairy from a distant land that they knew nothing about, even though her name was on the first page of the list. This Fairy was upset that after taking the trouble to arrive so quickly, no one was there to receive her or help her get off the large ostrich she had traveled on from her faraway home, and now she started to grumble to herself in a very alarming way.
‘Oh! prate away,’ said she, ‘your son will never be anything to boast of. Say what you will, he will be nothing but a Mannikin—’
‘Oh! go ahead and talk,’ she said, ‘your son will never be anything to brag about. No matter what you say, he’ll just be a little figure—’
No doubt she would have gone on longer in this strain, and given the unhappy little Prince half-a-dozen undesirable gifts, if it had not been for the good Fairy Genesta, who held the kingdom under her special protection, and who luckily hurried in just in time to prevent further mischief. When she had by compliments and entreaties pacified the unknown Fairy, and persuaded her to say no more, she gave the King a hint that now was the time to distribute the presents, after which ceremony they all took their departure, excepting the Fairy Genesta, who then went to see the Queen, and said to her:
No doubt she would have continued longer in this way and given the unhappy little Prince several unwanted gifts if it hadn't been for the good Fairy Genesta, who had the kingdom under her special protection and luckily rushed in just in time to prevent any more trouble. After calming the unknown Fairy with compliments and pleas and convincing her to stop, she hinted to the King that it was time to give out the gifts. After that, everyone left except for Fairy Genesta, who then went to visit the Queen and said to her:
‘A nice mass you seem to have made of this business, madam. Why did you not condescend to consult me? But foolish people like you always think they can do without help or advice, and I observe that, in spite of all my goodness to you, you had not even the civility to invite me!’
‘You really messed this up, ma'am. Why didn’t you bother to ask for my opinion? But foolish people like you always think you can manage without any help or advice, and I notice that, despite all my kindness to you, you didn’t even have the courtesy to invite me!’
‘Ah! dear madam,’ cried the King, throwing himself at her feet; ‘did I ever have time to get as far as your name? See where I put in this mark when I abandoned the hopeless undertaking which I had but just begun!’
‘Ah! dear madam,’ cried the King, throwing himself at her feet; ‘did I ever have a chance to get to your name? Look where I marked it when I gave up the hopeless task that I had only just started!’
‘There! there!’ said the Fairy, ‘I am not offended. I don’t allow myself to be put out by trifles like that with people I really am fond of. But now about your son: I have saved him from a great many disagreeable things, but you must let me take him away and take care of him, and you will not see him again until he is all covered with fur!’
‘There! there!’ said the Fairy, ‘I’m not upset. I don’t let little things get to me with people I truly care about. But now about your son: I’ve protected him from a lot of unpleasant things, but you need to let me take him away and look after him, and you won’t see him again until he’s all covered in fur!’
At these mysterious words the King and Queen burst into tears, for they lived in such a hot climate themselves that how or why the Prince should come to be covered with fur they could not imagine, and thought it must portend some great misfortune to him.
At these mysterious words, the King and Queen broke down in tears, because they lived in such a hot climate themselves that they couldn’t fathom how or why the Prince was covered in fur, and they feared it must mean some terrible misfortune for him.
However, Genesta told them not to disquiet themselves.
However, Genesta told them not to worry.
‘If I left him to you to bring up,’ said she, ‘you would be certain to make him as foolish as yourselves. I do not even intend to let him know that he is your son. As for you, you had better give your minds to governing your kingdom properly.’ So saying, she opened the window, and catching up the little Prince, cradle and all, she glided away in the air as if she were skating upon ice, leaving the King and Queen in the greatest affliction. They consulted everyone who came near them as to what the Fairy could possibly have meant by saying that when they saw their son again he would be covered with fur. But nobody could offer any solution of the mystery, only they all seemed to agree that it must be something frightful, and the King and Queen made themselves more miserable than ever, and wandered about their palace in a way to make anyone pity them. Meantime the Fairy had carried off the little Prince to her own castle, and placed him under the care of a young peasant woman, whom she bewitched so as to make her think that this new baby was one of her own children. So the Prince grew up healthy and strong, leading the simple life of a young peasant, for the Fairy thought that he could have no better training; only as he grew older she kept him more and more with herself, that his mind might be cultivated and exercised as well as his body. But her care did not cease there: she resolved that he should be tried by hardships and disappointments and the knowledge of his fellowmen; for indeed she knew the Prince would need every advantage that she could give him, since, though he increased in years, he did not increase in height, but remained the tiniest of Princes. However, in spite of this he was exceedingly active and well formed, and altogether so handsome and agreeable that the smallness of his stature was of no real consequence. The Prince was perfectly aware that he was called by the ridiculous name of ‘Mannikin,’ but he consoled himself by vowing that, happen what might, he would make it illustrious.
‘If I left him for you to raise,’ she said, ‘you’d just end up making him as foolish as you are. I won’t even let him know he’s your son. As for you, it’s best if you focus on properly ruling your kingdom.’ With that, she opened the window, swooped up the little Prince, cradle and all, and glided away in the air as if she were skating on ice, leaving the King and Queen in deep distress. They asked everyone who came near what the Fairy could have meant by saying that when they saw their son again, he would be covered in fur. But nobody could figure out the mystery; all they agreed on was that it must be something terrible, and the King and Queen became even more miserable, wandering around their palace in a way that would make anyone feel sorry for them. Meanwhile, the Fairy took the little Prince to her castle and left him in the care of a young peasant woman, whom she enchanted to believe that this baby was one of her own kids. So, the Prince grew up healthy and strong, living the simple life of a young peasant because the Fairy thought that was the best way to train him; however, as he got older, she kept him closer to herself so that he could develop his mind as well as his body. But her care didn’t stop there: she decided he should face challenges, disappointments, and learn about his fellow humans; she understood that the Prince would need every advantage she could provide since, even as he aged, he didn’t grow taller and remained the tiniest of Princes. Nevertheless, he was still incredibly active and well-proportioned, handsome, and charming, so his small size didn’t really matter. The Prince was fully aware that he was called the silly name ‘Mannikin,’ but he reassured himself that no matter what, he would make it famous.
In order to carry out her plans for his welfare the Fairy now began to send Prince Mannikin the most wonderful dreams of adventure by sea and land, and of these adventures he himself was always the hero. Sometimes he rescued a lovely Princess from some terrible danger, again he earned a kingdom by some brave deed, until at last he longed to go away and seek his fortune in a far country where his humble birth would not prevent his gaining honour and riches by his courage, and it was with a heart full of ambitious projects that he rode one day into a great city not far from the Fairy’s castle. As he had set out intending to hunt in the surrounding forest he was quite simply dressed, and carried only a bow and arrows and a light spear; but even thus arrayed he looked graceful and distinguished. As he entered the city he saw that the inhabitants were all racing with one accord towards the market-place, and he also turned his horse in the same direction, curious to know what was going forward. When he reached the spot he found that certain foreigners of strange and outlandish appearance were about to make a proclamation to the assembled citizens, and he hastily pushed his way into the crowd until he was near enough to hear the words of the venerable old man who was their spokesman:
To put her plans for his well-being into action, the Fairy started sending Prince Mannikin incredible dreams of adventures at sea and on land, where he was always the hero. Sometimes he rescued a beautiful princess from grave danger, and other times he earned a kingdom through brave acts. Eventually, he yearned to leave and seek his fortune in a distant land where his humble origins wouldn't stop him from gaining honor and riches through his bravery. With his heart brimming with ambitious plans, he rode one day into a large city not far from the Fairy’s castle. Since he had left intending to hunt in the nearby forest, he was dressed simply and carried only a bow, arrows, and a light spear; yet even so, he appeared graceful and distinguished. As he entered the city, he noticed all the residents rushing together toward the market square, and he directed his horse that way, curious to find out what was happening. Upon arrival, he discovered that some foreigners with unusual and exotic looks were about to make an announcement to the gathered citizens, and he quickly wove through the crowd until he was close enough to hear the words of the elderly man who was speaking for them:
‘Let the whole world know that he who can reach the summit of the Ice Mountain shall receive as his reward, not only the incomparable Sabella, fairest of the fair, but also all the realms of which she is Queen!’ ‘Here,’ continued the old man after he had made this proclamation—‘here is the list of all those Princes who, struck by the beauty of the Princess, have perished in the attempt to win her; and here is the list of these who have just entered upon the high emprise.’
‘Let everyone know that whoever can reach the top of the Ice Mountain will be rewarded not only with the unmatched Sabella, the fairest of them all, but also with all the lands over which she rules!’ ‘Here,’ the old man continued after making this announcement—‘here is the list of all the Princes who, captivated by the beauty of the Princess, have died trying to win her; and here is the list of those who have just embarked on this noble quest.’
Prince Mannikin was seized with a violent desire to inscribe his name among the others, but the remembrance of his dependent position and his lack of wealth held him back. But while he hesitated the old man, with many respectful ceremonies, unveiled a portrait of the lovely Sabella, which was carried by some of the attendants, and after one glance at it the Prince delayed no longer, but, rushing forward, demanded permission to add his name to the list. When they saw his tiny stature anti simple attire the strangers looked at each other doubtfully, not knowing whether to accept or refuse him. But the Prince said haughtily:
Prince Mannikin was overcome by a strong urge to add his name to the others, but the memory of his dependent status and lack of wealth held him back. However, while he hesitated, the old man, with many respectful gestures, revealed a portrait of the beautiful Sabella, carried by some attendants. After one glance at it, the Prince no longer hesitated; he rushed forward and asked for permission to add his name to the list. When the strangers saw his small stature and simple clothing, they exchanged uncertain looks, unsure whether to accept or reject him. But the Prince said with pride:
‘Give me the paper that I may sign it,’ and they obeyed. What between admiration for the Princess and annoyance at the hesitation shown by her ambassadors the Prince was too much agitated to choose any other name than the one by which he was always known. But when, after all the grand titles of the other Princes, he simply wrote ‘Mannikin,’ the ambassadors broke into shouts of laughter.
‘Give me the paper so I can sign it,’ and they complied. Caught between admiration for the Princess and frustration at the delay from her ambassadors, the Prince was too flustered to write anything other than the name he was always called. But when, after all the grand titles of the other Princes, he just wrote ‘Mannikin,’ the ambassadors burst into laughter.
‘Miserable wretches!’ cried the Prince; ‘but for the presence of that lovely portrait I would cut off your heads.’
‘Miserable wretches!’ shouted the Prince; ‘if it weren't for that beautiful portrait, I would chop off your heads.’
But he suddenly remembered that, after all, it was a funny name, and that he had not yet had time to make it famous; so he was calm, and enquired the way to the Princess Sabella’s country.
But he suddenly remembered that, after all, it was a funny name, and that he had not yet had time to make it famous; so he felt calm and asked for directions to Princess Sabella’s kingdom.
Though his heart did not fail him in the least, still he felt there were many difficulties before him, and he resolved to set out at once, without even taking leave of the Fairy, for fear she might try to stop him. Everybody in the town who knew him made great fun of the idea of Mannikin’s undertaking such an expedition, and it even came to the ears of the foolish King and Queen, who laughed over it more than any of the others, without having an idea that the presumptuous Mannikin was their only son!
Though he felt confident, he recognized there were many challenges ahead, and he decided to leave immediately, not even saying goodbye to the Fairy for fear she might try to stop him. Everyone in town who knew him mocked the idea of Mannikin embarking on such a journey, and even the foolish King and Queen heard about it and laughed more than anyone else, completely unaware that the arrogant Mannikin was their only son!
Meantime the Prince was travelling on, though the direction he had received for his journey were none of the clearest.
Meantime, the Prince was traveling on, even though the directions he had for his journey were not very clear.
‘Four hundred leagues north of Mount Caucasus you will receive your orders and instructions for the conquest of the Ice Mountain.’
‘Four hundred leagues north of Mount Caucasus, you will get your orders and instructions for the conquest of the Ice Mountain.’
Fine marching orders, those, for a man starting from a country near where Japan is nowadays!
Fine marching orders, those, for a guy starting out from a country close to where Japan is today!
However, he fared eastward, avoiding all towns, lest the people should laugh at his name, for, you see, he was not a very experienced traveller, and had not yet learned to enjoy a joke even if it were against himself. At night he slept in the woods, and at first he lived upon wild fruits; but the Fairy, who was keeping a benevolent eye upon him, thought that it would never do to let him be half-starved in that way, so she took to feeding him with all sorts of good things while he was asleep, and the Prince wondered very much that when he was awake he never felt hungry! True to her plan the Fairy sent him various adventures to prove his courage, and he came successfully through them all, only in his last fight with a furious monster rather like a tiger he had the ill luck to lose his horse. However, nothing daunted, he struggled on on foot, and at last reached a seaport. Here he found a boat sailing for the coast which he desired to reach, and, having just enough money to pay his passage, he went on board and they started. But after some days a fearful storm came on, which completely wrecked the little ship, and the Prince only saved his life by swimming a long, long way to the only land that was in sight, and which proved to be a desert island. Here he lived by fishing and hunting, always hoping that the good Fairy would presently rescue him. One day, as he was looking sadly out to sea, he became aware of a curious looking boat which was drifting slowly towards the shore, and which presently ran into a little creek and there stuck fast in the sand. Prince Mannikin rushed down eagerly to examine it, and saw with amazement that the masts and spars were all branched, and covered thickly with leaves until it looked like a little wood. Thinking from the stillness that there could be no one on board, the Prince pushed aside the branches and sprang over the side, and found himself surrounded by the crew, who lay motionless as dead men and in a most deplorable condition. They, too, had become almost like trees, and were growing to the deck, or to the masts, or to the sides of the vessel, or to whatever they had happened to be touching when the enchantment fell upon them. Mannikin was struck with pity for their miserable plight, and set to work with might and main to release them. With the sharp point of one of his arrows he gently detached their hands and feet from the wood which held them fast, and carried them on shore, one after another, where he rubbed their rigid limbs, and bathed them with infusions of various herbs with such success, that, after a few days, they recovered perfectly and were as fit to manage a boat as ever. You may be sure that the good Fairy Genesta had something to do with this marvellous cure, and she also put it into the Prince’s head to rub the boat itself with the same magic herbs, which cleared it entirely, and not before it was time, for, at the rate at which it was growing before, it would very soon have become a forest! The gratitude of the sailors was extreme, and they willingly promised to land the Prince upon any coast he pleased; but, when he questioned them about the extraordinary thing that had happened to them and to their ship, they could in no way explain it, except that they said that, as they were passing along a thickly wooded coast, a sudden gust of wind had reached them from the land and enveloped them in a dense cloud of dust, after which everything in the boat that was not metal had sprouted and blossomed, as the Prince had seen, and that they themselves had grown gradually numb and heavy, and had finally lost all consciousness. Prince Mannikin was deeply interested in this curious story, and collected a quantity of the dust from the bottom of the boat, which he carefully preserved, thinking that its strange property might one day stand him in good stead.
However, he traveled eastward, avoiding all towns, so that people wouldn’t laugh at his name, because he wasn’t a very experienced traveler yet and hadn’t learned to appreciate a joke, even if it was at his own expense. At night, he slept in the woods, and at first, he survived on wild fruits; but the Fairy, who was keeping a watchful eye on him, thought it wouldn’t be right to let him go hungry like that, so she began to feed him all sorts of good things while he slept, and the Prince was puzzled that he never felt hungry when he woke up! True to her plan, the Fairy sent him various adventures to test his courage, and he overcame them all successfully, though in his last battle with a fierce monster that resembled a tiger, he unfortunately lost his horse. Nevertheless, undeterred, he pressed on foot and eventually reached a seaport. There, he found a boat sailing to the coast he wanted to reach, and having just enough money for his fare, he boarded and they set off. But after a few days, a terrible storm hit, completely wrecking the small ship. The Prince escaped by swimming a long way to the only land in sight, which turned out to be a deserted island. There, he lived by fishing and hunting, always hoping that the good Fairy would rescue him soon. One day, while looking sadly out to sea, he noticed a peculiar boat slowly drifting toward the shore, which eventually ran aground in a little creek and got stuck in the sand. Prince Mannikin hurried down to check it out and was amazed to see that the masts and spars were all branched and densely covered with leaves, making it look like a small forest. Assuming there was no one on board due to the stillness, the Prince pushed aside the branches and jumped over the side, only to find himself surrounded by the crew, who lay motionless like dead men and in very bad shape. They had also become almost tree-like, growing into the deck, masts, or sides of the ship, depending on what they had been touching when the enchantment took hold. Mannikin felt deep sympathy for their terrible situation and worked hard to free them. Using the sharp tip of one of his arrows, he carefully detached their hands and feet from the wood that held them captive and carried them ashore, one by one. There, he rubbed their stiff limbs and bathed them with infusions of various herbs, to such good effect that, after a few days, they fully recovered and were capable of handling a boat again. You can be sure that the good Fairy Genesta had a hand in this miraculous recovery, and she also inspired the Prince to rub the boat itself with the same magical herbs, which completely cleared it, just in time, because at the rate it had been growing, it would soon have turned into a forest! The sailors were extremely grateful and readily promised to drop the Prince off on any coast he wanted; however, when he asked them about the strange event that had happened to them and their ship, they couldn’t explain it at all, except to say that while navigating a heavily wooded coast, a sudden gust of wind came from the land and surrounded them in a thick cloud of dust, after which everything in the boat that wasn’t metal sprouted and blossomed, as the Prince had observed, and they themselves gradually became numb and heavy, eventually losing all consciousness. Prince Mannikin was very intrigued by this unusual tale and collected a good amount of the dust from the bottom of the boat, which he carefully saved, thinking that its strange properties might come in handy one day.
Then they joyfully left the desert island, and after a long and prosperous voyage over calm seas they at length came in sight of land, and resolved to go on shore, not only to take in a fresh stock of water and provisions, but also to find out, if possible, where they were and in what direction to proceed.
Then they happily left the deserted island, and after a long and successful journey over smooth waters, they finally spotted land. They decided to go ashore, not only to replenish their fresh water and supplies but also to figure out where they were and which direction to go next.
As they neared the coast they wondered if this could be another uninhabited land, for no human beings could be distinguished, and yet that something was stirring became evident, for in the dust-clouds that moved near the ground small dark forms were dimly visible. These appeared to be assembling at the exact spot where they were preparing to run ashore, and what was their surprise to find they were nothing more nor less than large and beautiful spaniels, some mounted as sentries, others grouped in companies and regiments, all eagerly watching their disembarkation. When they found that Prince Mannikin, instead of saying, ‘Shoot them,’ as they had feared, said ‘Hi, good dog!’ in a thoroughly friendly and ingratiating way, they crowded round him with a great wagging of tails and giving of paws, and very soon made him understand that they wanted him to leave his men with the boat and follow them. The Prince was so curious to know more about them that he agreed willingly; so, after arranging with the sailors to wait for him fifteen days, and then, if he had not come back, to go on their way without him, he set out with his new friends. Their way lay inland, and Mannikin noticed with great surprise that the fields were well cultivated and that the carts and ploughs were drawn by horses or oxen, just as they might have been in any other country, and when they passed any village the cottages were trim and pretty, and an air of prosperity was everywhere. At one of the villages a dainty little repast was set before the Prince, and while he was eating, a chariot was brought, drawn by two splendid horses, which were driven with great skill by a large spaniel. In this carriage he continued his journey very comfortably, passing many similar equipages upon the road, and being always most courteously saluted by the spaniels who occupied them. At last they drove rapidly into a large town, which Prince Mannikin had no doubt was the capital of the kingdom. News of his approach had evidently been received, for all the inhabitants were at their doors and windows, and all the little spaniels had climbed upon the wall and gates to see him arrive. The Prince was delighted with the hearty welcome they gave him, and looked round him with the deepest interest. After passing through a few wide streets, well paved, and adorned with avenues of fine trees, they drove into the courtyard of a grand palace, which was full of spaniels who were evidently soldiers. ‘The King’s body-guard,’ thought the Prince to himself as he returned their salutations, and then the carriage stopped, and he was shown into the presence of the King, who lay upon a rich Persian carpet surrounded by several little spaniels, who were occupied in chasing away the flies lest they should disturb his Majesty. He was the most beautiful of all spaniels, with a look of sadness in his large eyes, which, however, quite disappeared as he sprang up to welcome Prince Mannikin with every demonstration of delight; after which he made a sign to his courtiers, who came one by one to pay their respects to the visitor. The Prince thought that he would find himself puzzled as to how he should carry on a conversation, but as soon as he and the King were once more left alone, a Secretary of State was sent for, who wrote from his Majesty’s dictation a most polite speech, in which he regretted much that they were unable to converse, except in writing, the language of dogs being difficult to understand. As for the writing, it had remained the same as the Prince’s own.
As they got closer to the coast, they wondered if this might be another uninhabited land, since no human figures were visible. Yet, it was clear something was stirring because small dark shapes could be faintly seen in the dust clouds moving close to the ground. These shapes seemed to be gathering precisely where they were about to land. To their surprise, they discovered that these were nothing more than large, beautiful spaniels—some standing as sentries, others forming groups and ranks—all eagerly watching as they disembarked. When Prince Mannikin, instead of saying, “Shoot them,” as they had feared, said “Hi, good dog!” in a friendly manner, the spaniels rushed around him, wagging their tails and offering their paws. They quickly let him know they wanted him to leave his men with the boat and follow them. Curious to learn more about them, the Prince willingly agreed. After arranging with the sailors to wait for him for fifteen days, and if he hadn’t returned by then, to continue without him, he set off with his new friends. Their path led inland, and Mannikin was astonished to see the fields well-cultivated, with carts and plows pulled by horses or oxen, just like in any other country. When they passed villages, the cottages were neat and charming, and there was a sense of prosperity everywhere. In one village, a delightful little meal was served to the Prince, and while he ate, a chariot drawn by two magnificent horses arrived, skillfully driven by a large spaniel. He continued his journey comfortably in this carriage, passing many similar ones along the road, and was always courteously greeted by the spaniels inside. Eventually, they sped into a large town, which Mannikin quickly suspected was the capital of the kingdom. Clearly, news of his arrival had reached everyone, for all the townspeople were at their doors and windows, and little spaniels had climbed onto walls and gates to see him arrive. The Prince was thrilled by their warm welcome and looked around with great interest. After traveling through a few broad, well-paved streets lined with beautiful trees, they arrived at the courtyard of a magnificent palace filled with spaniels who were clearly soldiers. “The King’s bodyguard,” the Prince thought to himself as he returned their salutes, and then the carriage stopped, and he was shown into the presence of the King, who lay on an ornate Persian carpet surrounded by several little spaniels that were busy swatting flies away to avoid disturbing his Majesty. The King was the most beautiful spaniel of all, his large eyes carrying a look of sadness that disappeared as he jumped up to greet Prince Mannikin, showing great joy. He then signaled to his courtiers, who approached one by one to pay their respects to the visitor. The Prince worried he might be at a loss for words, but as soon as he and the King were alone again, a Secretary of State was summoned and wrote down a very polite speech dictated by his Majesty. In it, the King expressed regret that they could only communicate in writing, mentioning that the language of dogs was hard to understand. As for the writing, it was the same as the Prince's own.
Mannikin thereupon wrote a suitable reply, and then begged the King to satisfy his curiosity about all the strange things he had seen and heard since his landing. This appeared to awaken sad recollections in the King’s mind, but he informed the Prince that he was called King Bayard, and that a Fairy, whose kingdom was next his own, had fallen violently in love with him, and had done all she could to persuade him to marry her; but that he could not do so as he himself was the devoted lover of the Queen of the Spice Islands. Finally, the Fairy, furious at the indifference with which her love was treated, had reduced him to the state in which the Prince found him, leaving him unchanged in mind, but deprived of the power of speech; and, not content with wreaking her vengeance upon the King alone, she had condemned all his subjects to a similar fate, saying:
Mannikin then wrote an appropriate response and asked the King to satisfy his curiosity about all the strange things he had seen and heard since arriving. This seemed to evoke sad memories for the King, but he told the Prince that he was King Bayard. He explained that a Fairy, whose kingdom bordered his own, had fallen deeply in love with him and had tried everything to persuade him to marry her. However, he couldn’t do that because he was in love with the Queen of the Spice Islands. In the end, the Fairy, furious at being ignored, had turned him into the state the Prince found him in, leaving his mind unchanged but taking away his ability to speak. And, as if that wasn't enough punishment for the King alone, she had also cursed all his subjects to the same fate, saying:
‘Bark, and run upon four feet, until the time comes when virtue shall be rewarded by love and fortune.’
‘Bark, and run on four legs, until the time comes when goodness will be rewarded with love and luck.’
Which, as the poor King remarked, was very much the same thing as if she had said, ‘Remain a spaniel for ever and ever.’
Which, as the poor King noted, was pretty much the same as if she had said, ‘Stay a spaniel forever and ever.’
Prince Mannikin was quite of the same opinion; nevertheless he said what we should all have said in the same circumstances:
Prince Mannikin felt the same way; however, he said what we would all have said in the same situation:
‘Your Majesty must have patience.’
'Your Majesty needs to be patient.'
He was indeed deeply sorry for poor King Bayard, and said all the consoling things he could think of, promising to aid him with all his might if there was anything to be done. In short they became firm friends, and the King proudly displayed to Mannikin the portrait of the Queen of the Spice Islands, and he quite agreed that it was worth while to go through anything for the sake of a creature so lovely. Prince Mannikin in his turn told his own history, and the great undertaking upon which he had set out, and King Bayard was able to give him some valuable instructions as to which would be the best way for him to proceed, and then they went together to the place where the boat had been left. The sailors were delighted to see the Prince again, though they had known that he was safe, and when they had taken on board all the supplies which the King had sent for them, they started once more. The King and Prince parted with much regret, and the former insisted that Mannikin should take with him one of his own pages, named Mousta, who was charged to attend to him everywhere, and serve him faithfully, which he promised to do.
He felt truly sorry for King Bayard and said all the comforting things he could think of, promising to help him with everything he could do. In short, they became close friends, and the King proudly showed Mannikin the portrait of the Queen of the Spice Islands, and he completely agreed that it was worth going through anything for someone so beautiful. Prince Mannikin then shared his own story and the big mission he had set out on, and King Bayard was able to give him useful advice on the best way to move forward. They then went together to where the boat was left. The sailors were thrilled to see the Prince again, even though they already knew he was safe, and after loading all the supplies that the King had sent for them, they set off again. The King and Prince parted with a lot of sadness, and the King insisted that Mannikin take one of his personal attendants, named Mousta, who was assigned to follow him everywhere and serve him loyally, which he promised to do.
The wind being favourable they were soon out of hearing of the general howl of regret from the whole army, which had been given by order of the King, as a great compliment, and it was not long before the land was entirely lost to view. They met with no further adventures worth speaking of, and presently found themselves within two leagues of the harbour for which they were making. The Prince, however, thought it would suit him better to land where he was, so as to avoid the town, since he had no money left and was very doubtful as to what he should do next. So the sailors set him and Mousta on shore, and then went back sorrowfully to their ship, while the Prince and his attendant walked off in what looked to them the most promising direction. They soon reached a lovely green meadow on the border of a wood, which seemed to them so pleasant after their long voyage that they sat down to rest in the shade and amused themselves by watching the gambols and antics of a pretty tiny monkey in the trees close by. The Prince presently became so fascinated by it that he sprang up and tried to catch it, but it eluded his grasp and kept just out of arm’s reach, until it had made him promise to follow wherever it led him, and then it sprang upon his shoulder and whispered in his ear:
With the wind in their favor, they quickly distanced themselves from the collective wail of regret from the entire army, which had been given by the King's command as an honor. Before long, the land was completely out of sight. They encountered no noteworthy adventures and soon found themselves just two leagues from the harbor they were heading to. However, the Prince decided it would be better for him to disembark where he was to avoid the town, since he had no money left and was unsure about what to do next. The sailors dropped him and Mousta off at shore and sadly returned to their ship, while the Prince and his attendant set off in what they thought was the most promising direction. They soon arrived at a beautiful green meadow at the edge of a forest, which seemed so refreshing after their long journey that they sat down in the shade to rest and entertained themselves by watching a little monkey playing in the nearby trees. The Prince became so captivated by it that he jumped up to try to catch it, but the monkey cleverly evaded his grasp, staying just out of reach, until it made him promise to follow it wherever it went. Then it leaped onto his shoulder and whispered in his ear:
‘We have no money, my poor Mannikin, and we are altogether badly off, and at a loss to know what to do next.’
‘We have no money, my poor Mannikin, and we are really struggling, not sure what to do next.’
‘Yes, indeed,’ answered the Prince ruefully, ‘and I have nothing to give you, no sugar or biscuits, or anything that you like, my pretty one.’
‘Yes, definitely,’ the Prince replied sadly, ‘and I have nothing to offer you, no sugar or cookies, or anything else you enjoy, my lovely one.’
‘Since you are so thoughtful for me, and so patient about your own affairs,’ said the little monkey, ‘I will show you the way to the Golden Rock, only you must leave Mousta to wait for you here.’
‘Since you care about me so much and are so patient with your own issues,’ said the little monkey, ‘I’ll show you the way to the Golden Rock, but you have to leave Mousta to wait for you here.’
Prince Mannikin agreed willingly, and then the little monkey sprang from his shoulder to the nearest tree, and began to run through the wood from branch to branch, crying, ‘Follow me.’
Prince Mannikin agreed without hesitation, and then the little monkey jumped off his shoulder to the nearest tree and started running through the woods from branch to branch, shouting, ‘Follow me.’
This the Prince did not find quite so easy, but the little monkey waited for him and showed him the easiest places, until presently the wood grew thinner and they came out into a little clear grassy space at the foot of a mountain, in the midst of which stood a single rock, about ten feet high. When they were quite close to it the little monkey said:
This was not as easy for the Prince, but the little monkey waited for him and pointed out the easiest paths until the trees became less dense and they emerged into a small grassy clearing at the base of a mountain, where a single rock stood about ten feet high. When they got close to it, the little monkey said:
‘This stone looks pretty hard, but give it a blow with your spear and let us see what will happen.’
‘This rock seems pretty tough, but take a swing at it with your spear and let’s see what happens.’
So the Prince took his spear and gave the rock a vigorous dig, which split off several pieces, and showed that, though the surface was thinly coated with stone, inside it was one solid mass of pure gold.
So the Prince took his spear and gave the rock a strong poke, which broke off several pieces and revealed that, although the surface was lightly covered with stone, inside it was one solid chunk of pure gold.
Thereupon the little monkey said, laughing at his astonishment:
Thereupon, the little monkey said, laughing at his surprise:
‘I make you a present of what you have broken off; take as much of it as you think proper.’
‘I give you as a gift what you have broken; take as much of it as you think is right.’
The Prince thanked her gratefully, and picked up one of the smallest of the lumps of gold; as he did so the little monkey was suddenly transformed into a tall and gracious lady, who said to him:
The Prince thanked her sincerely and picked up one of the smallest lumps of gold; as he did, the little monkey instantly turned into a tall and elegant lady, who said to him:
‘If you are always as kind and persevering and easily contented as you are now you may hope to accomplish the most difficult tasks; go on your way and have no fear that you will be troubled any more for lack of gold, for that little piece which you modestly chose shall never grow less, use it as much as you will. But that you may see the danger you have escaped by your moderation, come with me.’ So saying she led him back into the wood by a different path, and he saw that it was full of men and women; their faces were pale and haggard, and they ran hither and thither seeking madly upon the ground, or in the air, starting at every sound, pushing and trampling upon one another in their frantic eagerness to find the way to the Golden Rock.
‘If you always stay as kind, determined, and easily satisfied as you are now, you can expect to achieve even the toughest challenges. Keep going and don’t worry about running out of gold, because that little piece you humbly chose will never diminish; use it as much as you want. But to show you the danger you avoided by being moderate, come with me.’ With that, she led him back into the woods by a different path, where he saw it was filled with men and women; their faces were pale and worn out, and they were frantically searching the ground or looking up at the sky, startled by every noise, pushing and stepping on each other in their desperate quest to find the way to the Golden Rock.
‘You see how they toil,’ said the Fairy; ‘but it is all of no avail: they will end by dying of despair, as hundreds have done before them.’
‘You see how hard they work,’ said the Fairy; ‘but it’s all for nothing: they will ultimately die from despair, just like hundreds before them.’
As soon as they had got back to the place where they had left Mousta the Fairy disappeared, and the Prince and his faithful Squire, who had greeted him with every demonstration of joy, took the nearest way to the city. Here they stayed several days, while the Prince provided himself with horses and attendants, and made many enquiries about the Princess Sabella, and the way to her kingdom, which was still so far away that he could hear but little, and that of the vaguest description, but when he presently reached Mount Caucasus it was quite a different matter. Here they seemed to talk of nothing but the Princess Sabella, and strangers from all parts of the world were travelling towards her father’s Court.
As soon as they returned to the spot where they had left Mousta, the Fairy vanished, and the Prince along with his loyal Squire, who welcomed him with great joy, took the quickest route to the city. They stayed there for several days while the Prince arranged for horses and attendants and asked many questions about Princess Sabella and how to reach her kingdom, which was still so far away that he heard only the faintest and most unclear details. However, when he finally arrived at Mount Caucasus, it was a completely different situation. Here, it seemed everyone talked about Princess Sabella, and travelers from all over the world were making their way to her father's Court.
The Prince heard plenty of assurances as to her beauty and her riches, but he also heard of the immense number of his rivals and their power. One brought an army at his back, another had vast treasures, a third was as handsome and accomplished as it was possible to be; while, as to poor Mannikin, he had nothing but his determination to succeed, his faithful spaniel, and his ridiculous name—which last was hardly likely to help him, but as he could not alter it he wisely determined not to think of it any more. After journeying for two whole months they came at last to Trelintin, the capital of the Princess Sabella’s kingdom, and here he heard dismal stories about the Ice Mountain, and how none of those who had attempted to climb it had ever come back. He heard also the story of King Farda-Kinbras, Sabella’s father. It appeared that he, being a rich and powerful monarch, had married a lovely Princess named Birbantine, and they were as happy as the day was long—so happy that as they were out sledging one day they were foolish enough to defy fate to spoil their happiness.
The Prince heard a lot of claims about her beauty and her wealth, but he also learned about the countless rivals he faced and their power. One had an army backing him, another possessed vast riches, and a third was as handsome and talented as one could be; while poor Mannikin only had his determination to succeed, his loyal spaniel, and his silly name—which definitely wasn't going to help him, but since he couldn't change it, he decided not to think about it anymore. After traveling for two full months, they finally arrived at Trelintin, the capital of Princess Sabella’s kingdom, where he heard grim tales about the Ice Mountain and how none of those who tried to climb it had ever returned. He also learned about King Farda-Kinbras, Sabella’s father. It turned out that he, being a wealthy and powerful king, had married a beautiful Princess named Birbantine, and they were as happy as can be—so happy that one day while they were sledding, they foolishly dared fate not to ruin their happiness.
‘We shall see about that,’ grumbled an old hag who sat by the wayside blowing her fingers to keep them warm. The King thereupon was very angry, and wanted to punish the woman; but the Queen prevented him, saying:
‘We’ll see about that,’ grumbled an old woman who sat by the side of the road, blowing on her fingers to keep them warm. The King got really angry and wanted to punish her; but the Queen stopped him, saying:
‘Alas! sire, do not let us make bad worse; no doubt this is a Fairy!’
‘Oh no! Sir, let's not make things any worse; this has to be a Fairy!’
‘You are right there,’ said the old woman, and immediately she stood up, and as they gazed at her in horror she grew gigantic and terrible, her staff turned to a fiery dragon with outstretched wings, her ragged cloak to a golden mantle, and her wooden shoes to two bundles of rockets. ‘You are right there, and you will see what will come of your fine goings on, and remember the Fairy Gorgonzola!’ So saying she mounted the dragon and flew off, the rockets shooting in all directions and leaving long trails of sparks.
‘You're absolutely right,’ said the old woman, and without hesitation, she stood up. As they stared at her in shock, she grew huge and menacing, her staff transforming into a fiery dragon with spread wings, her tattered cloak into a golden robe, and her wooden shoes into two bundles of rockets. ‘You're absolutely right, and you'll witness the consequences of your fancy actions, and don't forget the Fairy Gorgonzola!’ With that, she climbed onto the dragon and took off, the rockets bursting in every direction and leaving behind bright trails of sparks.
In vain did Farda-Kinbras and Birbantine beg her to return, and endeavour by their humble apologies to pacify her; she never so much as looked at them, and was very soon out of sight, leaving them a prey to all kinds of dismal forebodings. Very soon after this the Queen had a little daughter, who was the most beautiful creature ever seen; all the Fairies of the North were invited to her christening, and warned against the malicious Gorgonzola. She also was invited, but she neither came to the banquet nor received her present; but as soon as all the others were seated at table, after bestowing their gifts upon the little Princess, she stole into the Palace, disguised as a black cat, and hid herself under the cradle until the nurses and the cradle-rockers had all turned their backs, and then she sprang out, and in an instant had stolen the little Princess’s heart and made her escape, only being chased by a few dogs and scullions on her way across the courtyard. Once outside she mounted her chariot and flew straight away to the North Pole, where she shut up her stolen treasure on the summit of the Ice Mountain, and surrounded it with so many difficulties that she felt quite easy about its remaining there as long as the Princess lived, and then she went home, chuckling at her success. As to the other Fairies, they went home after the banquet without discovering that anything was amiss, and so the King and Queen were quite happy. Sabella grew prettier day by day. She learnt everything a Princess ought to know without the slightest trouble, and yet something always seemed lacking to make her perfectly charming. She had an exquisite voice, but whether her songs were grave or gay it did not matter, she did not seem to know what they meant; and everyone who heard her said:
Farda-Kinbras and Birbantine begged her to come back, trying to soothe her with their apologies, but she didn't even glance at them and soon disappeared, leaving them filled with all kinds of gloomy thoughts. Shortly after that, the Queen had a little girl who was the most beautiful baby anyone had ever seen. All the Fairies of the North were invited to her christening and warned about the wicked Gorgonzola. She was also invited, but she neither attended the feast nor accepted her gift. Once everyone else was seated at the table and had given their gifts to the little Princess, she crept into the Palace disguised as a black cat. Hiding under the cradle until the nurses and cradle-rockers turned their backs, she jumped out and instantly stole the little Princess’s heart before slipping away, chased only by a few dogs and kitchen helpers as she crossed the courtyard. Once outside, she climbed into her chariot and flew straight to the North Pole, where she locked up her stolen prize at the top of the Ice Mountain, surrounding it with so many obstacles that she felt secure about its safety for as long as the Princess lived. Then she went home, laughing at her victory. Meanwhile, the other Fairies left the banquet without noticing anything wrong, and the King and Queen were quite content. Sabella grew more beautiful every day. She learned everything a Princess should know without any effort, yet something always seemed missing to make her truly enchanting. She had a wonderful voice, but whether her songs were serious or cheerful, it didn't seem like she understood their meaning; and everyone who heard her said:
‘She certainly sings perfectly; but there is no tenderness, no heart in her voice.’ Poor Sabella! how could there be when her heart was far away on the Ice Mountains? And it was just the same with all the other things that she did. As time went on, in spite of the admiration of the whole Court and the blind fondness of the King and Queen, it became more and more evident that something was fatally wrong: for those who love no one cannot long be loved; and at last the King called a general assembly, and invited the Fairies to attend, that they might, if possible, find out what was the matter. After explaining their grief as well as he could, he ended by begging them to see the Princess for themselves. ‘It is certain,’ said he, ‘that something is wrong—what it is I don’t know how to tell you, but in some way your work is imperfect.’
‘She definitely sings beautifully, but there’s no warmth, no soul in her voice.’ Poor Sabella! How could there be when her heart was far away on the Ice Mountains? It was the same with everything she did. As time passed, despite the admiration of the entire Court and the blind affection of the King and Queen, it became more and more clear that something was seriously wrong: for those who don’t love anyone can’t be loved for long; and finally, the King called a general assembly and invited the Fairies to come, hoping they could figure out what was wrong. After doing his best to explain their sorrow, he concluded by asking them to see the Princess for themselves. ‘It’s clear,’ he said, ‘that something is wrong—what it is, I can’t describe, but somehow your work is lacking.’
They all assured him that, so far as they knew, everything had been done for the Princess, and they had forgotten nothing that they could bestow on so good a neighbour as the King had been to them. After this they went to see Sabella; but they had no sooner entered her presence than they cried out with one accord:
They all reassured him that, as far as they knew, everything had been done for the Princess, and they hadn’t forgotten anything they could offer to such a good neighbor as the King had been to them. After that, they went to see Sabella; but no sooner had they entered her presence than they exclaimed in unison:
‘Oh! horror!—she has no heart!’
“Oh no! She has no heart!”
On hearing this frightful announcement, the King and Queen gave a cry of despair, and entreated the Fairies to find some remedy for such an unheard-of misfortune. Thereupon the eldest Fairy consulted her Book of Magic, which she always carried about with her, hung to her girdle by a thick silver chain, and there she found out at once that it was Gorgonzola who had stolen the Princess’s heart, and also discovered what the wicked old Fairy had done with it.
On hearing this shocking news, the King and Queen cried out in despair and begged the Fairies to find a solution for such an unimaginable disaster. The oldest Fairy then consulted her Book of Magic, which she always carried with her, hanging from her belt on a thick silver chain, and there she quickly discovered that it was Gorgonzola who had stolen the Princess’s heart, along with what the wicked old Fairy had done with it.
‘What shall we do? What shall we do?’ cried the King and Queen in one breath.
‘What are we going to do? What are we going to do?’ cried the King and Queen at the same time.
‘You must certainly suffer much annoyance from seeing and loving Sabella, who is nothing but a beautiful image,’ replied the Fairy, ‘and this must go on for a long time; but I think I see that, in the end, she will once more regain her heart. My advice is that you shall at once cause her portrait to be sent all over the world, and promise her hand and all her possessions to the Prince who is successful in reaching her heart. Her beauty alone is sufficient to engage all the Princes of the world in the quest.’
‘You must be really frustrated by seeing and loving Sabella, who is nothing but a stunning illusion,’ the Fairy replied, ‘and this will likely continue for a long time; but it seems to me that, in the end, she will find her heart again. My suggestion is that you immediately have her portrait distributed everywhere, and promise her hand and all her belongings to the Prince who can win her heart. Her beauty alone is enough to attract all the Princes in the world to this challenge.’
This was accordingly done, and Prince Mannikin heard that already five hundred Princes had perished in the snow and ice, not to mention their squires and pages, and that more continued to arrive daily, eager to try their fortune. After some consideration he determined to present himself at Court; but his arrival made no stir, as his retinue was as inconsiderable as his stature, and the splendour of his rivals was great enough to throw even Farda-Kinbras himself into the shade. However, he paid his respects to the King very gracefully, and asked permission to kiss the hand of the Princess in the usual manner; but when he said he was called ‘Mannikin,’ the King could hardly repress a smile, and the Princes who stood by openly shouted with laughter.
This was done, and Prince Mannikin heard that already five hundred princes had died in the snow and ice, not to mention their squires and pages, and that more kept arriving daily, eager to try their luck. After thinking it over, he decided to present himself at Court; however, his arrival went unnoticed, as his entourage was as insignificant as his height, and the splendor of his rivals was enough to overshadow even Farda-Kinbras himself. Nevertheless, he greeted the King very gracefully and asked for permission to kiss the Princess's hand in the usual way; but when he mentioned that he was called ‘Mannikin,’ the King could hardly hold back a smile, and the princes nearby burst into laughter.
Turning to the King, Prince Mannikin said with great dignity:
Turning to the King, Prince Mannikin said with great dignity:
‘Pray laugh if it pleases your Majesty, I am glad that it is in my power to afford you any amusement; but I am not a plaything for these gentlemen, and I must beg them to dismiss any ideas of that kind from their minds at once,’ and with that he turned upon the one who had laughed the loudest and proudly challenged him to a single combat. This Prince, who was called Fadasse, accepted the challenge very scornfully, mocking at Mannikin, whom he felt sure had no chance against himself; but the meeting was arranged for the next day. When Prince Mannikin quitted the King’s presence he was conducted to the audience hall of the Princess Sabella. The sight of so much beauty and magnificence almost took his breath away for an instant, but, recovering himself with an effort, he said:
‘Please laugh if it amuses you, Your Majesty. I'm glad I can provide you with some entertainment; however, I'm not a toy for these gentlemen, and I must insist they remove any such thoughts from their minds immediately,’ and with that, he turned to the one who had laughed the loudest and boldly challenged him to a duel. This Prince, named Fadasse, accepted the challenge with derision, mocking Mannikin, whom he was certain stood no chance against him; however, the duel was set for the following day. When Prince Mannikin left the King's presence, he was taken to the audience hall of Princess Sabella. The sight of so much beauty and grandeur almost left him breathless for a moment, but regaining his composure with effort, he said:
‘Lovely Princess, irresistibly drawn by the beauty of your portrait, I come from the other end of the world to offer my services to you. My devotion knows no bounds, but my absurd name has already involved me in a quarrel with one of your courtiers. Tomorrow I am to fight this ugly, overgrown Prince, and I beg you to honour the combat with your presence, and prove to the world that there is nothing in a name, and that you deign to accept Mannikin as your knight.’
‘Lovely Princess, drawn by the beauty of your portrait, I have come from the other side of the world to offer my services to you. My devotion knows no limits, but my ridiculous name has already put me in a conflict with one of your courtiers. Tomorrow, I’m set to fight this ugly, overgrown Prince, and I ask you to grace the battle with your presence and show everyone that a name means nothing, and that you are willing to accept Mannikin as your knight.’
When it came to this the Princess could not help being amused, for, though she had no heart, she was not without humour. However, she answered graciously that she accepted with pleasure, which encouraged the Prince to entreat further that she would not show any favour to his adversary.
When it came to this, the Princess couldn’t help but be amused because, even though she had no heart, she still had a sense of humor. However, she graciously responded that she would be happy to accept, which encouraged the Prince to beg her not to show any favoritism towards his rival.
‘Alas!’ said she, ‘I favour none of these foolish people, who weary me with their sentiment and their folly. I do very well as I am, and yet from one year’s end to another they talk of nothing but delivering me from some imaginary affliction. Not a word do I understand of all their pratings about love, and who knows what dull things besides, which, I declare to you, I cannot even remember.’
‘Oh no!’ she said, ‘I don’t like any of these silly people who tire me out with their mushy feelings and nonsense. I'm perfectly fine as I am, yet year after year they go on and on about saving me from some made-up problem. I don’t understand a thing they’re rambling on about love, and whatever other boring topics they bring up, honestly, I can’t even remember them.’
Mannikin was quick enough to gather from this speech that to amuse and interest the Princess would be a far surer way of gaining her favour than to add himself to the list of those who continually teased her about that mysterious thing called ‘love’ which she was so incapable of comprehending. So he began to talk of his rivals, and found in each of them something to make merry over, in which diversion the Princess joined him heartily, and so well did he succeed in his attempt to amuse her that before very long she declared that of all the people at Court he was the one to whom she preferred to talk.
Mannikin quickly realized from this conversation that entertaining and engaging the Princess would be a much better way to win her favor than joining the ranks of those who constantly teased her about that mysterious thing called ‘love,’ which she found so hard to understand. So, he started talking about his competitors and found something to laugh about with each of them, and the Princess happily joined in. He was so successful in making her laugh that before long, she said he was her favorite person to talk to at Court.
The following day, at the time appointed for the combat, when the King, the Queen, and the Princess had taken their places, and the whole Court and the whole town were assembled to see the show, Prince Fadasse rode into the lists magnificently armed and accoutred, followed by twenty-four squires and a hundred men-at-arms, each one leading, a splendid horse, while Prince Mannikin entered from the other side armed only with his spear and followed by the faithful Mousta. The contrast between the two champions was so great that there was a shout of laughter from the whole assembly; but when at the sounding of a trumpet the combatants rushed upon each other, and Mannikin, eluding the blow aimed at him, succeeded in thrusting Prince Fadasse from his horse and pinning him to the sand with his spear, it changed to a murmur of admiration.
The next day, at the scheduled time for the duel, the King, the Queen, and the Princess took their places, and the entire Court along with the whole town gathered to watch the event. Prince Fadasse rode into the arena, brilliantly equipped and accompanied by twenty-four squires and a hundred knights, each leading an impressive horse. Meanwhile, Prince Mannikin entered from the opposite side armed only with his spear and followed by his loyal companion Mousta. The difference between the two champions was so striking that the crowd erupted in laughter. But when a trumpet sounded and the fighters charged at each other, Mannikin dodged the blow aimed at him and managed to knock Prince Fadasse off his horse, pinning him to the ground with his spear, which turned the laughter into a murmur of admiration.
So soon as he had him at his mercy, however, Mannikin, turning to the Princess, assured her that he had no desire to kill anyone who called himself her courtier, and then he bade the furious and humiliated Fadasse rise and thank the Princess to whom he owed his life. Then, amid the sounding of the trumpets and the shoutings of the people, he and Mousta retired gravely from the lists.
As soon as he had Fadasse at his mercy, Mannikin turned to the Princess and assured her that he had no intention of killing anyone who considered himself her courtier. He then urged the furious and humiliated Fadasse to stand up and thank the Princess for saving his life. Finally, amidst the sound of trumpets and the cheers of the crowd, he and Mousta gravely left the arena.
The King soon sent for him to congratulate him upon his success, and to offer him a lodging in the Palace, which he joyfully accepted. While the Princess expressed a wish to have Mousta brought to her, and, when the Prince sent for him, she was so delighted with his courtly manners and his marvellous intelligence that she entreated Mannikin to give him to her for her own. The Prince consented with alacrity, not only out of politeness, but because he foresaw that to have a faithful friend always near the Princess might some day be of great service to him. All these events made Prince Mannikin a person of much more consequence at the Court. Very soon after, there arrived upon the frontier the Ambassador of a very powerful King, who sent to Farda-Kinbras the following letter, at the same time demanding permission to enter the capital in state to receive the answer:
The King soon called for him to congratulate him on his success and offered him a place to stay in the Palace, which he happily accepted. Meanwhile, the Princess wanted Mousta to be brought to her, and when the Prince summoned him, she was so impressed with his polite demeanor and amazing intelligence that she urged Mannikin to give him to her for herself. The Prince readily agreed, not only out of courtesy but also because he realized that having a loyal friend close to the Princess could be very beneficial to him in the future. All these events made Prince Mannikin much more significant at the Court. Shortly after, an Ambassador from a very powerful King arrived at the border, sending the following letter to Farda-Kinbras while also requesting permission to enter the capital formally to receive the response:
‘I, Brandatimor, to Farda-Kinbras send greeting. If I had before this time seen the portrait of your beautiful daughter Sabella I should not have permitted all these adventurers and petty Princes to be dancing attendance and getting themselves frozen with the absurd idea of meriting her hand. For myself I am not afraid of any rivals, and, now I have declared my intention of marrying your daughter, no doubt they will at once withdraw their pretensions. My Ambassador has orders, therefore, to make arrangements for the Princess to come and be married to me without delay—for I attach no importance at all to the farrago of nonsense which you have caused to be published all over the world about this Ice Mountain. If the Princess really has no heart, be assured that I shall not concern myself about it, since, if anybody can help her to discover one, it is myself. My worthy father-in-law, farewell!’
‘I, Brandatimor, send greetings to Farda-Kinbras. If I had seen the portrait of your beautiful daughter Sabella earlier, I wouldn’t have allowed all these adventurers and petty princes to fawn over her, thinking they could earn her hand. Personally, I’m not worried about any rivals, and now that I’ve declared my intention to marry your daughter, they’ll likely withdraw their claims right away. My ambassador has been instructed to arrange for the princess to come and marry me without delay—because I don’t care at all about the ridiculous rumors you’ve spread worldwide about this Ice Mountain. If the princess truly lacks a heart, rest assured that I’ll help her find one, as I believe I’m the best person for that. My esteemed father-in-law, farewell!’
The reading of this letter embarrassed and displeased Farda-Kinbras and Birbantine immensely, while the Princess was furious at the insolence of the demand. They all three resolved that its contents must be kept a profound secret until they could decide what reply should be sent, but Mousta contrived to send word of all that had passed to Prince Mannikin. He was naturally alarmed and indignant, and, after thinking it over a little, he begged an audience of the Princess, and led the conversation so cunningly up to the subject that was uppermost in her thoughts, as well as his own, that she presently told him all about the matter and asked his advice as to what it would be best to do. This was exactly what he had not been able to decide for himself; however, he replied that he should advise her to gain a little time by promising her answer after the grand entry of the Ambassador, and this was accordingly done.
Reading this letter made Farda-Kinbras and Birbantine extremely uncomfortable and unhappy, while the Princess was furious at the audacity of the demand. The three of them decided that the message needed to be kept a deep secret until they figured out what response to send. However, Mousta managed to inform Prince Mannikin about everything that had happened. Naturally, he was alarmed and outraged, and after thinking it over for a bit, he requested a meeting with the Princess. He skillfully led the conversation to the subject that was on both their minds, and she eventually shared all the details with him and asked for his advice on what to do next. This was exactly what he hadn’t been able to figure out for himself; however, he suggested that she buy some time by promising her response after the Ambassador's grand entrance, which they proceeded to do.
The Ambassador did not at all like being put off after that fashion, but he was obliged to be content, and only said very arrogantly that so soon as his equipages arrived, as he expected they would do very shortly, he would give all the people of the city, and the stranger Princes with whom it was inundated, an idea of the power and the magnificence of his master. Mannikin, in despair, resolved that he would for once beg the assistance of the kind Fairy Genesta. He often thought of her and always with gratitude, but from the moment of his setting out he had determined to seek her aid only on the greatest occasions. That very night, when he had fallen asleep quite worn out with thinking over all the difficulties of the situation, he dreamed that the Fairy stood beside him, and said:
The Ambassador really didn’t like being pushed aside like that, but he had to accept it. He arrogantly proclaimed that as soon as his carriages arrived, which he expected would be very soon, he would show everyone in the city and the visiting Princes just how powerful and magnificent his master was. Mannikin, feeling hopeless, decided that he would finally ask for help from the kind Fairy Genesta. He often thought of her with gratitude, but since he set out, he had promised himself to seek her help only for the biggest challenges. That very night, after he had fallen asleep, completely exhausted from worrying about all the difficulties he faced, he dreamed that the Fairy was standing next to him and said:
‘Mannikin, you have done very well so far; continue to please me and you shall always find good friends when you need them most. As for this affair with the Ambassador, you can assure Sabella that she may look forward tranquilly to his triumphal entry, since it will all turn out well for her in the end.’
‘Mannikin, you’ve done really well so far; keep it up and you’ll always find good friends when you need them the most. Regarding this situation with the Ambassador, you can let Sabella know that she can look forward to his grand entrance with peace of mind, as everything will turn out fine for her in the end.’
The Prince tried to throw himself at her feet to thank her, but woke to find it was all a dream; nevertheless he took fresh courage, and went next day to see the Princess, to whom he gave many mysterious assurances that all would yet be well. He even went so far as to ask her if she would not be very grateful to anyone who would rid her of the insolent Brandatimor. To which she replied that her gratitude would know no bounds. Then he wanted to know what would be her best wish for the person who was lucky enough to accomplish it. To which she said that she would wish them to be as insensible to the folly called ‘love’ as she was herself!
The Prince tried to throw himself at her feet to thank her, but woke up to find it was all a dream; still, he gathered his courage and went to see the Princess the next day. He gave her many mysterious assurances that everything would be okay. He even went so far as to ask her if she wouldn't be very grateful to anyone who could get rid of the arrogant Brandatimor. She replied that her gratitude would be limitless. Then he asked what her best wish would be for the person who succeeded in doing it. She said that she would wish them to be as indifferent to the foolishness called "love" as she was!
This was indeed a crushing speech to make to such a devoted lover as Prince Mannikin, but he concealed the pain it caused him with great courage.
This was definitely a tough speech to give to a devoted lover like Prince Mannikin, but he hid the pain it caused him with remarkable bravery.
And now the Ambassador sent to say that on the very next day he would come in state to receive his answer, and from the earliest dawn the inhabitants were astir, to secure the best places for the grand sight; but the good Fairy Genesta was providing them an amount of amusement they were far from expecting, for she so enchanted the eyes of all the spectators that when the Ambassador’s gorgeous procession appeared, the splendid uniforms seemed to them miserable rags that a beggar would have been ashamed to wear, the prancing horses appeared as wretched skeletons hardly able to drag one leg after the other, while their trappings, which really sparkled with gold and jewels, looked like old sheepskins that would not have been good enough for a plough horse. The pages resembled the ugliest sweeps. The trumpets gave no more sound than whistles made of onion-stalks, or combs wrapped in paper; while the train of fifty carriages looked no better than fifty donkey carts. In the last of these sat the Ambassador with the haughty and scornful air which he considered becoming in the representative of so powerful a monarch: for this was the crowning point of the absurdity of the whole procession, that all who took part in it wore the expression of vanity and self-satisfaction and pride in their own appearance and all their surroundings which they believed their splendour amply justified.
And now the Ambassador sent word that the very next day he would come in style to get his answer, and from dawn, the residents were up and about to get the best spots for the grand event; but the kind Fairy Genesta was providing them with an amount of entertainment they never expected, for she enchanted everyone’s eyes so that when the Ambassador’s lavish procession showed up, the fancy uniforms looked like pitiful rags a beggar would be embarrassed to wear, the prancing horses appeared as miserable skeletons barely dragging themselves along, while their decorations, which actually glittered with gold and jewels, looked like old sheepskins that wouldn’t even be suitable for a workhorse. The pages looked like the ugliest chimney sweeps. The trumpets made sounds no louder than whistles made from onion stalks or combs wrapped in paper; while the line of fifty carriages looked no better than fifty donkey carts. In the last of these sat the Ambassador, holding a proud and dismissive demeanor he thought was fitting for a representative of such a powerful monarch: for the height of the absurdity of the whole procession was that everyone involved wore expressions of vanity, self-satisfaction, and pride in their appearance and surroundings, which they believed their grandeur fully justified.
The laughter and howls of derision from the whole crowd rose ever louder and louder as the extraordinary cortege advanced, and at last reached the ears of the King as he waited in the audience hall, and before the procession reached the palace he had been informed of its nature, and, supposing that it must be intended as an insult, he ordered the gates to be closed. You may imagine the fury of the Ambassador when, after all his pomp and pride, the King absolutely and unaccountably refused to receive him. He raved wildly both against King and people, and the cortege retired in great confusion, jeered at and pelted with stones and mud by the enraged crowd. It is needless to say that he left the country as fast as horses could carry him, but not before he had declared war, with the most terrible menaces, threatening to devastate the country with fire and sword.
The laughter and jeers from the crowd grew louder as the unusual procession moved forward. By the time it reached the palace, the King, waiting in the audience hall, had already been told what was happening. Thinking it was meant as an insult, he ordered the gates to be shut. You can imagine the Ambassador's anger when, after all his display and pride, the King completely and inexplicably refused to see him. He raged wildly against both the King and the people, while the procession left in a state of confusion, mocked and hit with stones and mud by the furious crowd. It goes without saying that he left the country as quickly as the horses could take him, but not before declaring war with the most severe threats, promising to wreak havoc across the land with fire and sword.
Some days after this disastrous embassy King Bayard sent couriers to Prince Mannikin with a most friendly letter, offering his services in any difficulty, and enquiring with the deepest interest how he fared.
Some days after this disastrous embassy, King Bayard sent messengers to Prince Mannikin with a very friendly letter, offering his help in any trouble and asking with genuine concern how he was doing.
Mannikin at once replied, relating all that had happened since they parted, not forgetting to mention the event which had just involved Farda-Kinbras and Brandatimor in this deadly quarrel, and he ended by entreating his faithful friend to despatch a few thousands of his veteran spaniels to his assistance.
Mannikin immediately replied, sharing everything that had happened since they separated, making sure to mention the incident that had just dragged Farda-Kinbras and Brandatimor into this deadly conflict. He concluded by urging his loyal friend to send a few thousand of his veteran dogs to help him.
Neither the King, the Queen, nor the Princess could in the least understand the amazing conduct of Brandatimor’s Ambassador; nevertheless the preparations for the war went forward briskly and all the Princes who had not gone on towards the Ice Mountain offered their services, at the same time demanding all the best appointments in the King’s army. Mannikin was one of the first to volunteer, but he only asked to go as aide-de-camp to the Commander-in chief, who was a gallant soldier and celebrated for his victories. As soon as the army could be got together it was marched to the frontier, where it met the opposing force headed by Brandatimor himself, who was full of fury, determined to avenge the insult to his Ambassador and to possess himself of the Princess Sabella. All the army of Farda-Kinbras could do, being so heavily outnumbered, was to act upon the defensive, and before long Mannikin won the esteem of the officers for his ability, and of the soldiers for his courage, and care for their welfare, and in all the skirmishes which he conducted he had the good fortune to vanquish the enemy.
Neither the King, the Queen, nor the Princess could understand the incredible behavior of Brandatimor’s Ambassador; nonetheless, preparations for war continued rapidly, and all the Princes who hadn’t gone toward the Ice Mountain offered their services, while also demanding the best positions in the King’s army. Mannikin was among the first to volunteer, but he only asked to serve as aide-de-camp to the Commander-in-chief, who was a brave soldier known for his victories. As soon as the army was assembled, it was marched to the frontier, where they encountered the opposing force led by Brandatimor himself, who was furious and determined to avenge the insult to his Ambassador and capture Princess Sabella. Given that the army of Farda-Kinbras was heavily outnumbered, all they could do was defend themselves, and before long, Mannikin earned the respect of the officers for his skill and the soldiers for his courage and concern for their well-being. In all the skirmishes he led, he had the good fortune to defeat the enemy.
At last Brandatimor engaged the whole army in a terrific conflict, and though the troops of Farda-Kinbras fought with desperate courage, their general was killed, and they were defeated and forced to retreat with immense loss. Mannikin did wonders, and half-a-dozen times turned the retreating forces and beat back the enemy; and he afterwards collected troops enough to keep them in check until, the severe winter setting in, put an end to hostilities for a while.
At last, Brandatimor led the entire army into a fierce battle, and even though Farda-Kinbras's troops fought with all their might, their general was killed, and they were defeated and forced to retreat with heavy losses. Mannikin accomplished amazing feats, turning the retreating forces around several times and pushing back the enemy. He later gathered enough troops to hold them off until the harsh winter set in, which paused hostilities for a while.
He then returned to the Court, where consternation reigned. The King was in despair at the death of his trusty general, and ended by imploring Mannikin to take the command of the army, and his counsel was followed in all the affairs of the Court. He followed up his former plan of amusing the Princess, and on no account reminding her of that tedious thing called ‘love,’ so that she was always glad to see him, and the winter slipped by gaily for both of them.
He then went back to the Court, where there was chaos. The King was heartbroken over the loss of his loyal general and ended up begging Mannikin to take charge of the army, and everyone in the Court followed his advice on all matters. Mannikin continued with his previous plan of entertaining the Princess and never bringing up that boring topic called ‘love,’ so she was always happy to see him, and winter passed cheerfully for both of them.
The Prince was all the while secretly making plans for the next campaign; he received private intelligence of the arrival of a strong reinforcement of Spaniels, to whom he sent orders to post themselves along the frontier without attracting attention, and as soon as he possibly could he held a consultation with their Commander, who was an old and experienced warrior. Following his advice, he decided to have a pitched battle as soon as the enemy advanced, and this Brandatimor lost not a moment in doing, as he was perfectly persuaded that he was now going to make an end of the war and utterly vanquish Farda-Kinbras. But no sooner had he given the order to charge than the Spaniels, who had mingled with his troops unperceived, leaped each upon the horse nearest to him, and not only threw the whole squadron into confusion by the terror they caused, but, springing at the throats of the riders, unhorsed many of them by the suddenness of their attack; then turning the horses to the rear, they spread consternation everywhere, and made it easy for Prince Mannikin to gain a complete victory. He met Brandatimor in single combat, and succeeded in taking him prisoner; but he did not live to reach the Court, to which Mannikin had sent him: his pride killed him at the thought of appearing before Sabella under these altered circumstances. In the meantime Prince Fadasse and all the others who had remained behind were setting out with all speed for the conquest of the Ice Mountain, being afraid that Prince Mannikin might prove as successful in that as he seemed to be in everything else, and when Mannikin returned he heard of it with great annoyance. True he had been serving the Princess, but she only admired and praised him for his gallant deeds, and seemed no whit nearer bestowing on him the love he so ardently desired, and all the comfort Mousta could give him on the subject was that at least she loved no one else, and with that he had to content himself. But he determined that, come what might, he would delay no longer, but attempt the great undertaking for which he had come so far. When he went to take leave of the King and Queen they entreated him not to go, as they had just heard that Prince Fadasse, and all who accompanied him, had perished in the snow; but he persisted in his resolve. As for Sabella, she gave him her hand to kiss with precisely the same gracious indifference as she had given it to him the first time they met. It happened that this farewell took place before the whole Court, and so great a favourite had Prince Mannikin become that they were all indignant at the coldness with which the Princess treated him.
The Prince was secretly planning his next campaign; he received private news about a strong group of Spaniels arriving, and he ordered them to take position along the border quietly. As soon as possible, he met with their Commander, an old and experienced warrior. Following his advice, he decided to engage in a direct battle as soon as the enemy moved forward, which Brandatimor wasted no time in launching, convinced that he would finally end the war and completely defeat Farda-Kinbras. However, as soon as he gave the command to charge, the Spaniels, having mixed in unnoticed with his troops, jumped onto the nearest horses and created chaos by terrifying the soldiers. They attacked the riders directly, unseating many with the suddenness of their strike, and then turned the horses back, causing panic everywhere, which allowed Prince Mannikin to achieve a total victory. He encountered Brandatimor in a one-on-one fight and captured him, but Brandatimor didn’t survive the journey to the Court that Mannikin had sent him to; he was overcome by pride at the thought of facing Sabella under these changed circumstances. Meanwhile, Prince Fadasse and others who had stayed behind were hastily heading for the Ice Mountain, worried that Prince Mannikin might be just as successful there as he was in everything else, and when Mannikin found out about it, he was very annoyed. Although he had been serving the Princess, she only admired and praised him for his bravery, showing no signs of giving him the love he desperately wanted. The only comfort Mousta could provide was that she at least loved no one else, and with that, Mannikin tried to be satisfied. But he decided that no matter what, he wouldn’t delay any longer and would undertake the great mission for which he had come so far. When he went to say goodbye to the King and Queen, they begged him not to leave, having just learned that Prince Fadasse and all his companions had perished in the snow; but he remained resolute. As for Sabella, she extended her hand for him to kiss with the same indifferent grace as when they first met. This farewell occurred in front of the entire Court, and Prince Mannikin had become such a favorite that everyone was outraged by the coldness with which the Princess treated him.
Finally the King said to him:
Finally, the King said to him:
‘Prince, you have constantly refilled all the gifts which, in my gratitude for your invaluable services, I have offered to you, but I wish the Princess to present you with her cloak of marten’s fur, and that I hope you will not reject!’ Now this was a splendid fur mantle which the Princess was very fond of wearing, not so much because she felt cold, as that its richness set off to perfection the delicate tints of her complexion and the brilliant gold of her hair. However, she took it off, and with graceful politeness begged Prince Mannikin to accept it, which you may be sure he was charmed to do, and, taking only this and a little bundle of all kinds of wood, and accompanied only by two spaniels out of the fifty who had stayed with him when the war was ended, he set forth, receiving many tokens of love and favour from the people in every town he passed through. At the last little village he left his horse behind him, to begin his toilful march through the snow, which extended, blank and terrible, in every direction as far as the eye could see. Here he had appointed to meet the other forty-eight spaniels, who received him joyfully, and assured him that, happen what might, they would follow and serve him faithfully. And so they started, full of heart and hope. At first there was a slight track, difficult, but not impossible to follow; but this was soon lost, and the Pole Star was their only guide. When the time came to call a halt, the Prince, who had after much consideration decided on his plan of action, caused a few twigs from the faggot he had brought with him to be planted in the snow, and then he sprinkled over them a pinch of the magic powder he had collected from the enchanted boat. To his great joy they instantly began to sprout and grow, and in a marvellously short time the camp was surrounded by a perfect grove of trees of all sorts, which blossomed and bore ripe fruit, so that all their wants were easily supplied, and they were able to make huge fires to warm themselves. The Prince then sent out several spaniels to reconnoitre, and they had the good luck to discover a horse laden with provisions stuck fast in the snow. They at once fetched their comrades, and brought the spoil triumphantly into the camp, and, as it consisted principally of biscuits, not a spaniel among them went supperless to sleep. In this way they journeyed by day and encamped safely at night, always remembering to take on a few branches to provide them with food and shelter. They passed by the way armies of those who had set out upon the perilous enterprise, who stood frozen stiffly, without sense or motion; but Prince Mannikin strictly forbade that any attempt should be made to thaw them. So they went on and on for more than three months, and day by day the Ice Mountain, which they had seen for a long time, grew clearer, until at last they stood close to it, and shuddered at its height and steepness. But by patience and perseverance they crept up foot by foot, aided by their fires of magic wood, without which they must have perished in the intense cold, until presently they stood at the gates of the magnificent Ice Palace which crowned the mountain, where, in deadly silence and icy sleep, lay the heart of Sabella. Now the difficulty became immense, for if they maintained enough heat to keep themselves alive they were in danger every moment of melting the blocks of solid ice of which the palace was entirely built, and bringing the whole structure down upon their heads; but cautiously and quickly they traversed courtyards and halls, until they found themselves at the foot of a vast throne, where, upon a cushion of snow, lay an enormous and brilliantly sparkling diamond, which contained the heart of the lovely Princess Sabella. Upon the lowest step of the throne was inscribed in icy letters, ‘Whosoever thou art who by courage and virtue canst win the heart of Sabella enjoy peacefully the good fortune which thou hast richly deserved.’
‘Prince, you have consistently accepted all the gifts I’ve offered you in gratitude for your invaluable services, but I would like the Princess to give you her marten fur cloak, which I hope you will not refuse!’ This was a beautiful fur mantle that the Princess loved to wear, not just because she felt cold, but because its richness perfectly accentuated her delicate complexion and the brilliant gold of her hair. However, she took it off and graciously asked Prince Mannikin to accept it, which he was more than happy to do. Taking only this and a small bundle of assorted wood, and with just two spaniels from the fifty who had stayed with him after the war, he set out, receiving many tokens of love and favor from the people in every town he passed through. In the last little village, he left his horse behind to begin his challenging trek through the snow, which stretched bleak and daunting in every direction as far as the eye could see. Here, he had arranged to meet the other forty-eight spaniels, who welcomed him joyfully and assured him that, no matter what happened, they would follow and serve him faithfully. And so they began, full of hope and determination. Initially, there was a faint trail, tough but manageable; but it quickly disappeared, leaving the Pole Star as their only guide. When it was time to stop, the Prince, after much thought, decided on his next steps. He planted a few twigs from the bundle he had brought into the snow and sprinkled them with a pinch of the magic powder he had collected from the enchanted boat. To his delight, they instantly started to sprout and grow, and in no time at all, the camp was surrounded by a stunning grove of trees of all kinds, which blossomed and bore ripe fruit, fulfilling all their needs and allowing them to make big fires to stay warm. The Prince then sent out several spaniels to scout, and they were lucky enough to find a horse loaded with provisions stuck in the snow. They quickly returned with their companions and triumphantly brought the bounty into the camp, and since it mainly consisted of biscuits, every spaniel enjoyed a satisfying supper. This way, they traveled during the day and camped safely at night, always remembering to gather a few branches for food and shelter. They passed many who had set out on the dangerous journey and were now frozen solid, without any sense or motion; but Prince Mannikin strictly prohibited any attempts to thaw them. They continued their journey for more than three months, and each day the Ice Mountain, which they had seen for a long time, became clearer until they were finally close to it, shuddering at its height and steepness. But with patience and perseverance, they climbed slowly, helped by their fires of magic wood, without which they surely would have perished in the frigid cold, until eventually, they stood at the gates of the magnificent Ice Palace that crowned the mountain, where, in deadly silence and icy slumber, lay the heart of Sabella. Now the challenge became immense, for if they maintained enough warmth to keep themselves alive, they risked melting the blocks of solid ice that made up the entire palace and bringing the whole structure down on themselves; but carefully and quickly, they navigated through courtyards and halls until they found themselves at the foot of a vast throne, upon which, on a cushion of snow, lay a massive and brilliantly sparkling diamond containing the heart of the beautiful Princess Sabella. On the lowest step of the throne, it was inscribed in icy letters, ‘Whoever you are, if by courage and virtue you can win the heart of Sabella, enjoy peacefully the good fortune you have richly earned.’
Prince Mannikin bounded forward, and had just strength left to grasp the precious diamond which contained all he coveted in the world before he fell insensible upon the snowy cushion. But his good spaniels lost no time in rushing to the rescue, and between them they bore him hastily from the hall, and not a moment too soon, for all around them they heard the clang of the falling blocks of ice as the Fairy Palace slowly collapsed under the unwonted heat. Not until they reached the foot of the mountain did they pause to restore the Prince to consciousness, and then his joy to find himself the possessor of Sabella’s heart knew no bounds.
Prince Mannikin leaped forward and managed to grab the precious diamond that held everything he desired in the world before he collapsed onto the snowy ground. But his loyal spaniels quickly rushed to save him, and together they hurried him out of the hall, just in time, as they heard the sound of falling ice blocks as the Fairy Palace slowly fell apart under the unusual heat. They didn’t stop to bring the Prince back to consciousness until they reached the base of the mountain, and then his happiness at realizing he possessed Sabella’s heart was limitless.
With all speed they began to retrace their steps, but this time the happy Prince could not bear the sight of his defeated and disappointed rivals, whose frozen forms lined his triumphant way. He gave orders to his spaniels to spare no pains to restore them to life, and so successful were they that day by day his train increased, so that by the time he got back to the little village where he had left his horse he was escorted by five hundred sovereign Princes, and knights and squires without number, and he was so courteous and unassuming that they all followed him willingly, anxious to do him honour. But then he was so happy and blissful himself that he found it easy to be at peace with all the world. It was not long before he met the faithful Mousta, who was coming at the top of his speed hoping to meet the Prince, that he might tell him of the sudden and wonderful change that had come over the Princess, who had become gentle and thoughtful and had talked to him of nothing but Prince Mannikin, of the hardships she feared he might be suffering, and of her anxiety for him, and all this with a hundred fonder expressions which put the finishing stroke to the Prince’s delight. Then came a courier bearing the congratulations of the King and Queen, who had just heard of his successful return, and there was even a graceful compliment from Sabella herself. The Prince sent Mousta back to her, and he was welcomed with joy, for was he not her lover’s present?
They quickly started to retrace their steps, but this time the happy Prince couldn’t stand seeing his defeated and disappointed rivals, whose frozen bodies lined his triumphant path. He instructed his spaniels to do everything possible to bring them back to life, and they were so successful that day by day his entourage grew. By the time he returned to the little village where he had left his horse, he was accompanied by five hundred sovereign Princes, along with countless knights and squires, and he was so courteous and humble that they all followed him willingly, eager to honor him. His own happiness made it easy for him to be at peace with everyone. It wasn’t long before he ran into the loyal Mousta, who was rushing to meet the Prince with news of the sudden and wonderful transformation in the Princess. She had become gentle and thoughtful, talking only about Prince Mannikin, worrying about the hardships he might be facing, and expressing her anxiety for him, all with a hundred affectionate words that completed the Prince’s joy. Then a courier arrived with the congratulations of the King and Queen, who had just learned of his successful return, and even a graceful compliment from Sabella herself. The Prince sent Mousta back to her, and he was joyfully welcomed, for wasn’t he the gift from her lover?
At last the travellers reached the capital, and were received with regal magnificence. Farda-Kinbras and Birbantine embraced Prince Mannikin, declaring that they regarded him as their heir and the future husband of the Princess, to which he replied that they did him too much honour. And then he was admitted into the presence of the Princess, who for the first time in her life blushed as he kissed her hand, and could not find a word to say. But the Prince, throwing himself on his knees beside her, held out the splendid diamond, saying:
At last, the travelers reached the capital and were welcomed with royal splendor. Farda-Kinbras and Birbantine embraced Prince Mannikin, stating that they considered him their heir and the future husband of the Princess, to which he replied that they were giving him too much honor. Then he was brought before the Princess, who, for the first time in her life, blushed when he kissed her hand and was at a loss for words. But the Prince, kneeling beside her, presented the exquisite diamond, saying:
‘Madam, this treasure is yours, since none of the dangers and difficulties I have gone through have been sufficient to make me deserve it.’
‘Ma'am, this treasure is yours, because none of the dangers and challenges I've faced have been enough to make me deserve it.’
‘Ah! Prince,’ said she, ‘if I take it, it is only that I may give it back to you, since truly it belongs to you already.’
‘Ah! Prince,’ she said, ‘if I take it, it’s only so I can give it back to you, since it truly belongs to you already.’
At this moment in came the King and Queen, and interrupted them by asking all the questions imaginable, and not infrequently the same over and over again. It seems that there is always one thing that is sure to be said about an event by everybody, and Prince Mannikin found that the question which he was asked by more than a thousand people on this particular occasion was:
At that moment, the King and Queen entered and interrupted them by asking all kinds of questions, often repeating the same ones multiple times. It seems there's always one comment that everyone makes about an event, and Prince Mannikin discovered that the question he was asked by over a thousand people on this particular occasion was:
‘And didn’t you find it very cold?’
‘And didn’t you think it was really cold?’
The King had come to request Prince Mannikin and the Princess to follow him to the Council Chamber, which they did, not knowing that he meant to present the Prince to all the nobles assembled there as his son-in-law and successor. But when Mannikin perceived his intention, he begged permission to speak first, and told his whole story, even to the fact that he believed himself to be a peasant’s son. Scarcely had he finished speaking when the sky grew black, the thunder growled, and the lightning flashed, and in the blaze of light the good Fairy Genesta suddenly appeared. Turning to Prince Mannikin, she said:
The King had come to ask Prince Mannikin and the Princess to follow him to the Council Chamber, which they did, unaware that he intended to introduce the Prince to all the nobles gathered there as his son-in-law and successor. But when Mannikin realized his plan, he requested to speak first and shared his entire story, including the fact that he believed he was the son of a peasant. Just as he finished speaking, the sky darkened, thunder rumbled, and lightning flashed, and in the bright light, the good Fairy Genesta suddenly appeared. Turning to Prince Mannikin, she said:
‘I am satisfied with you, since you have shown not only courage but a good heart.’ Then she addressed King Farda-Kinbras, and informed him of the real history of the Prince, and how she had determined to give him the education she knew would be best for a man who was to command others. ‘You have already found the advantage of having a faithful friend,’ she added to the Prince ‘and now you will have the pleasure of seeing King Bayard and his subjects regain their natural forms as a reward for his kindness to you.’
‘I’m pleased with you because you've shown not just bravery but also a good heart.’ Then she turned to King Farda-Kinbras and explained the true story of the Prince and how she had decided to provide him with the education she believed would suit a leader. ‘You've already experienced the benefits of having a loyal friend,’ she said to the Prince, ‘and now you’ll enjoy seeing King Bayard and his people return to their true forms as a reward for his kindness to you.’
Just then arrived a chariot drawn by eagles, which proved to contain the foolish King and Queen, who embraced their long-lost son with great joy, and were greatly struck with the fact that they did indeed find him covered with fur! While they were caressing Sabella and wringing her hands (which is a favourite form of endearment with foolish people) chariots were seen approaching from all points of the compass, containing numbers of Fairies.
Just then, a chariot pulled by eagles arrived, carrying the foolish King and Queen, who joyfully embraced their long-lost son. They were surprised to see that he was actually covered in fur! While they were hugging Sabella and wringing her hands (which is a favorite way of showing affection among foolish people), chariots could be seen coming from all directions, filled with Fairies.
‘Sire,’ said Genesta to Farda-Kinbras, ‘I have taken the liberty of appointing your Court as a meeting-place for all the Fairies who could spare the time to come; and I hope you can arrange to hold the great ball, which we have once in a hundred years, on this occasion.’
‘Sire,’ Genesta said to Farda-Kinbras, ‘I've taken the initiative of designating your Court as a gathering spot for all the Fairies who can make it; and I hope you can organize the big ball, which we have once every hundred years, for this occasion.’
The King having suitably acknowledged the honour done him, was next reconciled to Gorgonzola, and they two presently opened the ball together. The Fairy Marsontine restored their natural forms to King Bayard and all his subjects, and he appeared once more as handsome a king as you could wish to see. One of the Fairies immediately despatched her chariot for the Queen of the Spice Islands, and their wedding took place at the same time as that of Prince Mannikin and the lovely and gracious Sabella. They lived happily ever afterwards, and their vast kingdoms were presently divided between their children.
The King, having graciously acknowledged the honor bestowed upon him, was then reconciled with Gorgonzola, and they soon started the dance together. The Fairy Marsontine returned King Bayard and all his subjects to their natural forms, and he appeared once again as a handsome king as anyone could wish to see. One of the Fairies quickly sent her chariot for the Queen of the Spice Islands, and their wedding happened at the same time as that of Prince Mannikin and the beautiful and gracious Sabella. They all lived happily ever after, and their vast kingdoms were soon divided among their children.
The Prince, out of grateful remembrance of the Princess Sabella’s first gift to him bestowed the right of bearing her name upon the most beautiful of the martens, and that is why they are called sables to this day.
The Prince, in grateful memory of Princess Sabella’s first gift to him, granted the right to carry her name to the most beautiful of the martens, and that’s why they are called sables to this day.
Comte de Caylus.
Count of Caylus.
THE ENCHANTED RING
Once upon a time there lived a young man named Rosimond, who was as good and handsome as his elder brother Bramintho was ugly and wicked. Their mother detested her eldest son, and had only eyes for the youngest. This excited Bramintho’s jealousy, and he invented a horrible story in order to ruin his brother. He told his father that Rosimond was in the habit of visiting a neighbour who was an enemy of the family, and betraying to him all that went on in the house, and was plotting with him to poison their father.
Once upon a time, there was a young man named Rosimond, who was as kind and attractive as his older brother Bramintho was unattractive and mean. Their mother disliked her eldest son and adored the youngest. This fueled Bramintho’s jealousy, and he came up with a terrible lie to destroy his brother. He told their father that Rosimond frequently visited a neighbor who was the family’s enemy, sharing all the family's secrets and conspiring with him to poison their father.
The father flew into a rage, and flogged his son till the blood came. Then he threw him into prison and kept him for three days without food, and after that he turned him out of the house, and threatened to kill him if he ever came back. The mother was miserable, and did nothing but weep, but she dared not say anything.
The father got incredibly angry and beat his son until he bled. Then he tossed him into prison and left him there for three days without any food. After that, he kicked him out of the house and threatened to kill him if he ever returned. The mother was heartbroken and just cried, but she didn't dare say a word.
The youth left his home with tears in his eyes, not knowing where to go, and wandered about for many hours till he came to a thick wood. Night overtook him at the foot of a great rock, and he fell asleep on a bank of moss, lulled by the music of a little brook.
The young man left his home with tears in his eyes, unsure of where to go, and wandered for many hours until he arrived at a dense forest. Night fell on him at the base of a large rock, and he fell asleep on a patch of moss, comforted by the sound of a small stream.
It was dawn when he woke, and he saw before him a beautiful woman seated on a grey horse, with trappings of gold, who looked as if she were preparing for the hunt.
It was dawn when he woke, and he saw a beautiful woman sitting on a gray horse, adorned with golden gear, who looked like she was getting ready for a hunt.
‘Have you seen a stag and some deerhounds go by?’ she asked.
‘Have you seen a stag and some deerhounds pass by?’ she asked.
‘No, madam,’ he replied.
“No, ma'am,” he replied.
Then she added, ‘You look unhappy; is there anything the matter? Take this ring, which will make you the happiest and most powerful of men, provided you never make a bad use of it. If you turn the diamond inside, you will become invisible. If you turn it outside, you will become visible again. If you place it on your little finger, you will take the shape of the King’s son, followed by a splendid court. If you put it on your fourth finger, you will take your own shape.’
Then she added, “You look upset; is something wrong? Here, take this ring. It will make you the happiest and most powerful person, as long as you don’t misuse it. If you turn the diamond inward, you’ll become invisible. If you turn it outward, you’ll be visible again. If you wear it on your pinky, you’ll transform into the King’s son, complete with a lavish entourage. If you wear it on your ring finger, you’ll go back to your normal self.”
Then the young man understood that it was a Fairy who was speaking to him, and when she had finished she plunged into the woods. The youth was very impatient to try the ring, and returned home immediately. He found that the Fairy had spoken the truth, and that he could see and hear everything, while he himself was unseen. It lay with him to revenge himself, if he chose, on his brother, without the slightest danger to himself, and he told no one but his mother of all the strange things that had befallen him. He afterwards put the enchanted ring on his little finger, and appeared as the King’s son, followed by a hundred fine horses, and a guard of officers all richly dressed.
Then the young man realized that it was a fairy talking to him, and when she finished, she disappeared into the woods. Eager to test the ring, he headed home right away. He discovered that the fairy had spoken the truth: he could see and hear everything while remaining unseen. It was up to him to take revenge on his brother, if he wanted, with no risk to himself, and he only shared the strange events with his mother. Later, he slipped the enchanted ring onto his little finger and appeared as the king’s son, accompanied by a hundred beautiful horses and a squad of richly dressed officers.
His father was much surprised to see the King’s son in his quiet little house, and he felt rather embarrassed, not knowing what was the proper way to behave on such a grand occasion. Then Rosimond asked him how many sons he had.
His father was very surprised to see the King’s son in his quiet little house, and he felt pretty embarrassed, not knowing how to act on such a big occasion. Then Rosimond asked him how many sons he had.
‘Two,’ replied he.
"Two," he replied.
‘I wish to see them,’ said Rosimond. ‘Send for them at once. I desire to take them both to Court, in order to make their fortunes.’
‘I want to see them,’ said Rosimond. ‘Call them right away. I want to take them both to Court to help them make their fortunes.’
The father hesitated, then answered: ‘Here is the eldest, whom I have the honour to present to your Highness.’
The father paused, then said, "Here is the eldest, who I have the honor of introducing to your Highness."
‘But where is the youngest? I wish to see him too,’ persisted Rosimond.
‘But where is the youngest? I want to see him too,’ Rosimond insisted.
‘He is not here,’ said the father. ‘I had to punish him for a fault, and he has run away.’
'He isn't here,' said the father. 'I had to punish him for a mistake, and he's run away.'
Then Rosimond replied, ‘You should have shown him what was right, but not have punished him. However, let the elder come with me, and as for you, follow these two guards, who will escort you to a place that I will point out to them.’
Then Rosimond replied, “You should have shown him the right way, but you shouldn’t have punished him. However, let the elder come with me, and as for you, follow these two guards, who will take you to a place that I’ll direct them to.”
Then the two guards led off the father, and the Fairy of whom you have heard found him in the forest, and beat him with a golden birch rod, and cast him into a cave that was very deep and dark, where he lay enchanted. ‘Lie there,’ she said, ‘till your son comes to take you out again.’
Then the two guards took the father away, and the Fairy you’ve heard about found him in the forest. She struck him with a golden birch rod and threw him into a deep, dark cave, where he lay under a spell. “Stay there,” she said, “until your son comes to rescue you.”
Meanwhile the son went to the King’s palace, and arrived just when the real prince was absent. He had sailed away to make war on a distant island, but the winds had been contrary, and he had been shipwrecked on unknown shores, and taken captive by a savage people. Rosimond made his appearance at Court in the character of the Prince, whom everyone wept for as lost, and told them that he had been rescued when at the point of death by some merchants. His return was the signal for great public rejoicings, and the King was so overcome that he became quite speechless, and did nothing but embrace his son. The Queen was even more delighted, and fetes were ordered over the whole kingdom.
Meanwhile, the son went to the King’s palace and arrived just when the real prince was away. He had set out to fight on a distant island, but the winds had turned against him, resulting in his shipwreck on unknown shores, where he was captured by a savage tribe. Rosimond showed up at Court pretending to be the Prince, whom everyone mourned as lost. He told them that he had been saved just at the brink of death by some merchants. His return sparked massive public celebrations, and the King was so overwhelmed that he couldn’t speak, only embracing his son repeatedly. The Queen was even more thrilled, and celebrations were planned all across the kingdom.
One day the false Prince said to his real brother, ‘Bramintho, you know that I brought you here from your native village in order to make your fortune; but I have found out that you are a liar, and that by your deceit you have been the cause of all the troubles of your brother Rosimond. He is in hiding here, and I desire that you shall speak to him, and listen to his reproaches.’
One day, the fake Prince said to his real brother, "Bramintho, you know I brought you here from your hometown to help you succeed, but I've discovered that you're a liar, and your deceit has caused all the problems for your brother Rosimond. He’s hiding here, and I want you to talk to him and hear him out."
Bramintho trembled at these words, and, flinging himself at the Prince’s feet, confessed his crime.
Bramintho shook at these words and, throwing himself at the Prince’s feet, admitted his guilt.
‘That is not enough,’ said Rosimond. ‘It is to your brother that you must confess, and I desire that you shall ask his forgiveness. He will be very generous if he grants it, and it will be more than you deserve. He is in my ante-room, where you shall see him at once. I myself will retire into another apartment, so as to leave you alone with him.’
‘That’s not enough,’ said Rosimond. ‘You need to confess to your brother, and I want you to ask for his forgiveness. He’ll be very gracious if he gives it, and it will be more than you deserve. He’s in my waiting room, and you’ll see him right away. I’ll step into another room so you can be alone with him.’
Bramintho entered, as he was told, into the anteroom. Then Rosimond changed the ring, and passed into the room by another door.
Bramintho entered the anteroom as instructed. Then Rosimond switched the ring and went into the room through another door.
Bramintho was filled with shame as soon as he saw his brother’s face. He implored his pardon, and promised to atone for all his faults. Rosimond embraced him with tears, and at once forgave him, adding, ‘I am in great favour with the King. It rests with me to have your head cut off, or to condemn you to pass the remainder of your life in prison; but I desire to be as good to you as you have been wicked to me.’ Bramintho, confused and ashamed, listened to his words without daring to lift his eyes or to remind Rosimond that he was his brother. After this, Rosimond gave out that he was going to make a secret voyage, to marry a Princess who lived in a neighbouring kingdom; but in reality he only went to see his mother, whom he told all that had happened at the Court, giving her at the same time some money that she needed, for the King allowed him to take exactly what he liked, though he was always careful not to abuse this permission. Just then a furious war broke out between the King his master and the Sovereign of the adjoining country, who was a bad man and one that never kept his word. Rosimond went straight to the palace of the wicked King, and by means of his ring was able to be present at all the councils, and learnt all their schemes, so that he was able to forestall them and bring them to naught. He took the command of the army which was brought against the wicked King, and defeated him in a glorious battle, so that peace was at once concluded on conditions that were just to everyone.
Bramintho felt a wave of shame as soon as he saw his brother’s face. He begged for forgiveness and promised to make up for all his mistakes. Rosimond hugged him with tears in his eyes and instantly forgave him, saying, ‘I have the King’s favor. I could have you executed or sentenced to life in prison; but I want to treat you as well as you have treated me poorly.’ Bramintho, confused and ashamed, listened to his brother’s words without daring to look up or remind Rosimond that they were brothers. Afterwards, Rosimond announced that he was planning a secret trip to marry a princess from a neighboring kingdom; in reality, he was just going to visit his mother, to whom he revealed everything that had happened at the Court, while also giving her some money she needed, since the King allowed him to take whatever he wanted. He was always careful not to take advantage of that privilege. At that moment, a fierce war broke out between his master, the King, and the ruler of the nearby country, who was a treacherous man and never kept his promises. Rosimond went directly to the wicked King’s palace, and using his ring, he was allowed to attend all the meetings and learned about their plans, enabling him to thwart them completely. He took command of the army assembled against the wicked King and achieved a glorious victory in battle, leading to a peace agreement that was fair to everyone involved.
Henceforth the King’s one idea was to marry the young man to a Princess who was the heiress to a neighbouring kingdom, and, besides that, was as lovely as the day. But one morning, while Rosimond was hunting in the forest where for the first time he had seen the Fairy, his benefactress suddenly appeared before him. ‘Take heed,’ she said to him in severe tones, ‘that you do not marry anybody who believes you to be a Prince. You must never deceive anyone. The real Prince, whom the whole nation thinks you are, will have to succeed his father, for that is just and right. Go and seek him in some distant island, and I will send winds that will swell your sails and bring you to him. Hasten to render this service to your master, although it is against your own ambition, and prepare, like an honest man, to return to your natural state. If you do not do this, you will become wicked and unhappy, and I will abandon you to all your former troubles.’
From now on, the King's only plan was to marry the young man to a Princess who was the heiress to a nearby kingdom and, on top of that, was as beautiful as could be. But one morning, while Rosimond was hunting in the forest where he had first seen the Fairy, his benefactress suddenly appeared before him. “Listen carefully,” she said to him in a serious tone, “don’t marry anyone who thinks you’re a Prince. You must never deceive anyone. The real Prince, whom everyone believes you are, needs to succeed his father, because that’s only fair. Go and find him on some distant island, and I’ll send winds to fill your sails and take you to him. Hurry to do this for your master, even if it goes against your own ambitions, and be ready, like a good man, to return to your true self. If you don’t do this, you’ll become wicked and unhappy, and I will leave you to all your previous troubles.”
Rosimond took these wise counsels to heart. He gave out that he had undertaken a secret mission to a neighbouring state, and embarked on board a vessel, the winds carrying him straight to the island where the Fairy had told him he would find the real Prince. This unfortunate youth had been taken captive by a savage people, who had kept him to guard their sheep. Rosimond, becoming invisible, went to seek him amongst the pastures, where he kept his flock, and, covering him with his mantle, he delivered him out of the hands of his cruel masters, and bore him back to the ship. Other winds sent by the Fairy swelled the sails, and together the two young men entered the King’s presence.
Rosimond took this wise advice to heart. He claimed he was on a secret mission to a neighboring state and boarded a ship, with the winds guiding him directly to the island where the Fairy had told him he would find the real Prince. This unfortunate young man had been captured by a savage tribe, who forced him to tend their sheep. Rosimond, making himself invisible, searched for him among the pastures where he cared for his flock. Covering him with his cloak, he rescued him from his cruel captors and carried him back to the ship. Other winds sent by the Fairy filled their sails, and together the two young men entered the King’s presence.
Rosimond spoke first and said, ‘You have believed me to be your son. I am not he, but I have brought him back to you.’ The King, filled with astonishment, turned to his real son and asked, ‘Was it not you, my son, who conquered my enemies and won such a glorious peace? Or is it true that you have been shipwrecked and taken captive, and that Rosimond has set you free?’
Rosimond spoke first and said, ‘You’ve believed me to be your son. I’m not him, but I’ve brought him back to you.’ The King, filled with astonishment, turned to his real son and asked, ‘Was it not you, my son, who defeated my enemies and achieved such a glorious peace? Or is it true that you were shipwrecked and taken captive, and that Rosimond has rescued you?’
‘Yes, my father,’ replied the Prince. ‘It is he who sought me out in my captivity and set me free, and to him I owe the happiness of seeing you once more. It was he, not I, who gained the victory.’
‘Yes, my father,’ replied the Prince. ‘He’s the one who found me during my captivity and freed me, and because of him, I have the joy of seeing you again. It was he, not me, who won the victory.’
The King could hardly believe his ears; but Rosimond, turning the ring, appeared before him in the likeness of the Prince, and the King gazed distractedly at the two youths who seemed both to be his son. Then he offered Rosimond immense rewards for his services, which were refused, and the only favour the young man would accept was that one of his posts at Court should be conferred on his brother Bramintho. For he feared for himself the changes of fortune, the envy of mankind and his own weakness. His desire was to go back to his mother and his native village, and to spend his time in cultivating the land.
The King could barely believe what he was hearing; but Rosimond, turning the ring, appeared before him looking just like the Prince. The King stared frantically at the two young men who both seemed to be his son. He offered Rosimond huge rewards for his help, but Rosimond declined them all. The only favor he was willing to accept was for one of his positions at Court to be given to his brother Bramintho. He worried about the unpredictability of fate, the jealousy of others, and his own vulnerabilities. His true wish was to return to his mother and his hometown, spending his days farming the land.
One day, when he was wandering through the woods, he met the Fairy, who showed him the cavern where his father was imprisoned, and told him what words he must use in order to set him free. He repeated them joyfully, for he had always longed to bring the old man back and to make his last days happy. Rosimond thus became the benefactor of all his family, and had the pleasure of doing good to those who had wished to do him evil. As for the Court, to whom he had rendered such services, all he asked was the freedom to live far from its corruption; and, to crown all, fearing that if he kept the ring he might be tempted to use it in order to regain his lost place in the world, he made up his mind to restore it to the Fairy. For many days he sought her up and down the woods and at last he found her. ‘I want to give you back,’ he said, holding out the ring, ‘a gift as dangerous as it is powerful, and which I fear to use wrongfully. I shall never feel safe till I have made it impossible for me to leave my solitude and to satisfy my passions.’
One day, while he was wandering through the woods, he met the Fairy, who showed him the cave where his father was imprisoned and told him the words he needed to say to set him free. He joyfully repeated them, as he had always wanted to bring the old man back and make his last days happy. Rosimond became the benefactor of his entire family and took pleasure in doing good for those who had wished him harm. As for the Court, to which he had rendered such services, all he asked for was the freedom to live away from its corruption; and to top it all off, fearing that if he kept the ring, he might be tempted to use it to regain his lost place in the world, he decided to return it to the Fairy. For many days, he searched the woods and eventually found her. “I want to give you back,” he said, extending the ring, “a gift that is as dangerous as it is powerful, and which I fear I might misuse. I will never feel safe until I make it impossible for me to leave my solitude and indulge my desires.”
While Rosimond was seeking to give back the ring to the Fairy, Bramintho, who had failed to learn any lessons from experience, gave way to all his desires, and tried to persuade the Prince, lately become King, to ill-treat Rosimond. But the Fairy, who knew all about everything, said to Rosimond, when he was imploring her to accept the ring:
While Rosimond was trying to return the ring to the Fairy, Bramintho, who had learned nothing from his past, gave in to all his cravings and attempted to convince the newly crowned King to mistreat Rosimond. But the Fairy, who was aware of everything, said to Rosimond, as he pleaded with her to take the ring:
‘Your wicked brother is doing his best to poison the mind of the King towards you, and to ruin you. He deserves to be punished, and he must die; and in order that he may destroy himself, I shall give the ring to him.’
‘Your evil brother is doing everything he can to turn the King against you and ruin your reputation. He deserves to be punished and must be put to death; and so that he can bring about his own downfall, I will give him the ring.’
Rosimond wept at these words, and then asked:
Rosimond cried at these words and then asked:
‘What do you mean by giving him the ring as a punishment? He will only use it to persecute everyone, and to become master.’
‘What do you mean by giving him the ring as a punishment? He’ll just use it to torment everyone and to take control.’
‘The same things,’ answered the Fairy, ‘are often a healing medicine to one person and a deadly poison to another. Prosperity is the source of all evil to a naturally wicked man. If you wish to punish a scoundrel, the first thing to do is to give him power. You will see that with this rope he will soon hang himself.’
‘The same things,’ replied the Fairy, ‘can be a cure for one person and a dangerous poison for another. For a naturally bad person, prosperity is the root of all evil. If you want to punish a wrongdoer, the first step is to give him power. You'll see that with this rope, he'll soon end up hanging himself.’
Having said this, she disappeared, and went straight to the Palace, where she showed herself to Bramintho under the disguise of an old woman covered with rags. She at once addressed him in these words:
Having said this, she vanished and headed straight to the Palace, where she revealed herself to Bramintho disguised as an old woman wrapped in rags. She immediately spoke to him with these words:
‘I have taken this ring from the hands of your brother, to whom I had lent it, and by its help he covered himself with glory. I now give it to you, and be careful what you do with it.’
‘I have taken this ring from your brother, to whom I lent it, and he used it to achieve great things. I'm giving it to you now, so be cautious with it.’
Bramintho replied with a laugh:
Bramintho laughed in response:
‘I shall certainly not imitate my brother, who was foolish enough to bring back the Prince instead of reigning in his place,’ and he was as good as his word. The only use he made of the ring was to find out family secrets and betray them, to commit murders and every sort of wickedness, and to gain wealth for himself unlawfully. All these crimes, which could be traced to nobody, filled the people with astonishment. The King, seeing so many affairs, public and private, exposed, was at first as puzzled as anyone, till Bramintho’s wonderful prosperity and amazing insolence made him suspect that the enchanted ring had become his property. In order to find out the truth he bribed a stranger just arrived at Court, one of a nation with whom the King was always at war, and arranged that he was to steal in the night to Bramintho and to offer him untold honours and rewards if he would betray the State secrets.
"I definitely won't be like my brother, who was foolish enough to bring back the Prince instead of taking his place as ruler," and he stuck to his word. The only thing he did with the ring was uncover family secrets and expose them, commit murders and all kinds of evil deeds, and illegally gain wealth for himself. All these crimes, which no one could connect to him, astonished the people. The King, seeing so many public and private matters brought to light, was initially as confused as anyone, until Bramintho's incredible success and outrageous confidence made him suspect that the enchanted ring had come into his possession. To find out the truth, he paid a newcomer to the Court, one from a nation that the King was always at war with, and arranged for him to sneak in during the night to Bramintho and offer him immense honors and rewards if he would reveal the State's secrets.
Bramintho promised everything, and accepted at once the first payment of his crime, boasting that he had a ring which rendered him invisible, and that by means of it he could penetrate into the most private places. But his triumph was short. Next day he was seized by order of the King, and his ring was taken from him. He was searched, and on him were found papers which proved his crimes; and, though Rosimond himself came back to the Court to entreat his pardon, it was refused. So Bramintho was put to death, and the ring had been even more fatal to him than it had been useful in the hands of his brother.
Bramintho promised everything and immediately accepted the first payment for his crime, bragging about having a ring that made him invisible, allowing him to access the most private places. But his victory was short-lived. The next day, he was arrested on the King’s orders, and his ring was taken away. He was searched, and they found papers on him that proved his crimes; even though Rosimond himself returned to the Court to plead for his pardon, it was denied. As a result, Bramintho was executed, and the ring ended up being more deadly for him than it had been useful in his brother’s hands.
To console Rosimond for the fate of Bramintho, the King gave him back the enchanted ring, as a pearl without price. The unhappy Rosimond did not look upon it in the same light, and the first thing he did on his return home was to seek the Fairy in the woods.
To comfort Rosimond for the loss of Bramintho, the King returned the enchanted ring to him, valuing it like a priceless pearl. However, the sad Rosimond didn’t see it that way, and the first thing he did when he got home was search for the Fairy in the woods.
‘Here,’ he said, ‘is your ring. My brother’s experience has made me understand many things that I did not know before. Keep it, it has only led to his destruction. Ah! without it he would be alive now, and my father and mother would not in their old age be bowed to the earth with shame and grief! Perhaps he might have been wise and happy if he had never had the chance of gratifying his wishes! Oh! how dangerous it is to have more power than the rest of the world! Take back your ring, and as ill fortune seems to follow all on whom you bestow it, I will implore you, as a favour to myself, that you will never give it to anyone who is dear to me.’
‘Here,’ he said, ‘is your ring. My brother’s experiences have taught me many things I didn’t understand before. Keep it; it has only brought him ruin. If only he didn’t have it, he would be alive now, and my parents wouldn’t be burdened with shame and grief in their old age! Maybe he could have been wise and happy if he had never had the chance to satisfy his desires! Oh! how dangerous it is to have more power than everyone else! Take back your ring, and since bad luck seems to follow everyone you give it to, I’m asking you, as a personal favor, to never give it to anyone I care about.’
Fenelon.
Fenelon.
THE SNUFF-BOX
As often happens in this world, there was once a young man who spent all his time in travelling. One day, as he was walking along, he picked up a snuff-box. He opened it, and the snuff-box said to him in the Spanish language, ‘What do you want?’ He was very much frightened, but, luckily, instead of throwing the box away, he only shut it tight, and put it in his pocket. Then he went on, away, away, away, and as he went he said to himself, ‘If it says to me again “What do you want?” I shall know better what to say this time.’ So he took out the snuff-box and opened it, and again it asked ‘What do you want?’ ‘My hat full of gold,’ answered the youth, and immediately it was full.
As often happens in this world, there was once a young man who spent all his time traveling. One day, while he was walking along, he picked up a snuff-box. He opened it, and the snuff-box said to him in Spanish, "What do you want?" He was very frightened, but luckily, instead of throwing the box away, he just shut it tight and put it in his pocket. Then he continued on, and as he walked, he said to himself, "If it asks me again 'What do you want?' I’ll know better what to say this time." So he took out the snuff-box and opened it again, and it asked, "What do you want?" "My hat full of gold," answered the young man, and immediately it was full.
Our young man was enchanted. Henceforth he should never be in need of anything. So on he travelled, away, away, away, through thick forests, till at last he came to a beautiful castle. In the castle there lived a King. The young man walked round and round the castle, not caring who saw him, till the King noticed him, and asked what he was doing there. ‘I was just looking at your castle.’ ‘You would like to have one like it, wouldn’t you?’ The young man did not reply, but when it grew dark he took his snuff-box and opened the lid. ‘What do you want?’ ‘Build me a castle with laths of gold and tiles of diamond, and the furniture all of silver and gold.’ He had scarcely finished speaking when there stood in front of him, exactly opposite the King’s palace, a castle built precisely as he had ordered. When the King awoke he was struck dumb at the sight of the magnificent house shining in the rays of the sun. The servants could not do their work for stopping to stare at it. Then the King dressed himself, and went to see the young man. And he told him plainly that he was a very powerful Prince; and that he hoped that they might all live together in one house or the other, and that the King would give him his daughter to wife. So it all turned out just as the King wished. The young man married the Princess, and they lived happily in the palace of gold.
Our young man was captivated. From then on, he would never need anything. So he continued his journey, away, away, away, through thick forests, until he finally arrived at a stunning castle. In that castle lived a King. The young man strolled around the castle, not caring who saw him, until the King noticed him and asked what he was doing there. “I was just admiring your castle.” “You’d like to have one like it, wouldn’t you?” The young man didn’t respond, but when night fell, he took out his snuff-box and opened the lid. “What do you want?” “Build me a castle with beams of gold and tiles of diamond, and all the furniture made of silver and gold.” He had barely finished speaking when, right in front of him, directly across from the King’s palace, stood a castle built exactly as he had requested. When the King awoke, he was speechless at the sight of the magnificent house shimmering in the sunlight. The servants couldn’t focus on their tasks because they were too busy staring at it. Then the King got dressed and went to see the young man. He told him outright that he was a very powerful Prince and that he hoped they could all live together in one house or the other, and that the King would give him his daughter as a wife. In the end, everything happened just as the King wanted. The young man married the Princess, and they lived happily in the palace of gold.
But the King’s wife was jealous both of the young man and of her own daughter. The Princess had told her mother about the snuff-box, which gave them everything they wanted, and the Queen bribed a servant to steal the snuff-box. They noticed carefully where it was put away every night, and one evening, when the whole world was asleep, the woman stole it and brought it to her old mistress. Oh how happy the Queen was! She opened the lid, and the snuff-box said to her ‘What do you want?’ And she answered at once ‘I want you to take me and my husband and my servants and this beautiful house and set us down on the other side of the Red Sea, but my daughter and her husband are to stay behind.’
But the King’s wife was jealous of both the young man and her own daughter. The Princess had told her mother about the snuff-box that granted them anything they desired, and the Queen paid a servant to steal the snuff-box. They carefully watched where it was kept every night, and one evening, when the whole world was asleep, the woman took it and brought it to her old mistress. Oh, how happy the Queen was! She opened the lid, and the snuff-box asked her, “What do you want?” She immediately replied, “I want you to take me, my husband, my servants, and this beautiful house and set us down on the other side of the Red Sea, but my daughter and her husband are to stay behind.”
When the young couple woke up, they found themselves back in the old castle, without their snuff-box. They hunted for it high and low, but quite vainly. The young man felt that no time was to be lost, and he mounted his horse and filled his pockets with as much gold as he could carry. On he went, away, away, away, but he sought the snuff-box in vain all up and down the neighbouring countries, and very soon he came to the end of all his money. But still he went on, as fast as the strength of his horse would let him, begging his way.
When the young couple woke up, they found themselves back in the old castle, without their snuff-box. They searched everywhere for it, but with no luck. The young man realized they needed to act quickly, so he hopped on his horse and stuffed his pockets with as much gold as he could carry. Off he went, searching desperately, but he looked high and low in the neighboring countries for the snuff-box and soon ran out of money. Nevertheless, he continued on, riding as fast as his horse could manage, relying on the kindness of others for help.
Someone told him that he ought to consult the moon, for the moon travelled far, and might be able to tell him something. So he went away, away, away, and ended, somehow or other, by reaching the land of the moon. There he found a little old woman who said to him ‘What are you doing here? My son eats all living things he sees, and if you are wise, you will go away without coming any further.’ But the young man told her all his sad tale, and how he possessed a wonderful snuff-box, and how it had been stolen from him, and how he had nothing left, now that he was parted from his wife and was in need of everything. And he said that perhaps her son, who travelled so far, might have seen a palace with laths of gold and tiles of diamond, and furnished all in silver and gold. As he spoke these last words, the moon came in and said he smelt mortal flesh and blood. But his mother told him that it was an unhappy man who had lost everything, and had come all this way to consult him, and bade the young man not to be afraid, but to come forward and show himself. So he went boldly up to the moon, and asked if by any accident he had seen a palace with the laths of gold and the tiles of diamond, and all the furniture of silver and gold. Once this house belonged to him, but now it was stolen. And the moon said no, but that the sun travelled farther than he did, and that the young man had better go and ask him.
Someone told him he should consult the moon because it traveled far and might have some answers. So he left, traveling and traveling, until he somehow reached the land of the moon. There, he met a little old woman who asked him, "What are you doing here? My son eats everything he sees, and if you're smart, you'll leave before it's too late." But the young man shared his sad story about his amazing snuff-box that had been stolen and how he had nothing left now that he was separated from his wife and needed everything. He mentioned that maybe her son, who traveled so far, might have seen a palace with golden beams and diamond tiles, all furnished in silver and gold. As he spoke those last words, the moon appeared and said it smelled mortal flesh and blood. But his mother told him it was just an unfortunate man who had lost everything and had come all this way to seek his help, urging the young man to not be afraid and to come forward. So he stepped up to the moon and asked if, by any chance, it had seen a palace with golden beams and diamond tiles, all furnished in silver and gold. That house used to belong to him, but now it had been stolen. The moon replied no, but said the sun traveled farther than it did, and that the young man should go and ask the sun instead.
So the young man departed, and went away, away, away, as well as his horse would take him, begging his living as he rode along, and, somehow or other, at last he got to the land of the sun. There he found a little old woman, who asked him, ‘What are you doing here? Go away. Have you not heard that my son feeds upon Christians?’ But he said no, and that he would not go, for he was so miserable that it was all one to him whether he died or not; that he had lost everything, and especially a splendid palace like none other in the whole world, for it had laths of gold and tiles of diamond, and all the furniture was of silver and gold. And that he had sought it far and long, and in all the earth there was no man more unhappy. So the old woman’s heart melted, and she agreed to hide him.
So the young man left and went as far as his horse could take him, hustling for food along the way, and eventually he reached the land of the sun. There, he met a little old woman who asked him, "What are you doing here? Leave. Haven't you heard that my son preys on Christians?" But he said no and that he wouldn't leave because he was so miserable that it didn't matter to him whether he lived or died. He had lost everything, especially a magnificent palace like none other in the world, with walls of gold and tiles of diamond, and all the furniture made of silver and gold. He had searched for it far and wide, and no one in the world was more unhappy than he was. The old woman's heart softened, and she agreed to hide him.
When the Sun arrived, he declared that he smelt Christian flesh, and he meant to have it for his dinner. But his mother told him such a pitiful story of the miserable wretch who had lost everything, and had come from far to ask his help, that at last he promised to see him.
When the Sun showed up, he said he could smell Christian flesh and intended to have it for his dinner. But his mother told him a heartbreaking story about a miserable person who had lost everything and had traveled a long way to ask for his help, so he finally agreed to meet him.
So the young man came out from his hiding-place and begged the sun to tell him if in the course of his travels he had not seen somewhere a palace that had not its like in the whole world, for its laths were of gold and its tiles of diamond, and all the furniture in silver and gold.
So the young man emerged from his hiding spot and asked the sun if, during its travels, it had seen a palace unlike any other in the world, with walls made of gold, diamond tiles, and furniture crafted from silver and gold.
And the sun said no, but that perhaps the wind had seen it, for he entered everywhere, and saw things that no one else ever saw, and if anyone knew where it was, it was certainly the wind.
And the sun said no, but maybe the wind had seen it, because he went everywhere and noticed things no one else ever did. If anyone knew where it was, it was definitely the wind.
Then the poor young man again set forth as well as his horse could take him, begging his living as he went, and, somehow or other, he ended by reaching the home of the wind. He found there a little old woman busily occupied in filling great barrels with water. She asked him what had put it into his head to come there, for her son ate everything he saw, and that he would shortly arrive quite mad, and that the young man had better look out. But he answered that he was so unhappy that he had ceased to mind anything, even being eaten, and then he told her that he had been robbed of a palace that had not its equal in all the world, and of all that was in it, and that he had even left his wife, and was wandering over the world until he found it. And that it was the sun who had sent him to consult the wind. So she hid him under the staircase, and soon they heard the south wind arrive, shaking the house to its foundations. Thirsty as he was, he did not wait to drink, but he told his mother that he smelt the blood of a Christian man, and that she had better bring him out at once and make him ready to be eaten. But she bade her son eat and drink what was before him, and said that the poor young man was much to be pitied, and that the sun had granted him his life in order that he might consult the wind. Then she brought out the young man, who explained how he was seeking for his palace, and that no man had been able to tell him where it was, so he had come to the wind. And he added that he had been shamefully robbed, and that the laths were of gold and the tiles of diamond, and all the furniture in silver and gold, and he inquired if the wind had not seen such a palace during his wanderings.
Then the poor young man set off again, as far as his horse could carry him, begging for food along the way, and somehow he ended up at the home of the wind. There, he found a little old woman busy filling large barrels with water. She asked him why he had come there, noting that her son ate everything he came across, and that he would soon arrive in a frenzy, so the young man should be careful. But he replied that he was so unhappy that he didn’t care about anything anymore, even the prospect of being eaten. He then told her that he had been robbed of a palace that was unmatched in the world, along with everything inside it, and that he had even left his wife behind, wandering the world until he could find it. It was the sun who had sent him to consult the wind. So she hid him under the stairs, and soon they heard the south wind arrive, shaking the house to its core. Despite being thirsty, he didn’t pause to drink but told his mother that he smelled the blood of a Christian man and that she should bring him out immediately and prepare him to be eaten. But she urged her son to eat and drink what was in front of him and said that the poor young man deserved sympathy, and that the sun had spared his life so he could consult the wind. Then she brought out the young man, who explained that he was searching for his palace, but no one had been able to tell him where it was, so he had come to the wind. He added that he had been robbed shamefully, with golden beams and diamond tiles, and all the furniture made of silver and gold, and he asked if the wind had seen such a palace during its travels.
And the wind said yes, and that all that day he had been blowing backwards and forwards over it without being able to move one single tile. ‘Oh, do tell me where it is,’ cried the you man. ‘It is a long way off,’ replied the wind, ‘on the other side of the Red Sea.’ But our traveller was not discouraged, he had already journeyed too far.
And the wind said yes, and it had been blowing back and forth all day without being able to move a single tile. ‘Oh, please tell me where it is,’ cried the young man. ‘It’s far away,’ replied the wind, ‘on the other side of the Red Sea.’ But our traveler wasn’t discouraged; he had already traveled too far.
So he set forth at once, and, somehow or other, he managed to reach that distant land. And he enquired if anyone wanted a gardener. He was told that the head gardener at the castle had just left, and perhaps he might have a chance of getting the place. The young man lost no time, but walked up to the castle and asked if they were in want of a gardener; and how happy he was when they agreed to take him! Now he passed most of his day in gossiping with the servants about the wealth of their masters and the wonderful things in the house. He made friends with one of the maids, who told him the history of the snuff-box, and he coaxed her to let him see it. One evening she managed to get hold of it, and the young man watched carefully where she hid it away, in a secret place in the bedchamber of her mistress.
So he immediately set out, and somehow he managed to reach that faraway land. He asked if anyone needed a gardener. He learned that the head gardener at the castle had just left, and he might have a shot at getting the job. The young man wasted no time, walked up to the castle, and asked if they were looking for a gardener. He was so happy when they agreed to hire him! Most of his day was spent chatting with the servants about their wealthy employers and the amazing things in the house. He became friends with one of the maids, who told him the story of a snuff-box, and he convinced her to let him see it. One evening, she managed to get it, and the young man paid close attention to where she hid it, in a secret spot in her mistress's bedroom.
The following night, when everyone was fast asleep, he crept in and took the snuff-box. Think of his joy as he opened the lid! When it asked him, as of yore, ‘What do you want?’ he replied: ‘What do I want? What do I want? Why, I want to go with my palace to the old place, and for the King and the Queen and all their servants to be drowned in the Red Sea.’ He hardly finished speaking when he found himself back again with his wife, while all the other inhabitants of the palace were lying at the bottom of the Red Sea.
The next night, when everyone was sound asleep, he sneaked in and took the snuff-box. Imagine his joy when he opened the lid! When it asked him, just like before, “What do you want?” he answered, “What do I want? What do I want? Well, I want my palace to go back to the old place, and for the King, the Queen, and all their servants to be drowned in the Red Sea.” He had barely finished speaking when he found himself back with his wife, while all the other people in the palace were at the bottom of the Red Sea.
Sebillot.
Sebillot.
THE GOLDEN BLACKBIRD
Once upon a time there was a great lord who had three sons. He fell very ill, sent for doctors of every kind, even bonesetters, but they, none of them, could find out what was the matter with him, or even give him any relief. At last there came a foreign doctor, who declared that the Golden Blackbird alone could cure the sick man.
Once there was a powerful lord with three sons. He got very sick and called for every kind of doctor, even folk healers, but none of them could figure out what was wrong or offer any relief. Finally, a foreign doctor arrived and said that only the Golden Blackbird could heal the lord.
So the old lord despatched his eldest son to look for the wonderful bird, and promised him great riches if he managed to find it and bring it back.
So the old lord sent his eldest son to search for the magical bird and promised him great rewards if he succeeded in finding it and bringing it back.
The young man began his journey, and soon arrived at a place where four roads met. He did not know which to choose, and tossed his cap in the air, determining that the direction of its fall should decide him. After travelling for two or three days, he grew tired of walking without knowing where or for how long, and he stopped at an inn which was filled with merrymakers and ordered something to eat and drink.
The young man started his journey and soon came to a crossroads. Unsure of which path to take, he threw his cap in the air, deciding that the direction it landed would determine his choice. After walking for two or three days, he became tired of wandering aimlessly and stopped at an inn full of revelers, where he ordered some food and drinks.
‘My faith,’ said he, ‘it is sheer folly to waste more time hunting for this bird. My father is old, and if he dies I shall inherit his goods.’
‘My faith,’ he said, ‘it's complete nonsense to waste any more time looking for this bird. My father is old, and if he dies, I’ll inherit his stuff.’
The old man, after waiting patiently for some time, sent his second son to seek the Golden Blackbird. The youth took the same direction as his brother, and when he came to the cross roads, he too tossed up which road he should take. The cap fell in the same place as before, and he walked on till he came to the spot where his brother had halted. The latter, who was leaning out of the window of the inn, called to him to stay where he was and amuse himself.
The old man, after waiting patiently for a while, sent his second son to find the Golden Blackbird. The young man took the same path as his brother, and when he reached the crossroads, he also tossed his cap to decide which way to go. The cap landed in the same spot as before, and he continued walking until he got to where his brother had stopped. The latter, leaning out of the inn's window, called to him to stay where he was and keep himself entertained.
‘You are right,’ replied the youth. ‘Who knows if I should ever find the Golden Blackbird, even if I sought the whole world through for it. At the worst, if the old man dies, we shall have his property.’
‘You’re right,’ the young man replied. ‘Who knows if I’ll ever find the Golden Blackbird, even if I search the entire world for it? At the very least, if the old man passes away, we’ll inherit his property.’
He entered the inn and the two brothers made merry and feasted, till very soon their money was all spent. They even owed something to their landlord, who kept them as hostages till they could pay their debts.
He walked into the inn, and the two brothers celebrated and had a feast until their money quickly ran out. They even owed some money to their landlord, who kept them as hostages until they could settle their debts.
The youngest son set forth in his turn, and he arrived at the place where his brothers were still prisoners. They called to him to stop, and did all they could to prevent his going further.
The youngest son went next, and he reached the spot where his brothers were still being held captive. They shouted at him to stop and did everything they could to stop him from going any further.
‘No,’ he replied, ‘my father trusted me, and I will go all over the world till I find the Golden Blackbird.’
‘No,’ he replied, ‘my dad believed in me, and I will travel everywhere until I find the Golden Blackbird.’
‘Bah,’ said his brothers, ‘you will never succeed any better than we did. Let him die if he wants to; we will divide the property.’
‘Bah,’ said his brothers, ‘you’ll never do any better than we did. Let him die if he wants; we’ll split the inheritance.’
As he went his way he met a little hare, who stopped to look at him, and asked:
As he was walking, he came across a small hare that paused to look at him and asked:
‘Where are you going, my friend?’
‘Where are you headed, my friend?’
‘I really don’t quite know,’ answered he. ‘My father is ill, and he cannot be cured unless I bring him back the Golden Blackbird. It is a long time since I set out, but no one can tell me where to find it.’
‘I really don’t know,’ he replied. ‘My dad is sick, and he can’t be cured unless I bring him back the Golden Blackbird. It's been a long time since I left, but no one can tell me where to find it.’
‘Ah,’ said the hare, ‘you have a long way to go yet. You will have to walk at least seven hundred miles before you get to it.’
‘Ah,’ said the hare, ‘you still have a long way to go. You’ll need to walk at least seven hundred miles before you reach it.’
‘And how am I to travel such a distance?’
‘And how am I supposed to travel such a distance?’
‘Mount on my back,’ said the little hare, ‘and I will conduct you.’
'Climb on my back,' said the little hare, 'and I'll lead you.'
The young man obeyed: at each bound the little hare went seven miles, and it was not long before they reached a castle that was as large and beautiful as a castle could be.
The young man followed the command: with every leap, the little hare traveled seven miles, and soon they arrived at a castle that was as grand and stunning as a castle could be.
‘The Golden Blackbird is in a little cabin near by,’ said the little hare, ‘and you will easily find it. It lives in a little cage, with another cage beside it made all of gold. But whatever you do, be sure not to put it in the beautiful cage, or everybody in the castle will know that you have stolen it.’
‘The Golden Blackbird is in a nearby cabin,’ said the little hare, ‘and you’ll find it easily. It’s in a small cage, with another cage next to it made entirely of gold. But whatever you do, make sure not to put it in the beautiful cage, or everyone in the castle will know that you’ve stolen it.’
The youth found the Golden Blackbird standing on a wooden perch, but as stiff and rigid as if he was dead. And beside the beautiful cage was the cage of gold.
The young person discovered the Golden Blackbird perched on a wooden stand, but it was so stiff and still that it looked dead. Next to the beautiful cage was the golden cage.
‘Perhaps he would revive if I were to put him in that lovely cage,’ thought the youth.
‘Maybe he would come back to life if I put him in that beautiful cage,’ thought the young man.
The moment that Golden Bird had touched the bars of the splendid cage he awoke, and began to whistle, so that all the servants of the castle ran to see what was the matter, saying that he was a thief and must be put in prison.
The moment Golden Bird touched the bars of the beautiful cage, he woke up and started to whistle, causing all the castle servants to rush over to see what was happening, claiming that he was a thief and needed to be locked up.
‘No,’ he answered, ‘I am not a thief. If I have taken the Golden Blackbird, it is only that it may cure my father, who is ill, and I have travelled more than seven hundred miles in order to find it.’
‘No,’ he replied, ‘I’m not a thief. If I took the Golden Blackbird, it was only to help cure my father, who is sick, and I’ve traveled over seven hundred miles to find it.’
‘Well,’ they replied, ‘we will let you go, and will even give you the Golden Bird, if you are able to bring us the Porcelain Maiden.’
‘Well,’ they said, ‘we’ll let you go, and we’ll even give you the Golden Bird, if you can bring us the Porcelain Maiden.’
The youth departed, weeping, and met the little hare, who was munching wild thyme.
The young person left, crying, and came across the little hare, which was eating wild thyme.
‘What are you crying for, my friend?’ asked the hare.
‘What are you crying for, my friend?’ the hare asked.
‘It is because,’ he answered, ‘the castle people will not allow me to carry off the Golden Blackbird without giving them the Porcelain Maiden in exchange.’
‘It’s because,’ he answered, ‘the people at the castle won’t let me take the Golden Blackbird unless I give them the Porcelain Maiden in return.’
‘You have not followed my advice,’ said the little hare. ‘And you have put the Golden Bird into the fine cage.’
‘You didn’t take my advice,’ said the little hare. ‘And you’ve put the Golden Bird in the nice cage.’
‘Alas! yes!’
"Yes!"
‘Don’t despair! the Porcelain Maiden is a young girl, beautiful as Venus, who dwells two hundred miles from here. Jump on my back and I will take you there.’
‘Don't lose hope! The Porcelain Maiden is a young girl, as beautiful as Venus, who lives two hundred miles from here. Climb onto my back and I’ll take you there.’
The little hare, who took seven miles in a stride, was there in no time at all, and he stopped on the borders of a lake.
The little hare, who could leap seven miles in a single bound, arrived in no time and paused at the edge of a lake.
‘The Porcelain Maiden,’ said the hare to the youth, ‘will come here to bathe with her friends, while I just eat a mouthful of thyme to refresh me. When she is in the lake, be sure you hide her clothes, which are of dazzling whiteness, and do not give them back to her unless she consents to follow you.’
‘The Porcelain Maiden,’ said the hare to the young man, ‘will come here to bathe with her friends while I just grab a bite of thyme to refresh myself. When she’s in the lake, make sure you hide her clothes, which are incredibly white, and don’t give them back to her unless she agrees to follow you.’
The little hare left him, and almost immediately the Porcelain Maiden arrived with her friends. She undressed herself and got into the water. Then the young man glided up noiselessly and laid hold of her clothes, which he hid under a rock at some distance.
The little hare left him, and almost right away the Porcelain Maiden showed up with her friends. She took off her clothes and got into the water. Then the young man silently approached and grabbed her clothes, which he hid under a rock a little way off.
When the Porcelain Maiden was tired of playing in the water she came out to dress herself, but, though she hunted for her clothes high and low, she could find them nowhere. Her friends helped her in the search, but, seeing at last that it was of no use, they left her, alone on the bank, weeping bitterly.
When the Porcelain Maiden got tired of playing in the water, she came out to get dressed, but no matter how hard she looked for her clothes, she couldn’t find them anywhere. Her friends helped her search, but when they realized it was hopeless, they left her alone on the bank, crying bitterly.
‘Why do you cry?’ said the young man, approaching her.
‘Why are you crying?’ said the young man, walking over to her.
‘Alas!’ answered she, ‘while I was bathing someone stole my clothes, and my friends have abandoned me.’
“Dear me!” she replied, “while I was bathing, someone took my clothes, and my friends have left me behind.”
‘I will find your clothes if you will only come with me.’
‘I’ll find your clothes if you just come with me.’
And the Porcelain Maiden agreed to follow him, and after having given up her clothes, the young man bought a small horse for her, which went like the wind. The little hare brought them both back to seek for the Golden Blackbird, and when they drew near to the castle where it lived the little hero said to the young man:
And the Porcelain Maiden agreed to follow him, and after she gave up her clothes, the young man bought her a small horse that galloped quickly. The little hare brought them both back to look for the Golden Blackbird, and as they approached the castle where it lived, the little hero said to the young man:
‘Now, do be a little sharper than you were before, and you will manage to carry off both the Golden Blackbird and the Porcelain Maiden. Take the golden cage in one hand, and leave the bird in the old cage where he is, and bring that away too.’
‘Now, be a bit more clever than you were before, and you’ll be able to take both the Golden Blackbird and the Porcelain Maiden. Grab the golden cage in one hand, leave the bird in the old cage where he is, and bring that one back too.’
The little hare then vanished; the youth did as he was bid, and the castle servants never noticed that he was carrying off the Golden Bird. When he reached the inn where his brothers were detained, he delivered them by paying their debt. They set out all together, but as the two elder brothers were jealous of the success of the youngest, they took the opportunity as they were passing by the shores of a lake to throw themselves upon him, seize the Golden Bird, and fling him in the water. Then they continued their journey, taking with them the Porcelain Maiden, in the firm belief that their brother was drowned. But, happily, he had snatched in falling at a tuft of rushes and called loudly for help. The little hare came running to him, and said ‘Take hold of my leg and pull yourself out of the water.’
The little hare then disappeared; the young man did as instructed, and the castle servants didn't notice he was taking the Golden Bird. When he got to the inn where his brothers were held, he paid their debt and freed them. They set off together, but since the two older brothers were jealous of the youngest's success, they seized the chance to attack him by the lake’s edge, grab the Golden Bird, and throw him into the water. They continued on their way, taking the Porcelain Maiden with them, believing their brother had drowned. Luckily, he managed to grab onto a patch of rushes as he fell and shouted for help. The little hare ran over to him and said, "Grab my leg and pull yourself out of the water."
When he was safe on shore the little hare said to him:
When he was safely on shore, the little hare said to him:
‘Now this is what you have to do: dress yourself like a Breton seeking a place as stable-boy, and go and offer your services to your father. Once there, you will easily be able to make him understand the truth.’
‘Now this is what you need to do: dress like a Breton looking for a job as a stable boy, and go offer your services to your father. Once you’re there, you’ll be able to make him understand the truth easily.’
The young man did as the little hare bade him, and he went to his father’s castle and enquired if they were not in want of a stable-boy.
The young man did what the little hare asked him to do, and he went to his father’s castle and asked if they needed a stable boy.
‘Yes,’ replied his father, ‘very much indeed. But it is not an easy place. There is a little horse in the stable which will not let anyone go near it, and it has already kicked to death several people who have tried to groom it.’
‘Yes,’ replied his father, ‘a lot. But it’s not an easy place. There’s a little horse in the stable that won't let anyone get close, and it has already kicked several people to death who tried to groom it.’
‘I will undertake to groom it,’ said the youth. ‘I never saw the horse I was afraid of yet.’ The little horse allowed itself to be rubbed down without a toss of its head and without a kick.
‘I’ll take care of grooming it,’ said the young man. ‘I’ve never seen a horse that I was scared of before.’ The little horse stood still while it was brushed, not tossing its head or kicking at all.
‘Good gracious!’ exclaimed the master; ‘how is it that he lets you touch him, when no one else can go near him?’
‘Good gracious!’ exclaimed the master; ‘how come he lets you touch him when no one else can get close?’
‘Perhaps he knows me,’ answered the stable-boy.
‘Maybe he knows me,’ replied the stable-boy.
Two or three days later the master said to him: ‘The Porcelain Maiden is here: but, though she is as lovely as the dawn, she is so wicked that she scratches everyone that approaches her. Try if she will accept your services.’
Two or three days later, the master said to him: ‘The Porcelain Maiden is here: but, even though she is as beautiful as the dawn, she is so wicked that she scratches everyone who comes near her. See if she will accept your help.’
When the youth entered the room where she was, the Golden Blackbird broke forth into a joyful song, and the Porcelain Maiden sang too, and jumped for joy.
When the young person entered the room where she was, the Golden Blackbird burst into a joyful song, and the Porcelain Maiden sang as well, jumping with happiness.
‘Good gracious!’ cried the master. ‘The Porcelain Maiden and the Golden Blackbird know you too?’
‘Oh my goodness!’ exclaimed the master. ‘The Porcelain Maiden and the Golden Blackbird know you as well?’
‘Yes,’ replied the youth, ‘and the Porcelain Maiden can tell you the whole truth, if she only will.’
‘Yes,’ replied the young man, ‘and the Porcelain Maiden can tell you the whole truth, if she wants to.’
Then she told all that had happened, and how she had consented to follow the young man who had captured the Golden Blackbird.
Then she explained everything that had happened and how she had agreed to follow the young man who had caught the Golden Blackbird.
‘Yes,’ added the youth, ‘I delivered my brothers, who were kept prisoners in an inn, and, as a reward, they threw me into a lake. So I disguised myself and came here, in order to prove the truth to you.’
‘Yes,’ the young man added, ‘I rescued my brothers, who were held captive in an inn, and, as a thank you, they threw me into a lake. So I changed my appearance and came here to show you the truth.’
So the old lord embraced his son, and promised that he should inherit all his possessions, and he put to death the two elder ones, who had deceived him and had tried to slay their own brother.
So the old lord hugged his son and promised that he would inherit all his possessions. He executed the two older sons who had betrayed him and tried to kill their own brother.
The young man married the Porcelain Maiden, and had a splendid wedding-feast.
The young man married the Porcelain Maiden and had an amazing wedding feast.
Sebillot.
Sebillot.
THE LITTLE SOLDIER
I
I
Once upon a time there was a little soldier who had just come back from the war. He was a brave little fellow, but he had lost neither arms nor legs in battle. Still, the fighting was ended and the army disbanded, so he had to return to the village where he was born.
Once upon a time, there was a little soldier who had just returned from the war. He was a brave young guy, but he hadn't lost any arms or legs in battle. Still, the fighting was over and the army was disbanded, so he had to go back to the village where he was born.
Now the soldier’s name was really John, but for some reason or other his friends always called him the Kinglet; why, no one ever knew, but so it was.
Now the soldier’s name was really John, but for some reason, his friends always called him the Kinglet; why, no one ever knew, but that’s how it was.
As he had no father or mother to welcome him home, he did not hurry himself, but went quietly along, his knapsack on his back and his sword by his side, when suddenly one evening he was seized with a wish to light his pipe. He felt for his match-box to strike a light, but to his great disgust he found he had lost it.
As he had no parents waiting for him at home, he didn't rush, but strolled slowly, his backpack on his back and his sword by his side, when suddenly one evening he got a craving to light his pipe. He searched for his matchbox to spark a flame, but to his great disappointment, he discovered he had lost it.
He had only gone about a stone’s throw after making this discovery when he noticed a light shining through the trees. He went towards it, and perceived before him an old castle, with the door standing open.
He had only gone a short distance after making this discovery when he noticed a light shining through the trees. He moved toward it and saw an old castle ahead of him, with the door standing open.
The little soldier entered the courtyard, and, peeping through a window, saw a large fire blazing at the end of a low hall. He put his pipe in his pocket and knocked gently, saying politely:
The little soldier walked into the courtyard and, looking through a window, saw a big fire burning at the end of a low hallway. He put his pipe away in his pocket and knocked softly, saying politely:
‘Would you give me a light?’
‘Can you light this for me?’
But he got no answer.
But he got no reply.
After waiting for a moment John knocked again, this time more loudly. There was still no reply.
After waiting for a moment, John knocked again, this time more loudly. There was still no reply.
He raised the latch and entered; the hall was empty.
He lifted the latch and walked in; the hallway was empty.
The little soldier made straight for the fireplace, seized the tongs, and was stooping down to look for a nice red hot coal with which to light his pipe, when clic! something went, like a spring giving way, and in the very midst of the flames an enormous serpent reared itself up close to his face.
The little soldier headed straight for the fireplace, grabbed the tongs, and bent down to search for a nice red-hot coal to light his pipe when suddenly, clic! Something snapped, like a spring breaking, and right in the middle of the flames, a huge serpent lifted itself up close to his face.
And what was more strange still, this serpent had the head of a woman.
And what was even stranger, this serpent had the head of a woman.
At such an unexpected sight many men would have turned and run for their lives; but the little soldier, though he was so small, had a true soldier’s heart. He only made one step backwards, and grasped the hilt of his sword.
At such an unexpected sight, many men would have turned and run for their lives; but the little soldier, despite his size, had the heart of a true soldier. He only took one step back and grabbed the hilt of his sword.
‘Don’t unsheath it,’ said the serpent. ‘I have been waiting for you, as it is you who must deliver me.’
‘Don’t pull it out,’ said the serpent. ‘I’ve been waiting for you, because it’s you who has to set me free.’
‘Who are you?’
"Who are you?"
‘My name is Ludovine, and I am the daughter of the King of the Low Countries. Deliver me, and I will marry you and make you happy for ever after.’
‘My name is Ludovine, and I’m the daughter of the King of the Low Countries. Save me, and I’ll marry you and make you happy forever.’
Now, some people might not have liked the notion of being made happy by a serpent with the head of a woman, but the Kinglet had no such fears. And, besides, he felt the fascination of Ludovine’s eyes, which looked at him as a snake looks at a little bird. They were beautiful green eyes, not round like those of a cat, but long and almond-shaped, and they shone with a strange light, and the golden hair which floated round them seemed all the brighter for their lustre. The face had the beauty of an angel, though the body was only that of a serpent.
Now, some people might not have been comfortable with the idea of being made happy by a serpent with a woman's head, but the little king felt no such concerns. Plus, he was captivated by Ludovine’s eyes, which watched him like a snake watches a small bird. They were beautiful green eyes, not round like a cat's, but long and almond-shaped, shining with an unusual light, and the golden hair that floated around them seemed even brighter next to their glow. The face had the beauty of an angel, even though the body was just that of a serpent.
‘What must I do?’ asked the Kinglet.
'What should I do?' asked the Kinglet.
‘Open that door. You will find yourself in a gallery with a room at the end just like this. Cross that, and you will see a closet, out of which you must take a tunic, and bring it back to me.’
‘Open that door. You'll find yourself in a gallery with a room at the end just like this one. Cross that, and you'll see a closet. You need to take a tunic from it and bring it back to me.’
The little soldier boldly prepared to do as he was told. He crossed the gallery in safety, but when he reached the room he saw by the light of the stars eight hands on a level with his face, which threatened to strike him. And, turn his eyes which way he would, he could discover no bodies belonging to them.
The little soldier bravely got ready to follow orders. He made it across the gallery safely, but when he got to the room, he saw by the starlight eight hands at face level, ready to hit him. No matter how he looked, he couldn't find any bodies attached to those hands.
He lowered his head and rushed forward amidst a storm of blows, which he returned with his fists. When he got to the closet, he opened it, took down the tunic, and brought it to the first room.
He bent his head and charged forward into a barrage of punches, which he countered with his fists. When he reached the closet, he opened it, grabbed the tunic, and took it to the first room.
‘Here it is,’ he panted, rather out of breath.
‘Here it is,’ he gasped, a bit out of breath.
‘Clic!’ once more the flames parted. Ludovine was a woman down to her waist. She took the tunic and put it on.
‘Click!’ once again the flames split apart. Ludovine was a woman down to her waist. She picked up the tunic and put it on.
It was a magnificent tunic of orange velvet, embroidered in pearls, but the pearls were not so white as her own neck.
It was a stunning orange velvet tunic, decorated with pearls, but the pearls weren't as white as her own neck.
‘That is not all,’ she said. ‘Go to the gallery, take the staircase which is on the left, and in the second room on the first story you will find another closet with my skirt. Bring this to me.’
‘That’s not everything,’ she said. ‘Head to the gallery, take the staircase on the left, and in the second room on the first floor, you’ll find another closet with my skirt. Please bring it to me.’
The Kinglet did as he was told, but in entering the room he saw, instead of merely hands, eight arms, each holding an enormous stick. He instantly unsheathed his sword and cut his way through with such vigour that he hardly received a scratch.
The Kinglet did what he was told, but when he entered the room, he saw not just hands, but eight arms, each holding a massive stick. He quickly drew his sword and fought his way through with such force that he barely got a scratch.
He brought back the skirt, which was made of silk as blue as the skies of Spain.
He brought back the skirt, which was made of silk as blue as the skies in Spain.
‘Here it is,’ said John, as the serpent appeared. She was now a woman as far as her knees.
‘Here it is,’ said John, as the serpent showed up. She was now a woman up to her knees.
‘I only want my shoes and stockings now,’ she said. ‘Go and get them from the closet which is on the second story.’
‘I just want my shoes and stockings now,’ she said. ‘Go and get them from the closet on the second floor.’
The little soldier departed, and found himself in the presence of eight goblins armed with hammers, and flames darting from their eyes. This time he stopped short at the threshold. ‘My sword is no use,’ he thought to himself; ‘these wretches will break it like glass, and if I can’t think of anything else, I am a dead man.’ At this moment his eyes fell on the door, which was made of oak, thick and heavy. He wrenched it off its hinges and held it over his head, and then went straight at the goblins, whom he crushed beneath it. After that he took the shoes and stockings out of the closet and brought them to Ludovine, who, directly she had put them on, became a woman all over.
The little soldier left and found himself face-to-face with eight goblins armed with hammers, their eyes shooting flames. This time, he stopped in his tracks at the door. ‘My sword won’t help,’ he thought; ‘these creatures will shatter it like glass, and if I don’t come up with another idea, I’m a dead man.’ Just then, he noticed the door, thick and heavy, made of oak. He yanked it off its hinges and held it over his head, then charged at the goblins, smashing them beneath it. After that, he grabbed the shoes and stockings from the closet and took them to Ludovine, who, as soon as she put them on, transformed into a woman completely.
When she was quite dressed in her white silk stockings and little blue slippers dotted over with carbuncles, she said to her deliverer, ‘Now you must go away, and never come back here, whatever happens. Here is a purse with two hundred ducats. Sleep to-night at the inn which is at the edge of the wood, and awake early in the morning: for at nine o’clock I shall pass the door, and shall take you up in my carriage.’ ‘Why shouldn’t we go now?’ asked the little soldier. ‘Because the time has not yet come,’ said the Princess. ‘But first you may drink my health in this glass of wine,’ and as she spoke she filled a crystal goblet with a liquid that looked like melted gold.
When she was all dressed up in her white silk stockings and little blue slippers covered in jewels, she said to her rescuer, “Now you have to leave and never come back here, no matter what. Here’s a purse with two hundred ducats. Spend the night at the inn on the edge of the woods, and wake up early tomorrow morning because at nine o’clock I’ll pass by and pick you up in my carriage.” “Why can’t we go now?” asked the little soldier. “Because the time isn’t right yet,” replied the Princess. “But first, you can drink to my health with this glass of wine,” and as she said that, she poured a crystal goblet full of a liquid that looked like melted gold.
John drank, then lit his pipe and went out.
John took a drink, then lit his pipe and stepped outside.
II
II
When he arrived at the inn he ordered supper, but no sooner had he sat down to eat it than he felt that he was going sound asleep.
When he got to the inn, he ordered dinner, but as soon as he sat down to eat, he realized he was starting to fall asleep.
‘I must be more tired than I thought,’ he said to himself, and, after telling them to be sure to wake him next morning at eight o’clock, he went to bed.
‘I must be more tired than I realized,’ he said to himself, and after telling them to make sure to wake him up the next morning at eight o’clock, he went to bed.
All night long he slept like a dead man. At eight o’clock they came to wake him, and at half-past, and a quarter of an hour later, but it was no use; and at last they decided to leave him in peace.
All night he slept like a log. They came to wake him at eight o’clock, then again at half-past and fifteen minutes later, but nothing worked; finally, they decided to let him rest.
The clocks were striking twelve when John awoke. He sprang out of bed, and, scarcely waiting to dress himself, hastened to ask if anyone had been to inquire for him.
The clocks were striking twelve when John woke up. He jumped out of bed and barely taking the time to get dressed, rushed to see if anyone had come to ask for him.
‘There came a lovely princess,’ replied the landlady, ‘in a coach of gold. She left you this bouquet, and a message to say that she would pass this way to-morrow morning at eight o’clock.’
‘A beautiful princess came by,’ replied the landlady, ‘in a golden coach. She left you this bouquet and a message saying she would come this way tomorrow morning at eight o’clock.’
The little soldier cursed his sleep, but tried to console himself by looking at his bouquet, which was of immortelles.
The young soldier cursed his sleep, but tried to comfort himself by looking at his bouquet, which was made of everlasting flowers.
‘It is the flower of remembrance,’ thought he, forgetting that it is also the flower of the dead.
‘It is the flower of remembrance,’ he thought, forgetting that it is also the flower of the dead.
When the night came, he slept with one eye open, and jumped up twenty times an hour. When the birds began to sing he could lie still no longer, and climbed out of his window into the branches of one of the great lime-trees that stood before the door. There he sat, dreamily gazing at his bouquet till he ended by going fast asleep.
When night fell, he slept with one eye open and jumped up twenty times an hour. When the birds started to sing, he couldn't lie still anymore and climbed out of his window into the branches of one of the big lime trees in front of the door. There, he sat, dreamily looking at his bouquet until he eventually fell fast asleep.
Once asleep, nothing was able to wake him; neither the brightness of the sun, nor the songs of the birds, nor the noise of Ludovine’s golden coach, nor the cries of the landlady who sought him in every place she could think of.
Once he was asleep, nothing could wake him; not the bright sun, not the songs of the birds, not the sound of Ludovine’s golden coach, nor the calls of the landlady searching for him everywhere she could think of.
As the clock struck twelve he woke, and his heart sank as he came down out of his tree and saw them laying the table for dinner.
As the clock hit twelve, he woke up, and his heart dropped when he climbed down from his tree and saw them setting the table for dinner.
‘Did the Princess come?’ he asked.
‘Did the princess arrive?’ he asked.
‘Yes, indeed, she did. She left this flower-coloured scarf for you; said she would pass by to-morrow at seven o’clock, but it would be the last time.’
‘Yes, she really did. She left this flower-colored scarf for you; she said she would stop by tomorrow at seven o’clock, but it would be the last time.’
‘I must have been bewitched,’ thought the little soldier. Then he took the scarf, which had a strange kind of scent, and tied it round his left arm, thinking all the while that the best way to keep awake was not to go to bed at all. So he paid his bill, and bought a horse with the money that remained, and when the evening came he mounted his horse and stood in front of the inn door, determined to stay there all night.
‘I must have been charmed,’ thought the little soldier. Then he took the scarf, which had a strange scent, and tied it around his left arm, thinking that the best way to stay awake was not to go to bed at all. So he paid his bill, bought a horse with the remaining money, and when evening came, he mounted his horse and stood in front of the inn door, determined to stay there all night.
Every now and then he stooped to smell the sweet perfume of the scarf round his arm; and gradually he smelt it so often that at last his head sank on to the horse’s neck, and he and his horse snored in company.
Every now and then, he bent down to smell the sweet scent of the scarf around his arm; and over time, he smelled it so frequently that eventually his head fell onto the horse’s neck, and he and his horse snored together.
When the Princess arrived, they shook him, and beat him, and screamed at him, but it was all no good. Neither man nor horse woke till the coach was seen vanishing away in the distance.
When the Princess arrived, they shook him, beat him, and yelled at him, but it was all useless. Neither he nor the horse woke up until they saw the coach disappearing in the distance.
Then John put spurs to his horse, calling with all his might ‘Stop! stop!’ But the coach drove on as before, and though the little soldier rode after it for a day and a night, he never got one step nearer.
Then John urged his horse forward, shouting at the top of his lungs, “Stop! Stop!” But the coach continued on its way, and even though the little soldier chased it for a day and a night, he never got any closer.
Thus they left many villages and towns behind them, till they came to the sea itself. Here John thought that at last the coach must stop, but, wonder of wonders! it went straight on, and rolled over the water as easily as it had done over the land. John’s horse, which had carried him so well, sank down from fatigue, and the little soldier sat sadly on the shore, watching the coach which was fast disappearing on the horizon.
Thus, they left many villages and towns behind them until they reached the sea itself. Here, John thought that finally the coach must stop, but, to his amazement, it kept going and rolled over the water as smoothly as it had over the land. John's horse, which had taken him so far, finally collapsed from exhaustion, and the little soldier sat sadly on the shore, watching the coach that was quickly disappearing on the horizon.
III
III
However, he soon plucked up his spirits again, and walked along the beach to try and find a boat in which he could sail after the Princess. But no boat was there, and at last, tired and hungry, he sat down to rest on the steps of a fisherman’s hut.
However, he soon lifted his spirits again and walked along the beach to try to find a boat that he could use to sail after the Princess. But no boat was there, and finally, tired and hungry, he sat down to rest on the steps of a fisherman’s hut.
In the hut was a young girl who was mending a net. She invited John to come in, and set before him some wine and fried fish, and John ate and drank and felt comforted, and he told his adventures to the little fisher-girl. But though she was very pretty, with a skin as white as a gull’s breast, for which her neighbours gave her the name of the Seagull, he did not think about her at all, for he was dreaming of the green eyes of the Princess.
In the hut was a young girl who was fixing a net. She invited John inside and offered him some wine and fried fish. John ate and drank, feeling comforted, and he shared his adventures with the little fisher-girl. However, even though she was very pretty, with skin as white as a gull's breast, which earned her the nickname the Seagull from her neighbors, he didn't think about her at all because he was lost in thoughts of the Princess's green eyes.
When he had finished his tale, she was filled with pity and said:
When he finished his story, she felt a rush of sympathy and said:
‘Last week, when I was fishing, my net suddenly grew very heavy, and when I drew it in I found a great copper vase, fastened with lead. I brought it home and placed it on the fire. When the lead had melted a little, I opened the vase with my knife and drew out a mantle of red cloth and a purse containing fifty crowns. That is the mantle, covering my bed, and I have kept the money for my marriage-portion. But take it and go to the nearest seaport, where you will find a ship sailing for the Low Countries, and when you become King you will bring me back my fifty crowns.’
‘Last week, while I was fishing, my net suddenly became really heavy, and when I pulled it in, I found a large copper vase sealed with lead. I took it home and put it on the fire. Once the lead had melted a bit, I used my knife to open the vase and pulled out a red cloth mantle and a purse with fifty crowns. That’s the mantle on my bed, and I’ve saved the money for my wedding. But take it and head to the closest seaport, where you’ll find a ship going to the Low Countries, and when you become King, you’ll bring me back my fifty crowns.’
And the Kinglet answered: ‘When I am King of the Low Countries, I will make you lady-in-waiting to the Queen, for you are as good as you are beautiful. So farewell,’ said he, and as the Seagull went back to her fishing he rolled himself in the mantle and threw himself down on a heap of dried grass, thinking of the strange things that had befallen him, till he suddenly exclaimed:
And the Kinglet replied, "When I become King of the Low Countries, I’ll make you a lady-in-waiting to the Queen because you’re as good as you are beautiful. So, goodbye," he said, and as the Seagull returned to her fishing, he wrapped himself in the cloak and laid down on a pile of dried grass, reflecting on the strange events that had happened to him, until he suddenly exclaimed:
‘Oh, how I wish I was in the capital of the Low Countries!’
‘Oh, how I wish I were in the capital of the Low Countries!’
IV
IV
In one moment the little soldier found himself standing before a splendid palace. He rubbed his eyes and pinched himself, and when he was quite sure he was not dreaming he said to a man who was smoking his pipe before the door, ‘Where am I?’
In an instant, the little soldier found himself in front of a magnificent palace. He rubbed his eyes and pinched himself, and when he was sure he wasn’t dreaming, he asked a man smoking his pipe by the door, ‘Where am I?’
‘Where are you? Can’t you see? Before the King’s palace, of course.’
‘Where are you? Can’t you see? Right in front of the King’s palace, of course.’
‘What King?’
‘Which King?’
‘Why the King of the Low Countries!’ replied the man, laughing and supposing that he was mad.
‘Why, the King of the Low Countries!’ the man replied, laughing and thinking he was crazy.
Was there ever anything so strange? But as John was an honest fellow, he was troubled at the thought that the Seagull would think he had stolen her mantle and purse. And he began to wonder how he could restore them to her the soonest. Then he remembered that the mantle had some hidden charm that enabled the bearer to transport himself at will from place to place, and in order to make sure of this he wished himself in the best inn of the town. In an instant he was there.
Was there ever anything so strange? But since John was an honest guy, he was worried that the Seagull would think he had stolen her cloak and purse. He started to think about how he could return them to her as quickly as possible. Then he recalled that the cloak had a hidden charm that allowed the wearer to travel anywhere at will, and to confirm this, he wished himself to the best inn in town. In an instant, he was there.
Enchanted with this discovery, he ordered supper, and as it was too late to visit the King that night he went to bed.
Enchanted by this discovery, he ordered dinner, and since it was too late to see the King that night, he went to bed.
The next day, when he got up, he saw that all the houses were wreathed with flowers and covered with flags, and all the church bells were ringing. The little soldier inquired the meaning of all this noise, and was told that the Princess Ludovine, the King’s beautiful daughter, had been found, and was about to make her triumphal entry. ‘That will just suit me,’ thought the Kinglet; ‘I will stand at the door and see if she knows me.’
The next day, when he woke up, he saw that all the houses were decorated with flowers and covered in flags, and all the church bells were ringing. The little soldier asked what all this commotion was about and was told that Princess Ludovine, the King’s beautiful daughter, had been found and was about to make her grand entrance. ‘This is perfect for me,’ thought the Kinglet; ‘I’ll stand at the door and see if she recognizes me.’
He had scarcely time to dress himself when the golden coach of Ludovine went by. She had a crown of gold upon her head, and the King and Queen sat by her side. By accident her eyes fell upon the little soldier, and she grew pale and turned away her head.
He barely had time to get dressed when Ludovine's golden coach rolled by. She wore a gold crown on her head, and the King and Queen were seated next to her. By chance, her eyes landed on the little soldier, and she turned pale and looked away.
‘Didn’t she know me?’ the little soldier asked himself, ‘or was she angry because I missed our meetings?’ and he followed the crowd till he got to the palace. When the royal party entered he told the guards that it was he who had delivered the Princess, and wished to speak to the King. But the more he talked the more they believed him mad and refused to let him pass.
‘Didn’t she know me?’ the little soldier wondered, ‘or was she upset because I missed our meetings?’ He followed the crowd until he reached the palace. When the royal party arrived, he told the guards that he was the one who had saved the Princess and wanted to speak to the King. But the more he explained, the more they thought he was crazy and wouldn’t let him through.
The little soldier was furious. He felt that he needed his pipe to calm him, and he entered a tavern and ordered a pint of beer. ‘It is this miserable soldier’s helmet,’ said he to himself ‘If I had only money enough I could look as splendid as the lords of the Court; but what is the good of thinking of that when I have only the remains of the Seagull’s fifty crowns?’
The little soldier was really angry. He thought he needed his pipe to relax, so he went into a bar and ordered a pint of beer. “It’s this awful soldier’s helmet,” he said to himself. “If only I had enough money, I could look as impressive as the lords at Court; but what good is it to think about that when I only have the leftover coins from the Seagull’s fifty crowns?”
He took out his purse to see what was left, and he found that there were still fifty crowns.
He pulled out his wallet to check how much he had left, and he saw that there were still fifty crowns.
‘The Seagull must have miscounted,’ thought he, and he paid for his beer. Then he counted his money again, and there were still fifty crowns. He took away five and counted a third time, but there were still fifty. He emptied the purse altogether and then shut it; when he opened it the fifty crowns were still there!
‘The seagull must have miscounted,’ he thought, and he paid for his beer. Then he counted his money again, and there were still fifty crowns. He took away five and counted a third time, but there were still fifty. He emptied the purse completely and then shut it; when he opened it, the fifty crowns were still there!
Then a plan came into his head, and he determined to go at once to the Court tailor and coachbuilder.
Then an idea struck him, and he decided to head straight to the Court tailor and coachbuilder.
He ordered the tailor to make him a mantle and vest of blue velvet embroidered with pearls, and the coachbuilder to make him a golden coach like the coach of the Princess Ludovine. If the tailor and the coachbuilder were quick he promised to pay them double.
He asked the tailor to make him a blue velvet cloak and vest embroidered with pearls, and the coachbuilder to create a golden coach similar to the one belonging to Princess Ludovine. If the tailor and the coachbuilder were quick, he promised to pay them double.
A few days later the little soldier was driven through the city in his coach drawn by six white horses, and with four lacqueys richly dressed standing behind. Inside sat John, clad in blue velvet, with a bouquet of immortelles in his hand and a scarf bound round his arm. He drove twice round the city, throwing money to the right and left, and the third time, as he passed under the palace windows, he saw Ludovine lift a corner of the curtain and peep out.
A few days later, the little soldier was driven through the city in his coach pulled by six white horses, with four well-dressed servants standing behind. Inside sat John, wearing blue velvet, holding a bouquet of immortelles in one hand and a scarf wrapped around his arm. He went around the city twice, tossing money to the right and left, and on the third pass, as he went under the palace windows, he noticed Ludovine lift a corner of the curtain and peek out.
V
V
The next day no one talked of anything but the rich lord who had distributed money as he drove along. The talk even reached the Court, and the Queen, who was very curious, had a great desire to see the wonderful Prince.
The next day, nobody talked about anything other than the wealthy lord who had been giving away money as he drove by. The chatter even made its way to the Court, and the Queen, who was quite curious, really wanted to see the amazing Prince.
‘Very well,’ said the King; ‘let him be asked to come and play cards with me.’
‘All right,’ said the King; ‘have him come and play cards with me.’
This time the Kinglet was not late for his appointment.
This time, the Kinglet was on time for his appointment.
The King sent for the cards and they sat down to play. They had six games, and John always lost. The stake was fifty crowns, and each time he emptied his purse, which was full the next instant.
The King called for the cards and they sat down to play. They played six games, and John always lost. The bet was fifty crowns, and each time he emptied his wallet, it was full again in an instant.
The sixth time the King exclaimed, ‘It is amazing!’
The sixth time, the King said, "That's incredible!"
The Queen cried, ‘It is astonishing!’
The Queen said, ‘That’s amazing!’
The Princess said, ‘It is bewildering!’
The Princess said, 'This is so confusing!'
‘Not so bewildering,’ replied the little soldier, ‘as your change into a serpent.’
‘Not as confusing,’ replied the little soldier, ‘as your transformation into a serpent.’
‘Hush!’ interrupted the King, who did not like the subject.
‘Hush!’ interrupted the King, who wasn’t a fan of the topic.
‘I only spoke of it,’ said John, ‘because you see in me the man who delivered the Princess from the goblins and whom she promised to marry.’
‘I only mentioned it,’ said John, ‘because you see in me the guy who rescued the Princess from the goblins and whom she promised to marry.’
‘Is that true?’ asked the King of the Princess.
‘Is that true?’ asked the King of the Princess.
‘Quite true,’ answered Ludovine. ‘But I told my deliverer to be ready to go with me when I passed by with my coach. I passed three times, but he slept so soundly that no one could wake him.’
‘That’s true,’ Ludovine replied. ‘But I told my rescuer to be ready to go with me when I drove by in my carriage. I went by three times, but he was sleeping so deeply that no one could wake him.’
‘What is your name?’ said the King, ‘and who are you?’
‘What’s your name?’ asked the King, ‘and who are you?’
‘My name is John. I am a soldier, and my father is a boatman.’
‘My name is John. I’m a soldier, and my dad is a boatman.’
‘You are not a fit husband for my daughter. Still, if you will give us your purse, you shall have her for your wife.’
‘You’re not a suitable husband for my daughter. However, if you give us your money, you can have her as your wife.’
‘My purse does not belong to me, and I cannot give it away.’
‘My purse isn’t mine, and I can’t give it away.’
‘But you can lend it to me till our wedding-day,’ said the Princess with one of those glances the little soldier never could resist.
‘But you can lend it to me until our wedding day,’ said the Princess with one of those looks the little soldier could never resist.
‘And when will that be?’
"When will that be?"
‘At Easter,’ said the monarch.
"During Easter," said the monarch.
‘Or in a blue moon!’ murmured the Princess; but the Kinglet did not hear her and let her take his purse.
‘Or in a blue moon!’ muttered the Princess; but the Kinglet didn’t hear her and let her take his purse.
Next evening he presented himself at the palace to play picquet with the King and to make his court to the Princess. But he was told that the King had gone into the country to receive his rents. He returned the following day, and had the same answer. Then he asked to see the Queen, but she had a headache. When this had happened five or six times, he began to understand that they were making fun of him.
Next evening, he showed up at the palace to play picquet with the King and to try to impress the Princess. However, he was informed that the King had gone to the countryside to collect his rents. He came back the next day, only to receive the same response. Then he asked to see the Queen, but she had a headache. After this happened five or six times, he started to realize that they were mocking him.
‘That is not the way for a King to behave,’ thought John. ‘Old scoundrel!’ and then suddenly he remembered his red cloak.
‘That’s not how a King should act,’ thought John. ‘What a jerk!’ and then suddenly he remembered his red cloak.
‘Ah, what an idiot I am!’ said he. ‘Of course I can get in whenever I like with the help of this.’
‘Ah, what an idiot I am!’ he said. ‘Of course I can get in whenever I want with this.’
That evening he was in front of the palace, wrapped in his red cloak.
That evening he was in front of the palace, wearing his red cloak.
On the first story one window was lighted, and John saw on the curtains the shadow of the Princess.
On the first floor, one window was lit, and John saw the shadow of the Princess on the curtains.
‘I wish myself in the room of the Princess Ludovine,’ said he, and in a second he was there.
‘I wish I was in the room of Princess Ludovine,’ he said, and in a second, he was there.
The King’s daughter was sitting before a table counting the money that she emptied from the inexhaustible purse.
The princess was sitting at a table counting the money she had taken out of the endless purse.
‘Eight hundred and fifty, nine hundred, nine hundred and fifty—’
‘Eight hundred fifty, nine hundred, nine hundred fifty—’
‘A thousand,’ finished John. ‘Good evening everybody!’
‘A thousand,’ finished John. ‘Good evening everyone!’
The Princess jumped and gave a little cry. ‘You here! What business have you to do it? Leave at once, or I shall call—’
The Princess jumped and let out a small cry. ‘You here! What are you doing? Leave immediately, or I will call—’
‘I have come,’ said the Kinglet, ‘to remind you of your promise. The day after to-morrow is Easter Day, and it is high time to think of our marriage.’
‘I’ve come,’ said the Kinglet, ‘to remind you of your promise. The day after tomorrow is Easter Day, and it’s about time to start thinking about our marriage.’
Ludovine burst out into a fit of laughter. ‘Our marriage! Have you really been foolish enough to believe that the daughter of the King of the Low Countries would ever marry the son of a boatman?’
Ludovine erupted in laughter. "Our marriage! Have you really been naïve enough to think that the daughter of the King of the Low Countries would ever marry the son of a boatman?"
‘Then give me back the purse,’ said John.
‘Then give me back the wallet,’ said John.
‘Never,’ said the Princess, and put it calmly in her pocket.
‘Never,’ said the Princess, and calmly put it in her pocket.
‘As you like,’ said the little soldier. ‘He laughs best who laughs the last;’ and he took the Princess in his arms. ‘I wish,’ he cried, ‘that we were at the ends of the earth;’ and in one second he was there, still clasping the Princess tightly in his arms.
‘As you wish,’ said the little soldier. ‘He laughs last who laughs best;’ and he took the Princess in his arms. ‘I wish,’ he exclaimed, ‘that we were at the ends of the earth;’ and in one second, he was there, still holding the Princess tightly in his arms.
‘Ouf,’ said John, laying her gently at the foot of a tree. ‘I never took such a long journey before. What do you say, madam?’ The Princess understood that it was no time for jesting, and did not answer. Besides she was still feeling giddy from her rapid flight, and had not yet collected her senses.
‘Wow,’ said John, gently placing her at the foot of a tree. ‘I've never taken such a long journey before. What do you say, ma'am?’ The Princess realized it wasn’t a time for joking, so she didn’t respond. Plus, she was still feeling dizzy from her quick escape and hadn’t fully regained her composure yet.
VI
VI
The King of the Low Countries was not a very scrupulous person, and his daughter took after him. This was why she had been changed into a serpent. It had been prophesied that she should be delivered by a little soldier, and that she must marry him, unless he failed to appear at the meeting-place three times running. The cunning Princess then laid her plans accordingly.
The King of the Low Countries wasn't very principled, and his daughter was just like him. That's why she was turned into a serpent. It had been foretold that a little soldier would rescue her, and she had to marry him unless he missed their meeting three times in a row. The clever Princess then devised her plans accordingly.
The wine that she had given to John in the castle of the goblins, the bouquet of immortelles, and the scarf, all had the power of producing sleep like death. And we know how they had acted on John.
The wine she had given to John in the goblin castle, the bouquet of immortelles, and the scarf all had the ability to induce a sleep like death. And we know how they affected John.
However, even in this critical moment, Ludovine did not lose her head.
However, even in this critical moment, Ludovine kept her composure.
‘I thought you were simply a street vagabond,’ said she, in her most coaxing voice; ‘and I find you are more powerful than any king. Here is your purse. Have you got my scarf and my bouquet?’
‘I thought you were just a street wanderer,’ she said in her sweetest voice; ‘and I discover you’re more powerful than any king. Here’s your purse. Do you have my scarf and my bouquet?’
‘Here they are,’ said the Kinglet, delighted with this change of tone, and he drew them from his bosom. Ludovine fastened one in his buttonhole and the other round his arm. ‘Now,’ she said, ‘you are my lord and master, and I will marry you at your good pleasure.’
‘Here they are,’ said the Kinglet, thrilled with this change in tone, and he took them out from his breast pocket. Ludovine pinned one in his buttonhole and wrapped the other around his arm. ‘Now,’ she said, ‘you are my lord and master, and I will marry you whenever you like.’
‘You are kinder than I thought,’ said John; ‘and you shall never be unhappy, for I love you.’
‘You’re kinder than I expected,’ said John; ‘and you’ll never be unhappy, because I love you.’
‘Then, my little husband, tell me how you managed to carry me so quickly to the ends of the world.’
‘Then, my little husband, tell me how you managed to take me so quickly to the ends of the earth.’
The little soldier scratched his head. ‘Does she really mean to marry me,’ he thought to himself, ‘or is she only trying to deceive me again?’
The little soldier scratched his head. ‘Does she actually plan to marry me,’ he thought, ‘or is she just trying to trick me again?’
But Ludovine repeated, ‘Won’t you tell me?’ in such a tender voice he did not know how to resist her.
But Ludovine repeated, ‘Won’t you tell me?’ in such a gentle voice he didn’t know how to say no to her.
‘After all,’ he said to himself, ‘what does it matter telling her the secret, as long as I don’t give her the cloak.’
‘After all,’ he said to himself, ‘what’s the point of telling her the secret, as long as I don’t give her the cloak.’
And he told her the virtue of the red mantle.
And he told her about the significance of the red cloak.
‘Oh dear, how tired I am!’ sighed Ludovine. ‘Don’t you think we had better take a nap? And then we can talk over our plans.’
‘Oh man, I’m so tired!’ sighed Ludovine. ‘Don’t you think we should take a nap? Then we can go over our plans.’
She stretched herself on the grass, and the Kinglet did the same. He laid his head on his left arm, round which the scarf was tied, and was soon fast asleep.
She lay down on the grass, and the Kinglet did the same. He rested his head on his left arm, which was wrapped in a scarf, and quickly fell asleep.
Ludovine was watching him out of one eye, and no sooner did she hear him snore than she unfastened the mantle, drew it gently from under him and wrapped it round her, took the purse from his pocket, and put it in hers, and said: ‘I wish I was back in my own room.’ In another moment she was there.
Ludovine was keeping an eye on him, and as soon as she heard him snoring, she quietly untied the cloak, pulled it gently from under him, and wrapped it around herself. She took the purse from his pocket and put it in hers, saying, "I wish I was back in my own room." In the next moment, she was there.
VII
VII
Who felt foolish but John, when he awoke, twenty-four hours after, and found himself without purse, without mantle, and without Princess? He tore his hair, he beat his breast, he trampled on the bouquet, and tore the scarf of the traitress to atoms.
Who felt foolish but John when he woke up twenty-four hours later and found himself without money, without a cloak, and without the Princess? He tore his hair, beat his chest, trampled the bouquet, and ripped the traitor's scarf to shreds.
Besides this he was very hungry, and he had nothing to eat.
Besides this, he was really hungry and had nothing to eat.
He thought of all the wonderful things his grandmother had told him when he was a child, but none of them helped him now. He was in despair, when suddenly he looked up and saw that the tree under which he had been sleeping was a superb plum, covered with fruit as yellow as gold.
He remembered all the amazing stories his grandmother had shared with him when he was a kid, but none of them were any help now. He felt hopeless, when suddenly he looked up and saw that the tree he had been sleeping under was a beautiful plum tree, loaded with fruit as yellow as gold.
‘Here goes for the plums,’ he said to himself, ‘all is fair in war.’
‘Here goes for the plums,’ he said to himself, ‘everything is fair in war.’
He climbed the tree and began to eat steadily. But he had hardly swallowed two plums when, to his horror, he felt as if something was growing on his forehead. He put up his hand and found that he had two horns!
He climbed the tree and started eating steadily. But he had barely swallowed two plums when, to his horror, he felt something growing on his forehead. He raised his hand and discovered that he had two horns!
He leapt down from the tree and rushed to a stream that flowed close by. Alas! there was no escape: two charming little horns, that would not have disgraced the head of a goat.
He jumped down from the tree and ran to a stream nearby. Unfortunately, there was no way out: two adorable little horns that wouldn't have looked out of place on a goat.
Then his courage failed him.
Then he lost his courage.
‘As if it was not enough,’ said he, ‘that a woman should trick me, but the devil must mix himself up in it and lend me his horns. What a pretty figure I should cut if I went back into the world!’
‘As if it wasn't enough,’ he said, ‘that a woman should deceive me, but the devil has to get involved and give me his horns. What a ridiculous sight I would make if I returned to society!’
But as he was still hungry, and the mischief was done, he climbed boldly up another tree, and plucked two plums of a lovely green colour. No sooner had he swallowed two than the horns disappeared. The little soldier was enchanted, though greatly surprised, and came to the conclusion that it was no good to despair too quickly. When he had done eating an idea suddenly occurred to him.
But since he was still hungry, and the trouble was done, he confidently climbed another tree and picked two beautiful green plums. As soon as he ate the two, the horns vanished. The little soldier was thrilled, though very surprised, and realized that it wasn’t wise to give up too soon. Once he finished eating, a sudden idea hit him.
‘Perhaps,’ thought he, ‘these pretty little plums may help me to recover my purse, my cloak, and my heart from the hands of this wicked Princess. She has the eyes of a deer already; let her have the horns of one. If I can manage to set her up with a pair, I will bet any money that I shall cease to want her for my wife. A horned maiden is by no means lovely to look at.’ So he plaited a basket out of the long willows, and placed in it carefully both sorts of plums. Then he walked bravely on for many days, having no food but the berries by the wayside, and was in great danger from wild beasts and savage men. But he feared nothing, except that his plums should decay, and this never happened.
‘Maybe,’ he thought, ‘these pretty little plums could help me get my purse, my cloak, and my heart back from this wicked Princess. She already has the eyes of a deer; let her have the horns of one too. If I can manage to give her a pair, I bet I’ll stop wanting her as my wife. A girl with horns isn’t exactly pleasant to look at.’ So he wove a basket from the long willows and carefully placed both types of plums inside it. Then he bravely walked on for many days, surviving only on the berries along the way, facing great danger from wild animals and savage men. But he wasn’t afraid of anything, except that his plums might spoil, and that never happened.
At last he came to a civilised country, and with the sale of some jewels that he had about him on the evening of his flight he took passage on board a vessel for the Low Countries. So, at the end of a year and a day, he arrived at the capital of the kingdom.
At last, he reached a civilized country, and by selling some jewels he had with him on the evening of his escape, he secured a spot on a ship to the Low Countries. Thus, after a year and a day, he arrived at the capital of the kingdom.
VIII
VIII
The next day he put on a false beard and the dress of a date merchant, and, taking a little table, he placed himself before the door of the church.
The next day he put on a fake beard and the outfit of a date seller, and, grabbing a small table, he set himself up in front of the church door.
He spread carefully out on a fine white cloth his Mirabelle plums, which looked for all the world as if they had been freshly gathered, and when he saw the Princess coming out of church he began to call out in a feigned voice: ‘Fine plums! lovely plums!’
He carefully laid out his Mirabelle plums on a nice white cloth, which looked as if they had just been picked. When he saw the Princess coming out of church, he started calling out in a fake voice, “Great plums! Beautiful plums!”
‘How much are they?’ said the Princess.
‘How much are they?’ asked the Princess.
‘Fifty crowns each.’
"Fifty bucks each."
‘Fifty crowns! But what is there so very precious about them? Do they give one wit, or will they increase one’s beauty?’
‘Fifty crowns! But what’s so special about them? Do they make you smarter, or will they boost your looks?’
‘They could not increase what is perfect already, fair Princess, but still they might add something.’
'They can't make something that's already perfect any better, fair Princess, but they could still add something.'
Rolling stones gather no moss, but they sometimes gain polish; and the months which John had spent in roaming about the world had not been wasted. Such a neatly turned compliment flattered Ludovine.
Rolling stones gather no moss, but they can pick up some shine; and the months that John spent traveling around the world hadn’t been wasted. Such a well-crafted compliment impressed Ludovine.
‘What will they add?’ she smilingly asked.
‘What will they add?’ she asked with a smile.
‘You will see, fair Princess, when you taste them. It will be a surprise for you.’
'You’ll see, beautiful Princess, when you try them. It’ll be a surprise for you.'
Ludovine’s curiosity was roused. She drew out the purse and shook out as many little heaps of fifty crowns as there were plums in the basket. The little soldier was seized with a wild desire to snatch the purse from her and proclaim her a thief, but he managed to control himself.
Ludovine's curiosity was piqued. She pulled out the purse and poured out as many small piles of fifty crowns as there were plums in the basket. The little soldier was overwhelmed with a strong urge to grab the purse from her and call her a thief, but he managed to hold himself back.
His plums all sold, he shut up shop, took off his disguise, changed his inn, and kept quiet, waiting to see what would happen.
His plums sold out, he closed up shop, took off his disguise, switched his inn, and stayed low, waiting to see what would happen.
No sooner had she reached her room than the Princess exclaimed, ‘Now let us see what these fine plums can add to my beauty,’ and throwing off her hood, she picked up a couple and ate them.
No sooner had she reached her room than the Princess exclaimed, ‘Now let’s see what these fancy plums can do for my beauty,’ and tossing aside her hood, she picked up a couple and ate them.
Imagine with what surprise and horror she felt all of a sudden that something was growing out of her forehead. She flew to her mirror and uttered a piercing cry.
Imagine the shock and terror she felt when she suddenly realized that something was growing out of her forehead. She rushed to her mirror and let out a loud scream.
‘Horns! so that was what he promised me! Let someone find the plum-seller at once and bring him to me! Let his nose and ears be cut off! Let him be flayed alive, or burnt at a slow fire and his ashes scattered to the winds! Oh, I shall die of shame and despair!’
‘Horns! So that was his promise to me! Someone needs to find the plum seller right away and bring him to me! Cut off his nose and ears! Flay him alive, or burn him slowly and scatter his ashes to the winds! Oh, I’m going to die of shame and despair!’
Her women ran at the sound of her screams, and tried to wrench off the horns, but it was of no use, and they only gave her a violent headache.
Her women rushed at the sound of her screams and tried to pull off the horns, but it was useless and only gave her a bad headache.
The King then sent round a herald to proclaim that he would give the hand of the Princess to anyone who would rid her of her strange ornaments. So all the doctors and sorcerers and surgeons in the Low Countries and the neighbouring kingdoms thronged to the palace, each with a remedy of his own. But it was all no good, and the Princess suffered so much from their remedies that the King was obliged to send out a second proclamation that anyone who undertook to cure the Princess, and who failed to do it, should be hanged up to the nearest tree.
The King then sent out a herald to announce that he would offer the Princess's hand in marriage to anyone who could remove her strange ornaments. So, doctors, sorcerers, and surgeons from the Low Countries and nearby kingdoms flocked to the palace, each bringing their own remedy. But nothing worked, and the Princess suffered so much from their treatments that the King had to issue a second proclamation stating that anyone who tried to cure the Princess and failed would be hanged from the nearest tree.
But the prize was too great for any proclamation to put a stop to the efforts of the crowd of suitors, and that year the orchards of the Low Countries all bore a harvest of dead men.
But the reward was too significant for any announcement to halt the ambitions of the group of suitors, and that year the orchards of the Low Countries were filled with the harvest of dead men.
IX
IX
The King had given orders that they should seek high and low for the plum-seller, but in spite of all their pains, he was nowhere to be found.
The King had ordered them to search everywhere for the plum-seller, but despite all their efforts, he was nowhere to be found.
When the little soldier discovered that their patience was worn out, he pressed the juice of the green Queen Claude plums into a small phial, bought a doctor’s robe, put on a wig and spectacles, and presented himself before the King of the Low Countries. He gave himself out as a famous physician who had come from distant lands, and he promised that he would cure the Princess if only he might be left alone with her.
When the little soldier realized that their patience had run out, he squeezed the juice of the green Queen Claude plums into a small vial, bought a doctor's robe, put on a wig and glasses, and appeared before the King of the Low Countries. He claimed to be a renowned doctor who had traveled from faraway places, and he promised that he would heal the Princess if only he could be alone with her.
‘Another madman determined to be hanged,’ said the King. ‘Very well, do as he asks; one should refuse nothing to a man with a rope round his neck.’
‘Another crazy person wanting to be hanged,’ said the King. ‘Alright, do what he asks; you shouldn’t deny anything to a man with a noose around his neck.’
As soon as the little soldier was in the presence of the Princess he poured some drops of the liquid into a glass. The Princess had scarcely tasted it, when the tip of the horns disappeared.
As soon as the little soldier was in front of the Princess, he poured some drops of the liquid into a glass. The Princess had barely tasted it when the tips of the horns disappeared.
‘They would have disappeared completely,’ said the pretended doctor, ‘if there did not exist something to counteract the effect. It is only possible to cure people whose souls are as clean as the palm of my hand. Are you sure you have not committed some little sin? Examine yourself well.’
‘They would have vanished entirely,’ said the fake doctor, ‘if there wasn’t something to counteract the effect. It’s only possible to heal people whose souls are as pure as the palm of my hand. Are you sure you haven't done some minor sin? Really think about it.’
Ludovine had no need to think over it long, but she was torn in pieces between the shame of a humiliating confession, and the desire to be unhorned. At last she made answer with downcast eyes,
Ludovine didn’t need to think about it for long, but she felt torn apart between the shame of a humiliating confession and the desire to be free of her burdens. Finally, she replied with her eyes cast down,
‘I have stolen a leather purse from a little soldier.’
‘I took a leather purse from a little soldier.’
‘Give it to me. The remedy will not act till I hold the purse in my hands.’
‘Give it to me. The remedy won't work until I have the purse in my hands.’
It cost Ludovine a great pang to give up the purse, but she remembered that riches would not benefit her if she was still to keep the horns.
It was really painful for Ludovine to give up the purse, but she remembered that having wealth wouldn't do her any good if she still had to deal with the horns.
With a sigh, she handed the purse to the doctor, who poured more of the liquid into the glass, and when the Princess had drunk it, she found that the horns had diminished by one half.
With a sigh, she gave the purse to the doctor, who poured more of the liquid into the glass. After the Princess drank it, she realized that the horns had shrunk by half.
‘You must really have another little sin on your conscience. Did you steal nothing from this soldier but his purse?’
‘You must have another little sin weighing on your conscience. Did you only steal this soldier’s purse?’
‘I also stole from him his cloak.’
'I also took his jacket.'
‘Give it me.’
‘Give it to me.’
‘Here it is.’
"Here it is."
This time Ludovine thought to herself that when once the horns had departed, she would call her attendants and take the things from the doctor by force.
This time, Ludovine told herself that once the horns were gone, she would call her attendants and take the things from the doctor by force.
She was greatly pleased with this idea, when suddenly the pretended physician wrapped himself in the cloak, flung away the wig and spectacles, and showed to the traitress the face of the Little Soldier.
She was really happy with this idea when suddenly the fake doctor wrapped himself in the cloak, tossed aside the wig and glasses, and revealed the face of the Little Soldier to the traitor.
She stood before him dumb with fright.
She stood before him silent with fear.
‘I might,’ said John, ‘have left you horned to the end of your days, but I am a good fellow and I once loved you, and besides—you are too like the devil to have any need of his horns.’
‘I could have,’ John said, ‘left you stuck with those horns for the rest of your life, but I’m a decent guy and I once cared about you, and also—you look too much like the devil to need his horns.’
X
X
John had wished himself in the house of the Seagull. Now the Seagull was seated at the window, mending her net, and from time to time her eyes wandered to the sea as if she was expecting someone. At the noise made by the little soldier, she looked up and blushed.
John had wished he were in the Seagull's house. Now the Seagull was sitting by the window, fixing her net, and every so often her eyes drifted to the sea as if she were expecting someone. When she heard the noise made by the little soldier, she looked up and blushed.
‘So it is you!’ she said. ‘How did you get here?’ And then she added in a low voice, ‘And have you married your Princess?’
‘So it’s you!’ she said. ‘How did you get here?’ Then she added in a low voice, ‘And have you married your Princess?’
Then John told her all his adventures, and when he had finished, he restored to her the purse and the mantle.
Then John told her all about his adventures, and when he was done, he gave her back the purse and the cloak.
‘What can I do with them?’ said she. ‘You have proved to me that happiness does not lie in the possession of treasures.’
‘What can I do with them?’ she said. ‘You’ve shown me that happiness isn’t found in having wealth.’
‘It lies in work and in the love of an honest woman,’ replied the little soldier, who noticed for the first time what pretty eyes she had. ‘Dear Seagull, will you have me for a husband?’ and he held out his hand.
‘It’s about working hard and loving an honest woman,’ replied the little soldier, who for the first time noticed how pretty her eyes were. ‘Dear Seagull, will you marry me?’ and he reached out his hand.
‘Yes, I will,’ answered the fisher maiden, blushing very red, ‘but only on condition that we seal up the purse and the mantle in the copper vessel and throw them into the sea.’
‘Yes, I will,’ answered the fisher maiden, blushing bright red, ‘but only if we seal the purse and the mantle in the copper container and toss them into the sea.’
And this they did.
And they did this.
Charles Deulin.
Charles Deulin.
THE MAGIC SWAN
There were once upon a time three brothers, of whom the eldest was called Jacob, the second Frederick, and the youngest Peter. This youngest brother was made a regular butt of by the other two, and they treated him shamefully. If anything went wrong with their affairs, Peter had to bear the blame and put things right for them, and he had to endure all this ill-treatment because he was weak and delicate and couldn’t defend himself against his stronger brothers. The poor creature had a most trying life of it in every way, and day and night he pondered how he could make it better. One day, when he was in the wood gathering sticks and crying bitterly, a little old woman came up to him and asked him what was the matter; and he told her all his troubles.
There were once three brothers: the oldest was named Jacob, the middle one was Frederick, and the youngest was Peter. The younger brother was often the target of the other two's teasing, and they treated him poorly. Whenever something went wrong, Peter had to take the blame and fix their problems, enduring all of this mistreatment because he was weak and couldn’t stand up to his stronger brothers. The poor guy had a really tough life in every way, and day and night he thought about how to make it better. One day, while he was in the woods collecting sticks and crying his heart out, a little old woman approached him and asked what was wrong; he shared all his troubles with her.
‘Come, my good youth,’ said the old dame, when he had finished his tale of woe, ‘isn’t the world wide enough? Why don’t you set out and try your fortune somewhere else?’
‘Come on, my dear young man,’ said the old woman, when he had finished his story of misery, ‘isn’t the world big enough? Why don’t you go out and find your fortune somewhere else?’
Peter took her words to heart, and left his father’s house early one morning to try his fortune in the wide world, as the old woman had advised him. But he felt very bitterly parting from the home where he had been born, and where he had at least passed a short but happy childhood, and sitting down on a hill he gazed once more fondly on his native place.
Peter took her words seriously and left his father’s house early one morning to seek his fortune in the wide world, just like the old woman had suggested. But he felt quite upset about leaving the home where he had been born and where he had experienced a brief but happy childhood. Sitting down on a hill, he looked fondly at his hometown one last time.
Suddenly the little old woman stood before him, and, tapping him on the shoulder, said, ‘So far good, my boy; but what do you mean to do now?’
Suddenly, the little old woman appeared in front of him and, tapping him on the shoulder, said, "So far so good, my boy; but what are you planning to do now?"
Peter was at a loss what to answer, for so far he had always thought that fortune would drop into his mouth like a ripe cherry. The old woman, who guessed his thoughts, laughed kindly and said, ‘I’ll tell you what you must do, for I’ve taken a fancy to you, and I’m sure you won’t forget me when you’ve made your fortune.’
Peter didn't know how to respond because he had always believed that luck would come to him easily, like picking a ripe cherry. The old woman, who saw through his thoughts, chuckled gently and said, "I'll tell you what you need to do because I've grown fond of you, and I'm sure you won't forget me once you become successful."
Peter promised faithfully he wouldn’t, and the old woman continued:
Peter promised he wouldn’t, and the old woman went on:
‘This evening at sunset go to yonder pear-tree which you see growing at the cross roads. Underneath it you will find a man lying asleep, and a beautiful large swan will be fastened to the tree close to him. You must be careful not to waken the man, but you must unfasten the swan and take it away with you. You will find that everyone will fall in love with its beautiful plumage, and you must allow anyone who likes to pull out a feather. But as soon as the swan feels as much as a finger on it, it will scream out, and then you must say, “Swan, hold fast.” Then the hand of the person who has touched the bird will be held as in a vice, and nothing will set it free, unless you touch it with this little stick which I will make you a present of. When you have captured a whole lot of people in this way, lead your train straight on with you; you will come to a big town where a Princess lives who has never been known to laugh. If you can only make her laugh your fortune is made; then I beg you won’t forget your old friend.’
‘This evening at sunset, go to that pear tree you see at the crossroads. Underneath it, you’ll find a man sleeping, and a beautiful large swan will be tied to the tree next to him. Be careful not to wake the man, but you need to untie the swan and take it with you. You’ll see that everyone will be captivated by its stunning feathers, and you should let anyone who wants to pull out a feather. However, as soon as the swan feels even a light touch, it will scream, and then you must say, “Swan, hold fast.” The hand of the person who touched the bird will be caught as if in a vice, and nothing will free it except for this little stick I’ll give you as a gift. After you’ve captured a bunch of people this way, lead them along with you; you’ll arrive at a big city where a Princess lives who has never laughed. If you can make her laugh, your fortune will be made; then I hope you won’t forget your old friend.’
Peter promised again that he wouldn’t, and at sunset he went to the tree the old woman had mentioned. The man lay there fast asleep, and a large beautiful swan was fastened to the tree beside him by a red cord. Peter loosed the bird, and led it away with him without disturbing the bird’s master.
Peter promised again that he wouldn’t, and at sunset he went to the tree the old woman had mentioned. The man was lying there fast asleep, and a large, beautiful swan was tied to the tree beside him with a red cord. Peter untied the bird and took it away with him without waking the bird’s master.
He walked on with the swan for some time, and came at last to a building-yard where some men were busily at work. They were all lost in admiration of the bird’s beautiful plumage, and one forward youth, who was covered with clay from head to foot, called out, ‘Oh, if I’d only one of those feathers how happy I should be!’
He walked alongside the swan for a while and eventually reached a construction site where some men were hard at work. They were all captivated by the bird’s stunning feathers, and one eager young man, covered in clay from head to toe, shouted, “Oh, if I just had one of those feathers, how happy I would be!”
‘Pull one out then,’ said Peter kindly, and the youth seized one from the bird’s tail; instantly the swan screamed, and Peter called out, ‘Swan, hold fast,’ and do what he could the poor youth couldn’t get his hand away. The more he howled the more the others laughed, till a girl who had been washing clothes in the neighbouring stream hurried up to see what was the matter. When she saw the poor boy fastened to the swan she felt so sorry for him that she stretched out her hand to free him. The bird screamed.
"Go ahead and pull one out," Peter said kindly, and the young man grabbed one from the bird's tail; immediately, the swan screamed, and Peter yelled, "Swan, hold on!" Despite his attempts, the poor young man couldn't pull his hand away. The more he yelled, the more the others laughed, until a girl who had been washing clothes in the nearby stream rushed over to see what was going on. When she saw the poor boy stuck to the swan, she felt so sorry for him that she reached out her hand to help him. The bird screamed.
‘Swan, hold fast,’ called out Peter, and the girl was caught also.
‘Swan, hold on tight,’ yelled Peter, and the girl was caught too.
When Peter had gone on for a bit with his captives, they met a chimney sweep, who laughed loudly over the extraordinary troop, and asked the girl what she was doing.
When Peter had walked for a while with his captives, they ran into a chimney sweep, who laughed loudly at the unusual group and asked the girl what she was up to.
‘Oh, dearest John,’ replied the girl, ‘give me your hand and set me free from this cursed young man.’
‘Oh, dear John,’ the girl said, ‘take my hand and free me from this cursed guy.’
‘Most certainly I will, if that’s all you want,’ replied the sweep, and gave the girl his hand. The bird screamed.
‘Of course I will, if that’s all you want,’ replied the sweep, and gave the girl his hand. The bird screamed.
‘Swan, hold fast,’ said Peter, and the black man was added to their number.
‘Swan, hold on tight,’ said Peter, and the Black man joined them.
They soon came to a village where a fair was being held. A travelling circus was giving a performance, and the clown was just doing his tricks. He opened his eyes wide with amazement when he saw the remarkable trio fastened on to the swan’s tail.
They soon arrived at a village where a fair was taking place. A traveling circus was putting on a show, and the clown was performing his tricks. He widened his eyes in astonishment when he saw the impressive trio attached to the swan’s tail.
‘Have you gone raving mad, Blackie?’ he asked as well as he could for laughing.
"Have you completely lost it, Blackie?" he asked, trying to contain his laughter.
‘It’s no laughing matter,’ the sweep replied. ‘This wench has got so tight hold of me that I feel as if I were glued to her. Do set me free, like a good clown, and I’ll do you a good turn some day.’
‘It’s not funny,’ the sweep replied. ‘This girl has such a tight grip on me that I feel like I’m glued to her. Please set me free, like a good clown, and I’ll return the favor some day.’
Without a moment’s hesitation the clown grasped the black outstretched hand. The bird screamed.
Without a second thought, the clown grabbed the black outstretched hand. The bird screeched.
‘Swan, hold fast,’ called out Peter, and the clown became the fourth of the party.
‘Swan, hang on,’ called out Peter, and the clown joined the group as the fourth member.
Now in the front row of the spectators sat the respected and popular Mayor of the village, who was much put out by what he considered nothing but a foolish trick. So much annoyed was he that he seized the clown by the hand and tried to tear him away, in order to hand him over to the police.
Now in the front row of the audience sat the respected and popular Mayor of the village, who was really upset by what he thought was just a silly prank. He was so annoyed that he grabbed the clown by the hand and tried to pull him away to hand him over to the police.
Then the bird screamed, and Peter called out, ‘Swan, hold fast,’ and the dignified Mayor shared the fate of his predecessors.
Then the bird screamed, and Peter called out, ‘Swan, hold on tight,’ and the dignified Mayor met the same fate as those before him.
The Mayoress, a long thin stick of a woman, enraged at the insult done to her husband, seized his free arm and tore at it with all her might, with the only result that she too was forced to swell the procession. After this no one else had any wish to join them.
The Mayoress, a tall, slender woman, furious at the insult to her husband, grabbed his free arm and pulled at it with all her strength, only to find herself swept up in the procession as well. After that, no one else wanted to join them.
Soon Peter saw the towers of the capital in front of him. Just before entering it, a glittering carriage came out to meet him, in which was seated a young lady as beautiful as the day, but with a very solemn and serious expression. But no sooner had she perceived the motley crowd fastened to the swan’s tail than she burst into a loud fit of laughter, in which she was joined by all her servants and ladies in waiting.
Soon, Peter saw the towers of the capital ahead of him. Just before he entered, a shiny carriage came out to meet him, carrying a young lady who was as beautiful as the day but had a very serious and solemn expression. However, as soon as she noticed the bizarre crowd attached to the swan’s tail, she erupted into a loud laugh, joined by all her attendants and ladies-in-waiting.
‘The Princess has laughed at last,’ they all cried with joy.
‘The Princess finally laughed,’ they all shouted with joy.
She stepped out of her carriage to look more closely at the wonderful sight, and laughed again over the capers the poor captives cut. She ordered her carriage to be turned round and drove slowly back into the town, never taking her eyes off Peter and his procession.
She got out of her carriage to get a better look at the amazing sight and laughed again at the antics of the poor captives. She told the driver to turn the carriage around and drove slowly back into town, keeping her eyes on Peter and his procession the whole time.
When the King heard the news that his daughter had actually laughed, he was more than delighted, and had Peter and his marvellous train brought before him. He laughed himself when he saw them till the tears rolled down his cheeks.
When the King heard that his daughter had actually laughed, he was beyond thrilled and had Peter and his amazing train brought before him. He laughed as well when he saw them, until tears streamed down his cheeks.
‘My good friend,’ he said to Peter, ‘do you know what I promised the person who succeeded in making the Princess laugh?’
‘My good friend,’ he said to Peter, ‘do you know what I promised the person who would make the Princess laugh?’
‘No, I don’t,’ said Peter.
‘No, I don’t,’ Peter said.
‘Then I’ll tell you,’ answered the King; ‘a thousand gold crowns or a piece of land. Which will you choose?’
‘Then I’ll tell you,’ replied the King; ‘a thousand gold crowns or a plot of land. Which one do you want?’
Peter decided in favour of the land. Then he touched the youth, the girl, the sweep, the clown, the Mayor, and the Mayoress with his little stick, and they were all free again, and ran away home as if a fire were burning behind them; and their flight, as you may imagine, gave rise to renewed merriment.
Peter chose the land. He then touched the young man, the girl, the street cleaner, the clown, the Mayor, and the Mayoress with his little stick, and they were all free again, running home as if a fire were chasing them; their hasty escape, as you can imagine, caused another wave of laughter.
Then the Princess felt moved to stroke the swan, at the same time admiring its plumage. The bird screamed.
Then the Princess felt compelled to pet the swan, while also admiring its feathers. The bird screeched.
‘Swan, hold fast,’ called out Peter, and so he won the Princess for his bride. But the swan flew up into the air, and vanished in the blue horizon. Peter now received a duchy as a present, and became a very great man indeed; but he did not forget the little old woman who had been the cause of all his good fortune, and appointed her as head housekeeper to him and his royal bride in their magnificent castle.
‘Swan, hold on tight,’ shouted Peter, and because of that, he won the Princess as his bride. But the swan took off into the sky and disappeared into the blue horizon. Peter was then gifted a duchy and became a very important man; however, he didn’t forget the little old woman who was the reason for all his good luck and made her the head housekeeper for him and his royal bride in their magnificent castle.
Kletke.
Kletke.
THE DIRTY SHEPHERDESS
Once upon a time there lived a King who had two daughters, and he loved them with all his heart. When they grew up, he was suddenly seized with a wish to know if they, on their part, truly loved him, and he made up his mind that he would give his kingdom to whichever best proved her devotion.
Once upon a time, there was a King who had two daughters, and he loved them with all his heart. As they grew up, he suddenly felt the urge to know if they truly loved him in return, and he decided he would give his kingdom to whichever daughter could best show her devotion.
So he called the elder Princess and said to her, ‘How much do you love me?’
So he called the older Princess and asked her, ‘How much do you love me?’
‘As the apple of my eye!’ answered she.
‘Like the apple of my eye!’ she replied.
‘Ah!’ exclaimed the King, kissing her tenderly as he spoke, ‘you are indeed a good daughter.’
‘Ah!’ exclaimed the King, kissing her gently as he spoke, ‘you are truly a good daughter.’
Then he sent for the younger, and asked her how much she loved him.
Then he called for the younger one and asked her how much she loved him.
‘I look upon you, my father,’ she answered, ‘as I look upon salt in my food.’
‘I see you, my father,’ she replied, ‘the same way I see salt in my food.’
But the King did not like her words, and ordered her to quit the court, and never again to appear before him. The poor Princess went sadly up to her room and began to cry, but when she was reminded of her father’s commands, she dried her eyes, and made a bundle of her jewels and her best dresses and hurriedly left the castle where she was born.
But the King didn't appreciate her words, and ordered her to leave the court and never come back. The poor Princess went up to her room feeling sad and started to cry, but when she remembered her father's orders, she wiped her tears, packed up her jewels and her best dresses, and quickly left the castle where she had grown up.
She walked straight along the road in front of her, without knowing very well where she was going or what was to become of her, for she had never been shown how to work, and all she had learnt consisted of a few household rules, and receipts of dishes which her mother had taught her long ago. And as she was afraid that no housewife would want to engage a girl with such a pretty face, she determined to make herself as ugly as she could.
She walked straight down the road ahead of her, unsure of where she was headed or what would happen to her. She had never been taught how to work, and everything she knew was limited to a few household tips and recipes her mom had taught her long ago. Worried that no housewife would want to hire a girl with such a pretty face, she decided to make herself as unattractive as possible.
She therefore took off the dress that she was wearing and put on some horrible old rags belonging to a beggar, all torn and covered with mud. After that she smeared mud all over her hands and face, and shook her hair into a great tangle. Having thus changed her appearance, she went about offering herself as a goose-girl or shepherdess. But the farmers’ wives would have nothing to say to such a dirty maiden, and sent her away with a morsel of bread for charity’s sake.
She took off the dress she was wearing and put on some awful old rags that belonged to a beggar, all torn and covered in mud. Then she smeared mud all over her hands and face and messed up her hair into a big tangle. After changing her appearance like this, she went around offering to work as a goose-girl or shepherdess. But the farmers' wives wanted nothing to do with such a dirty girl and sent her away with just a piece of bread out of pity.
After walking for a great many days without being able to find any work, she came to a large farm where they were in want of a shepherdess, and engaged her gladly.
After walking for many days without being able to find any work, she arrived at a large farm that needed a shepherdess, and they happily hired her.
One day when she was keeping her sheep in a lonely tract of land, she suddenly felt a wish to dress herself in her robes of splendour. She washed herself carefully in the stream, and as she always carried her bundle with her, it was easy to shake off her rags, and transform herself in a few moments into a great lady.
One day, while she was tending her sheep in a remote area, she suddenly wanted to put on her beautiful clothes. She washed herself carefully in the stream, and since she always carried her bundle with her, it was easy to take off her rags and quickly turn herself into a glamorous lady.
The King’s son, who had lost his way out hunting, perceived this lovely damsel a long way off, and wished to look at her closer. But as soon as the girl saw what he was at, she fled into the wood as swiftly as a bird. The Prince ran after her, but as he was running he caught his foot in the root of a tree and fell, and when he got up again, she was nowhere to be seen.
The king's son, who had gotten lost while hunting, spotted a beautiful young woman from a distance and wanted to get a closer look. However, as soon as the girl noticed what he was doing, she quickly ran into the woods like a bird. The prince chased after her, but while running, he tripped over a tree root and fell. When he got back up, she was nowhere to be found.
When she was quite safe, she put on her rags again, and smeared over her face and hands. However the young Prince, who was both hot and thirsty, found his way to the farm, to ask for a drink of cider, and he inquired the name of the beautiful lady that kept the sheep. At this everyone began to laugh, for they said that the shepherdess was one of the ugliest and dirtiest creatures under the sun.
When she felt completely safe, she put her rags back on and smeared her face and hands. Meanwhile, the young Prince, who was feeling hot and thirsty, made his way to the farm to ask for a drink of cider and asked the name of the beautiful woman who looked after the sheep. Everyone burst out laughing at this, saying that the shepherdess was one of the ugliest and dirtiest people imaginable.
The Prince thought some witchcraft must be at work, and he hastened away before the return of the shepherdess, who became that evening the butt of everybody’s jests.
The Prince believed some kind of magic was involved, so he quickly left before the shepherdess came back, who that evening became the target of everyone’s teasing.
But the King’s son thought often of the lovely maiden whom he had only seen for a moment, though she seemed to him much more fascinating than any lady of the Court. At last he dreamed of nothing else, and grew thinner day by day till his parents inquired what was the matter, promising to do all they could to make him as happy as he once was. He dared not tell them the truth, lest they should laugh at him, so he only said that he should like some bread baked by the kitchen girl in the distant farm.
But the prince often thought about the beautiful girl he had only seen for a moment; she seemed much more interesting to him than any lady at the Court. Eventually, he dreamed of nothing else and got thinner every day until his parents asked what was wrong, promising to do everything they could to make him happy again. He didn’t dare tell them the truth for fear they would laugh at him, so he only said that he wanted some bread baked by the kitchen girl at the nearby farm.
Although the wish appeared rather odd, they hastened to fulfil it, and the farmer was told the request of the King’s son. The maiden showed no surprise at receiving such an order, but merely asked for some flour, salt, and water, and also that she might be left alone in a little room adjoining the oven, where the kneading-trough stood. Before beginning her work she washed herself carefully, and even put on her rings; but, while she was baking, one of her rings slid into the dough. When she had finished she dirtied herself again, and let the lumps of the dough stick to her fingers, so that she became as ugly as before.
Although the request seemed a bit strange, they quickly moved to fulfill it, and the farmer was informed of the King’s son’s wish. The young woman didn’t seem surprised by the order; she simply asked for some flour, salt, and water, and requested to be left alone in a small room next to the oven, where the kneading bowl was. Before starting her task, she washed herself thoroughly and even put on her rings. However, while she was baking, one of her rings slipped into the dough. Once she was done, she got herself dirty again and let the bits of dough stick to her fingers, making her look as unattractive as before.
The loaf, which was a very little one, was brought to the King’s son, who ate it with pleasure. But in cutting it he found the ring of the Princess, and declared to his parents that he would marry the girl whom that ring fitted.
The tiny loaf was brought to the King’s son, who enjoyed eating it. However, when he cut it, he discovered the Princess's ring inside and told his parents he would marry the girl the ring belonged to.
So the King made a proclamation through his whole kingdom and ladies came from afar to lay claim to the honour. But the ring was so tiny that even those who had the smallest hands could only get it on their little fingers. In a short time all the maidens of the kingdom, including the peasant girls, had tried on the ring, and the King was just about to announce that their efforts had been in vain, when the Prince observed that he had not yet seen the shepherdess.
So the King announced to his entire kingdom, and women traveled from far away to try to win the honor. But the ring was so small that even those with the tiniest hands could only fit it on their little fingers. Soon, all the maidens in the kingdom, including the peasant girls, had tried on the ring, and just as the King was about to say that their attempts had been useless, the Prince noticed that he hadn't seen the shepherdess yet.
They sent to fetch her, and she arrived covered with rags, but with her hands cleaner than usual, so that she could easily slip on the ring. The King’s son declared that he would fulfil his promise, and when his parents mildly remarked that the girl was only a keeper of sheep, and a very ugly one too, the maiden boldly said that she was born a princess, and that, if they would only give her some water and leave her alone in a room for a few minutes, she would show that she could look as well as anyone in fine clothes.
They sent for her, and she showed up dressed in rags, but her hands were cleaner than usual, allowing her to easily put on the ring. The prince stated that he would keep his promise, and when his parents casually mentioned that the girl was just a shepherdess, and a very unattractive one at that, the girl confidently asserted that she was born a princess, and that if they would just give her some water and let her be alone in a room for a few minutes, she would prove she could look just as good as anyone in fancy clothes.
They did what she asked, and when she entered in a magnificent dress, she looked so beautiful that all saw she must be a princess in disguise. The King’s son recognized the charming damsel of whom he had once caught a glimpse, and, flinging himself at her feet, asked if she would marry him. The Princess then told her story, and said that it would be necessary to send an ambassador to her father to ask his consent and to invite him to the wedding.
They did what she asked, and when she walked in wearing a stunning dress, she looked so beautiful that everyone could tell she must be a princess in disguise. The King’s son recognized the lovely girl he had seen before and, throwing himself at her feet, asked if she would marry him. The Princess then shared her story and said that they would need to send an ambassador to her father to ask for his blessing and to invite him to the wedding.
The Princess’s father, who had never ceased to repent his harshness towards his daughter, had sought her through the land, but as no one could tell him anything of her, he supposed her dead. Therefore it was with great joy he heard that she was living and that a king’s son asked her in marriage, and he quitted his kingdom with his elder daughter so as to be present at the ceremony.
The princess's father, who had always regretted his harsh treatment of her, searched the land for her. When no one could tell him anything about her, he assumed she was dead. So, he was overjoyed to hear that she was alive and that a prince wanted to marry her. He left his kingdom with his older daughter to attend the wedding.
By the orders of the bride, they only served her father at the wedding breakfast bread without salt, and meat without seasoning. Seeing him make faces, and eat very little, his daughter, who sat beside him, inquired if his dinner was not to his taste.
By the bride's orders, they only served her father at the wedding breakfast bread without salt and meat without seasoning. Noticing him grimace and eat very little, his daughter, who sat next to him, asked if his meal wasn't to his liking.
‘No,’ he replied, ‘the dishes are carefully cooked and sent up, but they are all so dreadfully tasteless.’
‘No,’ he replied, ‘the dishes are carefully prepared and served, but they all taste incredibly bland.’
‘Did not I tell you, my father, that salt was the best thing in life? And yet, when I compared you to salt, to show how much I loved you, you thought slightingly of me and you chased me from your presence.’
‘Didn’t I tell you, Dad, that salt is the best thing in life? And yet, when I compared you to salt to show how much I loved you, you looked down on me and drove me away.’
The King embraced his daughter, and allowed that he had been wrong to misinterpret her words. Then, for the rest of the wedding feast they gave him bread made with salt, and dishes with seasoning, and he said they were the very best he had ever eaten.
The King hugged his daughter and admitted he had been mistaken to misunderstand her words. Then, for the rest of the wedding feast, they served him bread with salt and seasoned dishes, and he said they were the best he had ever tasted.
Sebillot.
Sebillot.
THE ENCHANTED SNAKE
There was once upon a time a poor woman who would have given all she possessed for a child, but she hadn’t one.
There was once a poor woman who would have given everything she had for a child, but she didn't have any.
Now it happened one day that her husband went to the wood to collect brushwood, and when he had brought it home, he discovered a pretty little snake among the twigs.
Now it happened one day that her husband went to the woods to gather some firewood, and when he brought it home, he found a lovely little snake among the branches.
When Sabatella, for that was the name of the peasant’s wife, saw the little beast, she sighed deeply and said, ‘Even the snakes have their brood; I alone am unfortunate and have no children.’ No sooner had she said these words than, to her intense surprise, the little snake looked up into her face and spoke: ‘Since you have no children, be a mother to me instead, and I promise you will never repent it, for I will love you as if I were your own son.’
When Sabatella, the peasant's wife, saw the little snake, she sighed deeply and said, "Even the snakes have their young; I alone am unfortunate and have no children." As soon as she finished speaking, to her amazement, the little snake looked up at her and said, "Since you have no children, be a mother to me instead, and I promise you will never regret it, because I will love you like I’m your own son."
At first Sabatella was frightened to death at hearing a snake speak, but plucking up her courage, she replied, ‘If it weren’t for any other reason than your kindly thought, I would agree to what you say, and I will love you and look after you like a mother.’
At first, Sabatella was terrified to hear a snake talk, but gathering her courage, she responded, “If it weren’t for any other reason than your kind gesture, I would agree with you, and I will love you and take care of you like a mother.”
So she gave the snake a little hole in the house for its bed, fed it with all the nicest food she could think of, and seemed as if she never could show it enough kindness. Day by day it grew bigger and fatter, and at last one morning it said to Cola-Mattheo, the peasant, whom it always regarded as its father, ‘Dear papa, I am now of a suitable age and wish to marry.’
So she made a small space in the house for the snake to sleep, fed it with the best food she could come up with, and acted like she could never show it enough love. Day by day it got bigger and fatter, and finally one morning it said to Cola-Mattheo, the peasant, whom it always saw as its father, “Dear dad, I’m now old enough and want to get married.”
‘I’m quite agreeable,’ answered Mattheo, ‘and I’ll do my best to find another snake like yourself and arrange a match between you.’
“I’m pretty easygoing,” replied Mattheo, “and I’ll do my best to find another snake like you and set up a match between you two.”
‘Why, if you do that,’ replied the snake, ‘we shall be no better than the vipers and reptiles, and that’s not what I want at all. No; I’d much prefer to marry the King’s daughter; therefore I pray you go without further delay, and demand an audience of the King, and tell him a snake wishes to marry his daughter.’
‘If you do that,’ the snake replied, ‘we’ll just end up like the vipers and reptiles, which isn’t what I want at all. No; I’d much rather marry the King’s daughter. So please go without any more delay, request a meeting with the King, and let him know that a snake wants to marry his daughter.’
Cola-Mattheo, who was rather a simpleton, went as he was desired to the King, and having obtained an audience, he said, ‘Your Majesty, I have often heard that people lose nothing by asking, so I have come to inform you that a snake wants to marry your daughter, and I’d be glad to know if you are willing to mate a dove with a serpent?’
Cola-Mattheo, who was somewhat of a simpleton, went as requested to the King, and after getting an audience, he said, ‘Your Majesty, I’ve often heard that people don’t lose anything by asking, so I’ve come to let you know that a snake wants to marry your daughter, and I’d like to know if you’re willing to pair a dove with a serpent?’
The King, who saw at once that the man was a fool, said, in order to get quit of him, ‘Go home and tell your friend the snake that if he can turn this palace into ivory, inlaid with gold and silver, before to-morrow at noon, I will let him marry my daughter.’ And with a hearty laugh he dismissed the peasant.
The King, who immediately recognized that the man was a fool, said, in order to be rid of him, "Go home and tell your friend the snake that if he can turn this palace into ivory, decorated with gold and silver, before tomorrow at noon, I'll let him marry my daughter." And with a loud laugh, he sent the peasant away.
When Cola-Mattheo brought this answer back to the snake, the little creature didn’t seem the least put out, but said, ‘To-morrow morning, before sunrise, you must go to the wood and gather a bunch of green herbs, and then rub the threshold of the palace with them, and you’ll see what will happen.’
When Cola-Mattheo brought this answer back to the snake, the little creature didn’t seem upset at all, but said, ‘Tomorrow morning, before sunrise, you need to go to the woods and gather a bunch of green herbs, then rub the palace threshold with them, and you’ll see what happens.’
Cola-Mattheo, who was, as I have said before, a great simpleton, made no reply; but before sunrise next morning he went to the wood and gathered a bunch of St. John’s Wort, and rosemary, and suchlike herbs, and rubbed them, as he had been told, on the floor of the palace. Hardly had he done so than the walls immediately turned into ivory, so richly inlaid with gold and silver that they dazzled the eyes of all beholders. The King, when he rose and saw the miracle that had been performed, was beside himself with amazement, and didn’t know what in the world he was to do.
Cola-Mattheo, who, as I mentioned earlier, was quite the fool, didn’t say anything; but before sunrise the next day, he went into the woods and picked some St. John’s Wort, rosemary, and other herbs, and rubbed them, as he had been told, on the palace floor. As soon as he did this, the walls transformed into ivory, beautifully inlaid with gold and silver that left everyone who saw it in awe. When the King woke up and saw the incredible change, he was overwhelmed with astonishment and didn’t know what to do.
But when Cola-Mattheo came next day, and, in the name of the snake, demanded the hand of the Princess, the King replied, ‘Don’t be in such a hurry; if the snake really wants to marry my daughter, he must do some more things first, and one of these is to turn all the paths and walls of my garden into pure gold before noon to-morrow.’
But when Cola-Mattheo arrived the next day and, speaking for the snake, asked for the Princess’s hand, the King replied, “Don’t rush things; if the snake truly wants to marry my daughter, he needs to accomplish a few more tasks first, and one of those is to turn all the paths and walls of my garden into pure gold by noon tomorrow.”
When the snake was told of this new condition, he replied, ‘To-morrow morning, early, you must go and collect all the odds and ends of rubbish you can find in the streets, and then take them and throw them on the paths and walls of the garden, and you’ll see then if we won’t be more than a match for the old King.’
When the snake heard about this new condition, he said, ‘Tomorrow morning, early, you need to go gather all the junk you can find in the streets, and then take it and throw it on the paths and walls of the garden. You’ll see then if we’re not more than a match for the old King.’
So Cola-Mattheo rose at cock-crow, took a large basket under his arm, and carefully collected all the broken fragments of pots and pans, and jugs and lamps, and other trash of that sort. No sooner had he scattered them over the paths and walls of the King’s garden than they became one blaze of glittering gold, so that everyone’s eyes were dazzled with the brilliancy, and everyone’s soul was filled with wonder. The King, too, was amazed at the sight, but still he couldn’t make up his mind to part with his daughter, so when Cola-Mattheo came to remind him of his promise he replied, ‘I have still a third demand to make. If the snake can turn all the trees and fruit of my garden into precious stones, then I promise him my daughter in marriage.’
So Cola-Mattheo woke up at dawn, grabbed a big basket, and carefully gathered all the broken pieces of pots, pans, jugs, lamps, and other junk. As soon as he spread them over the paths and walls of the King’s garden, they transformed into a dazzling display of glittering gold, blinding everyone with their brilliance and filling their hearts with awe. The King was also stunned by the sight, but he still couldn’t bring himself to give up his daughter. So when Cola-Mattheo came to remind him of his promise, the King replied, ‘I have one more condition to set. If the snake can turn all the trees and fruit in my garden into precious stones, then I will agree to let him marry my daughter.’
When the peasant informed the snake what the King had said, he replied, ‘To-morrow morning, early, you must go to the market and buy all the fruit you see there, and then sow all the stones and seeds in the palace garden, and, if I’m not mistaken, the King will be satisfied with the result.’
When the peasant told the snake what the King had said, he responded, ‘Tomorrow morning, early, you need to go to the market and buy all the fruit you find there, and then plant all the stones and seeds in the palace garden, and, if I'm right, the King will be pleased with the outcome.’
Cola-Mattheo rose at dawn, and taking a basket on his arm, he went to the market, and bought all the pomegranates, apricots, cherries, and other fruit he could find there, and sowed the seeds and stones in the palace garden. In one moment, the trees were all ablaze with rubies, emeralds, diamonds, and every other precious stone you can think of.
Cola-Mattheo woke up at dawn, and with a basket on his arm, he went to the market to buy all the pomegranates, apricots, cherries, and any other fruit he could find. He then planted the seeds and pits in the palace garden. In an instant, the trees were glowing with rubies, emeralds, diamonds, and every other precious stone you can think of.
This time the King felt obliged to keep his promise, and calling his daughter to him, he said, ‘My dear Grannonia,’ for that was the Princess’s name, ‘more as a joke than anything else, I demanded what seemed to me impossibilities from your bridegroom, but now that he has done all I required, I am bound to stick to my part of the bargain. Be a good child, and as you love me, do not force me to break my word, but give yourself up with as good grace as you can to a most unhappy fate.’
This time the King felt he had to keep his promise, so he called his daughter over and said, ‘My dear Grannonia,’ which was the Princess’s name, ‘I originally asked your fiancé for what I thought were impossible demands as more of a joke, but now that he has met all my requirements, I have to honor my part of the deal. Please, be a good daughter, and for my sake, don’t make me go back on my word. Accept your fate as gracefully as you can, even though it’s going to be tough.’
‘Do with me what you like, my lord and father, for your will is my law,’ answered Grannonia.
‘Do whatever you want with me, my lord and father, because your will is my law,’ replied Grannonia.
When the King heard this, he told Cola-Mattheo to bring the snake to the palace, and said that he was prepared to receive the creature as his son-in-law.
When the King heard this, he told Cola-Mattheo to bring the snake to the palace, saying that he was ready to accept the creature as his son-in-law.
The snake arrived at court in a carriage made of gold and drawn by six white elephants; but wherever it appeared on the way, the people fled in terror at the sight of the fearful reptile.
The snake showed up at court in a golden carriage pulled by six white elephants, but everywhere it went, people ran away in fear at the sight of the terrifying creature.
When the snake reached the palace, all the courtiers shook and trembled with fear down to the very scullion, and the King and Queen were in such a state of nervous collapse that they hid themselves in a far-away turret. Grannonia alone kept her presence of mind, and although both her father and mother implored her to fly for her life, she wouldn’t move a step, saying, ‘I’m certainly not going to fly from the man you have chosen for my husband.’
When the snake arrived at the palace, everyone shook and trembled with fear, even the lowest servants, and the King and Queen were so on edge that they hid in a distant tower. Only Grannonia remained calm, and even though her parents begged her to run for her life, she refused to budge, saying, ‘I’m definitely not going to run away from the man you’ve chosen to be my husband.’
As soon as the snake saw Grannonia, it wound its tail round her and kissed her. Then, leading her into a room, it shut the door, and throwing off its skin, it changed into a beautiful young man with golden locks, and flashing eyes, who embraced Grannonia tenderly, and said all sorts of pretty things to her.
As soon as the snake saw Grannonia, it wrapped its tail around her and kissed her. Then, leading her into a room, it closed the door, and after shedding its skin, it transformed into a handsome young man with golden hair and bright eyes, who hugged Grannonia gently and said all kinds of sweet things to her.
When the King saw the snake shut itself into a room with his daughter, he said to his wife, ‘Heaven be merciful to our child, for I fear it is all over with her now. This cursed snake has most likely swallowed her up.’ Then they put their eyes to the keyhole to see what had happened.
When the king saw the snake shut itself in a room with his daughter, he said to his wife, "God help our child, because I’m afraid it’s all over for her now. That cursed snake has probably swallowed her whole." Then they pressed their eyes to the keyhole to see what had happened.
Their amazement knew no bounds when they saw a beautiful youth standing before their daughter with the snake’s skin lying on the floor beside him. In their excitement they burst open the door, and seizing the skin they threw it into the fire. But no sooner had they done this than the young man called out, ‘Oh, wretched people! what have you done?’ and before they had time to look round he had changed himself into a dove, and dashing against the window he broke a pane of glass, and flew away from their sight.
Their shock was overwhelming when they saw a handsome young man standing in front of their daughter with the snake's skin lying on the floor next to him. In their excitement, they flung open the door, grabbed the skin, and tossed it into the fire. But no sooner had they done this than the young man shouted, "Oh, miserable people! What have you done?" Before they could react, he transformed into a dove, flew towards the window, broke a pane of glass, and vanished from their sight.
But Grannonia, who in one and the same moment saw herself merry and sad, cheerful and despairing, rich and beggared, complained bitterly over this robbery of her happiness, this poisoning of her cup of joy, this unlucky stroke of fortune, and laid all the blame on her parents, though they assured her that they had meant no harm. But the Princess refused to be comforted, and at night, when all the inhabitants of the palace were asleep, she stole out by a back door, disguised as a peasant woman, determined to seek for her lost happiness till she found it. When she got to the outskirts of the town, led by the light of the moon, she met a fox, who offered to accompany her, an offer which Grannonia gladly accepted, saying ‘You are most heartily welcome, for I don’t know my way at all about the neighbourhood.’
But Grannonia, who in one moment felt both happy and sad, cheerful and hopeless, wealthy and impoverished, complained bitterly about this theft of her happiness, this tainting of her joy, this unfortunate twist of fate, and blamed her parents, even though they insisted they had meant no harm. But the Princess wouldn't be consoled, and at night, when everyone in the palace was asleep, she snuck out through a back door, disguised as a peasant woman, determined to find her lost happiness. When she reached the edge of town, guided by the light of the moon, she encountered a fox, who offered to join her, an offer Grannonia gladly accepted, saying, "You are very welcome, for I don’t know my way around here at all."
So they went on their way together, and came at last to a wood, where, being tired with walking, they paused to rest under the shade of a tree, where a spring of water sported with the tender grass, refreshing it with its crystal spray.
So they continued on their journey together and eventually reached a forest, where, feeling tired from walking, they stopped to rest under the shade of a tree. A spring of water danced playfully over the soft grass, refreshing it with its clear spray.
They laid themselves down on the green carpet and soon fell fast asleep, and did not waken again till the sun was high in the heavens. They rose up and stood for some time listening to the birds singing, because Grannonia delighted in their songs.
They lay down on the green carpet and soon fell fast asleep, not waking up until the sun was high in the sky. They got up and stood for a while, listening to the birds singing, because Grannonia loved their songs.
When the fox perceived this, he said: ‘If you only understood, as I do, what these little birds are saying, your pleasure would be even greater.’
When the fox noticed this, he said: ‘If you could understand, like I do, what these little birds are saying, you’d enjoy it even more.’
Provoked by his words—for we all know that curiosity is as deeply inborn in every woman as even the love of talking—Grannonia implored the fox to tell her what the birds had said.
Provoked by his words—for we all know that curiosity is just as naturally part of every woman as the love of conversation—Grannonia urged the fox to share what the birds had said.
At first the wily fox refused to tell her what he had gathered from the conversation of the birds, but at last he gave way to her entreaties, and told her that they had spoken of the misfortunes of a beautiful young Prince, whom a wicked enchantress had turned into a snake for the period of seven years. At the end of this time he had fallen in love with a charming Princess, but that when he had shut himself up into a room with her, and had thrown off his snake’s skin, her parents had forced their way into the room and had burnt the skin, whereupon the Prince, changed into the likeness of a dove, had broken a pane of glass in trying to fly out of the window, and had wounded himself so badly that the doctors despaired of his life.
At first, the clever fox refused to tell her what he had learned from the birds' conversation, but eventually, he gave in to her pleas. He shared that they had talked about the troubles of a handsome young Prince, who had been cursed by a wicked enchantress and turned into a snake for seven years. After this time, he fell in love with a lovely Princess, but when he locked himself in a room with her and shed his snake skin, her parents barged in and burned the skin. This caused the Prince, now resembling a dove, to break a window pane while trying to escape, injuring himself so severely that the doctors lost hope for his recovery.
Grannonia, when she learnt that they were talking of her lover, asked at once whose son he was, and if there was any hope of his recovery; to which the fox made answer that the birds had said he was the son of the King of Vallone Grosso, and that the only thing that could cure him was to rub the wounds on his head with the blood of the very birds who had told the tale.
Grannonia, when she found out they were talking about her lover, immediately asked whose son he was and if there was any hope for his recovery. The fox responded that the birds had said he was the son of the King of Vallone Grosso, and that the only thing that could heal him was to rub the wounds on his head with the blood of the same birds that told the story.
Then Grannonia knelt down before the fox, and begged him in her sweetest way to catch the birds for her and procure their blood, promising at the same time to reward him richly.
Then Grannonia knelt down before the fox and sweetly asked him to catch the birds for her and get their blood, promising to reward him generously in return.
‘All right,’ said the fox, ‘only don’t be in such a hurry; let’s wait till night, when the little birds have gone to roost, then I’ll climb up and catch them all for you.’
‘Okay,’ said the fox, ‘just don’t rush; let’s wait until night when the little birds have settled in, then I’ll climb up and catch them all for you.’
So they passed the day, talking now of the beauty of the Prince, now of the father of the Princess, and then of the misfortune that had happened. At last the night arrived, and all the little birds were asleep high up on the branches of a big tree. The fox climbed up stealthily and caught the little creatures with his paws one after the other; and when he had killed them all he put their blood into a little bottle which he wore at his side and returned with it to Grannonia, who was beside herself with joy at the result of the fox’s raid. But the fox said, ‘My dear daughter, your joy is in vain, because, let me tell you, this blood is of no earthly use to you unless you add some of mine to it,’ and with these words he took to his heels.
So they spent the day chatting about the Prince's good looks, the Princess's father, and the unfortunate events that had taken place. Eventually, night fell, and all the little birds were asleep high up in the branches of a big tree. The fox climbed up quietly and caught the little creatures one by one with his paws; when he had killed them all, he collected their blood in a small bottle he carried at his side and returned to Grannonia, who was overjoyed by the outcome of the fox’s hunt. But the fox said, ‘My dear daughter, your happiness is pointless because, let me tell you, this blood won’t do you any good unless you mix in some of mine,’ and with that, he took off running.
Grannonia, who saw her hopes dashed to the ground in this cruel way, had recourse to flattery and cunning, weapons which have often stood the sex in good stead, and called out after the fox, ‘Father Fox, you would be quite right to save your skin, if, in the first place, I didn’t feel I owed so much to you, and if, in the second, there weren’t other foxes in the world; but as you know how grateful I feel to you, and as there are heaps of other foxes about, you can trust yourself to me. Don’t behave like the cow that kicks the pail over after it has filled it with milk, but continue your journey with me, and when we get to the capital you can sell me to the King as a servant girl.’
Grannonia, who had her hopes crushed in such a harsh way, relied on flattery and cleverness, tools that have often benefited women, and called out after the fox, “Father Fox, you’d be right to save yourself, but first, I feel like I owe you so much, and second, there are plenty of other foxes out there; but since you know how thankful I am to you, and since there are lots of other foxes around, you can trust me. Don’t be like the cow that knocks over the bucket after it’s filled with milk, but keep traveling with me, and when we reach the capital, you can sell me to the King as a maid.”
It never entered the fox’s head that even foxes can be outwitted, so after a bit he consented to go with her; but he hadn’t gone far before the cunning girl seized a stick, and gave him such a blow with it on the head, that he dropped down dead on the spot. Then Grannonia took some of his blood and poured it into her little bottle; and went on her way as fast as she could to Vallone Grosso.
It never crossed the fox's mind that even foxes could be outsmarted, so after a while, he agreed to go with her. However, he hadn't gone far when the clever girl picked up a stick and hit him hard on the head, causing him to drop dead on the spot. Then Grannonia took some of his blood and poured it into her little bottle, and hurried on her way to Vallone Grosso.
When she arrived there she went straight to the Royal palace, and let the King be told she had come to cure the young Prince.
When she got there, she went directly to the Royal Palace and had them inform the King that she had come to heal the young Prince.
The King commanded her to be brought before him at once, and was much astonished when he saw that it was a girl who undertook to do what all the cleverest doctors of his kingdom had failed in. As an attempt hurts no one, he willingly consented that she should do what she could.
The King ordered her to be brought to him immediately and was very surprised to see that a girl was the one who took on something that all the smartest doctors in his kingdom had failed to do. Since trying doesn't hurt anyone, he gladly agreed to let her do what she could.
‘All I ask,’ said Grannonia, ‘is that, should I succeed in what you desire, you will give me your son in marriage.’
‘All I ask,’ said Grannonia, ‘is that if I succeed in what you want, you will give me your son in marriage.’
The King, who had given up all hopes of his son’s recovery, replied: ‘Only restore him to life and health and he shall be yours. It is only fair to give her a husband who gives me a son.’
The King, who had lost all hope for his son's recovery, replied: ‘Just bring him back to life and health, and he will be yours. It’s only right to give her a husband who will give me a son.’
And so they went into the Prince’s room. The moment Grannonia had rubbed the blood on his wounds the illness left him, and he was as sound and well as ever. When the King saw his son thus marvellously restored to life and health, he turned to him and said: ‘My dear son, I thought of you as dead, and now, to my great joy and amazement, you are alive again. I promised this young woman that if she should cure you, to bestow your hand and heart on her, and seeing that Heaven has been gracious, you must fulfil the promise I made her; for gratitude alone forces me to pay this debt.’
And so they entered the Prince’s room. The moment Grannonia applied the blood to his wounds, the illness left him, and he was as healthy as ever. When the King saw his son miraculously restored to life and health, he turned to him and said: ‘My dear son, I thought you were dead, and now, to my great joy and surprise, you are alive again. I promised this young woman that if she cured you, I would give her your hand and heart, and since Heaven has been kind, you must keep the promise I made her; for gratitude alone compels me to honor this debt.’
But the Prince answered: ‘My lord and father, I would that my will were as free as my love for you is great. But as I have plighted my word to another maiden, you will see yourself, and so will this young woman, that I cannot go back from my word, and be faithless to her whom I love.’
But the Prince replied, "My lord and father, I wish my will was as free as my love for you is strong. But since I’ve promised another woman, you and this young lady will see that I can’t go back on my word and betray the one I love."
When Grannonia heard these words, and saw how deeply rooted the Prince’s love for her was, she felt very happy, and blushing rosy red, she said: ‘But should I get the other lady to give up her rights, would you then consent to marry me?’
When Grannonia heard these words and saw how deeply the Prince’s love for her was, she felt very happy. Blushing bright red, she said, "But if I got the other lady to give up her rights, would you then agree to marry me?"
‘Far be it from me,’ replied the Prince, ‘to banish the beautiful picture of my love from my heart. Whatever she may say, my heart and desire will remain the same, and though I were to lose my life for it, I couldn’t consent to this exchange.’
‘It’s far from my intention,’ replied the Prince, ‘to remove the beautiful image of my love from my heart. No matter what she says, my heart and desires will stay the same, and even if it meant losing my life, I couldn’t agree to this trade.’
Grannonia could keep silence no longer, and throwing off her peasant’s disguise, she discovered herself to the Prince, who was nearly beside himself with joy when he recognised his fair lady-love. He then told his father at once who she was, and what she had done and suffered for his sake.
Grannonia could keep quiet no longer, and shedding her peasant disguise, she revealed herself to the Prince, who was almost beside himself with joy when he recognized his beautiful lady-love. He then immediately told his father who she was and what she had done and endured for his sake.
Then they invited the King and Queen of Starza-Longa to their Court, and had a great wedding feast, and proved once more that there is no better seasoning for the joys of true love than a few pangs of grief.
Then they invited the King and Queen of Starza-Longa to their Court and held an amazing wedding feast, showing once again that nothing adds flavor to the joys of true love like a few moments of sorrow.
THE BITER BIT
Once upon a time there lived a man called Simon, who was very rich, but at the same time as stingy and miserly as he could be. He had a housekeeper called Nina, a clever capable woman, and as she did her work carefully and conscientiously, her master had the greatest respect for her.
Once upon a time, there was a man named Simon who was very wealthy, but he was also incredibly stingy and miserly. He had a housekeeper named Nina, a smart and capable woman, and because she did her job meticulously and with dedication, her boss had the utmost respect for her.
In his young days Simon had been one of the gayest and most active youths of the neighbourhood, but as he grew old and stiff he found it very difficult to walk, and his faithful servant urged him to get a horse so as to save his poor old bones. At last Simon gave way to the request and persuasive eloquence of his housekeeper, and betook himself one day to the market where he had seen a mule, which he thought would just suit him, and which he bought for seven gold pieces.
In his youth, Simon had been one of the liveliest and most energetic young men in the neighborhood, but as he got older and more stiff, he found it very hard to walk. His loyal servant encouraged him to get a horse to spare his aching body. Eventually, Simon caved to the request and convincing arguments of his housekeeper, and one day he went to the market, where he spotted a mule that he thought would be perfect for him, which he bought for seven gold coins.
Now it happened that there were three merry rascals hanging about the market-place, who much preferred living on other people’s goods to working for their own living. As soon as they saw that Simon had bought a mule, one of them said to his two boon companions, ‘My friends, this mule must be ours before we are many hours older.’
Now there were three cheeky guys hanging out in the market, who really preferred living off other people's stuff instead of working for their own. As soon as they noticed that Simon had bought a mule, one of them said to his two buddies, "Hey guys, we need to make this mule ours before long!"
‘But how shall we manage it,’ asked one of them.
‘But how are we going to handle this?’ asked one of them.
‘We must all three station ourselves at different intervals along the old man’s homeward way, and must each in his turn declare that the mule he has bought is a donkey. If we only stick to it you’ll see the mule will soon be ours.’ This proposal quite satisfied the others, and they all separated as they had agreed.
‘We all need to position ourselves at different points along the old man’s route home, and each of us will take turns saying that the mule he bought is actually a donkey. If we just stick to the plan, you'll see that the mule will soon be ours.’ This suggestion completely satisfied the others, and they all went their separate ways as planned.
Now when Simon came by, the first rogue said to him, ‘God bless you, my fine gentleman.’
Now when Simon came by, the first rogue said to him, ‘God bless you, my good man.’
‘Thanks for your courtesy,’ replied Simon.
‘Thanks for your kindness,’ replied Simon.
‘Where have you been?’ asked the thief.
‘Where have you been?’ asked the thief.
‘To the market,’ was the reply.
'To the market,' was the reply.
‘And what did you buy there?’ continued the rogue.
‘And what did you buy there?’ the rogue continued.
‘This mule.’
‘This donkey.’
‘Which mule?’
'Which mule?'
‘The one I’m sitting upon, to be sure,’ replied Simon.
‘The one I’m sitting on, for sure,’ replied Simon.
‘Are you in earnest, or only joking?’
‘Are you serious, or just kidding?’
‘What do you mean?’
'What do you mean?'
‘Because it seems to me you’ve got hold of a donkey, and not of a mule.’
‘Because it looks like you’ve got a donkey instead of a mule.’
‘A donkey? Rubbish!’ screamed Simon, and without another word he rode on his way. After a few hundred yards he met the second confederate, who addressed him, ‘Good day, dear sir, where are you coming from?’
‘A donkey? Nonsense!’ shouted Simon, and without saying anything else, he continued on his way. After traveling a few hundred yards, he encountered the second accomplice, who greeted him, ‘Good day, sir, where are you coming from?’
‘From the market,’ answered Simon.
"From the market," Simon replied.
‘Did things go pretty cheap?’ asked the other.
"Did everything go for a good price?" asked the other.
‘I should just think so,’ said Simon.
‘I would think so,’ said Simon.
‘And did you make any good bargain yourself?’
‘So, did you score any good deals yourself?’
‘I bought this mule on which you see me.’
‘I bought this mule that you see me on.’
‘Is it possible that you really bought that beast for a mule?’
‘Is it possible that you actually bought that monster for a mule?’
‘Why certainly.’
"Of course."
‘But, good heavens, it’s nothing but a donkey!’
‘But, oh my gosh, it’s just a donkey!’
‘A donkey!’ repeated Simon, ‘you don’t mean to say so; if a single other person tells me that, I’ll make him a present of the wretched animal.’
‘A donkey!’ Simon repeated. ‘You can’t be serious; if one more person says that to me, I’ll just give them the miserable creature.’
With these words he continued his way, and very soon met the third knave, who said to him, ‘God bless you, sir; are you by any chance coming from the market?’
With these words, he went on his way and soon ran into the third trickster, who said to him, "God bless you, sir! Are you by any chance coming from the market?"
‘Yes, I am,’ replied Simon.
‘Yeah, I am,’ replied Simon.
‘And what bargain did you drive there?’ asked the cunning fellow.
‘And what deal did you make there?’ asked the sly guy.
‘I bought this mule on which I am riding.’
'I bought this mule that I'm riding.'
‘A mule! Are you speaking seriously, or do you wish to make a fool of me?’
‘A mule! Are you serious, or are you trying to make a fool out of me?’
‘I’m speaking in sober earnest,’ said Simon; ‘it wouldn’t occur to me to make a joke of it.’
“I’m being completely serious,” Simon said. “I wouldn’t think to joke about it.”
‘Oh, my poor friend,’ cried the rascal, ‘don’t you see that is a donkey and not a mule? you have been taken in by some wretched cheats.’
‘Oh, my poor friend,’ cried the trickster, ‘can’t you see that’s a donkey and not a mule? You’ve been deceived by some awful frauds.’
‘You are the third person in the last two hours who has told me the same thing,’ said Simon, ‘but I couldn’t believe it,’ and dismounting from the mule he spoke: ‘Keep the animal, I make you a present of it.’ The rascal took the beast, thanked him kindly, and rode on to join his comrades, while Simon continued his journey on foot.
‘You’re the third person in the last two hours who’s told me the same thing,’ Simon said, ‘but I couldn’t believe it.’ Dismounting from the mule, he added, ‘Keep the animal; I’m giving it to you as a gift.’ The guy took the mule, thanked him sincerely, and rode off to join his friends, while Simon continued his journey on foot.
As soon as the old man got home, he told his housekeeper that he had bought a beast under the belief that it was a mule, but that it had turned out to be a donkey—at least, so he had been assured by several people he had met on the road, and that in disgust he had at last given it away.
As soon as the old man got home, he told his housekeeper that he had bought an animal thinking it was a mule, but it had turned out to be a donkey—at least, that’s what several people he met on the road assured him. Out of frustration, he ended up giving it away.
‘Oh, you simpleton!’ cried Nina; ‘didn’t you see that they were only playing you a trick? Really, I thought you’d have had more gumption than that; they wouldn’t have taken me in in that way.’
‘Oh, you fool!’ cried Nina; ‘didn’t you see that they were just pulling a fast one on you? Honestly, I thought you’d be smarter than that; they wouldn’t have been able to fool me like that.’
‘Never mind,’ replied Simon, ‘I’ll play them one worth two of that; for depend upon it they won’t be contented with having got the donkey out of me, but they’ll try by some new dodge to get something more, or I’m much mistaken.’
‘Never mind,’ replied Simon, ‘I’ll show them something much better than that; because trust me, they won’t be satisfied with just getting the donkey from me, but they’ll try some new trick to get something more, or I’m very wrong.’
Now there lived in the village not far from Simon’s house, a peasant who had two goats, so alike in every respect that it was impossible to distinguish one from the other. Simon bought them both, paid as small a price as he could for them, and leading them home with him, he told Nina to prepare a good meal, as he was going to invite some friends to dinner. He ordered her to roast some veal, and to boil a pair of chickens, and gave her some herbs to make a good savoury, and told her to bake the best tart she could make. Then he took one of the goats and tied it to a post in the courtyard, and gave it some grass to eat; but he bound a cord round the neck of the other goat and led it to the market.
Now, there lived in the village not far from Simon’s house a farmer who had two goats that looked so much alike that it was impossible to tell them apart. Simon bought both goats, paid the least amount he could, and while leading them home, he told Nina to prepare a nice meal because he was planning to invite some friends over for dinner. He asked her to roast some veal and boil a couple of chickens, gave her some herbs to make a tasty dish, and told her to bake the best tart she could manage. Then he took one of the goats and tied it to a post in the yard, giving it some grass to munch on; but he tied a cord around the neck of the other goat and took it to the market.
Hardly had he arrived there, than the three gentlemen who had got his mule perceived him, and coming up to him said: ‘Welcome, Mr. Simon, what brings you here; are you on the look out for a bargain?’
Hardly had he arrived when the three gentlemen who had gotten his mule noticed him and approached him, saying: ‘Welcome, Mr. Simon! What brings you here? Are you looking for a deal?’
‘I’ve come to get some provisions,’ he answered, ‘because some friends are coming to dine with me today, and it would give me much pleasure if you were to honour me with your company also.’
"I've come to pick up some supplies," he replied, "because some friends are coming over for dinner today, and it would make me very happy if you would join us as well."
The accomplices willingly accepted this invitation; and after Simon had made all his purchases, he tied them on to the goat’s back, and said to it, in the presence of the three cheats, ‘Go home now, and tell Nina to roast the veal, and boil the chickens, and tell her to prepare a savoury with herbs, and to bake the best tart she can make. Have you followed me? Then go, and Heaven’s blessing go with you.’
The accomplices gladly accepted the invitation; and after Simon had made all his purchases, he tied them onto the goat's back and said to it, in front of the three con artists, “Go home now, and tell Nina to roast the veal, boil the chickens, prepare a tasty dish with herbs, and bake the best tart she can. Did you get that? Then go, and may Heaven's blessing be with you.”
As soon as it felt itself free, the laden goat trotted off as quickly as it could, and to this day nobody knows what became of it. But Simon, after wandering about the market for some time with his three friends and some others he had picked up, returned home to his house.
As soon as it felt free, the loaded goat trotted off as fast as it could, and to this day, no one knows what happened to it. But Simon, after wandering around the market for a while with his three friends and some others he had met, went back home to his house.
When he and his guests entered the courtyard, they noticed the goat tied to the post quietly chewing the cud. They were not a little astonished at this, for of course they thought it was the same goat that Simon had sent home laden with provisions. As soon as they reached the house Mr. Simon said to his housekeeper, ‘Well, Nina, have you done what I told the goat to tell you to do?’ The artful woman, who at once understood her master, answered, ‘Certainly I have. The veal is roasted, and the chickens boiled.’
When he and his guests walked into the courtyard, they saw the goat tied to the post, calmly chewing its cud. They were quite surprised by this, as they assumed it was the same goat that Simon had sent home loaded with supplies. As soon as they got to the house, Mr. Simon said to his housekeeper, ‘Well, Nina, did you do what I asked the goat to tell you to do?’ The clever woman, who immediately got what her boss meant, responded, ‘Of course I have. The veal is roasted, and the chickens are boiled.’
‘That’s all right,’ said Simon.
"That's fine," said Simon.
When the three rogues saw the cooked meats, and the tart in the oven, and heard Nina’s words, they were nearly beside themselves with amazement, and began to consult at once how they were to get the goat into their own possession. At last, towards the end of the meal, having sought in vain for some cunning dodge to get the goat away from Mr. Simon, one of them said to him, ‘My worthy host, you must sell your goat to us.’
When the three crooks saw the cooked meats, the pie in the oven, and heard Nina’s words, they were almost overwhelmed with surprise and immediately started to figure out how to get the goat for themselves. Finally, toward the end of the meal, after trying in vain to come up with a clever trick to take the goat from Mr. Simon, one of them said to him, ‘My good host, you have to sell us your goat.’
Simon replied that he was most unwilling to part with the creature, as no amount of money would make up to him for its loss; still, if they were quite set on it, he would let them have the goat for fifty gold pieces.
Simon replied that he really didn’t want to get rid of the creature, since no amount of money could replace it for him; however, if they were determined, he would sell them the goat for fifty gold coins.
The knaves, who thought they were doing a capital piece of business, paid down the fifty gold pieces at once, and left the house quite happily, leading the goat with them. When they got home they said to their wives, ‘You needn’t begin to cook the dinner to-morrow till we send the provisions home.’
The scammers, who believed they were making a great deal, paid the fifty gold coins right away and left the house feeling pleased, taking the goat with them. When they got home, they told their wives, ‘You don’t need to start cooking dinner tomorrow until we send the supplies over.’
The following day they went to the market and bought chickens and other eatables, and after they had packed them on the back of the goat (which they had brought with them), they told it all the dishes they wished their wives to prepare. As soon as the goat felt itself free, it ran as quickly as it could, and was very soon lost to sight, and, as far as I know, was never heard of again.
The next day, they went to the market and bought chickens and other food items. After they loaded everything onto the back of the goat they brought with them, they told it about all the dishes they wanted their wives to make. As soon as the goat felt free, it ran off as fast as it could and quickly disappeared from sight, and as far as I know, was never seen again.
When the dinner hour approached all three went home and asked their wives if the goat had returned with the necessary provisions, and had told them what they wished prepared for their meal.
When dinner time was near, all three went home and asked their wives if the goat had come back with the needed supplies and if it had told them what they wanted for their meal.
‘Oh, you fools and blockheads!’ cried their wives, ‘how could you ever believe for a moment that a goat would do the work of a servant-maid? You have been finely deceived for once in a way. Of course, if you are always taking in other people, your turn to be taken in comes too, and this time you’ve been made to look pretty foolish.’
‘Oh, you idiots!’ shouted their wives. ‘How could you ever believe for a second that a goat could do the work of a maid? You’ve really been tricked this time. Obviously, if you’re always pulling one over on others, it’s only a matter of time before you get fooled yourself, and this time you’ve ended up looking pretty silly.’
When the three comrades saw that Mr. Simon had got the better of them, and done them out of fifty gold pieces, they flew into such a rage that they made up their minds to kill him, and, seizing their weapons for this purpose, went to his house.
When the three friends realized that Mr. Simon had outsmarted them and taken fifty gold pieces, they got so angry that they decided to kill him. Grabbing their weapons for this purpose, they headed to his house.
But the sly old man, who was terrified for his life that the three rogues might do him some harm, was on his guard, and said to his housekeeper, ‘Nina, take this bladder, which is filled with blood, and hide it under your cloak; then when these thieves come I’ll lay all the blame on you, and will pretend to be so angry with you that I will run at you with my knife, and pierce the bladder with it; then you must fall on the ground as if you were dead, and leave the rest to me.’
But the crafty old man, who was scared for his life that the three villains might hurt him, was careful and said to his housekeeper, "Nina, take this bladder filled with blood and hide it under your cloak. When those thieves arrive, I’ll blame everything on you and act so mad that I’ll charge at you with my knife and stab the bladder. Then you have to drop to the ground like you're dead, and I’ll take care of the rest."
Hardly had Simon said these words when the three rogues appeared and fell on him to kill him.
Hardly had Simon said these words when the three thieves showed up and attacked him to kill him.
‘My friends,’ called out Simon to then, ‘what do you accuse me of? I am in no way to blame; perhaps my housekeeper has done you some injury of which I know nothing.’ And with these words, he turned on Nina with his knife, and stuck it right into her, so that he pierced the bladder filled with blood. Instantly the housekeeper fell down as if she were dead, and the blood streamed all over the ground.
‘My friends,’ Simon called out to them, ‘what are you accusing me of? I’m not at fault; maybe my housekeeper has hurt you in some way that I'm not aware of.’ And with that, he turned on Nina with his knife and stabbed her, piercing her bladder and causing blood to spill out. Instantly, the housekeeper collapsed as if she were dead, and blood flowed all over the ground.
Simon then pretended to be seized with remorse at the sight of this dreadful catastrophe, and cried out in a loud voice, ‘Unhappy wretch that I am! What have I done? Like a madman I have killed the woman who is the prop and stay of my old age. How could I ever go on living without her?’ Then he seized a pipe, and when he had blown into it for some time Nina sprang up alive and well.
Simon then acted like he was overwhelmed with guilt at the sight of this terrible disaster, and shouted loudly, “Wretched me! What have I done? Like a madman, I’ve killed the woman who supports me in my old age. How could I possibly go on living without her?” Then he grabbed a pipe, and after blowing into it for a while, Nina jumped up, alive and well.
The rogues were more amazed than ever; they forgot their anger, and buying the pipe for two hundred gold pieces, they went joyfully home.
The rogues were more amazed than ever; they forgot their anger and bought the pipe for two hundred gold pieces, heading home joyfully.
Not long after this one of them quarrelled with his wife, and in his rage he thrust his knife into her breast so that she fell dead on the ground. Then he took Simon’s pipe and blew into it with all his might, in the hopes of calling his wife back to life. But he blew in vain, for the poor soul was as dead as a door-nail.
Not long after, one of them got into an argument with his wife, and in his anger, he stabbed her in the chest, causing her to collapse lifeless on the ground. Then, he grabbed Simon’s pipe and played it with all his strength, hoping to bring his wife back to life. But it was futile, as her soul was as dead as could be.
When one of his comrades heard what had happened, he said, ‘You blockhead, you can’t have done it properly; just let me have a try,’ and with these words he seized his wife by the roots of her hair, cut her throat with a razor, and then took the pipe and blew into it with all his might but he couldn’t bring her back to life. The same thing happened to the third rogue, so that they were now all three without wives.
When one of his buddies heard what had happened, he said, "You idiot, you clearly didn't do it right; let me give it a shot." With that, he grabbed his wife by her hair, cut her throat with a razor, and then took the pipe and blew into it as hard as he could, but he couldn’t bring her back to life. The same thing happened to the third guy, so now all three of them were without wives.
Full of wrath they ran to Simon’s house, and, refusing to listen to a word of explanation or excuse, they seized the old man and put him into a sack, meaning to drown him in the neighbouring river. On their way there, however, a sudden noise threw them into such a panic that they dropped the sack with Simon in it and ran for their lives.
Full of anger, they rushed to Simon’s house and, ignoring any explanation or excuse, grabbed the old man and stuffed him into a sack, planning to drown him in the nearby river. However, on their way, a sudden noise startled them so badly that they dropped the sack with Simon inside and ran for their lives.
Soon after this a shepherd happened to pass by with his flock, and while he was slowly following the sheep, who paused here and there by the wayside to browse on the tender grass, he heard a pitiful voice wailing, ‘They insist on my taking her, and I don’t want her, for I am too old, and I really can’t have her.’ The shepherd was much startled, for he couldn’t make out where these words, which were repeated more than once, came from, and looked about him to the right and left; at last he perceived the sack in which Simon was hidden, and going up to it he opened it and discovered Simon repeating his dismal complaint. The shepherd asked him why he had been left there tied up in a sack.
Soon after this, a shepherd came by with his flock. As he walked slowly behind the sheep, which stopped here and there to munch on the tender grass, he heard a sad voice crying out, “They’re forcing me to take her, and I don’t want her because I’m too old, and I really can’t handle her.” The shepherd was quite surprised, as he couldn’t figure out where these words were coming from. He looked around, scanning the area, and eventually spotted the sack where Simon was hidden. He approached it, opened it, and found Simon repeating his mournful complaint. The shepherd asked him why he had been left there, tied up in a sack.
Simon replied that the king of the country had insisted on giving him one of his daughters as a wife, but that he had refused the honour because he was too old and too frail. The simple-minded shepherd, who believed his story implicitly, asked him, ‘Do you think the king of the country would give his daughter to me?’
Simon replied that the king of the country had insisted on giving him one of his daughters as a wife, but he had turned down the honor because he was too old and too weak. The naive shepherd, who believed his story completely, asked him, "Do you think the king of the country would give his daughter to me?"
‘Yes, certainly, I know he would,’ answered Simon, ‘if you were tied up in this sack instead of me.’ Then getting out of the sack, he tied the confiding shepherd up in it instead, and at his request fastened it securely and drove the sheep on himself.
‘Yes, of course, I know he would,’ replied Simon, ‘if you were the one in this sack instead of me.’ Then, after getting out of the sack, he tied the trusting shepherd up in it instead, and at his request, secured it tightly and herded the sheep himself.
An hour had scarcely passed when the three rogues returned to the place where they had left Simon in the sack, and without opening it, one of them seized it and threw it into the river. And so the poor shepherd was drowned instead of Mr. Simon!
An hour had barely gone by when the three crooks came back to the spot where they had left Simon in the sack, and without opening it, one of them grabbed it and tossed it into the river. So, the poor shepherd drowned instead of Mr. Simon!
The three rogues, having wreaked their vengeance, set out, for home. On their way they noticed a flock of sheep grazing not far from the road. They longed to steal a few of the lambs, and approached the flock, and were more than startled to recognise Mr. Simon, whom they had drowned in the river, as the shepherd who was looking after the sheep. They asked him how he had managed to get out of the river, to which he replied:
The three rogues, having exacted their revenge, started heading home. On their way, they saw a flock of sheep grazing not far from the road. They wanted to steal a few of the lambs, so they approached the flock and were more than surprised to see Mr. Simon, the man they had drowned in the river, acting as the shepherd looking after the sheep. They asked him how he had managed to escape the river, to which he replied:
‘Get along with you—you are no better than silly donkeys without any sense; if you had only drowned me in deeper water I would have returned with three times as many sheep.’
‘Get out of here—you’re no better than foolish donkeys without any sense; if you had just drowned me in deeper water, I would have come back with three times as many sheep.’
When the three rogues heard this, they said to him: ‘Oh, dear Mr. Simon, do us the favour to tie us up in sacks and throw us into the river that we may give up our thieving ways and become the owners of flocks.’
When the three crooks heard this, they said to him, “Oh, dear Mr. Simon, please do us a favor and tie us up in sacks and throw us into the river so we can stop our stealing and become the owners of flocks.”
‘I am ready,’ answered Simon, ‘to do what you please; there’s nothing in the world I wouldn’t do for you.’
‘I’m ready,’ answered Simon, ‘to do whatever you want; there’s nothing in the world I wouldn’t do for you.’
So he took three strong sacks and put a man in each of them, and fastened them up so tightly that they couldn’t get out, and then he threw them all into the river; and that was the end of the three rogues. But Mr. Simon returned home to his faithful Nina rich in flocks and gold, and lived for many a year in health and happiness.
So he took three sturdy sacks and put a person in each of them, sealing them up so tightly that they couldn’t escape, and then he tossed them all into the river; and that was the end of the three crooks. But Mr. Simon went back home to his loyal Nina, rich in livestock and gold, and lived for many years in health and happiness.
Kletke.
Kletke.
KING KOJATA (From the Russian)
There was once upon a time a king called Kojata, whose beard was so long that it reached below his knees. Three years had passed since his marriage, and he lived very happily with his wife, but Heaven granted him no heir, which grieved the King greatly. One day he set forth from his capital, in order to make a journey through his kingdom. He travelled for nearly a year through the different parts of his territory, and then, having seen all there was to be seen, he set forth on his homeward way. As the day was very hot and sultry he commanded his servants to pitch tents in the open field, and there await the cool of the evening. Suddenly a frightful thirst seized the King, and as he saw no water near, he mounted his horse, and rode through the neighbourhood looking for a spring. Before long he came to a well filled to the brim with water clear as crystal, and on the bosom of which a golden jug was floating. King Kojata at once tried to seize the vessel, but though he endeavoured to grasp it with his right hand, and then with his left, the wretched thing always eluded his efforts and refused to let itself be caught. First with one hand, and then with two, did the King try to seize it, but like a fish the goblet always slipped through his fingers and bobbed to the ground only to reappear at some other place, and mock the King.
Once upon a time, there was a king named Kojata, whose beard was so long that it reached below his knees. Three years had passed since his marriage, and he lived very happily with his wife, but Heaven had not granted him an heir, which made the King very sad. One day, he set out from his capital to travel through his kingdom. He spent nearly a year exploring different parts of his territory, and after seeing everything there was to see, he started his journey home. Since the day was extremely hot and humid, he ordered his servants to set up tents in the open field so they could wait for the cool of the evening. Suddenly, an intense thirst struck the King, and when he saw no water nearby, he got on his horse and rode around looking for a spring. Before long, he discovered a well filled to the brim with crystal-clear water, and floating on top was a golden jug. King Kojata immediately tried to grab the vessel, but no matter how hard he tried with his right hand, then his left, it always eluded him and refused to be caught. He tried with one hand, then both, to seize it, but like a fish, the goblet kept slipping through his fingers, dropping to the ground only to reappear somewhere else, taunting the King.
‘Plague on you!’ said King Kojata. ‘I can quench my thirst without you,’ and bending over the well he lapped up the water so greedily that he plunged his face, beard and all, right into the crystal mirror. But when he had satisfied his thirst, and wished to raise himself up, he couldn’t lift his head, because someone held his beard fast in the water. ‘Who’s there? let me go!’ cried King Kojata, but there was no answer; only an awful face looked up from the bottom of the well with two great green eyes, glowing like emeralds, and a wide mouth reaching from ear to ear showing two rows of gleaming white teeth, and the King’s beard was held, not by mortal hands, but by two claws. At last a hoarse voice sounded from the depths. ‘Your trouble is all in vain, King Kojata; I will only let you go on condition that you give me something you know nothing about, and which you will find on your return home.’
“Curse you!” said King Kojata. “I can drink without you,” and leaning over the well, he gulped the water so eagerly that he dunked his face, beard and all, right into the clear water. But after he quenched his thirst and tried to lift himself up, he couldn’t raise his head because something was holding his beard tight in the water. “Who’s there? Let me go!” shouted King Kojata, but there was no response; only a terrifying face looked up from the bottom of the well with two large green eyes, glowing like emeralds, and a wide mouth stretching from ear to ear, revealing two rows of shining white teeth, and the King’s beard was held, not by human hands, but by two claws. Finally, a hoarse voice echoed from the depths. “Your struggle is pointless, King Kojata; I will only let you go if you give me something you know nothing about, and which you will find when you return home.”
The King didn’t pause to ponder long, ‘for what,’ thought he, ‘could be in my palace without my knowing about it—the thing is absurd;’ so he answered quickly:
The King didn't take long to think, 'What could be in my palace that I don't know about? That's ridiculous,' so he replied quickly:
‘Yes, I promise that you shall have it.’
‘Yes, I promise you will get it.’
The voice replied, ‘Very well; but it will go ill with you if you fail to keep your promise.’ Then the claws relaxed their hold, and the face disappeared in the depths. The King drew his chin out of the water, and shook himself like a dog; then he mounted his horse and rode thoughtfully home with his retinue. When they approached the capital, all the people came out to meet them with great joy and acclamation, and when the King reached his palace the Queen met him on the threshold; beside her stood the Prime Minister, holding a little cradle in his hands, in which lay a new-born child as beautiful as the day. Then the whole thing dawned on the King, and groaning deeply he muttered to himself ‘So this is what I did not know about,’ and the tears rolled down his cheeks. All the courtiers standing round were much amazed at the King’s grief, but no one dared to ask him the cause of it. He took the child in his arms and kissed it tenderly; then laying it in its cradle, he determined to control his emotion and began to reign again as before.
The voice responded, “Alright, but things will go badly for you if you fail to keep your promise.” Then the claws let go, and the face vanished into the depths. The King lifted his chin out of the water and shook himself like a dog; then he got on his horse and rode home thoughtfully with his entourage. As they neared the capital, all the people came out to greet them with great joy and cheers, and when the King arrived at his palace, the Queen met him at the door; beside her stood the Prime Minister, holding a small cradle containing a newborn baby as beautiful as the day. At that moment, everything clicked for the King, and groaning deeply, he murmured to himself, “So this is what I didn’t know,” and tears streamed down his face. All the courtiers surrounding him were astonished by the King’s sorrow, but no one dared to ask him what was wrong. He took the baby in his arms and kissed it gently; then, after placing it back in the cradle, he resolved to regain his composure and began to rule again as before.
The secret of the King remained a secret, though his grave, careworn expression escaped no one’s notice. In the constant dread that his child would be taken from him, poor Kojata knew no rest night or day. However, time went on and nothing happened. Days and months and years passed, and the Prince grew up into a beautiful youth, and at last the King himself forgot all about the incident that had happened so long ago.
The King's secret stayed hidden, but his worried, tired expression didn’t go unnoticed. Constantly fearing that his child would be taken away, poor Kojata got no rest, day or night. Nonetheless, time moved on, and nothing occurred. Days, months, and years went by, and the Prince grew into a handsome young man, eventually causing the King to forget all about the incident from so long ago.
One day the Prince went out hunting, and going in pursuit of a wild boar he soon lost the other huntsmen, and found himself quite alone in the middle of a dark wood. The trees grew so thick and near together that it was almost impossible to see through them, only straight in front of him lay a little patch of meadowland. Overgrown with thistles and rank weeds, in the centre of which a leafy lime tree reared itself. Suddenly a rustling sound was heard in the hollow of the tree, and an extraordinary old man with green eyes and chin crept out of it.
One day, the Prince went out hunting. While chasing a wild boar, he quickly lost sight of the other hunters and found himself all alone in the middle of a dark forest. The trees were so dense and close together that it was nearly impossible to see through them. Just ahead of him was a small patch of meadowland, choked with thistles and tall weeds, where a leafy lime tree stood in the center. Suddenly, a rustling noise came from the hollow of the tree, and an unusual old man with green eyes and a wrinkled chin emerged from it.
‘A fine day, Prince Milan,’ he said; ‘you’ve kept me waiting a good number of years; it was high time for you to come and pay me a visit.’
‘A nice day, Prince Milan,’ he said; ‘you’ve made me wait quite a few years; it was about time for you to come and see me.’
‘Who are you, in the name of wonder?’ demanded the astonished Prince.
‘Who are you, in the name of wonder?’ asked the surprised Prince.
‘You’ll find out soon enough, but in the meantime do as I bid you. Greet your father King Kojata from me, and don’t forget to remind him of his debt; the time has long passed since it was due, but now he will have to pay it. Farewell for the present; we shall meet again.’
‘You’ll find out soon enough, but for now, just do what I say. Say hi to your father, King Kojata, for me, and don’t forget to remind him about his debt; it’s well past the due date, and now he’ll have to settle it. Goodbye for now; we’ll meet again.’
With these words the old man disappeared into the tree, and the Prince returned home rather startled, and told his father all that he had seen and heard.
With those words, the old man vanished into the tree, and the Prince went home feeling rather surprised and told his father everything he had seen and heard.
The King grew as white as a sheet when he heard the Prince’s story, and said, ‘Woe is me, my son! The time has come when we must part,’ and with a heavy heart he told the Prince what had happened at the time of his birth.
The King went pale when he heard the Prince’s story and said, ‘Oh no, my son! The time has come for us to say goodbye,’ and with a heavy heart, he shared with the Prince what happened at the time of his birth.
‘Don’t worry or distress yourself, dear father,’ answered Prince Milan. ‘Things are never as bad as they look. Only give me a horse for my journey, and I wager you’ll soon see me back again.’
‘Don’t worry or stress yourself, dear dad,’ answered Prince Milan. ‘Things are never as bad as they seem. Just give me a horse for my journey, and I bet you’ll see me back soon.’
The King gave him a beautiful charger, with golden stirrups, and a sword. The Queen hung a little cross round his neck, and after much weeping and lamentation the Prince bade them all farewell and set forth on his journey.
The King gave him a beautiful horse, with golden stirrups, and a sword. The Queen put a little cross around his neck, and after a lot of weeping and sadness, the Prince said goodbye to them all and set off on his journey.
He rode straight on for two days, and on the third he came to a lake as smooth as glass and as clear as crystal. Not a breath of wind moved, not a leaf stirred, all was silent as the grave, only on the still bosom of the lake thirty ducks, with brilliant plumage, swam about in the water. Not far from the shore Prince Milan noticed thirty little white garments lying on the grass, and dismounting from his horse, he crept down under the high bulrushes, took one of the garments and hid himself with it behind the bushes which grew round the lake. The ducks swam about all over the place, dived down into the depths and rose again and glided through the waves. At last, tired of disporting themselves, they swam to the shore, and twenty-nine of them put on their little white garments and instantly turned into so many beautiful maidens. Then they finished dressing and disappeared. Only the thirtieth little duck couldn’t come to the land; it swam about close to the shore, and, giving out a piercing cry, it stretched its neck up timidly, gazed wildly around, and then dived under again. Prince Milan’s heart was so moved with pity for the poor little creature that he came out from behind the bulrushes, to see if he could be of any help. As soon as the duck perceived him, it cried in a human voice, ‘Oh, dear Prince Milan, for the love of Heaven give me back my garment, and I will be so grateful to you.’ The Prince lay the little garment on the bank beside her, and stepped back into the bushes. In a few seconds a beautiful girl in a white robe stood before him, so fair and sweet and young that no pen could describe her. She gave the Prince her hand and spoke.
He rode straight for two days, and on the third day he came across a lake that was as smooth as glass and as clear as crystal. Not a breath of wind stirred, not a leaf moved; everything was as silent as a tomb. Only on the calm surface of the lake swam thirty ducks with brilliant feathers. Not far from the shore, Prince Milan noticed thirty little white garments lying on the grass. He dismounted from his horse, crept down beneath the tall reeds, took one of the garments, and hid behind the bushes that surrounded the lake. The ducks swam around, dove into the depths, surfaced again, and glided through the water. Eventually, tired of playing, they swam to the shore, and twenty-nine of them put on their little white garments and instantly transformed into beautiful maidens. They finished dressing and disappeared. Only the thirtieth duck couldn’t reach the land; it swam close to the shore, let out a desperate cry, stretched its neck up timidly, looked around in a panic, and then dove back underwater. Prince Milan felt such pity for the poor little creature that he stepped out from behind the reeds to see if he could help. As soon as the duck saw him, it cried out in a human voice, “Oh, dear Prince Milan, please, for the love of Heaven, give me back my garment, and I will be forever grateful to you.” The Prince placed the little garment on the bank next to her and stepped back into the bushes. In just a few seconds, a beautiful girl in a white robe stood before him, so lovely and sweet and young that no words could capture her beauty. She took the Prince's hand and spoke.
‘Many thanks, Prince Milan, for your courtesy. I am the daughter of a wicked magician, and my name is Hyacinthia. My father has thirty young daughters, and is a mighty ruler in the underworld, with many castles and great riches. He has been expecting you for ages, but you need have no fear if you will only follow my advice. As soon as you come into the presence of my father, throw yourself at once on the ground and approach him on your knees. Don’t mind if he stamps furiously with his feet and curses and swears. I’ll attend to the rest, and in the meantime we had better be off.’
‘Thank you so much, Prince Milan, for your kindness. I am the daughter of an evil magician, and my name is Hyacinthia. My father has thirty young daughters and is a powerful ruler in the underworld, with many castles and great wealth. He has been waiting for you for a long time, but you don’t need to worry if you just follow my advice. As soon as you enter my father’s presence, throw yourself on the ground and approach him on your knees. Don’t be alarmed if he stamps his feet and curses. I’ll handle the rest, and in the meantime, we should get going.’
With these words the beautiful Hyacinthia stamped on the ground with her little foot, and the earth opened and they both sank down into the lower world.
With these words, the beautiful Hyacinthia stamped her little foot on the ground, and the earth opened up, pulling them both down into the underworld.
The palace of the Magician was all hewn out of a single carbuncle, lighting up the whole surrounding region, and Prince Milan walked into it gaily.
The Magician's palace was carved out of a single gem, lighting up the entire area around it, and Prince Milan walked in cheerfully.
The Magician sat on a throne, a sparkling crown on his head; his eyes blazed like a green fire, and instead of hands he had claws. As soon as Prince Milan entered he flung himself on his knees. The Magician stamped loudly with his feet, glared frightfully out of his green eyes, and cursed so loudly that the whole underworld shook. But the Prince, mindful of the counsel he had been given, wasn’t the least afraid, and approached the throne still on his knees. At last the Magician laughed aloud and said, ‘You rogue, you have been well advised to make me laugh; I won’t be your enemy any more. Welcome to the underworld! All the same, for your delay in coming here, we must demand three services from you. For to-day you may go, but to-morrow I shall have something more to say to you.’
The Magician sat on a throne, a glimmering crown on his head; his eyes burned like green flames, and instead of hands, he had claws. As soon as Prince Milan walked in, he dropped to his knees. The Magician stamped his feet hard, glared fiercely with his green eyes, and cursed so loudly that the entire underworld trembled. But the Prince, remembering the advice he had received, wasn’t at all afraid and approached the throne still on his knees. Finally, the Magician burst out laughing and said, ‘You clever one, it was wise of you to make me laugh; I won’t be your enemy anymore. Welcome to the underworld! However, for your delay in getting here, we must ask for three tasks from you. For today you may leave, but tomorrow I’ll have more to say to you.’
Then two servants led Prince Milan to a beautiful apartment, and he lay down fearlessly on the soft bed that had been prepared for him, and was soon fast asleep.
Then two servants brought Prince Milan to a lovely room, and he lay down confidently on the comfy bed that had been made for him, quickly falling asleep.
Early the next morning the Magician sent for him, and said, ‘Let’s see now what you’ve learnt. In the first place you must build me a palace to-night, the roof of purest gold, the walls of marble, and the windows of crystal; all round you must lay out a beautiful garden, with fish-ponds and artistic waterfalls. If you do all this, I will reward you richly; but if you don’t, you shall lose your head.’
Early the next morning, the Magician called for him and said, “Let’s see what you’ve learned. First, you need to build me a palace tonight, with a roof made of the purest gold, walls of marble, and windows of crystal. Surround it with a beautiful garden that includes fish ponds and artistic waterfalls. If you do all this, I will reward you handsomely; but if you don’t, you’ll lose your head.”
‘Oh, you wicked monster!’ thought Prince Milan, ‘you might as well have put me to death at once.’ Sadly he returned to his room, and with bent head sat brooding over his cruel fate till evening. When it grew dark, a little bee flew by, and knocking at the window, it said, ‘Open, and let me in.’
‘Oh, you evil monster!’ thought Prince Milan, ‘you might as well have killed me right away.’ He sadly went back to his room and sat with his head down, contemplating his harsh fate until evening. As it got dark, a little bee buzzed by, and tapping at the window, it said, ‘Open up and let me in.’
Milan opened the window quickly, and as soon as the bee had entered, it changed into the beautiful Hyacinthia.
Milan quickly opened the window, and as soon as the bee flew in, it transformed into the beautiful Hyacinthia.
‘Good evening, Prince Milan. Why are you so sad?’
‘Good evening, Prince Milan. Why do you look so sad?’
‘How can I help being sad? Your father threatens me with death, and I see myself already without a head.’
‘How can I help feeling sad? Your dad threatens me with death, and I can already picture myself without a head.’
‘And what have you made up your mind to do?’
‘So, what have you decided to do?’
‘There’s nothing to be done, and after all I suppose one can only die once.’
‘There’s nothing to be done, and after all I guess one can only die once.’
‘Now, don’t be so foolish, my dear Prince; but keep up your spirits, for there is no need to despair. Go to bed, and when you wake up to-morrow morning the palace will be finished. Then you must go all round it, giving a tap here and there on the walls to look as if you had just finished it.’
‘Now, don’t be so foolish, my dear Prince; but keep your spirits up, because there’s no need to despair. Go to bed, and when you wake up tomorrow morning, the palace will be finished. Then you should walk around it, giving a tap here and there on the walls to make it look like you just finished it.’
And so it all turned out just as she had said. As soon as it was daylight Prince Milan stepped out of his room, and found a palace which was quite a work of art down to the very smallest detail. The Magician himself was not a little astonished at its beauty, and could hardly believe his eyes.
And so it all unfolded just like she had predicted. As soon as daylight broke, Prince Milan stepped out of his room and discovered a palace that was a true masterpiece, right down to the tiniest detail. The Magician himself was quite astonished by its beauty and could hardly believe his eyes.
‘Well, you certainly are a splendid workman,’ he said to the Prince. ‘I see you are very clever with your hands, now I must see if you are equally accomplished with your head. I have thirty daughters in my house, all beautiful princesses. To-morrow I will place the whole thirty in a row. You must walk past them three times, and the third time you must show me which is my youngest daughter Hyacinthia. If you don’t guess rightly, you shall lose your head.’
‘Well, you definitely are an impressive worker,’ he said to the Prince. ‘I can see you’re skilled with your hands; now I need to see if you’re just as smart with your mind. I have thirty daughters at home, all beautiful princesses. Tomorrow, I will line them all up. You have to walk past them three times, and on the third time, you must point out which one is my youngest daughter Hyacinthia. If you guess incorrectly, you’ll lose your head.’
‘This time you’ve made a mistake,’ thought Prince Milan, and going to his room he sat down at the window. Just fancy my not recognising the beautiful Hyacinthia! Why, that is the easiest thing in the world.’
‘This time you’ve messed up,’ thought Prince Milan, and after going to his room, he sat down by the window. Can you believe I didn’t recognize the beautiful Hyacinthia? That’s the simplest thing ever.’
‘Not so easy as you think,’ cried the little bee, who was flying past. ‘If I weren’t to help you, you’d never guess. We are thirty sisters so exactly alike that our own father can hardly distinguish us apart.’
‘It’s not as easy as you think,’ shouted the little bee, flying by. ‘If I didn’t help you, you’d never figure it out. We’re thirty sisters who are so exactly alike that our own father can barely tell us apart.’
‘Then what am I to do?’ asked Prince Milan.
‘Then what am I supposed to do?’ asked Prince Milan.
‘Listen,’ answered Hyacinthia. ‘You will recognise me by a tiny fly I shall have on my left cheek, but be careful for you might easily make a mistake.’
‘Listen,’ answered Hyacinthia. ‘You’ll recognize me by a small fly I’ll have on my left cheek, but be careful, as you could easily get it wrong.’
The next day the Magician again commanded Prince Milan to be led before him. His daughters were all arranged in a straight row in front of him, dressed exactly alike, and with their eyes bent on the ground.
The next day, the Magician ordered Prince Milan to be brought before him again. His daughters were lined up in a straight row in front of him, dressed identically, and with their eyes fixed on the ground.
‘Now, you genius,’ said the Magician, ‘look at these beauties three times, and then tell us which is the Princess Hyacinthia.’
‘Now, you genius,’ said the Magician, ‘look at these beauties three times, and then tell us which one is Princess Hyacinthia.’
Prince Milan went past them and looked at them closely. But they were all so precisely alike that they looked like one face reflected in thirty mirrors, and the fly was nowhere to be seen; the second time he passed them he still saw nothing; but the third time he perceived a little fly stealing down one cheek, causing it to blush a faint pink. Then the Prince seized the girl’s hand and cried out, ‘This is the Princess Hyacinthia!’
Prince Milan walked by them and examined them closely. But they all looked so identical that it seemed like he was seeing one face reflected in thirty mirrors, and the fly was nowhere in sight; the second time he passed them, he still saw nothing; but the third time, he noticed a tiny fly creeping down one cheek, making it blush a faint pink. Then the Prince grabbed the girl’s hand and exclaimed, ‘This is Princess Hyacinthia!’
‘You’re right again,’ said the Magician in amazement; ‘but I’ve still another task for you to do. Before this candle, which I shall light, burns to the socket, you must have made me a pair of boots reaching to my knees. If they aren’t finished in that time, off comes your head.’
‘You’re right again,’ said the Magician in disbelief; ‘but I have one more task for you. Before this candle, which I’m about to light, burns down to the socket, you need to make me a pair of knee-high boots. If they’re not done by then, off comes your head.’
The Prince returned to his room in despair; then the Princess Hyacinthia came to him once more changed into the likeness of a bee, and asked him, ‘Why so sad, Prince Milan?’
The Prince went back to his room feeling hopeless; then Princess Hyacinthia appeared to him again, taking the form of a bee, and asked him, ‘Why so sad, Prince Milan?’
‘How can I help being sad? Your father has set me this time an impossible task. Before a candle which he has lit burns to the socket, I am to make a pair of boots. But what does a prince know of shoemaking? If I can’t do it, I lose my head.’
‘How can I help feeling sad? Your father has given me an impossible task this time. Before the candle he lit burns down completely, I have to make a pair of boots. But what does a prince know about shoemaking? If I can’t do it, I’ll lose my head.’
‘And what do you mean to do?’ asked Hyacinthia.
‘And what do you plan to do?’ asked Hyacinthia.
‘Well, what is there to be done? What he demands I can’t and won’t do, so he must just make an end of me.’
‘Well, what can be done? What he wants, I can’t and won’t do, so he’ll just have to put an end to me.’
‘Not so, dearest. I love you dearly, and you shall marry me, and I’ll either save your life or die with you. We must fly now as quickly as we can, for there is no other way of escape.’
‘Not like that, my love. I care for you deeply, and you’re going to marry me, and I’ll either save your life or die alongside you. We need to escape right now as fast as we can because there’s no other way out.’
With these words she breathed on the window, and her breath froze on the pane. Then she led Milan out of the room with her, shut the door, and threw the key away. Hand in hand, they hurried to the spot where they had descended into the lower world, and at last reached the banks of the lake. Prince Milan’s charger was still grazing on the grass which grew near the water. The horse no sooner recognized his master, than it neighed loudly with joy, and springing towards him, it stood as if rooted to the ground, while Prince Milan and Hyacinthia jumped on its back. Then it sped onwards like an arrow from a bow.
With those words, she breathed on the window, and her breath froze on the glass. Then she took Milan by the hand and led him out of the room, locked the door, and tossed the key away. Together, they rushed to the place where they had entered the lower world, finally reaching the shore of the lake. Prince Milan’s horse was still grazing on the grass near the water. As soon as the horse recognized its master, it let out a loud, joyful neigh and sprang towards him, standing as if stuck to the ground while Prince Milan and Hyacinthia jumped onto its back. Then it took off like an arrow from a bow.
In the meantime the Magician was waiting impatiently for the Prince. Enraged by the delay, he sent his servants to fetch him, for the appointed time was past.
In the meantime, the Magician was waiting impatiently for the Prince. Frustrated by the delay, he sent his servants to get him, as the scheduled time had already passed.
The servants came to the door, and finding it locked, they knocked; but the frozen breath on the window replied in Prince Milan’s voice, ‘I am coming directly.’ With this answer they returned to the Magician. But when the Prince still did not appear, after a time he sent his servants a second time to bring him. The frozen breath always gave the same answer, but the Prince never came. At last the Magician lost all patience, and commanded the door to be burst open. But when his servants did so, they found the room empty, and the frozen breath laughed aloud. Out of his mind with rage, the Magician ordered the Prince to be pursued.
The servants went to the door, and when they found it locked, they knocked; but the frozen breath on the window answered in Prince Milan’s voice, ‘I’m coming right away.’ With this reply, they returned to the Magician. But when the Prince still didn’t show up, after a while, he sent his servants again to fetch him. The frozen breath always gave the same answer, but the Prince never arrived. Finally, the Magician lost all patience and ordered the door to be burst open. But when his servants did that, they found the room empty, and the frozen breath laughed loudly. Fueled by rage, the Magician commanded that the Prince be chased down.
Then a wild chase began. ‘I hear horses’ hoofs behind us,’ said Hyacinthia to the Prince. Milan sprang from the saddle, put his ear to the ground and listened. ‘Yes,’ he answered, ‘they are pursuing us, and are quite close.’ ‘Then no time must be lost,’ said Hyacinthia, and she immediately turned herself into a river, Prince Milan into an iron bridge, and the charger into a blackbird. Behind the bridge the road branched off into three ways.
Then a wild chase began. “I hear horses’ hooves behind us,” Hyacinthia told the Prince. Milan jumped off his horse, pressed his ear to the ground, and listened. “Yes,” he replied, “they’re after us and are really close.” “Then we can’t waste any time,” Hyacinthia said, and she instantly transformed into a river, Prince Milan turned into an iron bridge, and the horse became a blackbird. Behind the bridge, the road split into three paths.
The Magician’s servants hurried after the fresh tracks, but when they came to the bridge, they stood, not knowing which road to take, as the footprints stopped suddenly, and there were three paths for them to choose from. In fear and trembling they returned to tell the Magician what had happened. He flew into a dreadful rage when he saw them, and screamed out, ‘Oh, you fools! the river and bridge were they! Go back and bring them to me at once, or it will be the worse for you.’
The Magician’s servants rushed after the new tracks, but when they reached the bridge, they halted, unsure of which path to take, since the footprints ended abruptly, leaving them with three choices. In fear and trembling, they went back to report to the Magician what had happened. He was furious when he saw them and shouted, "Oh, you idiots! The river and bridge were right there! Go back and bring them to me immediately, or you’ll regret it."
Then the pursuit began afresh. ‘I hear horses’ hoofs,’ sighed Hyacinthia. The Prince dismounted and put his ear to the ground. ‘They are hurrying after us, and are already quite near.’ In a moment the Princess Hyacinthia had changed herself, the Prince, and his charger into a thick wood where a thousand paths and roads crossed each other. Their pursuers entered the forest, but searched in vain for Prince Milan and his bride. At last they found themselves back at the same spot they had started from, and in despair they returned once more with empty hands to the Magician.
Then the chase started up again. “I hear horses’ hooves,” Hyacinthia sighed. The Prince got off his horse and pressed his ear to the ground. “They are rushing after us and are already pretty close.” In no time, Princess Hyacinthia transformed herself, the Prince, and his horse into a dense forest where a thousand paths and roads crisscrossed. Their pursuers entered the woods but searched in vain for Prince Milan and his bride. Eventually, they found themselves back at the same spot they had started from, and in despair, they returned once again with empty hands to the Magician.
‘Then I’ll go after the wretches myself,’ he shouted. ‘Bring a horse at once; they shan’t escape me.’
‘Then I’ll go after those scoundrels myself,’ he shouted. ‘Bring me a horse right now; they won’t get away from me.’
Once more the beautiful Hyacinthia murmured, ‘I hear horses’ hoofs quite near.’ And the Prince answered, ‘They are pursuing us hotly and are quite close.’
Once again, the beautiful Hyacinthia whispered, ‘I hear horses’ hooves really close.’ And the Prince replied, ‘They are chasing us fiercely and are very near.’
‘We are lost now, for that is my father himself. But at the first church we come to his power ceases; he may chase us no further. Hand me your cross.’
‘We’re lost now, because that’s my father himself. But as soon as we reach the first church, his power ends; he can't follow us any further. Give me your cross.’
Prince Milan loosened from his neck the little gold cross his mother had given him, and as soon as Hyacinthia grasped it, she had changed herself into a church, Milan into a monk, and the horse into a belfry. They had hardly done this when the magician and his servants rode up.
Prince Milan took off the small gold cross his mother had given him, and as soon as Hyacinthia touched it, she transformed into a church, Milan became a monk, and the horse turned into a belfry. They had barely completed this transformation when the magician and his servants rode up.
‘Did you see no one pass by on horseback, reverend father?’ he asked the monk.
“Didn’t you see anyone ride by on horseback, Father?” he asked the monk.
‘Prince Milan and Princess Hyacinthia have just gone on this minute; they stopped for a few minutes in the church to say their prayers, and bade me light this wax candle for you, and give you their love.’
‘Prince Milan and Princess Hyacinthia just left; they paused for a few minutes in the church to pray and asked me to light this wax candle for you and send you their love.’
‘I’d like to wring their necks,’ said the magician, and made all haste home, where he had every one of his servants beaten to within an inch of their lives.
‘I’d like to strangle them,’ said the magician, and hurried home, where he had every one of his servants beaten within an inch of their lives.
Prince Milan rode on slowly with his bride without fearing any further pursuit. The sun was just setting, and its last rays lit up a large city they were approaching. Prince Milan was suddenly seized with an ardent desire to enter the town.
Prince Milan rode slowly with his bride, no longer fearing any pursuit. The sun was setting, and its last rays illuminated a large city they were approaching. Suddenly, Prince Milan was filled with a strong desire to enter the town.
‘Oh my beloved,’ implored Hyacinthia, ‘please don’t go; for I am frightened and fear some evil.’
‘Oh my love,’ begged Hyacinthia, ‘please don’t leave; I’m scared and worried something bad will happen.’
‘What are you afraid of?’ asked the Prince. ‘We’ll only go and look at what’s to be seen in the town for about an hour, and then we’ll continue our journey to my father’s kingdom.’
‘What are you scared of?’ asked the Prince. ‘We’ll just check out what’s in the town for about an hour, and then we’ll keep going to my dad’s kingdom.’
‘The town is easy to get into, but more difficult to get out of,’ sighed Hyacinthia. ‘But let it be as you wish. Go, and I will await you here, but I will first change myself into a white milestone; only I pray you be very careful. The King and Queen of the town will come out to meet you, leading a little child with them. Whatever you do, don’t kiss the child, or you will forget me and all that has happened to us. I will wait for you here for three days.’
‘The town is easy to enter, but harder to leave,’ Hyacinthia sighed. ‘But do as you like. Go, and I’ll wait for you here, but first, I’ll change myself into a white milestone; just please be very careful. The King and Queen of the town will come out to meet you with a little child. Whatever you do, don’t kiss the child, or you’ll forget me and everything that has happened between us. I’ll wait for you here for three days.’
The Prince hurried to the town, but Hyacinthia remained behind disguised as a white milestone on the road. The first day passed, and then the second, and at last the third also, but Prince Milan did not return, for he had not taken Hyacinthia’s advice. The King and Queen came out to meet him as she had said, leading with them a lovely fair-haired little girl, whose eyes shone like two clear stars. The child at once caressed the Prince, who, carried away by its beauty, bent down and kissed it on the cheek. From that moment his memory became a blank, and he forgot all about the beautiful Hyacinthia.
The Prince rushed to the town, while Hyacinthia stayed behind, disguised as a white milestone on the road. The first day went by, then the second, and finally the third, but Prince Milan didn’t come back because he hadn’t followed Hyacinthia’s advice. The King and Queen came out to greet him as she had suggested, bringing along a lovely little girl with fair hair and eyes that sparkled like two clear stars. The child immediately hugged the Prince, who, mesmerized by her beauty, bent down and kissed her on the cheek. From that moment on, his memory went blank, and he forgot all about the beautiful Hyacinthia.
When the Prince did not return, poor Hyacinthia wept bitterly and changing herself from a milestone into a little blue field flower, she said, ‘I will grow here on the wayside till some passer-by tramples me under foot.’ And one of her tears remained as a dewdrop and sparkled on the little blue flower.
When the Prince didn't come back, poor Hyacinthia cried hard, and changing from a milestone into a little blue field flower, she said, ‘I’ll grow here on the side of the road until someone steps on me.’ And one of her tears stayed as a dewdrop, sparkling on the little blue flower.
Now it happened shortly after this that an old man passed by, and seeing the flower, he was delighted with its beauty. He pulled it up carefully by the roots and carried it home. Here he planted it in a pot, and watered and tended the little plant carefully. And now the most extraordinary thing happened, for from this moment everything in the old man’s house was changed. When he awoke in the morning he always found his room tidied and put into such beautiful order that not a speck of dust was to be found anywhere. When he came home at midday, he found a table laid out with the most dainty food, and he had only to sit down and enjoy himself to his heart’s content. At first he was so surprised he didn’t know what to think, but after a time he grew a little uncomfortable, and went to an old witch to ask for advice.
Now, shortly after this, an old man walked by and, seeing the flower, he was captivated by its beauty. He carefully pulled it up by the roots and took it home. There, he planted it in a pot and watered and cared for the little plant diligently. Then, something incredible happened: from that moment on, everything in the old man’s house changed. Each morning, he would wake up to find his room cleaned and organized so well that not a speck of dust could be seen anywhere. When he came home at noon, he found a table set with the most exquisite food, and all he had to do was sit down and enjoy himself to the fullest. At first, he was so taken aback that he didn’t know what to think, but after a while, he began to feel a bit uneasy and went to consult an old witch for advice.
The witch said, ‘Get up before the cock crows, and watch carefully till you see something move, and then throw this cloth quickly over it, and you’ll see what will happen.’
The witch said, ‘Get up before the rooster crows, and watch closely until you see something move, then quickly throw this cloth over it, and you’ll see what happens.’
All night the old man never closed an eye. When the first ray of light entered the room, he noticed that the little blue flower began to tremble, and at last it rose out of the pot and flew about the room, put everything in order, swept away the dust, and lit the fire. In great haste the old man sprang from his bed, and covered the flower with the cloth the old witch had given him, and in a moment the beautiful Princess Hyacinthia stood before him.
All night, the old man couldn't sleep. When the first light came into the room, he saw the little blue flower start to shake, and then it lifted out of the pot and flew around the room, tidying everything up, sweeping away the dust, and lighting the fire. In a rush, the old man jumped out of bed, covered the flower with the cloth that the old witch had given him, and in an instant, the beautiful Princess Hyacinthia was standing before him.
‘What have you done?’ she cried. ‘Why have you called me back to life? For I have no desire to live since my bridegroom, the beautiful Prince Milan, has deserted me.’
‘What have you done?’ she exclaimed. ‘Why did you bring me back to life? I have no desire to live since my fiancé, the handsome Prince Milan, has left me.’
‘Prince Milan is just going to be married,’ replied the old man. ‘Everything is being got ready for the feast, and all the invited guests are flocking to the palace from all sides.’
‘Prince Milan is getting married,’ replied the old man. ‘Everything is being prepared for the celebration, and all the invited guests are coming to the palace from every direction.’
The beautiful Hyacinthia cried bitterly when she heard this; then she dried her tears, and went into the town dressed as a peasant woman. She went straight to the King’s kitchen, where the white-aproned cooks were running about in great confusion. The Princess went up to the head cook, and said, ‘Dear cook, please listen to my request, and let me make a wedding-cake for Prince Milan.’
The beautiful Hyacinthia cried hard when she heard this; then she dried her tears and entered the town dressed as a peasant woman. She went straight to the King’s kitchen, where the cooks in white aprons were bustling around in chaos. The Princess approached the head cook and said, “Dear cook, please hear my request and let me make a wedding cake for Prince Milan.”
The busy cook was just going to refuse her demand and order her out of the kitchen, but the words died on his lips when he turned and beheld the beautiful Hyacinthia, and he answered politely, ‘You have just come in the nick of time, fair maiden. Bake your cake, and I myself will lay it before Prince Milan.’
The busy cook was about to reject her request and kick her out of the kitchen, but the words got stuck in his throat when he turned and saw the beautiful Hyacinthia. He replied politely, “You’ve just arrived at the perfect moment, lovely lady. Bake your cake, and I’ll serve it to Prince Milan myself.”
The cake was soon made. The invited guests were already thronging round the table, when the head cook entered the room, bearing a beautiful wedding cake on a silver dish, and laid it before Prince Milan. The guests were all lost in admiration, for the cake was quite a work of art. Prince Milan at once proceeded to cut it open, when to his surprise two white doves sprang out of it, and one of them said to the other: ‘My dear mate, do not fly away and leave me, and forget me as Prince Milan forgot his beloved Hyacinthia.’
The cake was soon ready. The invited guests were already gathered around the table when the head chef walked in, carrying a gorgeous wedding cake on a silver platter and placed it in front of Prince Milan. The guests were all amazed because the cake was truly a masterpiece. Prince Milan quickly started to cut it open, and to his surprise, two white doves flew out of it. One of them said to the other, “My dear mate, don’t fly away and leave me, and don't forget me like Prince Milan forgot his beloved Hyacinthia.”
Milan sighed deeply when he heard what the little dove said. Then he jumped up suddenly from the table and ran to the door, where he found the beautiful Hyacinthia waiting for him. Outside stood his faithful charger, pawing the ground. Without pausing for a moment, Milan and Hyacinthia mounted him and galloped as fast as they could into the country of King Kojata. The King and Queen received them with such joy and gladness as had never been heard of before, and they all lived happily for the rest of their lives.
Milan let out a deep sigh when he heard what the little dove said. Then he suddenly jumped up from the table and ran to the door, where he found the beautiful Hyacinthia waiting for him. Outside was his loyal horse, stomping the ground. Without a second thought, Milan and Hyacinthia got on him and raced as fast as they could into the kingdom of King Kojata. The King and Queen welcomed them with a joy and happiness that had never been seen before, and they all lived happily ever after.
PRINCE FICKLE AND FAIR HELENA (From the German)
There was once upon a time a beautiful girl called Helena. Her own mother had died when she was quite a child, and her stepmother was as cruel and unkind to her as she could be. Helena did all she could to gain her love, and performed the heavy work given her to do cheerfully and well; but her stepmother’s heart wasn’t in the least touched, and the more the poor girl did the more she asked her to do.
There was once a beautiful girl named Helena. Her mother had passed away when she was very young, and her stepmother was as cruel and harsh to her as possible. Helena tried everything to earn her love and completed the difficult tasks assigned to her cheerfully and efficiently; however, her stepmother’s heart remained completely untouched, and the more the poor girl did, the more her stepmother demanded.
One day she gave Helena twelve pounds of mixed feathers and bade her separate them all before evening, threatening her with heavy punishment if she failed to do so.
One day she gave Helena twelve pounds of mixed feathers and told her to separate them all by evening, threatening her with severe punishment if she didn't.
The poor child sat down to her task with her eyes so full of tears that she could hardly see to begin. And when she had made one little heap of feathers, she sighed so deeply that they all blew apart again. And so it went on, and the poor girl grew more and more miserable. She bowed her head in her hands and cried, ‘Is there no one under heaven who will take pity on me?’
The poor kid sat down to her task with her eyes so full of tears that she could barely see to start. And when she had made one small pile of feathers, she sighed so deeply that they all scattered again. And so it continued, and the poor girl became more and more unhappy. She hung her head in her hands and cried, ‘Is there no one in the world who will feel sorry for me?’
Suddenly a soft voice replied, ‘Be comforted, my child: I have come to help you.’
Suddenly, a gentle voice said, ‘Don't worry, my child: I'm here to help you.’
Terrified to death, Helena looked up and saw a Fairy standing in front of her, who asked in the kindest way possible, ‘Why are you crying, my dear?’
Terrified, Helena looked up and saw a Fairy standing in front of her, who asked in the kindest way possible, “Why are you crying, my dear?”
Helena, who for long had heard no friendly voice, confided her sad tale of woe to the Fairy, and told her what the new task she had been given to do was, and how she despaired of ever accomplishing it.
Helena, who hadn't heard a friendly voice in a long time, shared her sad story with the Fairy and explained the new task she had been assigned and how she felt hopeless about ever completing it.
‘Don’t worry yourself about it any more,’ said the kind Fairy; ‘lie down and go to sleep, and I’ll see that your work is done all right.’ So Helena lay down, and when she awoke all the feathers were sorted into little bundles; but when she turned to thank the good Fairy she had vanished.
‘Don't worry about it anymore,’ said the kind Fairy; ‘just lie down and go to sleep, and I'll make sure your work is done right.’ So Helena lay down, and when she woke up, all the feathers were sorted into little bundles; but when she turned to thank the good Fairy, she had vanished.
In the evening her stepmother returned and was much amazed to find Helena sitting quietly with her work all finished before her.
In the evening, her stepmother came back and was very surprised to see Helena sitting quietly with all her work done in front of her.
She praised her diligence, but at the same time racked her brain as to what harder task she could set her to do.
She appreciated her hard work, but at the same time, she struggled to think of a tougher task to assign her.
The next day she told Helena to empty a pond near the house with a spoon which was full of holes. Helena set to work at once, but she very soon found that what her stepmother had told her to do was an impossibility. Full of despair and misery, she was in the act of throwing the spoon away, when suddenly the kind Fairy stood before her again, and asked her why she was so unhappy?
The next day she told Helena to empty a pond near the house with a spoon that was full of holes. Helena got to work right away, but she quickly realized that what her stepmother had told her to do was impossible. Filled with despair and sadness, she was about to throw the spoon away when suddenly the kind Fairy appeared before her again and asked her why she was so unhappy.
When Helena told her of her stepmother’s new demand she said, ‘Trust to me and I will do your task for you. Lie down and have a sleep in the meantime.’
When Helena shared her stepmother’s new request, she said, ‘Trust me, and I’ll handle your task for you. Just lie down and take a nap in the meantime.’
Helena was comforted and lay down, and before you would have believed it possible the Fairy roused her gently and told her the pond was empty. Full of joy and gratitude, Helena hurried to her stepmother, hoping that now at last her heart would be softened towards her. But the wicked woman was furious at the frustration of her own evil designs, and only thought of what harder thing she could set the girl to do.
Helena felt comforted and lay down, and before you could even believe it was possible, the Fairy gently woke her up and told her the pond was empty. Overjoyed and thankful, Helena rushed to her stepmother, hoping that at last her heart would soften toward her. But the cruel woman was furious that her plans had been thwarted and only thought of what more difficult task she could make the girl do.
Next morning she ordered her to build before evening a beautiful castle, and to furnish it all from garret to basement. Helena sat down on the rocks which had been pointed out to her as the site of the castle, feeling very depressed, but at the same time with the lurking hope that the kind Fairy would come once more to her aid.
Next morning, she told her to build a beautiful castle by evening and furnish it completely from top to bottom. Helena sat down on the rocks marked as the castle's site, feeling very down, but at the same time, she held a glimmer of hope that the kind Fairy would come to her rescue once again.
And so it turned out. The Fairy appeared, promised to build the castle, and told Helena to lie down and go to sleep in the meantime. At the word of the Fairy the rocks and stones rose and built themselves into a beautiful castle, and before sunset it was all furnished inside, and left nothing to be desired. You may think how grateful Helena was when she awoke and found her task all finished.
And that's exactly what happened. The Fairy showed up, promised to create the castle, and told Helena to lie down and take a nap in the meantime. As soon as the Fairy spoke, the rocks and stones lifted themselves and constructed a stunning castle, and by sunset, it was fully furnished and perfect in every way. You can imagine how grateful Helena felt when she woke up and saw her task was all done.
But her stepmother was anything but pleased, and went through the whole castle from top to bottom, to see if she couldn’t find some fault for which she could punish Helena. At last she went down into one of the cellars, but it was so dark that she fell down the steep stairs and was killed on the spot.
But her stepmother was far from happy and searched the entire castle from top to bottom, looking for any reason to punish Helena. Eventually, she went down into one of the cellars, but it was so dark that she fell down the steep stairs and died immediately.
So Helena was now mistress of the beautiful castle, and lived there in peace and happiness. And soon the noise of her beauty spread abroad, and many wooers came to try and gain her hand.
So Helena was now the lady of the beautiful castle, living there in peace and happiness. Soon, the word of her beauty spread far and wide, and many suitors came to try to win her hand.
Among them came one Prince Fickle by name, who very quickly won the love of fair Helena. One day, as they were sitting happily together under a lime-tree in front of the castle, Prince Fickle broke the sad news to Helena that he must return to his parents to get their consent to his marriage. He promised faithfully to come back to her as soon as he could and begged her to await his return under the lime-tree where they had spent so many happy hours.
Among them was a prince named Fickle, who quickly won the affection of the beautiful Helena. One day, while they were happily sitting together under a lime tree in front of the castle, Prince Fickle shared the unfortunate news with Helena that he had to return to his parents to get their approval for their marriage. He promised to come back to her as soon as possible and asked her to wait for him under the lime tree where they had shared so many joyful moments.
Helena kissed him tenderly at parting on his left cheek, and begged him not to let anyone else kiss him there while they were parted, and she promised to sit and wait for him under the lime-tree, for she never doubted that the Prince would be faithful to her and would return as quickly as he could.
Helena kissed him gently on the left cheek as they said goodbye and asked him not to let anyone else kiss him there while they were apart. She promised to sit and wait for him under the lime tree because she was confident that the Prince would be loyal to her and would come back as soon as he could.
And so she sat for three days and three nights under the tree without moving. But when her lover never returned, she grew very unhappy, and determined to set out to look for him. She took as many of her jewels as she could carry, and three of her most beautiful dresses, one embroidered with stars, one with moons, and the third with suns, all of pure gold. Far and wide she wandered through the world, but nowhere did she find any trace of her bridegroom. At last she gave up the search in despair. She could not bear to return to her own castle where she had been so happy with her lover, but determined rather to endure her loneliness and desolation in a strange land. She took a place as herd-girl with a peasant, and buried her jewels and beautiful dresses in a safe and hidden spot.
And so she sat for three days and nights under the tree without moving. But when her lover never came back, she became very unhappy and decided to go look for him. She took as many of her jewels as she could carry and three of her most beautiful dresses: one embroidered with stars, one with moons, and the third with suns, all made of pure gold. She wandered far and wide through the world, but she didn't find any trace of her fiancé. Eventually, she gave up the search in despair. She couldn't stand the thought of going back to her castle where she had been so happy with her lover, so she chose to endure her loneliness and sadness in a strange land. She took a job as a shepherdess with a peasant and buried her jewels and beautiful dresses in a safe and hidden spot.
Every day she drove the cattle to pasture, and all the time she thought of nothing but her faithless bridegroom. She was very devoted to a certain little calf in the herd, and made a great pet of it, feeding it out of her own hands. She taught it to kneel before her, and then she whispered in its ear:
Every day she took the cattle to graze, and all she could think about was her unfaithful fiancé. She was really attached to a particular little calf in the herd and spoiled it, feeding it by hand. She taught it to kneel before her, and then she whispered in its ear:
‘Kneel, little calf, kneel; Be faithful and leal, Not like Prince Fickle, Who once on a time Left his fair Helena Under the lime.’
‘Kneel, little calf, kneel; Be loyal and true, Not like Prince Fickle, Who once upon a time Left his lovely Helena Under the lime.’
After some years passed in this way, she heard that the daughter of the king of the country she was living in was going to marry a Prince called ‘Fickle.’ Everybody rejoiced at the news except poor Helena, to whom it was a fearful blow, for at the bottom of her heart she had always believed her lover to be true.
After a few years of living like this, she learned that the daughter of the king of the country she was in was set to marry a prince named ‘Fickle.’ Everyone celebrated the news except poor Helena, who found it devastating, as deep down she had always believed her lover was faithful.
Now it chanced that the way to the capital led right past the village where Helena was, and often when she was leading her cattle forth to the meadows Prince Fickle rode past her, without ever noticing the poor herd-girl, so engrossed was he in thoughts of his new bride. Then it occurred to Helena to put his heart to the test and to see if it weren’t possible to recall herself to him. So one day as Prince Fickle rode by she said to her little calf:
Now it so happened that the road to the capital passed right by the village where Helena was, and often when she was taking her cattle out to the meadows, Prince Fickle rode by without ever noticing the poor herd-girl, so lost was he in thoughts of his new bride. Then Helena thought to test his heart and see if it was possible to bring herself to his attention. So one day, as Prince Fickle rode by, she said to her little calf:
‘Kneel, little calf, kneel; Be faithful and leal, Not like Prince Fickle, Who once on a time Left his poor Helena Under the lime.’
‘Kneel, little calf, kneel; Be loyal and true, Not like Prince Fickle, Who once upon a time Left his poor Helena Beneath the lime tree.’
When Prince Fickle heard her voice it seemed to him to remind him of something, but of what he couldn’t remember, for he hadn’t heard the words distinctly, as Helena had only spoken them very low and with a shaky voice. Helena herself had been far too moved to let her see what impression her words had made on the Prince, and when she looked round he was already far away. But she noticed how slowly he was riding, and how deeply sunk he was in thought, so she didn’t quite give herself up as lost.
When Prince Fickle heard her voice, it felt familiar, but he couldn’t place it because he hadn’t caught the words clearly; Helena had only spoken them softly and with a shaky tone. Helena was too emotional to notice the effect her words had on the Prince, and when she turned around, he was already far off. However, she saw how slowly he was riding and how lost he seemed in thought, so she didn’t completely give up hope.
In honour of the approaching wedding a feast lasting many nights was to be given in the capital. Helena placed all her hopes on this, and determined to go to the feast and there to seek out her bridegroom.
In honor of the upcoming wedding, a feast lasting several nights was planned in the capital. Helena pinned all her hopes on this and decided to attend the feast to find her bridegroom.
When evening drew near she stole out of the peasant’s cottage secretly, and, going to her hiding-place, she put on her dress embroidered with the gold suns, and all her jewels, and loosed her beautiful golden hair, which up to now she had always worn under a kerchief, and, adorned thus, she set out for the town.
When evening approached, she quietly slipped out of the peasant's cottage and, making her way to her hiding spot, put on her dress embroidered with golden suns and all her jewelry. She let her beautiful golden hair down, which she had always kept covered with a kerchief until now. Dressed like this, she headed for the town.
When she entered the ball-room all eyes were turned on her, and everyone marvelled at her beauty, but no one knew who she was. Prince Fickle, too, was quite dazzled by the charms of the beautiful maiden, and never guessed that she had once been his own ladylove. He never left her side all night, and it was with great difficulty that Helena escaped from him in the crowd when it was time to return home. Prince Fickle searched for her everywhere, and longed eagerly for the next night, when the beautiful lady had promised to come again.
When she walked into the ballroom, all eyes were on her, and everyone admired her beauty, but no one knew who she was. Prince Fickle was also captivated by the stunning young woman and didn't realize she had once been his own true love. He stayed by her side all night, and it was a real challenge for Helena to slip away from him in the crowd when it was time to go home. Prince Fickle looked everywhere for her and eagerly awaited the next night when the beautiful lady had promised to return.
The following evening the fair Helena started early for the feast.
The next evening, the beautiful Helena set out early for the feast.
This time she wore her dress embroidered with silver moons, and in her hair she placed a silver crescent. Prince Fickle was enchanted to see her again, and she seemed to him even more beautiful than she had been the night before. He never left her side, and refused to dance with anyone else. He begged her to tell him who she was, but this she refused to do. Then he implored her to return again next evening, and this she promised him she would.
This time she wore a dress decorated with silver moons, and in her hair, she put a silver crescent. Prince Fickle was thrilled to see her again, and to him, she seemed even more beautiful than the night before. He stayed close to her and wouldn’t dance with anyone else. He asked her to tell him who she was, but she wouldn’t reveal it. Then he begged her to come back the next evening, and she promised him that she would.
On the third evening Prince Fickle was so impatient to see his fair enchantress again, that he arrived at the feast hours before it began, and never took his eyes from the door. At last Helena arrived in a dress all covered with gold and silver stars, and with a girdle of stars round her waist, and a band of stars in her hair. Prince Fickle was more in love with her than ever, and begged her once again to tell him her name.
On the third evening, Prince Fickle was so eager to see his beautiful enchantress again that he showed up at the feast hours early and kept his eyes glued to the door. Finally, Helena arrived in a dress adorned with gold and silver stars, a belt of stars around her waist, and a headband of stars in her hair. Prince Fickle was more in love with her than ever and once again begged her to tell him her name.
Then Helena kissed him silently on the left cheek, and in one moment Prince Fickle recognized his old love. Full of remorse and sorrow, he begged for her forgiveness, and Helena, only too pleased to have got him back again, did not, you may be sure, keep him waiting very long for her pardon, and so they were married and returned to Helena’s castle, where they are no doubt still sitting happily together under the lime-tree.
Then Helena kissed him softly on the left cheek, and in that moment, Prince Fickle realized he still loved her. Feeling regret and sadness, he asked for her forgiveness, and Helena, thrilled to have him back, didn’t make him wait long for her pardon. So they got married and went back to Helena's castle, where they are probably still happily sitting together under the lime tree.
PUDDOCKY (From the German)
There was once upon a time a poor woman who had one little daughter called ‘Parsley.’ She was so called because she liked eating parsley better than any other food, indeed she would hardly eat anything else. Her poor mother hadn’t enough money always to be buying parsley for her, but the child was so beautiful that she could refuse her nothing, and so she went every night to the garden of an old witch who lived near and stole great branches of the coveted vegetable, in order to satisfy her daughter.
There once was a poor woman who had a little daughter named Parsley. She got that name because she loved eating parsley more than any other food; in fact, she would hardly eat anything else. Her poor mother didn’t always have enough money to buy parsley for her, but the child was so beautiful that she couldn’t say no to her. So, every night, she would go to the garden of an old witch who lived nearby and steal large bunches of the desired vegetable to please her daughter.
This remarkable taste of the fair Parsley soon became known, and the theft was discovered. The witch called the girl’s mother to her, and proposed that she should let her daughter come and live with her, and then she could eat as much parsley as she liked. The mother was quite pleased with this suggestion, and so the beautiful Parsley took up her abode with the old witch.
This amazing taste of the fair Parsley quickly became known, and the theft was uncovered. The witch called the girl's mother to her and suggested that she let her daughter come and live with her so she could eat as much parsley as she wanted. The mother was very happy with this idea, and so the lovely Parsley moved in with the old witch.
One day three Princes, whom their father had sent abroad to travel, came to the town where Parsley lived and perceived the beautiful girl combing and plaiting her long black hair at the window. In one moment they all fell hopelessly in love with her, and longed ardently to have the girl for their wife; but hardly had they with one breath expressed their desire than, mad with jealousy, they drew their swords and all three set upon each other. The struggle was so violent and the noise so loud that the old witch heard it, and said at once ‘Of course Parsley is at the bottom of all this.’
One day, three princes, who had been sent abroad by their father to travel, arrived in the town where Parsley lived. They noticed a beautiful girl at the window, combing and braiding her long black hair. Instantly, they all fell madly in love with her and desperately wanted her to be their wife. But hardly had they voiced their desire when jealousy took over, and they each drew their swords to fight one another. The struggle was so fierce and the noise so loud that the old witch heard it and immediately said, "Of course, Parsley is behind all of this."
And when she had convinced herself that this was so, she stepped forward, and, full of wrath over the quarrels and feuds Parsley’s beauty gave rise to, she cursed the girl and said, ‘I wish you were an ugly toad, sitting under a bridge at the other end of the world.’
And once she convinced herself that this was true, she stepped forward, filled with anger over the arguments and conflicts that Parsley's beauty caused, and she cursed the girl, saying, ‘I wish you were an ugly toad, sitting under a bridge at the other end of the world.’
Hardly were the words out of her mouth than Parsley was changed into a toad and vanished from their sight. The Princes, now that the cause of their dispute was removed, put up their swords, kissed each other affectionately, and returned to their father.
Hardly had she finished speaking when Parsley was turned into a toad and disappeared from view. The Princes, with the reason for their argument gone, sheathed their swords, embraced each other warmly, and went back to their father.
The King was growing old and feeble, and wished to yield his sceptre and crown in favour of one of his sons, but he couldn’t make up his mind which of the three he should appoint as his successor. He determined that fate should decide for him. So he called his three children to him and said, ‘My dear sons, I am growing old, and am weary of reigning, but I can’t make up my mind to which of you three I should yield my crown, for I love you all equally. At the same time I would like the best and cleverest of you to rule over my people. I have, therefore, determined to set you three tasks to do, and the one that performs them best shall be my heir. The first thing I shall ask you to do is to bring me a piece of linen a hundred yards long, so fine that it will go through a gold ring.’ The sons bowed low, and, promising to do their best, they started on their journey without further delay.
The King was getting old and weak, and wanted to hand over his scepter and crown to one of his sons, but he couldn’t decide which one of the three he should choose as his successor. He decided that fate should make the choice for him. So he called his three sons to him and said, “My dear sons, I am getting old and tired of ruling, but I can’t decide which of you three should inherit my crown since I love you all equally. At the same time, I want the best and smartest among you to lead my people. Therefore, I’ve decided to give you three tasks, and whoever performs them best will become my heir. The first thing I ask of you is to bring me a piece of linen that is a hundred yards long, so fine that it can pass through a gold ring.” The sons bowed deeply, promising to do their best, and they set off on their journey without delay.
The two elder brothers took many servants and carriages with them, but the youngest set out quite alone. In a short time they came to three cross roads; two of them were gay and crowded, but the third was dark and lonely.
The two older brothers took a lot of servants and carriages with them, but the youngest went off all alone. Before long, they arrived at three crossroads; two of them were bright and busy, but the third was dark and empty.
The two elder brothers chose the more frequented ways, but the youngest, bidding them farewell, set out on the dreary road.
The two older brothers took the busier routes, but the youngest, saying goodbye to them, headed down the lonely path.
Wherever linen was to be bought, there the two elder brothers hastened. They loaded their carriages with bales of the finest linen they could find and then returned home.
Wherever linen was for sale, the two older brothers rushed over. They filled their carts with bales of the best linen they could find and then headed back home.
The youngest brother, on the other hand, went on his weary way for many days, and nowhere did he come across any linen that would have done. So he journeyed on, and his spirits sank with every step. At last he came to a bridge which stretched over a deep river flowing through a flat and marshy land. Before crossing the bridge he sat down on the banks of the stream and sighed dismally over his sad fate. Suddenly a misshapen toad crawled out of the swamp, and, sitting down opposite him, asked: ‘What’s the matter with you, my dear Prince?’
The youngest brother, however, kept trudging along for many days without finding any linen that would work. He continued on his journey, feeling more downhearted with every step. Finally, he reached a bridge that spanned a deep river flowing through flat, marshy land. Before crossing the bridge, he sat down on the riverbank and sighed heavily over his unfortunate situation. Suddenly, a deformed toad crawled out of the swamp and, sitting down across from him, asked, “What’s wrong, my dear Prince?”
The Prince answered impatiently, ‘There’s not much good my telling you, Puddocky, for you couldn’t help me if I did.’
The Prince replied impatiently, “It wouldn’t do any good to tell you, Puddocky, because you wouldn’t be able to help me even if I did.”
‘Don’t be too sure of that,’ replied the toad; ‘tell me your trouble and we’ll see.’
‘Don't be so sure about that,’ replied the toad; ‘tell me your problem and we'll figure it out.’
Then the Prince became most confidential and told the little creature why he had been sent out of his father’s kingdom.
Then the Prince became very open and told the little being why he had been sent away from his father's kingdom.
‘Prince, I will certainly help you,’ said the toad, and, crawling back into her swamp, she returned dragging after her a piece of linen not bigger than a finger, which she lay before the Prince, saying, ‘Take this home, and you’ll see it will help you.’
‘Prince, I will definitely help you,’ said the toad, and, crawling back into her swamp, she came back dragging behind her a piece of linen no larger than a finger, which she placed before the Prince, saying, ‘Take this home, and you’ll see it will help you.’
The Prince had no wish to take such an insignificant bundle with him; but he didn’t like to hurt Puddocky’s feelings by refusing it, so he took up the little packet, put it in his pocket, and bade the little toad farewell. Puddocky watched the Prince till he was out of sight and then crept back into the water.
The Prince didn’t want to carry such a small bundle with him, but he didn’t want to hurt Puddocky’s feelings by saying no, so he grabbed the little packet, put it in his pocket, and said goodbye to the little toad. Puddocky watched the Prince until he was out of sight and then crawled back into the water.
The further the Prince went the more he noticed that the pocket in which the little roll of linen lay became heavier, and in proportion his heart grew lighter. And so, greatly comforted, he returned to the Court of his father, and arrived home just at the same time as his brothers with their caravans. The King was delighted to see them all again, and at once drew the ring from his finger and the trial began. In all the waggon-loads there was not one piece of linen the tenth part of which would go through the ring, and the two elder brothers, who had at first sneered at their youngest brother for returning with no baggage, began to feel rather small. But what were their feelings when he drew a bale of linen out of his pocket which in fineness, softness, and purity of colour was unsurpassable! The threads were hardly visible, and it went through the ring without the smallest difficulty, at the same time measuring a hundred yards quite correctly.
The further the Prince walked, the more he felt the pocket with the little roll of linen get heavier, and as that happened, his heart lightened. Comforted, he returned to his father's court, arriving home just as his brothers came back with their caravans. The King was thrilled to see them all again and immediately took off his ring to begin the trial. In all the loads from the wagons, not a single piece of linen could pass through the ring, and the two older brothers, who had initially mocked their youngest sibling for coming back empty-handed, began to feel quite embarrassed. But their feelings changed completely when he pulled out a bale of linen, which was unmatched in fineness, softness, and color purity! The threads were barely visible, and it went through the ring effortlessly, all while measuring a perfect hundred yards.
The father embraced his fortunate son, and commanded the rest of the linen to be thrown into the water; then, turning to his children he said, ‘Now, dear Princes, prepare yourselves for the second task. You must bring me back a little dog that will go comfortably into a walnut-shell.’
The father hugged his lucky son and ordered the rest of the linen to be thrown into the water. Then, turning to his children, he said, "Now, dear Princes, get ready for the second task. You need to bring me back a little dog that will fit comfortably in a walnut shell."
The sons were all in despair over this demand, but as they each wished to win the crown, they determined to do their best, and after a very few days set out on their travels again.
The sons were all upset about this demand, but since they each wanted to win the crown, they decided to give it their all and, after just a few days, set out on their journey again.
At the cross roads they separated once more. The youngest went by himself along his lonely way, but this time he felt much more cheerful. Hardly had he sat down under the bridge and heaved a sigh, than Puddocky came out; and, sitting down opposite him, asked, ‘What’s wrong with you now, dear Prince?’
At the crossroads, they separated again. The youngest went off on his own, but this time he felt a lot happier. As soon as he sat down under the bridge and sighed, Puddocky appeared; and, sitting across from him, asked, “What’s bothering you now, dear Prince?”
The Prince, who this time never doubted the little toad’s power to help him, told her his difficulty at once. ‘Prince, I will help you,’ said the toad again, and crawled back into her swamp as fast as her short little legs would carry her. She returned, dragging a hazel nut behind her, which she laid at the Prince’s feet and said, ‘Take this nut home with you and tell your father to crack it very carefully, and you’ll see then what will happen.’ The Prince thanked her heartily and went on his way in the best of spirits, while the little puddock crept slowly back into the water.
The Prince, who this time had no doubt about the little toad’s ability to help him, immediately shared his problem with her. “Prince, I will help you,” the toad replied, and quickly crawled back to her swamp as fast as her short little legs could go. She returned, pulling a hazelnut behind her, which she placed at the Prince’s feet and said, “Take this nut home with you and tell your father to crack it very carefully, and then you’ll see what happens.” The Prince thanked her genuinely and continued on his way, feeling very happy, while the little toad slowly made her way back into the water.
When the Prince got home he found his brothers had just arrived with great waggon-loads of little dogs of all sorts. The King had a walnut shell ready, and the trial began; but not one of the dogs the two eldest sons had brought with them would in the least fit into the shell. When they had tried all their little dogs, the youngest son handed his father the hazel-nut, with a modest bow, and begged him to crack it carefully. Hardly had the old King done so than a lovely tiny dog sprang out of the nutshell, and ran about on the King’s hand, wagging its tail and barking lustily at all the other little dogs. The joy of the Court was great. The father again embraced his fortunate son, commanded the rest of the small dogs to be thrown into the water and drowned, and once more addressed his sons. ‘The two most difficult tasks have been performed. Now listen to the third and last: whoever brings the fairest wife home with him shall be my heir.’
When the Prince got home, he found that his brothers had just arrived with huge loads of little dogs of all kinds. The King had a walnut shell ready, and the trial began; but not one of the dogs the two oldest sons brought with them could fit into the shell at all. After they had tried all their little dogs, the youngest son handed his father the hazel nut with a polite bow and asked him to crack it carefully. As soon as the old King did, a beautiful tiny dog sprang out of the nutshell and started running around on the King’s hand, wagging its tail and barking loudly at all the other little dogs. The Court was overjoyed. The father hugged his lucky son again, ordered the other small dogs to be thrown into the water and drowned, and then addressed his sons once more. "The two hardest tasks have been completed. Now listen to the third and final one: whoever brings home the most beautiful wife shall be my heir."
This demand seemed so easy and agreeable and the reward was so great, that the Princes lost no time in setting forth on their travels. At the cross roads the two elder brothers debated if they should go the same way as the youngest, but when they saw how dreary and deserted it looked they made up their minds that it would be impossible to find what they sought in these wilds, and so they stuck to their former paths.
This request seemed so simple and appealing, and the reward was so significant, that the princes quickly set off on their journey. At the crossroads, the two older brothers discussed whether they should follow the same route as the youngest, but when they noticed how bleak and lonely it appeared, they decided it would be impossible to find what they were looking for in such wilderness, so they stuck to their original paths.
The youngest was very depressed this time and said to himself, ‘Anything else Puddocky could have helped me in, but this task is quite beyond her power. How could she ever find a beautiful wife for me? Her swamps are wide and empty, and no human beings dwell there; only frogs and toads and other creatures of that sort.’ However, he sat down as usual under the bridge, and this time he sighed from the bottom of his heart.
The youngest was really down this time and thought to himself, ‘Puddocky could have helped me with anything else, but this task is totally out of her reach. How could she ever find a beautiful wife for me? Her swamps are vast and empty, and no people live there; only frogs and toads and other creatures like that.’ Still, he sat down as usual under the bridge, and this time he sighed deeply.
In a few minutes the toad stood in front of him and asked, ‘What’s the matter with you now, my dear Prince?’
In a few minutes, the toad stood in front of him and asked, "What's wrong with you now, my dear Prince?"
‘Oh, Puddocky, this time you can’t help me, for the task is beyond even your power,’ replied the Prince.
‘Oh, Puddocky, this time you can’t help me, because the task is beyond even your abilities,’ replied the Prince.
‘Still,’ answered the toad, ‘you may as well tell me your difficulty, for who knows but I mayn’t be able to help you this time also.’
‘Still,’ replied the toad, ‘you might as well share your problem with me, because who knows, I might be able to help you again this time.’
The Prince then told her the task they had been set to do. ‘I’ll help you right enough, my dear Prince,’ said the little toad; ‘just you go home, and I’ll soon follow you.’ With these words, Puddocky, with a spring quite unlike her usual slow movements, jumped into the water and disappeared.
The Prince then explained the task they had been assigned. "I’ll help you out, my dear Prince," said the little toad. "Just go home, and I’ll catch up with you soon." With that, Puddocky, moving much quicker than her usual slow pace, jumped into the water and vanished.
The Prince rose up and went sadly on his way, for he didn’t believe it possible that the little toad could really help him in his present difficulty. He had hardly gone a few steps when he heard a sound behind him, and, looking round, he saw a carriage made of cardboard, drawn by six big rats, coming towards him. Two hedgehogs rode in front as outriders, and on the box sat a fat mouse as coachman, and behind stood two little frogs as footmen. In the carriage itself sat Puddocky, who kissed her hand to the Prince out of the window as she passed by.
The Prince got up and walked away sadly because he didn’t think it was possible for the little toad to actually help him with his current problem. He had barely taken a few steps when he heard a noise behind him, and when he turned around, he saw a cardboard carriage being pulled by six large rats coming toward him. Two hedgehogs were riding in front as outriders, and on the driver’s seat sat a plump mouse as the coachman, while two little frogs stood behind as footmen. Inside the carriage sat Puddocky, who waved to the Prince from the window as she passed by.
Sunk deep in thought over the fickleness of fortune that had granted him two of his wishes and now seemed about to deny him the last and best, the Prince hardly noticed the absurd equipage, and still less did he feel inclined to laugh at its comic appearance.
Sunk deep in thought about the unpredictability of fate that had given him two of his wishes and now seemed ready to deny him the last and greatest, the Prince barely noticed the ridiculous carriage, and even less did he feel like laughing at its funny look.
The carriage drove on in front of him for some time and then turned a corner. But what was his joy and surprise when suddenly, round the same corner, but coming towards him, there appeared a beautiful coach drawn by six splendid horses, with outriders, coachmen, footmen and other servants all in the most gorgeous liveries, and seated in the carriage was the most beautiful woman the Prince had ever seen, and in whom he at once recognised the beautiful Parsley, for whom his heart had formerly burned. The carriage stopped when it reached him, and the footmen sprang down and opened the door for him. He got in and sat down beside the beautiful Parsley, and thanked her heartily for her help, and told her how much he loved her.
The carriage drove ahead of him for a while and then went around a corner. But his joy and surprise were immense when suddenly, coming around the same corner towards him, appeared a stunning coach pulled by six magnificent horses, with outriders, coachmen, footmen, and other servants all in the most extravagant uniforms. Inside the carriage was the most beautiful woman the Prince had ever seen, and he instantly recognized the lovely Parsley, for whom he had once deeply longed. The carriage stopped when it reached him, and the footmen jumped down and opened the door for him. He climbed in and sat next to the beautiful Parsley, thanking her sincerely for her assistance and expressing how much he loved her.
And so he arrived at his father’s capital, at the same moment as his brothers who had returned with many carriage-loads of beautiful women. But when they were all led before the King, the whole Court with one consent awarded the prize of beauty to the fair Parsley.
And so he arrived at his father's city at the same time as his brothers, who came back with loads of beautiful women. But when they were all brought before the King, the entire Court unanimously declared the fair Parsley the winner of the beauty contest.
The old King was delighted, and embraced his thrice fortunate son and his new daughter-in-law tenderly, and appointed them as his successors to the throne. But he commanded the other women to be thrown into the water and drowned, like the bales of linen and the little dogs. The Prince married Puddocky and reigned long and happily with her, and if they aren’t dead I suppose they are living still.
The old King was thrilled and hugged his lucky son and his new daughter-in-law warmly, naming them his successors to the throne. But he ordered the other women to be thrown into the water and drowned, just like the bales of linen and the little dogs. The Prince married Puddocky and ruled happily with her for a long time, and if they’re not dead, I guess they’re still alive.
THE STORY OF HOK LEE AND THE DWARFS
There once lived in a small town in China a man named Hok Lee. He was a steady industrious man, who not only worked hard at his trade, but did all his own house-work as well, for he had no wife to do it for him. ‘What an excellent industrious man is this Hok Lee!’ said his neighbours; ‘how hard he works: he never leaves his house to amuse himself or to take a holiday as others do!’
There once lived in a small town in China a man named Hok Lee. He was a hardworking and dedicated man who not only put in a lot of effort at his job but also took care of all the household chores himself since he didn’t have a wife to help him. “What an amazing and hardworking man Hok Lee is!” said his neighbors. “Look at how hard he works; he never leaves his home for fun or to take a break like others do!”
But Hok Lee was by no means the virtuous person his neighbours thought him. True, he worked hard enough by day, but at night, when all respectable folk were fast asleep, he used to steal out and join a dangerous band of robbers, who broke into rich people’s houses and carried off all they could lay hands on.
But Hok Lee was definitely not the good person his neighbors believed him to be. Sure, he worked hard during the day, but at night, when all the decent people were sound asleep, he would sneak out and meet up with a dangerous gang of robbers, who broke into wealthy people's homes and took whatever they could grab.
This state of things went on for some time, and, though a thief was caught now and then and punished, no suspicion ever fell on Hok Lee, he was such a very respectable, hard-working man.
This situation lasted for a while, and while a thief was caught every now and then and faced consequences, no one ever suspected Hok Lee; he was known as a very respectable and hard-working man.
Hok Lee had already amassed a good store of money as his share of the proceeds of these robberies when it happened one morning on going to market that a neighbour said to him:
Hok Lee had already saved up a decent amount of money from his cut of the profits from these robberies when it happened one morning on his way to the market that a neighbor said to him:
‘Why, Hok Lee, what is the matter with your face? One side of it is all swelled up.’
‘Why, Hok Lee, what’s wrong with your face? One side is all swollen.’
True enough, Hok Lee’s right cheek was twice the size of his left, and it soon began to feel very uncomfortable.
True enough, Hok Lee’s right cheek was twice the size of his left, and it soon started to feel really uncomfortable.
‘I will bind up my face,’ said Hok Lee; ‘doubtless the warmth will cure the swelling.’ But no such thing. Next day it was worse, and day by day it grew bigger and bigger till it was nearly as large as his head and became very painful.
"I'll wrap up my face," said Hok Lee; "surely the heat will heal the swelling." But that was not the case. The next day it was worse, and day by day it swelled larger and larger until it was almost as big as his head and became quite painful.
Hok Lee was at his wits’ ends what to do. Not only was his cheek unsightly and painful, but his neighbours began to jeer and make fun of him, which hurt his feelings very much indeed.
Hok Lee was at his wits' end about what to do. Not only was his cheek ugly and painful, but his neighbors started to laugh at him and make fun of him, which really hurt his feelings.
One day, as luck would have it, a travelling doctor came to the town. He sold not only all kinds of medicine, but also dealt in many strange charms against witches and evil spirits.
One day, as fate would have it, a traveling doctor arrived in the town. He sold not just all sorts of medicine but also a variety of odd charms to protect against witches and evil spirits.
Hok Lee determined to consult him, and asked him into his house.
Hok Lee decided to talk to him and invited him into his home.
After the doctor had examined him carefully, he spoke thus: ‘This, O Hok Lee, is no ordinary swelled face. I strongly suspect you have been doing some wrong deed which has called down the anger of the spirits on you. None of my drugs will avail to cure you, but, if you are willing to pay me handsomely, I can tell you how you may be cured.’
After the doctor examined him closely, he said, “Look, Hok Lee, this is no ordinary swollen face. I really think you've done something wrong that has brought the spirits' anger upon you. None of my medicines will help you, but if you're willing to pay me well, I can tell you how to get better.”
Then Hok Lee and the doctor began to bargain together, and it was a long time before they could come to terms. However, the doctor got the better of it in the end, for he was determined not to part with his secret under a certain price, and Hok Lee had no mind to carry his huge cheek about with him to the end of his days. So he was obliged to part with the greater portion of his ill-gotten gains.
Then Hok Lee and the doctor started negotiating, and it took a while before they could agree on anything. In the end, the doctor came out on top because he was set on not revealing his secret for less than a certain price, and Hok Lee didn’t want to carry his big ego around for the rest of his life. So, he had to give up most of his ill-gotten profits.
When the Doctor had pocketed the money, he told Hok Lee to go on the first night of the full moon to a certain wood and there to watch by a particular tree. After a time he would see the dwarfs and little sprites who live underground come out to dance. When they saw him they would be sure to make him dance too. ‘And mind you dance your very best,’ added the doctor. ‘If you dance well and please them they will grant you a petition and you can then beg to be cured; but if you dance badly they will most likely do you some mischief out of spite.’ With that he took leave and departed.
When the Doctor had pocketed the money, he told Hok Lee to go to a certain wood on the first night of the full moon and wait by a specific tree. After a while, he would see the dwarfs and little sprites who live underground come out to dance. When they noticed him, they would definitely make him join in. "And make sure you dance your absolute best," the doctor added. "If you dance well and impress them, they will grant you a request, and you can then ask to be cured; but if you dance poorly, they will probably do something nasty out of spite." With that, he took his leave and left.
Happily the first night of the full moon was near, and at the proper time Hok Lee set out for the wood. With a little trouble he found the tree the doctor had described, and, feeling nervous, he climbed up into it.
Happily, the first night of the full moon was approaching, and at the right time, Hok Lee set out for the woods. After a bit of effort, he found the tree the doctor had described, and feeling anxious, he climbed up into it.
He had hardly settled himself on a branch when he saw the little dwarfs assembling in the moonlight. They came from all sides, till at length there appeared to be hundreds of them. They seemed in high glee, and danced and skipped and capered about, whilst Hok Lee grew so eager watching them that he crept further and further along his branch till at length it gave a loud crack. All the dwarfs stood still, and Hok Lee felt as if his heart stood still also.
He had barely settled on a branch when he saw the little dwarfs gathering in the moonlight. They came from every direction until it looked like there were hundreds of them. They seemed really happy, dancing, skipping, and frolicking around, while Hok Lee became so excited watching them that he inched further along his branch, until it suddenly cracked loudly. All the dwarfs froze, and Hok Lee felt like his heart stopped too.
Then one of the dwarfs called out, ‘Someone is up in that tree. Come down at once, whoever you are, or we must come and fetch you.’
Then one of the dwarfs shouted, "Someone is up in that tree. Come down right now, whoever you are, or we’ll have to come and get you."
In great terror, Hok Lee proceeded to come down; but he was so nervous that he tripped near the ground and came rolling down in the most absurd manner. When he had picked himself up, he came forward with a low bow, and the dwarf who had first spoken and who appeared to be the leader, said, ‘Now, then, who art thou, and what brings thee here?’
In great fear, Hok Lee made his way down; but he was so anxious that he tripped near the bottom and tumbled down in the most ridiculous way. Once he got back on his feet, he stepped forward and gave a slight bow, and the dwarf who had spoken first and seemed to be in charge asked, ‘So, who are you, and what brings you here?’
So Hok Lee told him the sad story of his swelled cheek, and how he had been advised to come to the forest and beg the dwarfs to cure him.
So Hok Lee shared with him the sad story of his swollen cheek and how he had been advised to come to the forest and ask the dwarfs to heal him.
‘It is well,’ replied the dwarf. ‘We will see about that. First, however, thou must dance before us. Should thy dancing please us, perhaps we may be able to do something; but shouldst thou dance badly, we shall assuredly punish thee, so now take warning and dance away.’
‘Alright,’ replied the dwarf. ‘We’ll see about that. First, though, you have to dance for us. If we like your dancing, maybe we can help you; but if you dance poorly, you’ll definitely be punished, so consider this a warning and start dancing.’
With that, he and all the other dwarfs sat down in a large ring, leaving Hok Lee to dance alone in the middle. He felt half frightened to death, and besides was a good deal shaken by his fall from the tree and did not feel at all inclined to dance. But the dwarfs were not to be trifled with.
With that, he and all the other dwarfs sat down in a big circle, leaving Hok Lee to dance alone in the center. He felt really scared and was still pretty shaken up from his fall from the tree, so he wasn't at all in the mood to dance. But the dwarfs were not to be messed with.
‘Begin!’ cried their leader, and ‘Begin!’ shouted the rest in chorus.
‘Start!’ yelled their leader, and ‘Start!’ echoed the others in unison.
So in despair Hok Lee began. First he hopped on one foot and then on the other, but he was so stiff and so nervous that he made but a poor attempt, and after a time sank down on the ground and vowed he could dance no more.
So in despair, Hok Lee started. First, he hopped on one foot and then on the other, but he was so stiff and so anxious that his attempts were pitiful, and after a while, he collapsed on the ground and swore he could dance no more.
The dwarfs were very angry. They crowded round Hok Lee and abused him. ‘Thou to come here to be cured, indeed!’ they cried, ‘thou hast brought one big cheek with thee, but thou shalt take away two.’ And with that they ran off and disappeared, leaving Hok Lee to find his way home as best he might.
The dwarfs were very angry. They crowded around Hok Lee and yelled at him. ‘You came here to be cured, really!’ they shouted, ‘you showed up with one big cheek, but you’ll leave with two.’ And with that, they ran off and disappeared, leaving Hok Lee to find his way home as best he could.
He hobbled away, weary and depressed, and not a little anxious on account of the dwarfs’ threat.
He limped away, tired and down, and not a little worried because of the dwarfs’ threat.
Nor were his fears unfounded, for when he rose next morning his left cheek was swelled up as big as his right, and he could hardly see out of his eyes. Hok Lee felt in despair, and his neighbours jeered at him more than ever. The doctor, too, had disappeared, so there was nothing for it but to try the dwarfs once more.
Nor were his fears unfounded, because when he got up the next morning, his left cheek was swollen just as much as his right, and he could barely see out of his eyes. Hok Lee felt hopeless, and his neighbors mocked him more than ever. The doctor had also vanished, so he had no choice but to try the dwarfs again.
He waited a month till the first night of the full moon came round again, and then he trudged back to the forest, and sat down under the tree from which he had fallen. He had not long to wait. Ere long the dwarfs came trooping out till all were assembled.
He waited a month until the first night of the full moon came around again, and then he made his way back to the forest and sat down under the tree from which he had fallen. He didn't have to wait long. Soon, the dwarfs came out one by one until they were all gathered.
‘I don’t feel quite easy,’ said one; ‘I feel as if some horrid human being were near us.’
"I don't feel comfortable," said one; "I feel like some awful person is close to us."
When Hok Lee heard this he came forward and bent down to the ground before the dwarfs, who came crowding round, and laughed heartily at his comical appearance with his two big cheeks.
When Hok Lee heard this, he stepped forward and bent down to the ground before the dwarfs, who gathered around and laughed heartily at his funny appearance with his two big cheeks.
‘What dost thou want?’ they asked; and Hok Lee proceeded to tell them of his fresh misfortunes, and begged so hard to be allowed one more trial at dancing that the dwarfs consented, for there is nothing they love so much as being amused.
‘What do you want?’ they asked; and Hok Lee went on to share his latest troubles, pleading so earnestly to be given one more chance to dance that the dwarfs agreed, because there’s nothing they enjoy more than being entertained.
Now, Hok Lee knew how much depended on his dancing well, so he plucked up a good spirit and began, first quite slowly, and faster by degrees, and he danced so well and gracefully, and made such new and wonderful steps, that the dwarfs were quite delighted with him.
Now, Hok Lee realized how important it was for him to dance well, so he gathered his confidence and started out slowly, gradually picking up speed. He danced so well and gracefully, creating such new and amazing steps, that the dwarfs were completely delighted with him.
They clapped their tiny hands, and shouted, ‘Well done, Hok Lee, well done, go on, dance more, for we are pleased.’
They clapped their small hands and shouted, ‘Great job, Hok Lee, great job, keep dancing, we love it.’
And Hok Lee danced on and on, till he really could dance no more, and was obliged to stop.
And Hok Lee kept dancing until he literally couldn’t dance anymore and had to stop.
Then the leader of the dwarfs said, ‘We are well pleased, Hok Lee, and as a recompense for thy dancing thy face shall be cured. Farewell.’
Then the leader of the dwarfs said, ‘We are very happy, Hok Lee, and as a reward for your dancing, your face will be healed. Goodbye.’
With these words he and the other dwarfs vanished, and Hok Lee, putting his hands to his face, found to his great joy that his cheeks were reduced to their natural size. The way home seemed short and easy to him, and he went to bed happy, and resolved never to go out robbing again.
With those words, he and the other dwarfs disappeared, and Hok Lee, covering his face with his hands, was overjoyed to find that his cheeks had returned to their natural size. The journey home felt quick and simple to him, and he went to bed feeling happy, determined never to go out stealing again.
Next day the whole town was full of the news of Hok’s sudden cure. His neighbours questioned him, but could get nothing from him, except the fact that he had discovered a wonderful cure for all kinds of diseases.
Next day, the whole town buzzed with the news of Hok’s sudden recovery. His neighbors asked him about it, but all he would share was that he had found an amazing remedy for all sorts of illnesses.
After a time a rich neighbour, who had been ill for some years, came, and offered to give Hok Lee a large sum of money if he would tell him how he might get cured. Hok Lee consented on condition that he swore to keep the secret. He did so, and Hok Lee told him of the dwarfs and their dances.
After a while, a wealthy neighbor who had been sick for several years approached Hok Lee and offered him a large amount of money if he would share how he could be cured. Hok Lee agreed, but only if the neighbor promised to keep it a secret. He did, and Hok Lee revealed the information about the dwarfs and their dances.
The neighbour went off, carefully obeyed Hok Lee’s directions, and was duly cured by the dwarfs. Then another and another came to Hok Lee to beg his secret, and from each he extracted a vow of secrecy and a large sum of money. This went on for some years, so that at length Hok Lee became a very wealthy man, and ended his days in peace and prosperity.
The neighbor left, followed Hok Lee’s instructions carefully, and was successfully treated by the dwarfs. Then one person after another came to Hok Lee asking for his secret, and from each one, he got a promise of secrecy and a big sum of money. This continued for several years, until finally, Hok Lee became very wealthy and lived out his days in peace and prosperity.
From the Chinese.
From the Chinese translation.
THE STORY OF THE THREE BEARS
Once upon a time there were Three Bears, who lived together in a house of their own in a wood. One of them was a Little, Small, Wee Bear; and one was a Middle-sized Bear, and the other was a Great, Huge Bear. They had each a pot for their porridge, a little pot for the Little, Small, Wee Bear; and a middle-sized pot for the Middle Bear; and a great pot for the Great, Huge Bear. And they had each a chair to sit in; a little chair for the Little, Small, Wee Bear; and a middle-sized chair for the Middle Bear; and a great chair for the Great, Huge Bear. And they had each a bed to sleep in; a little bed for the Little, Small, Wee Bear; and a middle-sized bed for the Middle Bear; and a great bed for the Great, Huge Bear.
Once upon a time, there were three bears who lived together in their own house in the woods. One was a tiny little bear, one was a medium-sized bear, and the other was a big, huge bear. They each had a pot for their porridge: a small pot for the tiny little bear, a medium pot for the medium bear, and a large pot for the big, huge bear. They each had a chair to sit in: a tiny chair for the tiny little bear, a medium chair for the medium bear, and a large chair for the big, huge bear. They each had a bed to sleep in: a tiny bed for the tiny little bear, a medium bed for the medium bear, and a large bed for the big, huge bear.
One day, after they had made the porridge for their breakfast, and poured it into their porridge-pots, they walked out into the wood while the porridge was cooling, that they might not burn their mouths by beginning too soon to eat it. And while they were walking, a little old woman came to the house. She could not have been a good, honest old woman; for, first, she looked in at the window, and then she peeped in at the keyhole; and, seeing nobody in the house, she lifted the latch. The door was not fastened, because the bears were good bears, who did nobody any harm, and never suspected that anybody would harm them. So the little old woman opened the door and went in; and well pleased she was when she saw the porridge on the table. If she had been a good little old woman she would have waited till the bears came home, and then, perhaps, they would have asked her to breakfast; for they were good bears—a little rough or so, as the manner of bears is, but for all that very good-natured and hospitable. But she was an impudent, bad old woman, and set about helping herself.
One day, after they made porridge for breakfast and poured it into their bowls, they went out into the woods while it cooled so they wouldn’t burn their mouths by eating it too soon. While they were out, a little old woman came to the house. She couldn’t have been a good, honest old woman because, first, she looked in through the window, then peered in at the keyhole; and when she saw nobody was home, she lifted the latch. The door wasn’t locked because the bears were good bears who didn’t harm anyone and never thought someone would harm them. So the little old woman opened the door and went inside, quite pleased when she saw the porridge on the table. If she had been a good little old woman, she would have waited for the bears to come home, and maybe they would have invited her to breakfast; they were good bears—just a bit rough around the edges, as bears usually are, but nonetheless very kind-hearted and welcoming. But she was a rude, bad old woman and started helping herself.
So first she tasted the porridge of the Great, Huge Bear, and that was too hot for her; and she said a bad word about that. And then she tasted the porridge of the Middle Bear; and that was too cold for her; and she said a bad word about that too. And then she went to the porridge of the Little, Small, Wee Bear, and tasted that; and that was neither too hot nor too cold, but just right; and she liked it so well, that she ate it all up: but the naughty old woman said a bad word about the little porridge-pot, because it did not hold enough for her.
So first she tried the porridge from the Great, Huge Bear, and it was too hot for her; and she said something rude about that. Then she tried the porridge from the Middle Bear; and that was too cold for her; and she said something rude about that too. Finally, she went to the porridge of the Little, Small, Wee Bear, and tasted that; and it was neither too hot nor too cold, but just right; and she liked it so much that she ate it all up: but the naughty old woman complained about the little porridge pot because it didn't hold enough for her.
Then the little old woman sate down in the chair of the Great, Huge Bear, and that was too hard for her. And then she sate down in the chair of the Middle Bear, and that was too soft for her. And then she sate down in the chair of the Little, Small, Wee Bear, and that was neither too hard nor too soft, but just right. So she seated herself in it, and there she sate till the bottom of the chair came out, and down came she, plump upon the ground. And the naughty old woman said a wicked word about that too.
Then the little old woman sat down in the chair of the Great, Huge Bear, and it was too hard for her. Then she sat down in the chair of the Middle Bear, and that was too soft for her. Finally, she sat down in the chair of the Little, Small, Wee Bear, and that was neither too hard nor too soft, but just right. So she settled into it, and there she sat until the bottom of the chair gave way, and down she went, right onto the ground. And the naughty old woman said something bad about that too.
Then the little old woman went up stairs into the bed-chamber in which the three bears slept. And first she lay down upon the bed of the Great, Huge Bear; but that was too high at the head for her. And next she lay down upon the bed of the Middle Bear; and that was too high at the foot for her. And then she lay down upon the bed of the Little, Small, Wee Bear; and that was neither too high at the head, nor at the foot, but just right. So she covered herself up comfortably, and lay there till she fell fast asleep.
Then the little old woman went upstairs to the bedroom where the three bears slept. First, she lay down on the bed of the Great, Huge Bear, but it was too high at the head for her. Next, she tried the bed of the Middle Bear, but that was too high at the foot for her. Finally, she lay down on the bed of the Little, Small, Wee Bear, and that was neither too high at the head nor at the foot, but just right. So she tucked herself in comfortably and lay there until she fell fast asleep.
By this time the three bears thought their porridge would be cool enough; so they came home to breakfast. Now the little old woman had left the spoon of the Great, Huge Bear, standing in his porridge.
By this time, the three bears thought their porridge would be cool enough, so they came home for breakfast. Now, the little old woman had left the spoon of the Great Huge Bear standing in his porridge.
‘SOMEBODY HAS BEEN AT MY PORRIDGE!’
‘SOMEONE HAS BEEN IN MY PORRIDGE!’
said the Great, Huge Bear, in his great gruff voice. And when the Middle Bear looked at his, he saw that the spoon was standing in it too. They were wooden spoons; if they had been silver ones, the naughty old woman would have put them in her pocket.
said the Great, Huge Bear in his deep, gruff voice. And when the Middle Bear looked at him, he noticed that the spoon was sticking out of it too. They were wooden spoons; if they had been silver, the mischievous old woman would have taken them and put them in her pocket.
‘Somebody Has Been At My Porridge!’
‘Someone Has Been Eating My Porridge!’
said the Middle Bear, in his middle voice.
said the Middle Bear, in his ordinary voice.
Then the Little, Small, Wee Bear looked at his, and there was the spoon in the porridge-pot, but the porridge was all gone.
Then the Little, Small, Wee Bear looked at his, and there was the spoon in the porridge pot, but the porridge was all gone.
‘Somebody has been at my porridge, and has eaten it all up!’
‘Someone has been in my porridge, and has eaten it all!’
said the Little, Small Wee Bear, in his little, small wee voice.
said the Little, Small Wee Bear, in his tiny voice.
Upon this the three bears, seeing that some one had entered their house, and eaten up the Little, Small, Wee Bear’s breakfast, began to look about them. Now the little old woman had not put the hard cushion straight when she rose from the chair of the Great, Huge Bear.
Upon this, the three bears, noticing that someone had entered their house and eaten the Little, Small, Wee Bear's breakfast, started to look around. Now, the little old woman hadn't straightened the hard cushion when she got up from the chair of the Great, Huge Bear.
‘SOMEBODY HAS BEEN SITTING IN MY CHAIR!’
‘SOMEONE HAS BEEN SITTING IN MY CHAIR!’
said the Great, Huge Bear, in his great, rough, gruff voice.
said the Great, Huge Bear, in his deep, rough, gruff voice.
And the little old woman had squatted down the soft cushion of the Middle Bear.
And the little old woman had sat down on the soft cushion of the Middle Bear.
‘Somebody Has Been Sitting In My Chair!’
‘Someone Has Been Sitting In My Chair!’
said the Middle Bear, in his middle voice.
said the Middle Bear, in his average voice.
And you know what the little old woman had done to the third chair.
And do you know what the little old woman did to the third chair?
‘Somebody has been sitting in my chair, and has sate the bottom of it out!’
Someone has been sitting in my chair and has worn out the bottom!
said the Little, Small, Wee Bear, in his little, small, wee voice.
said the Little, Small, Wee Bear, in his tiny, high-pitched voice.
Then the three bears thought it necessary that they should make farther search; so they went up stairs into their bed-chamber. Now the little old woman had pulled the pillow of the Great, Huge Bear out of its place.
Then the three bears decided they needed to look further; so they went upstairs into their bedroom. Now the little old woman had taken the Great, Huge Bear's pillow out of its spot.
‘SOMEBODY HAS BEEN LYING IN MY BED!’
‘SOMEONE HAS BEEN LYING IN MY BED!’
said the Great, Huge Bear, in his great, rough, gruff voice.
said the Great, Huge Bear, in his deep, rough, gruff voice.
And the little old woman had pulled the bolster of the Middle Bear out of its place.
And the elderly woman had pulled the pillow of the Middle Bear out of its spot.
‘Somebody Has Been Lying In My Bed!’
‘Someone Has Been Lying In My Bed!’
said the Middle Bear in his middle voice.
said the Middle Bear in his average voice.
And when the Little, Small, Wee Bear came to look at his bed, there was the bolster in its place, and the pillow in its place upon the bolster, and upon the pillow was the little old woman’s ugly, dirty head,—which was not in its place, for she had no business there.
And when the Little, Small, Wee Bear came to check his bed, there was the bolster in its spot, and the pillow on the bolster, and on the pillow was the little old woman’s ugly, dirty head—which definitely didn’t belong there.
‘Somebody has been lying in my bed,—and here she is!’
Someone has been sleeping in my bed,—and here she is!
said the Little, Small, Wee Bear, in his little, small, wee voice.
said the Little, Small, Wee Bear, in his tiny voice.
The little old woman had heard in her sleep the great, rough, gruff voice of the Great, Huge Bear; but she was so fast asleep that it was no more to her than the roaring of wind or the rumbling of thunder. And she had heard the middle voice of the Middle Bear, but it was only as if she had heard someone speaking in a dream. But when she heard the little, small, wee voice of the Little, Small, Wee Bear, it was so sharp, and so shrill, that it awakened her at once. Up she started; and when she saw the Three Bears on one side of the bed, she tumbled herself out at the other, and ran to the window. Now the window was open, because the bears, like good, tidy bears as they were, always opened their bedchamber window when they got up in the morning. Out the little old woman jumped; and whether she broke her neck in the fall, or ran into the wood and was lost there, or found her way out of the wood and was taken up by the constable and sent to the House of Correction for a vagrant as she was, I cannot tell. But the Three Bears never saw anything more of her.
The little old woman had heard in her sleep the loud, rough voice of the Great, Huge Bear; but she was so deeply asleep that it sounded to her like the wind howling or thunder rumbling. She also heard the middle voice of the Middle Bear, but it felt as if someone was talking in a dream. However, when she heard the tiny, high-pitched voice of the Little, Small, Wee Bear, it was so sharp and shrill that it woke her up immediately. She jumped up; and when she saw the Three Bears on one side of the bed, she quickly rolled out the other side and ran to the window. The window was open because the bears, being tidy creatures, always opened their bedroom window in the morning. The little old woman jumped out; and whether she broke her neck in the fall, ran into the woods and got lost, or found her way out only to be caught by the constable and sent to the House of Correction as a vagrant, I can't say. But the Three Bears never saw her again.
Southey.
Southey.
PRINCE VIVIEN AND THE PRINCESS PLACIDA
Once upon a time there lived a King and Queen who loved one another dearly. Indeed the Queen, whose name was Santorina, was so pretty and so kind-hearted that it would have been a wonder if her husband had not been fond of her, while King Gridelin himself was a perfect bundle of good qualities, for the Fairy who presided at his christening had summoned the shades of all his ancestors, and taken something good from each of them to form his character. Unfortunately, though, she had given him rather too much kindness of heart, which is a thing that generally gets its possessor into trouble, but so far all things had prospered with King Gridelin. However, it was not to be expected such good fortune could last, and before very long the Queen had a lovely little daughter who was named Placida. Now the King, who thought that if she resembled her mother in face and mind she would need no other gift, never troubled to ask any of the Fairies to her christening, and this offended them mortally, so that they resolved to punish him severely for thus depriving them of their rights. So, to the despair of King Gridelin, the Queen first of all became very ill, and then disappeared altogether. If it had not been for the little Princess there is no saying what would have become of him, he was so miserable, but there she was to be brought up, and luckily the good Fairy Lolotte, in spite of all that had passed, was willing to come and take charge of her, and of her little cousin Prince Vivien, who was an orphan and had been placed under the care of his uncle, King Gridelin, when he was quite a baby. Although she neglected nothing that could possibly have been done for them, their characters, as they grew up, plainly proved that education only softens down natural defects, but cannot entirely do away with them; for Placida, who was perfectly lovely, and with a capacity and intelligence which enabled her to learn and understand anything that presented itself, was at the same time as lazy and indifferent as it is possible for anyone to be, while Vivien on the contrary was only too lively, and was for ever taking up some new thing and as promptly tiring of it, and flying off to something else which held his fickle fancy an equally short time. As these two children would possibly inherit the kingdom, it was natural that their people should take a great interest in them, and it fell out that all the tranquil and peace-loving citizens desired that Placida should one day be their Queen, while the rash and quarrelsome hoped great things for Vivien. Such a division of ideas seemed to promise civil wars and all kinds of troubles to the State, and even in the Palace the two parties frequently came into collision. As for the children themselves, though they were too well brought up to quarrel, still the difference in all their tastes and feelings made it impossible for them to like one another, so there seemed no chance of their ever consenting to be married, which was a pity, since that was the only thing that would have satisfied both parties. Prince Vivien was fully aware of the feeling in his favour, but being too honourable to wish to injure his pretty cousin, and perhaps too impatient and volatile to care to think seriously about anything, he suddenly took it into his head that he would go off by himself in search of adventure. Luckily this idea occurred to him when he was on horseback, for he would certainly have set out on foot rather than lose an instant. As it was, he simply turned his horse’s head, without another thought than that of getting out of the kingdom as soon as possible. This abrupt departure was a great blow to the State, especially as no one had any idea what had become of the Prince. Even King Gridelin, who had never cared for anything since the disappearance of Queen Santorina, was roused by this new loss, and though he could not so much as look at the Princess Placida without shedding floods of tears, he resolved to see for himself what talents and capabilities she showed. He very soon found out that in addition to her natural indolence, she was being as much indulged and spoilt day by day as if the Fairy had been her grandmother, and was obliged to remonstrate very seriously upon the subject. Lolotte took his reproaches meekly, and promised faithfully that she would not encourage the Princess in her idleness and indifference any more. From this moment poor Placida’s troubles began! She was actually expected to choose her own dresses, to take care of her jewels, and to find her own amusements; but rather than take so much trouble she wore the same old frock from morning till night, and never appeared in public if she could possibly avoid it. However, this was not all, King Gridelin insisted that the affairs of the kingdom should be explained to her, and that she should attend all the councils and give her opinion upon the matter in hand whenever it was asked of her, and this made her life such a burden to her that she implored Lolotte to take her away from a country where too much was required of an unhappy Princess.
Once upon a time, there was a King and Queen who loved each other dearly. The Queen, named Santorina, was so beautiful and kind-hearted that it was no surprise her husband adored her. King Gridelin was a perfect mix of good traits, as the Fairy who blessed his birth had summoned the spirits of all his ancestors and taken something good from each to shape his character. Unfortunately, she had given him a bit too much kindness, which often leads to trouble, but so far, everything had gone well for King Gridelin. However, it was unrealistic to expect such good luck to last, and soon, the Queen gave birth to a beautiful little daughter named Placida. The King thought if she resembled her mother in looks and mind, she wouldn’t need anything else, so he didn’t bother inviting any Fairies to her christening, which deeply angered them. They decided to punish him for excluding them from their rights. In despair, King Gridelin watched as the Queen first fell ill, and then disappeared entirely. Had it not been for the little Princess, it’s hard to say what would have happened to him; he was so miserable. Luckily, the good Fairy Lolotte was willing to come and take care of her and her little cousin Prince Vivien, who was an orphan and had been placed in King Gridelin's care when he was just a baby. Despite her efforts to do everything possible for them, their upbringing showed that education only helps to soften natural flaws, it can’t completely erase them. Placida was stunning, with the intelligence and ability to understand anything, but she was also the laziest and most indifferent person imaginable. On the other hand, Vivien was overly energetic, constantly picking up new interests and just as quickly losing interest, flitting off to whatever caught his attention next. Because these two children were likely to inherit the kingdom, it made sense that the citizens were very interested in them. It turned out that the peaceful citizens wanted Placida to be their Queen, while the bold and quarrelsome ones had high hopes for Vivien. This division of opinion seemed destined to lead to civil wars and various troubles, and even within the Palace, the two factions often clashed. The children themselves, while too well brought up to argue, found it impossible to like one another, given their differing tastes and feelings, so it seemed unlikely they would ever agree to marry, which was a shame since that was the only thing that could satisfy both sides. Prince Vivien knew of the support he had, but being too honorable to hurt his lovely cousin and perhaps too impulsive to think deeply about anything, he suddenly decided to go off on his own in search of adventure. Fortunately, this idea came to him while he was on horseback; otherwise, he would have set out on foot at once. Instead, he simply turned his horse around without a second thought, eager to leave the kingdom as quickly as possible. This sudden departure struck a significant blow to the State, especially since no one knew what had happened to the Prince. Even King Gridelin, who had lost all interest in life since Queen Santorina’s disappearance, was stirred by this new loss. Though he couldn’t even look at Princess Placida without bursting into tears, he decided to assess her talents and abilities for himself. He quickly discovered that, in addition to her natural laziness, she was spoiled and coddled more each day, just as if the Fairy were her grandmother. He knew he had to talk to her seriously about it. Lolotte accepted his criticisms calmly and promised not to encourage the Princess’s laziness anymore. From that moment on, poor Placida’s troubles began! She was expected to choose her own outfits, take care of her jewelry, and find her own entertainment, but instead of going to all that trouble, she wore the same old dress all day and avoided public appearances whenever possible. However, that wasn’t all—King Gridelin insisted she needed to learn about the kingdom’s affairs, attend all the councils, and express her opinions whenever asked. This added so much pressure to her life that she begged Lolotte to take her away from a place where too much was expected of an unhappy Princess.
The Fairy refused at first with a great show of firmness, but who could resist the tears and entreaties of anyone so pretty as Placida? It came to this in the end, that she transported the Princess just as she was, cosily tucked up upon her favourite couch, to her own Grotto, and this new disappearance left all the people in despair, and Gridelin went about looking more distracted than ever. But now let us return to Prince Vivien, and see what his restless spirit has brought him to. Though Placida’s kingdom was a large one; his horse had carried him gallantly to the limit of it, but it could go no further, and the Prince was obliged to dismount and continue his journey on foot, though this slow mode of progress tired his patience severely.
The Fairy initially stood her ground firmly, but who could resist the tears and pleas of someone as lovely as Placida? In the end, she whisked the Princess away just as she was, cozily snuggled up on her favorite couch, to her own Grotto. This latest disappearance left everyone in despair, and Gridelin appeared more distracted than ever. But now, let's return to Prince Vivien and see what his restless spirit has led him to. Although Placida’s kingdom was vast, his horse gallantly carried him to its edge, but it couldn't go any further. So, the Prince had to dismount and continue on foot, a slow pace that severely tested his patience.
After what seemed to him a very long time, he found himself all alone in a vast forest, so dark and gloomy that he secretly shuddered; however, he chose the most promising looking path he could find, and marched along it courageously at his best speed, but in spite of all his efforts, night fell before he reached the edge of the wood.
After what felt like a really long time, he found himself all alone in a vast forest, so dark and gloomy that he couldn’t help but shudder; however, he picked the most promising looking path he could find and marched along it bravely at his fastest pace, but despite all his efforts, night fell before he reached the edge of the woods.
For some time he stumbled along, keeping to the path as well as he could in the darkness, and just as he was almost wearied out he saw before him a gleam of light.
For a while, he walked unsteadily, trying to stay on the path as best as he could in the dark, and just when he was feeling really tired, he saw a light ahead of him.
This sight revived his drooping spirits, and he made sure that he was now close to the shelter and supper he needed so much, but the more he walked towards the light the further away it seemed; sometimes he even lost sight of it altogether, and you may imagine how provoked and impatient he was by the time he finally arrived at the miserable cottage from which the light proceeded. He gave a loud knock at the door, and an old woman’s voice answered from within, but as she did not seem to be hurrying herself to open it he redoubled his blows, and demanded to be let in imperiously, quite forgetting that he was no longer in his own kingdom. But all this had no effect upon the old woman, who only noticed all the uproar he was making by saying gently:
This sight lifted his spirits, and he felt he was finally close to the shelter and food he desperately needed. However, the more he walked toward the light, the further away it seemed; at times, he even lost sight of it completely. You can imagine how frustrated and impatient he was by the time he reached the shabby cottage where the light was coming from. He knocked loudly on the door, and an old woman's voice responded from inside. But since she didn’t seem to be in a hurry to open it, he knocked even harder and demanded to be let in, forgetting that he was no longer in his own territory. But none of this affected the old woman, who only remarked gently about the commotion he was causing by saying:
‘You must have patience.’
"Have patience."
He could hear that she really was coming to open the door to him, only she was so very long about it. First she chased away her cat, lest it should run away when the door was opened, then he heard her talking to herself and made out that her lamp wanted trimming, that she might see better who it was that knocked, and then that it lacked fresh oil, and she must refill it. So what with one thing and another she was an immense time trotting to and fro, and all the while she now and again bade the Prince have patience. When at last he stood within the little hut he saw with despair that it was a picture of poverty, and that not a crumb of anything eatable was to be seen, and when he explained to the old woman that he was dying of hunger and fatigue she only answered tranquilly that he must have patience. However, she presently showed him a bundle of straw on which he could sleep.
He could hear that she was really coming to open the door for him, but she was taking her sweet time. First, she chased away her cat so it wouldn’t run off when she opened the door. Then he heard her talking to herself, saying that her lamp needed trimming so she could see better who was knocking, and that it needed fresh oil and she had to refill it. So between everything she had to do, it took her a long time to move back and forth, and all the while she occasionally told the Prince to be patient. When he finally stood inside the little hut, he felt despair as he saw it was a picture of poverty, with not a crumb of food in sight. When he told the old woman that he was starving and exhausted, she calmly replied that he must be patient. However, she soon showed him a bundle of straw where he could sleep.
‘But what can I have to eat?’ cried Prince Vivien sharply.
‘But what can I eat?’ Prince Vivien exclaimed sharply.
‘Wait a little, wait a little,’ she replied. ‘If you will only have patience I am just going out into the garden to gather some peas: we will shell them at our leisure, then I will light a fire and cook them, and when they are thoroughly done, we can enjoy them peaceably; there is no hurry.’
‘Just wait a minute, just wait a minute,’ she said. ‘If you can be patient, I'm just going out to the garden to pick some peas: we can shell them whenever we want, then I’ll light a fire and cook them, and when they’re completely done, we can enjoy them calmly; there’s no rush.’
‘I shall have died of starvation by the time all that is done,’ said the Prince ruefully.
‘I’ll be dead from hunger by the time all that is done,’ the Prince said with a sigh.
‘Patience, patience,’ said the old woman looking at him with her slow gentle smile, ‘I can’t be hurried. “All things come at last to him who waits;” you must have heard that often.’
‘Patience, patience,’ said the old woman, looking at him with her slow, gentle smile. ‘I can’t be rushed. “All things come to those who wait;” you must have heard that a lot.’
Prince Vivien was wild with aggravation, but there was nothing to be done.
Prince Vivien was furious, but there was nothing he could do.
‘Come then,’ said the old woman, ‘you shall hold the lamp to light me while I pick the peas.’
‘Come on then,’ said the old woman, ‘you can hold the lamp to light my way while I pick the peas.’
The Prince in his haste snatched it up so quickly that it went out, and it took him a long time to light it again with two little bits of glowing charcoal which he had to dig out from the pile of ashes upon the hearth. However, at last the peas were gathered and shelled, and the fire lighted, but then they had to be carefully counted, since the old woman declared that she would cook fifty-four, and no more. In vain did the Prince represent to her that he was famished—that fifty-four peas would go no way towards satisfying his hunger—that a few peas, more or less, surely could not matter. It was quite useless, in the end he had to count out the fifty-four, and worse than that, because he dropped one or two in his hurry, he had to begin again from the very first, to be sure the number was complete. As soon as they were cooked the old dame took a pair of scales and a morsel of bread from the cupboard, and was just about to divide it when Prince Vivien, who really could wait no longer, seized the whole piece and ate it up, saying in his turn, ‘Patience.’
The Prince hurriedly picked it up so quickly that it went out, and it took him a long time to relight it using two small pieces of glowing charcoal he had to dig out from the pile of ashes on the hearth. Finally, the peas were gathered and shelled, and the fire was lit, but they had to be carefully counted because the old woman insisted she would cook fifty-four, and not a single one more. The Prince tried to explain to her that he was starving—that fifty-four peas wouldn’t even come close to satisfying his hunger—and that a few extra peas surely wouldn’t matter. In the end, it was pointless; he had to count out exactly fifty-four, and worse, because he dropped one or two in his rush, he had to start all over again to make sure the number was right. As soon as they were cooked, the old lady took a set of scales and a piece of bread from the cupboard, and was just about to divide it when Prince Vivien, who really couldn’t wait any longer, grabbed the whole piece and ate it, saying in response, “Patience.”
‘You mean that for a joke,’ said the old woman, as gently as ever, ‘but that is really my name, and some day you will know more about me.’
‘You’re joking,’ said the old woman, just as gently as always, ‘but that is actually my name, and one day you’ll learn more about me.’
Then they each ate their twenty-seven peas, and the Prince was surprised to find that he wanted nothing more, and he slept as sweetly upon his bed of straw as he had ever done in his palace.
Then they both ate their twenty-seven peas, and the Prince was surprised to realize that he didn’t want anything else, and he slept just as soundly on his bed of straw as he ever had in his palace.
In the morning the old woman gave him milk and bread for his breakfast, which he ate contentedly, rejoicing that there was nothing to be gathered, or counted, or cooked, and when he had finished he begged her to tell him who she was.
In the morning, the old woman gave him milk and bread for breakfast, which he ate happily, glad that there was nothing to gather, count, or cook. When he finished, he asked her to tell him who she was.
‘That I will, with pleasure,’ she replied. ‘But it will be a long story.’
‘I will, happily,’ she replied. ‘But it’s going to be a long story.’
‘Oh! if it’s long, I can’t listen,’ cried the Prince.
‘Oh! if it’s too long, I can’t listen,’ the Prince exclaimed.
‘But,’ said she, ‘at your age, you should attend to what old people say, and learn to have patience.’
'But,' she said, 'at your age, you should listen to what older people say and learn to be patient.'
‘But, but,’ said the Prince, in his most impatient tone, ‘old people should not be so long-winded! Tell me what country I have got into, and nothing else.’
‘But, but,’ said the Prince, in his most impatient tone, ‘older people shouldn’t take so long to explain things! Just tell me what country I’ve entered, and nothing more.’
‘With all my heart,’ said she. ‘You are in the Forest of the Black Bird; it is here that he utters his oracles.’
‘With all my heart,’ she said. ‘You’re in the Forest of the Black Bird; this is where he shares his prophecies.’
‘An Oracle,’ cried the Prince. ‘Oh! I must go and consult him.’ Thereupon he drew a handful of gold from his pocket, and offered it to the old woman, and when she would not take it, he threw it down upon the table and was off like a flash of lightning, without even staying to ask the way. He took the first path that presented itself and followed it at the top of his speed, often losing his way, or stumbling over some stone, or running up against a tree, and leaving behind him without regret the cottage which had been as little to his taste as the character of its possessor. After some time he saw in the distance a huge black castle which commanded a view of the whole forest. The Prince felt certain that this must be the abode of the Oracle, and just as the sun was setting he reached its outermost gates. The whole castle was surrounded by a deep moat, and the drawbridge and the gates, and even the water in the moat, were all of the same sombre hue as the walls and towers. Upon the gate hung a huge bell, upon which was written in red letters:
‘An Oracle,’ exclaimed the Prince. ‘Oh! I need to go consult him.’ He quickly pulled a handful of gold from his pocket and offered it to the old woman. When she refused to take it, he threw it onto the table and took off like a bolt of lightning, not even bothering to ask for directions. He chose the first path he saw and raced down it, often losing his way, tripping over stones, or crashing into trees, leaving behind the cottage he didn’t care for, just like the character of its owner. After a while, he spotted a massive black castle in the distance that overlooked the entire forest. The Prince was sure this must be where the Oracle lived, and just as the sun was setting, he arrived at its outer gates. The entire castle was surrounded by a deep moat, and the drawbridge, gates, and even the water in the moat shared the same dark color as the walls and towers. A huge bell hung from the gate, with red letters inscribed on it:
‘Mortal, if thou art curious to know thy fate, strike this bell, and submit to what shall befall thee.’
‘Human, if you're curious to know your fate, ring this bell, and accept what happens next.’
The Prince, without the smallest hesitation, snatched up a great stone, and hammered vigorously upon the bell, which gave forth a deep and terrible sound, the gate flew open, and closed again with a thundering clang the moment the Prince had passed through it, while from every tower and battlement rose a wheeling, screaming crowd of bats which darkened the whole sky with their multitudes. Anyone but Prince Vivien would have been terrified by such an uncanny sight, but he strode stoutly forward till he reached the second gate, which was opened to him by sixty black slaves covered from head to foot in long mantles.
The Prince, without any hesitation, grabbed a large stone and pounded on the bell, which produced a deep and chilling sound. The gate swung open and slammed shut with a thunderous clang the moment the Prince passed through, while a swirling, screeching swarm of bats rose from every tower and battlement, darkening the sky with their numbers. Anyone else would have been scared by such a strange sight, but Prince Vivien marched confidently onward until he reached the second gate, which was opened for him by sixty black slaves dressed from head to toe in long robes.
He wished to speak to them, but soon discovered that they spoke an utterly unknown language, and did not seem to understand a word he said. This was a great aggravation to the Prince, who was not accustomed to keep his ideas to himself, and he positively found himself wishing for his old friend Patience. However, he had to follow his guides in silence, and they led him into a magnificent hall; the floor was of ebony, the walls of jet, and all the hangings were of black velvet, but the Prince looked round it in vain for something to eat, and then made signs that he was hungry. In the same manner he was respectfully given to understand that he must wait, and after several hours the sixty hooded and shrouded figures re-appeared, and conducted him with great ceremony, and also very very slowly, to a banqueting hall, where they all placed themselves at a long table. The dishes were arranged down the centre of it, and with his usual impetuosity the Prince seized the one that stood in front of him to draw it nearer, but soon found that it was firmly fixed in its place. Then he looked at his solemn and lugubrious neighbours, and saw that each one was supplied with a long hollow reed through which he slowly sucked up his portion, and the Prince was obliged to do the same, though he found it a frightfully tedious process. After supper, they returned as they had come to the ebony room, where he was compelled to look on while his companions played interminable games of chess, and not until he was nearly dying of weariness did they, slowly and ceremoniously as before, conduct him to his sleeping apartment. The hope of consulting the Oracle woke him very early the next morning, and his first demand was to be allowed to present himself before it, but, without replying, his attendants conducted him to a huge marble bath, very shallow at one end, and quite deep at the other, and gave him to understand that he was to go into it. The Prince, nothing loth, was for springing at once into deep water, but he was gently but forcibly held back and only allowed to stand where it was about an inch deep, and he was nearly wild with impatience when he found that this process was to be repeated every day in spite of all he could say or do, the water rising higher and higher by inches, so that for sixty days he had to live in perpetual silence, ceremoniously conducted to and fro, supping all his meals through the long reed, and looking on at innumerable games of chess, the game of all others which he detested most. But at last the water rose as high as his chin, and his bath was complete. And that day the slaves in their black robes, and each having a large bat perched upon his head, marched in slow procession with the Prince in their midst, chanting a melancholy song, to the iron gate that led into a kind of Temple. At the sound of their chanting, another band of slaves appeared, and took possession of the unhappy Vivien.
He wanted to talk to them, but soon realized they spoke a completely unknown language and didn't seem to understand anything he said. This was a huge frustration for the Prince, who wasn't used to keeping his thoughts to himself, and he genuinely found himself missing his old friend Patience. However, he had to follow his guides in silence, and they led him into a magnificent hall; the floor was ebony, the walls were jet black, and all the hangings were made of black velvet. The Prince looked around, hoping to find something to eat, and then signaled that he was hungry. In return, he was politely told that he had to wait, and after several hours, the sixty hooded figures reappeared, leading him with great formality and at a very slow pace to a banqueting hall, where everyone sat at a long table. The dishes were arranged down the center, and with his usual impatience, the Prince grabbed the one in front of him to pull it closer, only to discover it was firmly fixed in place. He then glanced at his serious and gloomy neighbors and noticed each of them had a long hollow reed through which they slowly drank their portions. The Prince had to do the same, even though he found it extremely tedious. After dinner, they returned as they had come to the ebony room, where he was forced to watch while his companions played endless games of chess, and not until he was nearly dying of boredom did they, slowly and ceremoniously, take him to his sleeping quarters. The desire to consult the Oracle woke him very early the next morning, and his first request was to be allowed to present himself before it, but without responding, his attendants led him to a large marble bath, shallow at one end and quite deep at the other, and indicated that he should go into it. The Prince, eager to jump right into the deep water, was gently but firmly held back and only allowed to stand where the water was about an inch deep. He became almost frantic with impatience when he discovered that this routine would be repeated every day, despite all he could say or do, with the water rising higher and higher by inches. For sixty days, he had to live in complete silence, ceremoniously taken back and forth, eating all his meals through the long reed, and watching countless chess games, the one game he despised most. But finally, the water reached up to his chin, and his bath was complete. On that day, the slaves in their black robes, each with a large bat perched on their heads, marched in slow procession with the Prince among them, chanting a mournful song, to the iron gate that led into a kind of Temple. At the sound of their chanting, another group of slaves appeared and took possession of the unfortunate Vivien.
They looked to him exactly like the ones he had left, except that they moved more slowly still, and each one held a raven upon his wrist, and their harsh croakings re-echoed through the dismal place. Holding the Prince by the arms, not so much to do him honour as to restrain his impatience, they proceeded by slow degrees up the steps of the Temple, and when they at last reached the top he thought his long waiting must be at an end. But on the contrary, after slowly enshrouding him in a long black robe like their own, they led him into the Temple itself, where he was forced to witness numbers of lengthy rites and ceremonies. By this time Vivien’s active impatience had subsided into passive weariness, his yawns were continual and scandalous, but nobody heeded him, he stared hopelessly at the thick black curtain which hung down straight in front of him, and could hardly believe his eyes when it presently began to slide back, and he saw before him the Black Bird. It was of enormous size, and was perched upon a thick bar of iron which ran across from one side of the Temple to the other. At the sight of it all the slaves fell upon their knees and hid their faces, and when it had three times flapped its mighty wings it uttered distinctly in Prince Vivien’s own language the words:
They looked at him just like the ones he had left, except they moved even slower, and each one had a raven on his wrist, their harsh croaks echoing through the gloomy place. Holding the Prince by the arms, not so much to honor him as to keep his impatience in check, they slowly made their way up the steps of the Temple. When they finally reached the top, he thought his long wait was over. But instead, after wrapping him in a long black robe like theirs, they led him into the Temple itself, where he was forced to witness a number of lengthy rituals and ceremonies. By this time, Vivien's active impatience had turned into passive weariness; his yawns were constant and scandalous, but no one paid him any attention. He stared hopelessly at the thick black curtain hanging straight in front of him and could hardly believe his eyes when it suddenly began to part, revealing the Black Bird. It was enormous, perched on a thick iron bar that stretched from one side of the Temple to the other. At the sight of it, all the slaves fell to their knees and hid their faces, and after it flapped its massive wings three times, it clearly spoke the words in Prince Vivien’s own language:
‘Prince, your only chance of happiness depends upon that which is most opposed to your own nature.’
‘Prince, your only shot at happiness relies on what goes against your natural tendencies.’
Then the curtain fell before it once more, and the Prince, after many ceremonies, was presented with a raven which perched upon his wrist, and was conducted slowly back to the iron gate. Here the raven left him and he was handed over once more to the care of the first band of slaves, while a large bat flickered down and settled upon his head of its own accord, and so he was taken back to the marble bath, and had to go through the whole process again, only this time he began in deep water which receded daily inch by inch. When this was over the slaves escorted him to the outer gate, and took leave of him with every mark of esteem and politeness, to which it is to be feared he responded but indifferently, since the gate was no sooner opened than he took to his heels, and fled away with all his might, his one idea being to put as much space as possible between himself and the dreary place into which he had ventured so rashly, just to consult a tedious Oracle who after all had told him nothing. He actually reflected for about five seconds on his folly, and came to the conclusion that it might sometimes be advisable to think before one acted.
Then the curtain fell again, and after a lot of formalities, the Prince was presented with a raven that landed on his wrist. He was slowly escorted back to the iron gate. At this point, the raven flew away, and he was handed back to the first group of slaves. A large bat then fluttered down and settled on his head. He was taken back to the marble bath and had to go through the whole process again, but this time he started in deep water that receded little by little each day. Once that was done, the slaves escorted him to the outer gate and bid him farewell with all the respect and politeness they could muster. Unfortunately, he responded rather lukewarmly, as the moment the gate opened, he took off running and fled as fast as he could, wanting to put as much distance as possible between himself and the miserable place he had foolishly ventured into just to consult a boring Oracle that hadn’t told him anything. He actually thought for about five seconds about his mistake and concluded that it might sometimes be wise to think before acting.
After wandering about for several days until he was weary and hungry, he at last succeeded in finding a way out of the forest, and soon came to a wide and rapid river, which he followed, hoping to find some means of crossing it, and it happened that as the sun rose the next morning he saw something of a dazzling whiteness moored out in the middle of the stream. Upon looking more attentively at it he found that it was one of the prettiest little ships he had ever seen, and the boat that belonged to it was made fast to the bank quite close to him. The Prince was immediately seized with the most ardent desire to go on board the ship, and shouted loudly to attract the notice of her crew, but no one answered. So he sprang into the little boat and rowed away without finding it at all hard work, for the boat was made all of white paper and was as light as a rose leaf. The ship was made of white paper too, as the Prince presently discovered when he reached it. He found not a soul on board, but there was a very cosy little bed in the cabin, and an ample supply of all sorts of good things to eat and drink, which he made up his mind to enjoy until something new happened. Having been thoroughly well brought up at the court of King Gridelin, of course he understood the art of navigation, but when once he had started, the current carried the vessel down at such a pace that before he knew where he was the Prince found himself out at sea, and a wind springing up behind him just at this moment soon drove him out of sight of land. By this time he was somewhat alarmed, and did his best to put the ship about and get back to the river, but wind and tide were too strong for him, and he began to think of the number of times, from his childhood up, that he had been warned not to meddle with water. But it was too late now to do anything but wish vainly that he had stayed on shore, and to grow heartily weary of the boat and the sea and everything connected with it. These two things, however, he did most thoroughly. To put the finishing touch to his misfortunes he presently found himself becalmed in mid-ocean, a state of affairs which would be considered trying by the most patient of men, so you may imagine how it affected Prince Vivien! He even came to wishing himself back at the Castle of the Black Bird, for there at least he saw some living beings, whereas on board the white-paper ship he was absolutely alone, and could not imagine how he was ever to get away from his wearisome prison. However, after a very long time, he did see land, and his impatience to be on shore was so great that he at once flung himself over the ship’s side that he might reach it sooner by swimming. But this was quite useless, for spring as far as he might from the vessel, it was always under his feet again before he reached the water, and he had to resign himself to his fate, and wait with what patience he could muster until the winds and waves carried the ship into a kind of natural harbour which ran far into the land. After his long imprisonment at sea the Prince was delighted with the sight of the great trees which grew down to the very edge of the water, and leaping lightly on shore he speedily lost himself in the thick forest. When he had wandered a long way he stopped to rest beside a clear spring of water, but scarcely had he thrown himself down upon the mossy bank when there was a great rustling in the bushes close by, and out sprang a pretty little gazelle panting and exhausted, which fell at his feet gasping out—
After wandering around for several days until he was tired and hungry, he finally found a way out of the forest. Soon, he came to a wide and fast-flowing river, which he followed, hoping to find a way to cross it. As the sun rose the next morning, he spotted something dazzlingly white moored in the middle of the stream. Looking closer, he discovered it was one of the prettiest little ships he had ever seen, and its boat was tied to the bank right next to him. The Prince immediately felt a strong urge to board the ship and shouted loudly to get the crew's attention, but no one responded. So, he jumped into the little boat and rowed away without it being hard at all, as the boat was made entirely of white paper and was as light as a rose petal. The ship was made of white paper too, which the Prince realized when he reached it. There was no one aboard, but he found a cozy bed in the cabin and a good supply of food and drink, which he decided to enjoy until something new happened. Having been well raised at the court of King Gridelin, he naturally understood the art of sailing, but once he set off, the current swept the vessel downstream so quickly that before he knew it, the Prince was out at sea, and a wind picked up behind him, soon blowing him out of sight of land. By this time, he was a bit alarmed and tried to steer the ship back to the river, but the wind and tide were too strong for him. He began to remember all the times he had been warned not to mess with water since childhood. But it was too late to do anything except wish he had stayed ashore and grow increasingly weary of the boat, the sea, and everything related to it. However, he was thoroughly tired of both. To make matters worse, he soon found himself stuck in calm water in mid-ocean, which would be trying for even the most patient person, so you can imagine how it affected Prince Vivien! He even wished he were back at the Castle of the Black Bird, where at least he had seen living beings. On the white-paper ship, he was completely alone and couldn’t figure out how to escape his boring prison. However, after a long time, he finally saw land, and his impatience to be on shore was so strong that he immediately jumped over the side of the ship to swim there faster. But this was pointless, as no matter how far he sprang from the vessel, it always seemed to be beneath his feet again before he reached the water. He had to accept his fate and wait with as much patience as he could muster until the winds and waves carried the ship into a natural harbor that extended far inland. After his long time at sea, the Prince was thrilled to see the tall trees growing right down to the water’s edge, and leaping ashore, he quickly lost himself in the thick forest. After wandering for a long time, he stopped to rest beside a clear spring of water, but hardly had he thrown himself on the mossy bank when he heard a great rustling in the bushes nearby. Out jumped a pretty little gazelle, panting and exhausted, which fell at his feet, gasping out—
‘Oh! Vivien, save me!’
"Help me, Vivien!"
The Prince in great astonishment leapt to his feet, and had just time to draw his sword before he found himself face to face with a large green lion which had been hotly pursuing the poor little gazelle. Prince Vivien attacked it gallantly and a fierce combat ensued, which, however, ended before long in the Prince’s dealing his adversary a terrific blow which felled him to the earth. As he fell the lion whistled loudly three times with such force that the forest rang again, and the sound must have been heard for more than two leagues round, after which having apparently nothing more to do in the world he rolled over on his side and died. The Prince without paying any further heed to him or to his whistling returned to the pretty gazelle, saying:
The Prince, suddenly astounded, jumped to his feet and barely had time to draw his sword before he found himself face-to-face with a large green lion that had been fiercely chasing the poor little gazelle. Prince Vivien bravely attacked it, and a fierce battle broke out, which soon ended with the Prince delivering a tremendous blow that knocked the lion to the ground. As it fell, the lion let out a loud whistle three times that echoed throughout the forest, and the sound must have been heard for miles around. After that, seeming to have nothing left to do, it rolled onto its side and died. The Prince, without giving the lion or its whistling another thought, returned to the lovely gazelle, saying:
‘Well! are you satisfied now? Since you can talk, pray tell me instantly what all this is about, and how you happen to know my name.’
‘Well! Are you satisfied now? Since you can speak, please tell me right away what this is all about and how you know my name.’
‘Oh, I must rest for a long time before I can talk,’ she replied, ‘and beside, I very much doubt if you will have leisure to listen, for the affair is by no means finished. In fact,’ she continued in the same languid tone, ‘you had better look behind you now.’
‘Oh, I need to rest for a while before I can talk,’ she replied, ‘and besides, I really doubt you’ll have the time to listen, since this isn’t over yet. In fact,’ she continued in the same tired tone, ‘you should probably look behind you now.’
The Prince turned sharply round and to his horror saw a huge Giant approaching with mighty strides, crying fiercely—
The Prince turned around quickly and, to his shock, saw a giant coming toward him with powerful steps, shouting angrily—
‘Who has made my lion whistle I should like to know?’
‘Who made my lion whistle? I’d like to know!’
‘I have,’ replied Prince Vivien boldly, ‘but I can answer for it that he will not do it again!’
‘I have,’ replied Prince Vivien confidently, ‘but I can guarantee that he won't do it again!’
At these words the Giant began to howl and lament.
At these words, the Giant started to cry and complain.
‘Alas, my poor Tiny, my sweet little pet,’ he cried, ‘but at least I can avenge thy death.’
‘Oh no, my poor Tiny, my sweet little pet,’ he cried, ‘but at least I can get revenge for your death.’
Thereupon he rushed at the Prince, brandishing an immense serpent which was coiled about his wrist. Vivien, without losing his coolness, aimed a terrific blow at it with his sword, but no sooner did he touch the snake than it changed into a Giant and the Giant into a snake, with such rapidity that the Prince felt perfectly giddy, and this happened at least half-a-dozen times, until at last with a fortunate stroke he cut the serpent in halves, and picking up one morsel flung it with all his force at the nose of the Giant, who fell insensible on top of the lion, and in an instant a thick black cloud rolled up which hid them from view, and when it cleared away they had all disappeared.
Then he charged at the Prince, swinging a huge serpent that was wrapped around his wrist. Vivien, keeping his composure, swung his sword at it with great force, but as soon as he made contact with the snake, it transformed into a Giant and then back into a snake so quickly that the Prince felt completely dizzy. This happened at least six times, until finally, with a lucky strike, he sliced the serpent in half. He picked up one piece and threw it with all his strength at the Giant's nose, causing the Giant to fall unconscious on top of the lion. In an instant, a thick black cloud rolled in, hiding them from sight, and when it cleared, they had all vanished.
Then the Prince, without even waiting to sheathe his sword, rushed back to the gazelle, crying:
Then the Prince, without even waiting to put away his sword, rushed back to the gazelle, shouting:
‘Now you have had plenty of time to recover your wits, and you have nothing more to fear, so tell me who you are, and what this horrible Giant, with his lion and his serpent, have to do with you and for pity’s sake be quick about it.’
‘Now that you've had enough time to gather your thoughts and you have nothing to worry about, tell me who you are and what this terrible Giant, along with his lion and serpent, has to do with you. Please, make it quick.’
‘I will tell you with pleasure,’ she answered, ‘but where is the hurry? I want you to come back with me to the Green Castle, but I don’t want to walk there, it is so far, and walking is so fatiguing.’
‘I’d be happy to tell you,’ she replied, ‘but what’s the rush? I want you to come back with me to the Green Castle, but I don’t want to walk there; it’s too far, and walking is so tiring.’
‘Let us set out at once then,’ replied the Prince severely, ‘or else really I shall have to leave you where you are. Surely a young and active gazelle like you ought to be ashamed of not being able to walk a few steps. The further off this castle is the faster we ought to walk, but as you don’t appear to enjoy that, I will promise that we will go gently, and we can talk by the way.’
‘Let’s go right now,’ the Prince said sternly, ‘or I’ll really have to leave you behind. A young and energetic person like you should be embarrassed about not being able to walk a little. The farther away this castle is, the faster we should walk, but since you don’t seem to like that, I promise we’ll take it slow, and we can chat along the way.’
‘It would be better still if you would carry me,’ said she sweetly, ‘but as I don’t like to see people giving themselves trouble, you may carry me, and make that snail carry you.’ So saying, she pointed languidly with one tiny foot at what the Prince had taken for a block of stone, but now he saw that it was a huge snail.
‘It would be even better if you could carry me,’ she said sweetly, ‘but since I don’t want anyone to go out of their way, you can carry me, and let that snail carry you.’ With that, she lazily pointed with one tiny foot at what the Prince had thought was a block of stone, but now he realized it was a huge snail.
‘What! I ride a snail!’ cried the Prince; ‘you are laughing at me, and beside we should not get there for a year.’
‘What! I’m riding a snail!’ shouted the Prince; ‘you’re making fun of me, and besides, we wouldn’t get there for a year.’
‘Oh! well then don’t do it,’ replied the gazelle, ‘I am quite willing to stay here. The grass is green, and the water clear. But if I were you I should take the advice that was given me and ride the snail.’
‘Oh! Well then don’t do it,’ replied the gazelle, ‘I’m perfectly fine staying here. The grass is green, and the water is clear. But if I were you, I’d follow the advice I was given and ride the snail.’
So, though it did not please him at all, the Prince took the gazelle in his arms, and mounted upon the back of the snail, which glided along very peaceably, entirely declining to be hurried by frequent blows from the Prince’s heels. In vain did the gazelle represent to him that she was enjoying herself very much, and that this was the easiest mode of conveyance she had ever discovered. Prince Vivien was wild with impatience, and thought that the Green Castle would never be reached. However, at last, they did get there, and everyone who was in it ran to see the Prince dismount from his singular steed.
So, even though he was totally unhappy about it, the Prince picked up the gazelle and got on the back of the snail, which moved along very calmly, refusing to be rushed by the Prince’s kicks. The gazelle tried to explain that she was having a great time and that this was the easiest way to travel she'd ever found. Prince Vivien was extremely impatient, thinking they would never arrive at the Green Castle. But eventually, they made it there, and everyone inside rushed out to see the Prince get off his unusual mount.
But what was his surprise, when having at her request set the gazelle gently down upon the steps which led up to the castle, he saw her suddenly change into a charming Princess, and recognized in her his pretty cousin Placida, who greeted him with her usual tranquil sweetness. His delight knew no bounds, and he followed her eagerly up into the castle, impatient to know what strange events had brought her there. But after all he had to wait for the Princess’s story, for the inhabitants of the Green Lands, hearing that the Giant was dead, ran to offer the kingdom to his vanquisher, and Prince Vivien had to listen to various complimentary harangues, which took a great deal of time, though he cut them as short as politeness allowed—if not shorter. But at last he was free to rejoin Placida, who at once began the story of her adventures.
But what a surprise it was when, at her request, he gently set the gazelle down on the steps leading up to the castle, and suddenly saw her transform into a beautiful Princess. He recognized her as his lovely cousin Placida, who greeted him with her usual calm sweetness. His joy was boundless, and he eagerly followed her into the castle, anxious to learn what strange events had brought her there. However, he had to wait for the Princess's story because the residents of the Green Lands, hearing that the Giant was dead, rushed to offer the kingdom to his conqueror. Prince Vivien had to listen to various flattering speeches that took a long time, even though he cut them short as much as politeness would allow—if not shorter. But finally, he was free to join Placida, who immediately began recounting her adventures.
‘After you had gone away,’ said she, ‘they tried to make me learn how to govern the kingdom, which wearied me to death, so that I begged and prayed Lolotte to take me away with her, and this she presently did, but very reluctantly. However, having been transported to her grotto upon my favourite couch, I spent several delicious days, soothed by the soft green light, which was like a beech wood in the spring, and by the murmuring of bees and the tinkle of falling water. But alas! Lolotte was forced to go away to a general assembly of the Fairies, and she came back in great dismay, telling me that her indulgence to me had cost her dear, for she had been severely reprimanded and ordered to hand me over to the Fairy Mirlifiche, who was already taking charge of you, and who had been much commended for her management of you.’
‘After you left,’ she said, ‘they tried to make me learn how to rule the kingdom, which bored me to death, so I begged and pleaded with Lolotte to take me with her, and eventually, she did, but only because she had to. Still, once I was taken to her grotto on my favorite couch, I spent several wonderful days, comforted by the soft green light that felt like a beech wood in spring, and by the buzzing of bees and the sound of falling water. But sadly! Lolotte had to leave for a general Fairy assembly, and when she returned, she was very upset, telling me that her kindness to me had cost her a lot, as she had been harshly reprimanded and ordered to hand me over to Fairy Mirlifiche, who was already looking after you and who had received high praise for her care of you.’
‘Fine management, indeed,’ interrupted the Prince, ‘if it is to her I owe all the adventures I have met with! But go on with your story, my cousin. I can tell you all about my doings afterwards, and then you can judge for yourself.’
‘Great management, really,’ interrupted the Prince, ‘if I owe all my adventures to her! But keep going with your story, my cousin. I can fill you in on what I've been up to later, and then you can decide for yourself.’
‘At first I was grieved to see Lolotte cry,’ resumed the Princess, ‘but I soon found that grieving was very troublesome, so I thought it better to be calm, and very soon afterwards I saw the Fairy Mirlifiche arrive, mounted upon her great unicorn. She stopped before the grotto and bade Lolotte bring me out to her, at which she cried worse than ever, and kissed me a dozen times, but she dared not refuse. I was lifted up on to the unicorn, behind Mirlifiche, who said to me—
‘At first, I felt sad seeing Lolotte cry,’ continued the Princess, ‘but I quickly realized that being sad was really exhausting, so I decided it was better to stay calm. Shortly after, I saw the Fairy Mirlifiche arrive, riding her huge unicorn. She stopped in front of the grotto and told Lolotte to bring me out to her, which made Lolotte cry even harder. She kissed me a dozen times, but she didn’t dare say no. I was lifted up onto the unicorn, behind Mirlifiche, who said to me—
‘“Hold on tight, little girl, if you don’t want to break your neck.”
“Hold on tight, little girl, if you don’t want to hurt yourself.”
‘And, indeed, I had to hold on with all my might, for her horrible steed trotted so violently that it positively took my breath away. However, at last we stopped at a large farm, and the farmer and his wife ran out as soon as they saw the Fairy, and helped us to dismount.
‘And, indeed, I had to hold on with all my strength, because her awful horse trotted so roughly that it almost took my breath away. However, we finally stopped at a big farm, and the farmer and his wife rushed out as soon as they saw the Fairy, and helped us get off.’
‘I knew that they were really a King and Queen, whom the Fairies were punishing for their ignorance and idleness. You may imagine that I was by this time half dead with fatigue, but Mirlifiche insisted upon my feeding her unicorn before I did anything else. To accomplish this I had to climb up a long ladder into the hayloft, and bring down, one after another, twenty-four handfuls of hay. Never, never before, did I have such a wearisome task! It makes me shudder to think of it now, and that was not all. In the same way I had to carry the twenty-four handfuls of hay to the stable, and then it was supper time, and I had to wait upon all the others. After that I really thought I should be allowed to go peaceably to my little bed, but, oh dear no! First of all I had to make it, for it was all in confusion, and then I had to make one for the Fairy, and tuck her in, and draw the curtains round her, beside rendering her a dozen little services which I was not at all accustomed to. Finally, when I was perfectly exhausted by all this toil, I was free to go to bed myself, but as I had never before undressed myself, and really did not know how to begin, I lay down as I was. Unfortunately, the Fairy found this out, and just as I was falling into a sweet slumber, she made me get up once more, but even then I managed to escape her vigilance, and only took off my upper robe. Indeed, I may tell you in confidence, that I always find disobedience answer very well. One is often scolded, it is true, but then one has been saved some trouble.
‘I knew they were actually a King and Queen, and the Fairies were punishing them for being ignorant and lazy. By this point, I was half dead from exhaustion, but Mirlifiche insisted that I feed her unicorn before doing anything else. To do this, I had to climb a long ladder into the hayloft and bring down twenty-four handfuls of hay, one by one. Never before had I faced such a tiring task! Just thinking about it now makes me shudder, and that wasn’t all. I also had to carry those twenty-four handfuls of hay to the stable, and then it was time for supper, so I had to serve everyone else. After that, I thought I would finally get to go to my little bed, but oh no! First, I had to make my bed, which was a mess, and then I had to make one for the Fairy, tuck her in, and draw the curtains around her, along with doing a dozen little tasks I wasn’t used to. Finally, when I was completely worn out from all this work, I was free to go to bed myself. But since I had never undressed myself before and really didn’t know how to start, I lay down as I was. Unfortunately, the Fairy found this out, and just as I was drifting off to sleep, she made me get up again. Even then, I managed to evade her watchfulness and only took off my upper robe. Honestly, I can tell you in confidence that I find disobeying works out pretty well. Sure, you might get scolded, but then you save yourself some trouble.’
‘At the earliest dawn of day Mirlifiche woke me, and made me take many journeys to the stable to bring her word how her unicorn had slept, and how much hay he had eaten, and then to find out what time it was, and if it was a fine day. I was so slow, and did my errands so badly, that before she left she called the King and Queen and said to them:
‘At the earliest dawn, Mirlifiche woke me and made me run back and forth to the stable to tell her how her unicorn had slept, how much hay he had eaten, and to find out what time it was and whether it was a nice day. I was so slow and did my tasks so poorly that before she left, she called the King and Queen and said to them:
‘“I am much more pleased with you this year. Continue to make the best of your farm, if you wish to get back to your kingdom, and also take care of this little Princess for me, and teach her to be useful, that when I come I may find her cured of her faults. If she is not—”
‘“I’m really happy with you this year. Keep doing your best on your farm if you want to return to your kingdom, and also look after this little Princess for me. Teach her to be useful, so when I come back, I can find her improved. If she isn’t—”
‘Here she broke off with a significant look, and mounting my enemy the unicorn, speedily disappeared.
‘Here she paused with a meaningful glance, and quickly rode off on my enemy, the unicorn, vanishing from sight.
‘Then the King and Queen, turning to me, asked me what I could do.
‘Then the King and Queen turned to me and asked what I could do.
‘“Nothing at all, I assure you,” I replied in a tone which really ought to have convinced them, but they went on to describe various employments, and tried to discover which of them would be most to my taste. However, at last I persuaded them that to do nothing whatever would be the only thing that would suit me, and that if they really wanted to be kind to me, they would let me go to bed and to sleep, and not tease me about doing anything. To my great joy, they not only permitted this, but actually, when they had their own meals, the Queen brought my portion up to me. But early the next morning she appeared at my bedside, saying, with an apologetic air:
“Nothing at all, I promise you,” I said in a way that should have convinced them, but they continued to suggest different activities, trying to find out which one I would like best. Eventually, I managed to convince them that doing absolutely nothing would be the only thing that suited me. I told them that if they really wanted to be nice, they should let me go to bed and sleep, and stop bothering me about doing anything. To my great happiness, they not only agreed, but when it was time for their meals, the Queen even brought my food up to me. However, early the next morning, she showed up at my bedside, looking a bit apologetic and said:
‘“My pretty child, I am afraid you must really make up your mind to get up to-day. I know quite well how delightful it is to be thoroughly idle, for when my husband and I were King and Queen we did nothing at all from morning to night, and I sincerely hope that it will not be long before those happy days will come again for us. But at present we have not reached them, nor have you, and you know from what the Fairy said that perhaps worse things may happen to us if she is not obeyed. Make haste, I beg of you, and come down to breakfast, for I have put by some delicious cream for you.”
“My lovely child, I’m afraid you really need to decide to get up today. I understand how wonderful it is to be completely lazy because when my husband and I were King and Queen, we did nothing at all from morning to night. I truly hope it won't be long before we can enjoy those happy days again. But right now, we haven’t reached that point, and neither have you. You know from what the Fairy said that worse things could happen to us if she’s not obeyed. Please hurry and come down for breakfast, as I’ve saved some delicious cream for you.”
‘It was really very tiresome, but as there was no help for it I went down!
‘It was really exhausting, but since there was no way around it, I went downstairs!
‘But the instant breakfast was over they began again their cuckoo-cry of “What will you do?” In vain did I answer—
‘But the moment breakfast ended, they started their annoying chant of “What will you do?” I answered in vain—
‘“Nothing at all, if it please you, madam.”
“Nothing at all, if you don’t mind, ma’am.”
‘The Queen at last gave me a spindle and about four pounds of hemp upon a distaff, and sent me out to keep the sheep, assuring me that there could not be a pleasanter occupation, and that I could take my ease as much as I pleased. I was forced to set out, very unwillingly, as you may imagine, but I had not walked far before I came to a shady bank in what seemed to me a charming place. I stretched myself cosily upon the soft grass, and with the bundle of hemp for a pillow slept as tranquilly as if there were no such things as sheep in the world, while they for their part wandered hither and thither at their own sweet will, as if there were no such thing as a shepherdess, invading every field, and browsing upon every kind of forbidden dainty, until the peasants, alarmed by the havoc they were making, raised a clamour, which at last reached the ears of the King and Queen, who ran out, and seeing the cause of the commotion, hastily collected their flock. And, indeed, the sooner the better, since they had to pay for all the damage they had done. As for me I lay still and watched them run, for I was very comfortable, and there I might be still if they had not come up, all panting and breathless, and compelled me to get up and follow them; they also reproached me bitterly, but I need hardly tell you that they did not again entrust me with the flock.
‘The Queen finally gave me a spindle and about four pounds of hemp on a distaff, and sent me out to watch the sheep, assuring me that it would be the nicest job and that I could relax as much as I wanted. I was really reluctant to go, as you can imagine, but I hadn't walked far before I found a shady spot that seemed delightful to me. I settled down comfortably on the soft grass, using the bundle of hemp as a pillow, and slept peacefully as if there were no such thing as sheep in the world, while they roamed freely as if there were no shepherdess, wandering into every field and munching on every kind of forbidden treat, until the farmers, disturbed by the damage they were causing, started to shout, which eventually caught the attention of the King and Queen. They rushed out, saw what was causing the ruckus, and quickly gathered their flock. And indeed, the sooner the better, since they had to cover the cost of all the destruction they caused. As for me, I just lay there watching them run around, feeling very comfortable, and I might have stayed there if they hadn't arrived, all out of breath, and forced me to get up and follow them; they also scolded me harshly, but I hardly need to say that they didn’t trust me with the flock again.
‘But whatever they found for me to do it was always the same thing, I spoilt and mismanaged it all, and was so successful in provoking even the most patient people, that one day I ran away from the farm, for I was really afraid the Queen would be obliged to beat me. When I came to the little river in which the King used to fish, I found the boat tied to a tree, and stepping in I unfastened it, and floated gently down with the current. The gliding of the boat was so soothing that I did not trouble myself in the least when the Queen caught sight of me and ran along the bank, crying—
'But no matter what task they gave me, I always messed it up. I could annoy even the most patient people, and one day I got so upset that I ran away from the farm because I was genuinely scared the Queen might have to punish me. When I reached the little river where the King used to fish, I spotted the boat tied to a tree. I climbed in, untied it, and let it drift along with the current. The gentle movement of the boat was so calming that I didn't worry at all when the Queen saw me and started running along the bank, shouting—’
‘“My boat, my boat! Husband, come and catch the little Princess who is running away with my boat!”
‘“My boat, my boat! Honey, come and catch the little Princess who is running away with my boat!”’
‘The current soon carried me out of hearing of her cries, and I dreamed to the song of the ripples and the whisper of the trees, until the boat suddenly stopped, and I found it was stuck fast beside a fresh green meadow, and that the sun was rising. In the distance I saw some little houses which seemed to be built in a most singular fashion, but as I was by this time very hungry I set out towards them, but before I had walked many steps, I saw that the air was full of shining objects which seemed to be fixed, and yet I could not see what they hung from.
The current quickly took me away from her cries, and I drifted off to the sound of the waves and the rustle of the trees, until the boat suddenly stopped, and I realized it was stuck next to a bright green meadow, with the sun rising. In the distance, I saw some small houses that looked quite unusual, but since I was very hungry by that point, I headed towards them. However, after taking only a few steps, I noticed that the air was filled with shiny objects that appeared to be floating, yet I couldn't tell what they were hanging from.
‘I went nearer, and saw a silken cord hanging down to the ground, and pulled it just because it was so close to my hand. Instantly the whole meadow resounded to the melodious chiming of a peal of silver bells, and they sounded so pretty that I sat down to listen, and to watch them as they swung shining in the sunbeams. Before they ceased to sound, came a great flight of birds, and each one perching upon a bell added its charming song to the concert. As they ended, I looked up and saw a tall and stately dame advancing towards me, surrounded and followed by a vast flock of every kind of bird.
‘I moved closer and saw a silky cord hanging down to the ground, so I pulled it simply because it was within reach. Immediately, the entire meadow filled with the beautiful ringing of silver bells, and they sounded so lovely that I sat down to listen and watch them swing, gleaming in the sunlight. Before the sound faded away, a large flock of birds flew in, and each one that landed on a bell contributed its sweet song to the performance. As they finished, I looked up and saw a tall, elegant woman approaching me, surrounded and followed by a huge flock of all kinds of birds.’
‘“Who are you, little girl,” said she, “who dares to come where I allow no mortal to live, lest my birds should be disturbed? Still, if you are clever at anything,” she added, “I might be able to put up with your presence.”
‘“Who are you, little girl,” she said, “who dares to come where I allow no human to live, so my birds won't be disturbed? Still, if you have any skills,” she added, “I might be able to tolerate your presence.”’
‘“Madam,” I answered, rising, “you may be very sure that I shall not do anything to alarm your birds. I only beg you, for pity’s sake, to give me something to eat.”
“Madam,” I replied, getting up, “you can be sure that I won’t do anything to scare your birds. I just ask you, for the love of pity, to give me something to eat.”
‘“I will do that,” she replied, “before I send you where you deserve to go.”
“I'll do that,” she said, “before I send you where you belong.”
‘And thereupon she despatched six jays, who were her pages, to fetch me all sorts of biscuits, while some of the other birds brought ripe fruits. In fact, I had a delicious breakfast, though I do not like to be waited upon so quickly. It is so disagreeable to be hurried. I began to think I should like very well to stay in this pleasant country, and I said so to the stately lady, but she answered with the greatest disdain:
‘And then she sent out six jays, who were her servants, to bring me all kinds of biscuits, while some of the other birds brought fresh fruit. Honestly, I had a delicious breakfast, even though I don’t like being served so quickly. It’s really unpleasant to be rushed. I started to think I would love to stay in this lovely place, and I mentioned it to the elegant lady, but she responded with the utmost disdain:
‘“Do you think I would keep you here? You! Why what do you suppose would be the good of you in this country, where everybody is wide-awake and busy? No, no, I have shown you all the hospitality you will get from me.”
‘“Do you really think I would keep you here? You! What do you think you would even contribute in this country, where everyone is alert and hard at work? No, no, I've given you all the hospitality you'll get from me.”’
‘With these words she turned and gave a vigorous pull to the silken rope which I mentioned before, but instead of a melodious chime, there arose a hideous clanging which quite terrified me, and in an instant a huge Black Bird appeared, which alighted at the Fairy’s feet, saying in a frightful voice—
‘With these words, she turned and gave a strong tug on the silken rope I mentioned earlier, but instead of a beautiful sound, a horrible clanging erupted that scared me to death. In an instant, a huge Black Bird appeared, landing at the Fairy’s feet, speaking in a terrifying voice—
‘“What do you want of me, my sister?”
‘“What do you want from me, my sister?”’
‘“I wish you to take this little Princess to my cousin, the Giant of the Green Castle, at once,” she replied, “and beg him from me to make her work day and night upon his beautiful tapestry.”
‘“I want you to take this little Princess to my cousin, the Giant of the Green Castle, right away,” she said, “and ask him on my behalf to make her work day and night on his beautiful tapestry.”
‘At these words the great Bird snatched me up, regardless of my cries, and flew off at a terrific pace—’
‘At these words, the great Bird grabbed me, ignoring my screams, and flew off at an incredible speed—’
‘Oh! you are joking, cousin,’ interrupted Prince Vivien; ‘you mean as slowly as possible. I know that horrible Black Bird, and the lengthiness of all his proceedings and surroundings.’
‘Oh! you’re joking, cousin,’ interrupted Prince Vivien; ‘you mean as slowly as possible. I know that terrible Black Bird, and how long-winded all his actions and circumstances are.’
‘Have it your own way,’ replied Placida, tranquilly. ‘I cannot bear arguing. Perhaps, this was not even the same bird. At any rate, he carried me off at a prodigious speed, and set me gently down in this very castle of which you are now the master. We entered by one of the windows, and when the Bird had handed me over to the Giant from whom you have been good enough to deliver me, and given the Fairy’s message, it departed.
‘Do it your way,’ replied Placida calmly. ‘I can’t stand arguing. Maybe it wasn’t even the same bird. Either way, it took me away at an incredible speed and set me down gently in this very castle that you now control. We came in through one of the windows, and after the Bird handed me over to the Giant you’ve been kind enough to save me from, and delivered the Fairy’s message, it left.’
‘Then the Giant turned to me, saying,
‘Then the Giant turned to me, saying,
‘“So you are an idler! Ah! well, we must teach you to work. You won’t be the first we have cured of laziness. See how busy all my guests are.”
‘“So you’re a slacker! Ah! well, we need to teach you how to work. You won’t be the first one we’ve helped out of laziness. Look at how busy all my guests are.”’
‘I looked up as he spoke, and saw that an immense gallery ran all round the hall, in which were tapestry frames, spindles, skeins of wool, patterns, and all necessary things. Before each frame about a dozen people were sitting, hard at work, at which terrible sight I fainted away, and as soon as I recovered they began to ask me what I could do.
‘I looked up as he spoke and saw that a huge gallery ran all around the hall, filled with tapestry frames, spindles, skeins of wool, patterns, and all the supplies needed. In front of each frame, about a dozen people were sitting, hard at work, and at that shocking sight, I fainted. As soon as I came to, they started asking me what I could do.
‘It was in vain that I replied as before, and with the strongest desire to be taken at my word, “Nothing at all.”
‘It was useless to respond like before, desperately hoping to be believed, “Nothing at all.”
‘The Giant only said,
"The Giant just said,
‘“Then you must learn to do something; in this world there is enough work for everybody.”
“Then you need to learn to do something; in this world, there’s enough work for everyone.”
‘It appeared that they were working into the tapestry all the stories the Fairies liked best, and they began to try and teach me to help them, but from the first class, where they tried me to begin with, I sank lower and lower, and not even the most simple stitches could I learn.
‘It seemed like they were weaving into the tapestry all the stories the Fairies loved most, and they started to teach me how to help them. However, right from the first class, where they tried to start me off, I kept sinking lower and lower, and I couldn't even learn the simplest stitches.
‘In vain they punished me by all the usual methods. In vain the Giant showed me his menagerie, which was entirely composed of children who would not work! Nothing did me any good, and at last I was reduced to drawing water for the dyeing of the wools, and even over that I was so slow that this morning the Giant flew into a rage and changed me into a gazelle. He was just putting me into the menagerie when I happened to catch sight of a dog, and was seized with such terror that I fled away at my utmost speed, and escaped through the outer court of the castle. The Giant, fearing that I should be lost altogether, sent his green lion after me, with orders to bring me back, cost what it might, and I should certainly have let myself be caught, or eaten up, or anything, rather than run any further, if I had not luckily met you by the fountain. And oh!’ concluded the Princess, ‘how delightful it is once more to be able to sit still in peace. I was so tired of trying to learn things.’
‘They punished me with all the usual methods, but nothing worked. The Giant showed me his collection, which was made up entirely of kids who wouldn’t work! Nothing helped me, and eventually, I ended up drawing water for dyeing the wools. I was so slow at it that this morning the Giant got furious and turned me into a gazelle. He was about to put me in his collection when I saw a dog and got so scared that I sprinted away as fast as I could, escaping through the outer courtyard of the castle. The Giant, worried that I would completely get away, sent his green lion after me with orders to bring me back, no matter the cost, and I definitely would have let myself be caught or eaten, or anything, rather than keep running if I hadn’t luckily run into you by the fountain. And oh!’ the Princess concluded, ‘it’s so wonderful to be able to sit still in peace again. I was so tired of trying to learn things.’
Prince Vivien said that, for his part, he had been kept a great deal too still, and had not found it at all amusing, and then he recounted all his adventures with breathless rapidity. How he had taken shelter with Dame Patience, and consulted the Oracle, and voyaged in the paper ship. Then they went hand in hand to release all the prisoners in the castle, and all the Princes and Princesses who were in cages in the menagerie, for the instant the Green Giant was dead they had resumed their natural forms. As you may imagine, they were all very grateful, and Princess Placida entreated them never, never to do another stitch of work so long as they lived, and they promptly made a great bonfire in the courtyard, and solemnly burnt all the embroidery frames and spinning wheels. Then the Princess gave them splendid presents, or rather sat by while Prince Vivien gave them, and there were great rejoicings in the Green Castle, and everyone did his best to please the Prince and Princess. But with all their good intentions, they often made mistakes, for Vivien and Placida were never of one mind about their plans, so it was very confusing, and they frequently found themselves obeying the Prince’s orders, very, very slowly, and rushing off with lightning speed to do something that the Princess did not wish to have done at all, until, by-and-by, the two cousins took to consulting with, and consoling one another in all these little vexations, and at last came to be so fond of each other that for Placida’s sake Vivien became quite patient, and for Vivien’s sake Placida made the most unheard-of exertions. But now the Fairies who had been watching all these proceedings with interest, thought it was time to interfere, and ascertain by further trials if this improvement was likely to continue, and if they really loved one another. So they caused Placida to seem to have a violent fever, and Vivien to languish and grow dull, and made each of them very uneasy about the other, and then, finding a moment when they were apart, the Fairy Mirlifiche suddenly appeared to Placida, and said—
Prince Vivien said that he had been kept way too still and hadn’t found it entertaining at all. He then quickly shared all his adventures, like taking shelter with Dame Patience, consulting the Oracle, and sailing in the paper ship. Then they went together to free all the prisoners in the castle, along with the Princes and Princesses locked in cages in the menagerie. The moment the Green Giant died, they returned to their true forms. As you can imagine, they were all very grateful, and Princess Placida begged them never to do another bit of work for as long as they lived. They immediately started a giant bonfire in the courtyard and ceremoniously burned all the embroidery frames and spinning wheels. Then the Princess gave them beautiful gifts—well, she sat by while Prince Vivien handed them out—and there were huge celebrations in the Green Castle. Everyone did their best to please the Prince and Princess. However, despite their good intentions, they often made mistakes since Vivien and Placida rarely agreed on their plans, which led to a lot of confusion. They frequently found themselves following the Prince’s orders very, very slowly, then rushing off at lightning speed to do something the Princess didn't want done at all. Eventually, the two cousins began consulting and comforting each other through these little annoyances, and they came to care for each other so much that for Placida’s sake, Vivien became quite patient, and for Vivien’s sake, Placida made incredible efforts. But now, the Fairies, who had been watching all these events with interest, thought it was time to intervene and see through more trials if this improvement would stick and if they truly loved one another. So, they made Placida seem to have a severe fever and made Vivien feel weak and dull, causing both to worry about each other. Then, finding a moment when they were apart, the Fairy Mirlifiche suddenly appeared to Placida and said—
‘I have just seen Prince Vivien, and he seemed to me to be very ill.’
‘I just saw Prince Vivien, and he looked really unwell to me.’
‘Alas! yes, madam,’ she answered, ‘and if you will but cure him, you may take me back to the farm, or bring the Green Giant to life again, and you shall see how obedient I will be.’
‘Oh, yes, ma'am,’ she replied, ‘and if you can just heal him, you can either take me back to the farm or bring the Green Giant back to life, and you'll see how obedient I will be.’
‘If you really wish him to recover,’ said the Fairy, ‘you have only to catch the Trotting Mouse and the Chaffinch-on-the-Wing and bring them to me. Only remember that time presses!’
‘If you really want him to get better,’ said the Fairy, ‘you just need to catch the Trotting Mouse and the Chaffinch-on-the-Wing and bring them to me. Just remember that time is running out!’
She had hardly finished speaking before the Princess was rushing headlong out of the castle gate, and the Fairy after watching her till she was lost to sight, gave a little chuckle and went in search of the Prince, who begged her earnestly to send him back to the Black Castle, or to the paper boat if she would but save Placida’s life. The Fairy shook her head, and looked very grave. She quite agreed with him, the Princess was in a bad way—‘But,’ said she, ‘if you can find the Rosy Mole, and give him to her she will recover.’ So now it was the Prince’s turn to set off in a vast hurry, only as soon as he left the Castle he happened to go in exactly the opposite direction to the one Placida had taken. Now you can imagine these two devoted lovers hunting night and day. The Princess in the woods, always running, always listening, pursuing hotly after two creatures which seemed to her very hard to catch, which she yet never ceased from pursuing. The Prince on the other hand wandering continually across the meadows, his eyes fixed upon the ground, attentive to every movement among the moles. He was forced to walk slowly—slowly upon tip-toe, hardly venturing to breathe. Often he stood for hours motionless as a statue, and if the desire to succeed could have helped him he would soon have possessed the Rosy Mole. But alas! all that he caught were black and ordinary, though strange to say he never grew impatient, but always seemed ready to begin the tedious hunt again. But this changing of character is one of the most ordinary miracles which love works. Neither the Prince nor the Princess gave a thought to anything but their quest. It never even occurred to them to wonder what country they had reached. So you may guess how astonished they were one day, when having at last been successful after their long and weary chase, they cried aloud at the same instant: ‘At last I have saved my beloved,’ and then recognising each other’s voice looked up, and rushed to meet one another with the wildest joy. Surprise kept them silent while for one delicious moment they gazed into each other’s eyes, and just then who should come up but King Gridelin, for it was into his kingdom they had accidentally strayed. He recognized them in his turn and greeted them joyfully, but when they turned afterwards to look for the Rosy Mole, the Chaffinch, and the Trotting-Mouse, they had vanished, and in their places stood a lovely lady whom they did not know, the Black Bird, and the Green Giant. King Gridelin had no sooner set eyes upon the lady than with a cry of joy he clasped her in his arms, for it was no other than his long-lost wife, Santorina, about whose imprisonment in Fairyland you may perhaps read some day.
She had barely finished speaking when the Princess rushed straight out of the castle gate. The Fairy watched her until she disappeared and then chuckled a little before going to find the Prince. He urgently begged her to send him back to the Black Castle or the paper boat if it would save Placida’s life. The Fairy shook her head and looked very serious. She agreed with him; the Princess was in trouble—“But,” she said, “if you can find the Rosy Mole and give it to her, she will recover.” So, it was now the Prince's turn to hurry off, but as soon as he left the Castle, he went in the opposite direction from where Placida had gone. You can imagine these two devoted lovers searching day and night. The Princess was in the woods, always running, always listening, desperately chasing after two creatures that seemed really hard to catch, yet she never stopped pursuing them. The Prince, on the other hand, wandered across the meadows with his eyes fixed on the ground, paying attention to every movement among the moles. He had to walk slowly—quietly on tiptoe, hardly daring to breathe. Often he stood for hours completely still, like a statue, and if sheer determination could have helped him, he would have caught the Rosy Mole quickly. But unfortunately, all he caught were ordinary black moles. Strangely, he never grew impatient and always seemed ready to start the tedious hunt again. This change in character is one of the most ordinary miracles that love creates. Neither the Prince nor the Princess thought about anything other than their quest. It never even crossed their minds to wonder what country they had wandered into. So you can imagine their surprise one day when, after finally being successful in their long and tiring chase, they both cried out at the same time: “At last I have saved my beloved!” Then recognizing each other’s voice, they looked up and rushed to meet each other with wild joy. Shock kept them silent for a delicious moment as they gazed into each other’s eyes, and just then King Gridelin approached, having realized they had accidentally entered his kingdom. He recognized them and greeted them joyfully, but when they turned to look for the Rosy Mole, the Chaffinch, and the Trotting-Mouse, they had vanished. In their place stood a beautiful lady they didn’t know, along with the Black Bird and the Green Giant. As soon as King Gridelin saw the lady, he joyfully threw his arms around her, for it was none other than his long-lost wife, Santorina, about whom you might read more someday concerning her imprisonment in Fairyland.
Then the Black Bird and the Green Giant resumed their natural form, for they were enchanters, and up flew Lolotte and Mirlifiche in their chariots, and then there was a great kissing and congratulating, for everybody had regained someone he loved, including the enchanters, who loved their natural forms dearly. After this they repaired to the Palace, and the wedding of Prince Vivien and Princess Placida was held at once with all the splendour imaginable.
Then the Black Bird and the Green Giant transformed back into their true forms because they were enchanters, and Lolotte and Mirlifiche soared into the sky in their chariots. There was a lot of hugging and celebrating since everyone had reunited with someone they loved, including the enchanters, who cherished their true forms. After that, they headed to the Palace, and the wedding of Prince Vivien and Princess Placida took place immediately, filled with all the splendor imaginable.
King Gridelin and Queen Santorina, after all their experiences had no further desire to reign, so they retired happily to a peaceful place, leaving their kingdom to the Prince and Princess, who were beloved by all their subjects, and found their greatest happiness all their lives long in making other people happy.
King Gridelin and Queen Santorina, having experienced everything they wished, no longer wanted to rule, so they happily moved to a tranquil place, leaving their kingdom to the Prince and Princess, who were loved by all their subjects and found their greatest joy throughout their lives in making others happy.
Nonchalante et Papillon
Chill and Butterfly
LITTLE ONE-EYE, LITTLE TWO-EYES, AND LITTLE THREE-EYES
There was once a woman who had three daughters, of whom the eldest was called Little One-eye, because she had only one eye in the middle of her forehead; and the second, Little Two-eyes, because she had two eyes like other people; and the youngest, Little Three-eyes, because she had three eyes, and her third eye was also in the middle of her forehead. But because Little Two-eyes did not look any different from other children, her sisters and mother could not bear her. They would say to her, ‘You with your two eyes are no better than common folk; you don’t belong to us.’ They pushed her here, and threw her wretched clothes there, and gave her to eat only what they left, and they were as unkind to her as ever they could be.
There was once a woman who had three daughters. The eldest was called Little One-eye because she had only one eye in the middle of her forehead. The second was named Little Two-eyes because she had two eyes like everyone else. The youngest was Little Three-eyes because she had three eyes, with her third eye also in the middle of her forehead. But since Little Two-eyes looked just like other children, her sisters and mother couldn't stand her. They would say to her, “You with your two eyes are no better than ordinary people; you don’t belong to us.” They shoved her around, tossed her ragged clothes aside, only fed her what they left behind, and treated her as unkindly as they could.
It happened one day that Little Two-eyes had to go out into the fields to take care of the goat, but she was still quite hungry because her sisters had given her so little to eat. So she sat down in the meadow and began to cry, and she cried so much that two little brooks ran out of her eyes. But when she looked up once in her grief there stood a woman beside her who asked, ‘Little Two-eyes, what are you crying for?’ Little Two-eyes answered, ‘Have I not reason to cry? Because I have two eyes like other people, my sisters and my mother cannot bear me; they push me out of one corner into another, and give me nothing to eat except what they leave. To-day they have given me so little that I am still quite hungry.’ Then the wise woman said, ‘Little Two-eyes, dry your eyes, and I will tell you something so that you need never be hungry again. Only say to your goat,
It happened one day that Little Two-eyes had to go out into the fields to take care of the goat, but she was still pretty hungry because her sisters had given her so little to eat. So she sat down in the meadow and started to cry, and she cried so much that two little streams ran out of her eyes. But when she looked up from her sorrow, there stood a woman beside her who asked, ‘Little Two-eyes, why are you crying?’ Little Two-eyes replied, ‘Do I not have a reason to cry? Because I have two eyes like everyone else, my sisters and my mother can’t stand me; they shove me from one corner to another, and give me nothing to eat except what they leave behind. Today, they’ve given me so little that I’m still very hungry.’ Then the wise woman said, ‘Little Two-eyes, wipe your tears, and I’ll tell you something so you’ll never be hungry again. Just tell your goat,
“Little goat, bleat, Little table, appear,”
“Little goat, bleat, Little table, show up,”
and a beautifully spread table will stand before you, with the most delicious food on it, so that you can eat as much as you want. And when you have had enough and don’t want the little table any more, you have only to say,
and a beautifully set table will be in front of you, with the most delicious food on it, so you can eat as much as you want. And when you’ve had enough and don’t want the little table anymore, you just have to say,
“Little goat, bleat, Little table, away,”
“Little goat, bleat, Little table, go away,”
and then it will vanish.’ Then the wise woman went away.
and then it will disappear.” Then the wise woman left.
But Little Two-eyes thought, ‘I must try at once if what she has told me is true, for I am more hungry than ever’; and she said,
But Little Two-eyes thought, ‘I need to find out right away if what she said is true, because I'm hungrier than ever’; and she said,
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table appear,’
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, show up,’
and scarcely had she uttered the words, when there stood a little table before her covered with a white cloth, on which were arranged a plate, with a knife and fork and a silver spoon, and the most beautiful dishes, which were smoking hot, as if they had just come out of the kitchen. Then Little Two-eyes said the shortest grace she knew, and set to work and made a good dinner. And when she had had enough, she said, as the wise woman had told her,
and hardly had she spoken those words when a little table appeared in front of her, covered with a white cloth. On it were a plate, a knife and fork, a silver spoon, and the most beautiful dishes, steaming hot as if they had just come out of the kitchen. Then Little Two-eyes said the shortest prayer she knew and got to work on a delicious dinner. Once she had eaten enough, she said, as the wise woman had advised her,
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, away,’
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, go away,’
and immediately the table and all that was on it disappeared again. ‘That is a splendid way of housekeeping,’ thought Little Two-eyes, and she was quite happy and contented.
and right away the table and everything on it vanished again. ‘That’s a great way to keep house,’ thought Little Two-eyes, and she felt really happy and satisfied.
In the evening, when she went home with her goat, she found a little earthenware dish with the food that her sisters had thrown to her, but she did not touch it. The next day she went out again with her goat, and left the few scraps which were given her. The first and second times her sisters did not notice this, but when it happened continually, they remarked it and said, ‘Something is the matter with Little Two-eyes, for she always leaves her food now, and she used to gobble up all that was given her. She must have found other means of getting food.’ So in order to get at the truth, Little One-eye was told to go out with Little Two-eyes when she drove the goat to pasture, and to notice particularly what she got there, and whether anyone brought her food and drink.
In the evening, when she went home with her goat, she found a small earthen dish with the food that her sisters had thrown out for her, but she didn’t touch it. The next day, she went out again with her goat and left behind the few scraps she was given. The first and second times, her sisters didn’t notice this, but when it kept happening, they pointed it out and said, “Something’s wrong with Little Two-eyes, because she always leaves her food now, and she used to devour everything given to her. She must have found another way to get food.” So, to find out the truth, Little One-eye was told to go out with Little Two-eyes when she took the goat to the pasture and pay special attention to what she was getting, and whether anyone brought her food and drink.
Now when Little Two-eyes was setting out, Little One-eye came up to her and said, ‘I will go into the field with you and see if you take good care of the goat, and if you drive him properly to get grass.’ But Little Two-eyes saw what Little One-eye had in her mind, and she drove the goat into the long grass and said, ‘Come, Little One-eye, we will sit down here, and I will sing you something.’
Now, as Little Two-eyes was about to leave, Little One-eye approached her and said, ‘I’ll come with you to the field to make sure you take good care of the goat and manage to get him some grass.’ But Little Two-eyes understood Little One-eye's intentions, so she led the goat into the tall grass and said, ‘Come, Little One-eye, let’s sit here, and I’ll sing you a song.’
Little One-eye sat down, and as she was very much tired by the long walk to which she was not used, and by the hot day, and as Little Two-eyes went on singing.
Little One-eye sat down, and since she was really tired from the long walk, which she wasn't used to, and from the hot day, Little Two-eyes kept on singing.
‘Little One-eye, are you awake? Little One-eye, are you asleep?’
‘Little One-eye, are you awake? Little One-eye, are you sleeping?’
she shut her one eye and fell asleep. When Little Two-eyes saw that Little One-eye was asleep and could find out nothing, she said,
she closed one eye and went to sleep. When Little Two-eyes saw that Little One-eye was asleep and couldn’t find out anything, she said,
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, appear,’
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, show up,’
and sat down at her table and ate and drank as much as she wanted. Then she said again,
and sat down at her table and ate and drank as much as she wanted. Then she said again,
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, away.’
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, go away.’
and in the twinkling of an eye all had vanished.
and in the blink of an eye, everything had disappeared.
Little Two-eyes then woke Little One-eye and said, ‘Little One-eye, you meant to watch, and, instead, you went to sleep; in the meantime the goat might have run far and wide. Come, we will go home.’ So they went home, and Little Two-eyes again left her little dish untouched, and Little One-eye could not tell her mother why she would not eat, and said as an excuse, ‘I was so sleepy out-of-doors.’
Little Two-eyes then woke Little One-eye and said, ‘Little One-eye, you were supposed to keep watch, but instead, you fell asleep. In the meantime, the goat could have wandered off. Come on, let’s go home.’ So they headed home, and Little Two-eyes once again left her little dish untouched, while Little One-eye couldn’t explain to her mother why she wouldn’t eat and said as an excuse, ‘I was just so sleepy outside.’
The next day the mother said to Little Three-eyes, ‘This time you shall go with Little Two-eyes and watch whether she eats anything out in the fields, and whether anyone brings her food and drink, for eat and drink she must secretly.’ So Little Three-eyes went to Little Two-eyes and said, ‘I will go with you and see if you take good care of the goat, and if you drive him properly to get grass.’ But little Two-eyes knew what Little Three-eyes had in her mind, and she drove the goat out into the tall grass and said, ‘We will sit down here, Little Three-eyes, and I will sing you something.’ Little Three-eyes sat down; she was tired by the walk and the hot day, and Little Two-eyes sang the same little song again:
The next day, the mother told Little Three-eyes, "This time you’ll go with Little Two-eyes and keep an eye on whether she eats anything out in the fields and if anyone brings her food or drinks, because she needs to eat and drink in secret." So, Little Three-eyes went to Little Two-eyes and said, "I’m going with you to see if you take good care of the goat and lead him properly to get grass." But Little Two-eyes knew what Little Three-eyes was up to, so she drove the goat into the tall grass and said, "Let’s sit down here, Little Three-eyes, and I’ll sing you something." Little Three-eyes sat down; she was tired from the walk and the hot day, and Little Two-eyes sang the same little song again:
‘Little Three eyes, are you awake?’
‘Hey, Little Three, are you awake?’
but instead of singing as she ought to have done,
but instead of singing like she should have,
‘Little Three-eyes, are you asleep?’
‘Hey Little Three-eyes, you awake?’
she sang, without thinking,
she sang mindlessly,
‘Little Two-eyes, are you asleep?’
'Hey Two-eyes, are you awake?'
She went on singing,
She kept singing,
‘Little Three-eyes, are you awake? Little Two-eyes, are you asleep?’
‘Little Three-eyes, are you awake? Little Two-eyes, are you asleep?’
so that the two eyes of Little Three-eyes fell asleep, but the third, which was not spoken to in the little rhyme, did not fall asleep. Of course Little Three-eyes shut that eye also out of cunning, to look as if she were asleep, but it was blinking and could see everything quite well.
so that Little Three-eyes' two eyes fell asleep, but the third, which wasn’t mentioned in the little rhyme, didn’t fall asleep. Of course, Little Three-eyes closed that eye too out of cleverness, to make it seem like she was asleep, but it was blinking and could see everything clearly.
And when Little Two-eyes thought that Little Three-eyes was sound asleep, she said her rhyme,
And when Little Two-eyes thought Little Three-eyes was fast asleep, she said her rhyme,
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, appear,’
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, show up,’
and ate and drank to her heart’s content, and then made the table go away again, by saying,
and ate and drank as much as she wanted, and then had the table removed by saying,
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, away.’
‘Little goat, bleat, Little table, go away.’
But Little Three-eyes had seen everything. Then Little Two-eyes came to her, and woke her and said, ‘Well, Little Three-eyes, have you been asleep? You watch well! Come, we will go home.’ When they reached home, Little Two-eyes did not eat again, and Little Three-eyes said to the mother, ‘I know now why that proud thing eats nothing. When she says to the goat in the field,
But Little Three-eyes had seen everything. Then Little Two-eyes came to her, woke her up, and said, “Well, Little Three-eyes, were you asleep? You keep a good watch! Come on, let’s head home.” When they got home, Little Two-eyes didn’t eat again, and Little Three-eyes said to their mother, “Now I understand why that proud one doesn’t eat anything. When she tells the goat in the field,
“Little goat, bleat, Little table, appear,”
“Little goat, bleat, Little table, show up,”
a table stands before her, spread with the best food, much better than we have; and when she has had enough, she says,
a table stands before her, filled with the best food, way better than what we have; and when she’s had enough, she says,
“Little goat, bleat, Little table, away,”
“Little goat, bleat, Little table, off you go,”
and everything disappears again. I saw it all exactly. She made two of my eyes go to sleep with a little rhyme, but the one in my forehead remained awake, luckily!’
and everything disappears again. I saw it all clearly. She put two of my eyes to sleep with a little rhyme, but the one in my forehead stayed awake, luckily!
Then the envious mother cried out, ‘Will you fare better than we do? you shall not have the chance to do so again!’ and she fetched a knife, and killed the goat.
Then the jealous mother shouted, ‘Will you do better than us? You won't get another chance!’ and she grabbed a knife and killed the goat.
When Little Two-eyes saw this, she went out full of grief, and sat down in the meadow and wept bitter tears. Then again the wise woman stood before her, and said, ‘Little Two-eyes, what are you crying for?’ ‘Have I not reason to cry?’ she answered, ‘the goat, which when I said the little rhyme, spread the table so beautifully, my mother has killed, and now I must suffer hunger and want again.’ The wise woman said, ‘Little Two-eyes, I will give you a good piece of advice. Ask your sisters to give you the heart of the dead goat, and bury it in the earth before the house-door; that will bring you good luck.’ Then she disappeared, and Little Two-eyes went home, and said to her sisters, ‘Dear sisters, do give me something of my goat; I ask nothing better than its heart.’ Then they laughed and said, ‘You can have that if you want nothing more.’ And Little Two-eyes took the heart and buried it in the evening when all was quiet, as the wise woman had told her, before the house-door. The next morning when they all awoke and came to the house-door, there stood a most wonderful tree, which had leaves of silver and fruit of gold growing on it—you never saw anything more lovely and gorgeous in your life! But they did not know how the tree had grown up in the night; only Little Two-eyes knew that it had sprung from the heart of the goat, for it was standing just where she had buried it in the ground. Then the mother said to Little One-eye, ‘Climb up, my child, and break us off the fruit from the tree.’ Little One-eye climbed up, but just when she was going to take hold of one of the golden apples the bough sprang out of her hands; and this happened every time, so that she could not break off a single apple, however hard she tried. Then the mother said, ‘Little Three-eyes, do you climb up; you with your three eyes can see round better than Little One-eye.’ So Little One-eye slid down, and Little Three-eyes climbed up; but she was not any more successful; look round as she might, the golden apples bent themselves back. At last the mother got impatient and climbed up herself, but she was even less successful than Little One-eye and Little Three-eyes in catching hold of the fruit, and only grasped at the empty air. Then Little Two-eyes said, ‘I will just try once, perhaps I shall succeed better.’ The sisters called out, ‘You with your two eyes will no doubt succeed!’ But Little Two-eyes climbed up, and the golden apples did not jump away from her, but behaved quite properly, so that she could pluck them off, one after the other, and brought a whole apron-full down with her. The mother took them from her, and, instead of behaving better to poor Little Two-eyes, as they ought to have done, they were jealous that she only could reach the fruit and behaved still more unkindly to her.
When Little Two-eyes saw this, she went outside, feeling heartbroken, and sat down in the meadow, crying bitterly. Then the wise woman appeared before her and asked, ‘Little Two-eyes, why are you crying?’ ‘Don’t I have a reason to cry?’ she replied, ‘the goat, which spread the table so beautifully when I recited the little rhyme, my mother has killed, and now I have to suffer from hunger again.’ The wise woman said, ‘Little Two-eyes, I have some good advice for you. Ask your sisters for the heart of the dead goat and bury it in the ground in front of the house; that will bring you good luck.’ Then she vanished, and Little Two-eyes went home and said to her sisters, ‘Dear sisters, could you please give me something from my goat? I would like nothing more than its heart.’ They laughed and said, ‘You can have that if you don't want anything else.’ So Little Two-eyes took the heart and buried it that evening when everything was quiet, just like the wise woman had told her, in front of the house. The next morning, when they all woke up and came to the house door, there stood the most amazing tree, with silver leaves and golden fruit—you’ve never seen anything so beautiful and striking! But they had no idea how the tree had grown overnight; only Little Two-eyes knew it had sprouted from the heart of the goat, since it grew right where she had buried it. Then the mother said to Little One-eye, ‘Climb up, my child, and pick some fruit from the tree for us.’ Little One-eye climbed up, but whenever she reached for one of the golden apples, the branch would spring away, and this happened every time, no matter how hard she tried. Then the mother said, ‘Little Three-eyes, you climb up; your three eyes can see better than Little One-eye’s.’ So Little One-eye slid down, and Little Three-eyes climbed up; but she was no more successful; no matter how she looked around, the golden apples would bend away. Finally, the mother grew impatient and climbed up herself, but she did even worse than Little One-eye and Little Three-eyes, only grasping at empty air. Then Little Two-eyes said, ‘I’ll give it a try; maybe I’ll be more successful.’ The sisters shouted, ‘You with your two eyes will surely fail!’ But Little Two-eyes climbed up, and the golden apples didn’t jump away from her; they stayed put, allowing her to pluck them, one by one, and she brought a whole apron-full down with her. The mother took them from her, and instead of treating poor Little Two-eyes better, as they should have, they became jealous that she could reach the fruit and treated her even more unkindly.
It happened one day that when they were all standing together by the tree that a young knight came riding along. ‘Be quick, Little Two-eyes,’ cried the two sisters, ‘creep under this, so that you shall not disgrace us,’ and they put over poor Little Two-eyes as quickly as possible an empty cask, which was standing close to the tree, and they pushed the golden apples which she had broken off under with her. When the knight, who was a very handsome young man, rode up, he wondered to see the marvellous tree of gold and silver, and said to the two sisters, ‘Whose is this beautiful tree? Whoever will give me a twig of it shall have whatever she wants.’ Then Little One-eye and Little Three-eyes answered that the tree belonged to them, and that they would certainly break him off a twig. They gave themselves a great deal of trouble, but in vain; the twigs and fruit bent back every time from their hands. Then the knight said, ‘It is very strange that the tree should belong to you, and yet that you have not the power to break anything from it!’ But they would have that the tree was theirs; and while they were saying this, Little Two-eyes rolled a couple of golden apples from under the cask, so that they lay at the knight’s feet, for she was angry with Little One-eye and Little Three-eyes for not speaking the truth. When the knight saw the apples he was astonished, and asked where they came from. Little One-eye and Little Three-eyes answered that they had another sister, but she could not be seen because she had only two eyes, like ordinary people. But the knight demanded to see her, and called out, ‘Little Two-eyes, come forth.’ Then Little Two-eyes came out from under the cask quite happily, and the knight was astonished at her great beauty, and said, ‘Little Two-eyes, I am sure you can break me off a twig from the tree.’ ‘Yes,’ answered Little Two-eyes, ‘I can, for the tree is mine.’ So she climbed up and broke off a small branch with its silver leaves and golden fruit without any trouble, and gave it to the knight. Then he said, ‘Little Two-eyes, what shall I give you for this?’ ‘Ah,’ answered Little Two-eyes, ‘I suffer hunger and thirst, want and sorrow, from early morning till late in the evening; if you would take me with you, and free me from this, I should be happy!’ Then the knight lifted Little Two-eyes on his horse, and took her home to his father’s castle. There he gave her beautiful clothes, and food and drink, and because he loved her so much he married her, and the wedding was celebrated with great joy.
It happened one day that while they were all standing together by the tree, a young knight rode by. “Quick, Little Two-eyes,” shouted the two sisters, “hide under this so you won’t embarrass us.” They quickly placed a nearby empty barrel over poor Little Two-eyes and pushed the golden apples she had picked under it with her. When the knight, who was a very handsome young man, approached, he marveled at the amazing tree of gold and silver and asked the two sisters, “Whose beautiful tree is this? Whoever gives me a twig from it can have whatever they want.” Little One-eye and Little Three-eyes claimed that the tree belonged to them and that they would definitely get him a twig. They struggled a lot, but it was no use; every time they tried, the twigs and fruits just bent back from their hands. The knight remarked, “It’s very strange that the tree is yours, yet you can’t break anything from it!” They insisted that it was their tree, and while they argued, Little Two-eyes rolled a couple of golden apples out from under the barrel so they lay at the knight’s feet, annoyed with Little One-eye and Little Three-eyes for lying. When the knight saw the apples, he was amazed and asked where they came from. Little One-eye and Little Three-eyes explained that they had another sister, but she couldn’t be seen because she only had two eyes, like ordinary people. However, the knight insisted on seeing her and called out, “Little Two-eyes, come out.” Then Little Two-eyes happily emerged from under the barrel, and the knight was awestruck by her beauty. He said, “Little Two-eyes, I’m sure you can break off a twig from the tree.” “Yes,” she replied, “I can, because the tree is mine.” She climbed up and easily broke off a small branch with silver leaves and golden fruit, handing it to the knight. He then asked, “Little Two-eyes, what should I give you for this?” “Ah,” she answered, “I suffer from hunger and thirst, want and sorrow, from morning until night; if you could take me with you and free me from this, I would be so happy!” The knight then lifted Little Two-eyes onto his horse and took her home to his father’s castle. There he provided her with beautiful clothes, food, and drink, and because he loved her so much, he married her, and they celebrated the wedding with great joy.
When the handsome knight carried Little Two-eyes away with him, the two sisters envied her good luck at first. ‘But the wonderful tree is still with us, after all,’ they thought, ‘and although we cannot break any fruit from it, everyone will stop and look at it, and will come to us and praise it; who knows whether we may not reap a harvest from it?’ But the next morning the tree had flown, and their hopes with it; and when Little Two-eyes looked out of her window there it stood underneath, to her great delight. Little Two-eyes lived happily for a long time. Once two poor women came to the castle to beg alms. Then Little Two-eyes looked at then and recognised both her sisters, Little One-eye and Little Three-eyes, who had become so poor that they came to beg bread at her door. But Little Two-eyes bade them welcome, and was so good to them that they both repented from their hearts of having been so unkind to their sister.
When the handsome knight carried Little Two-eyes away with him, her two sisters were jealous of her good fortune at first. “But we still have the amazing tree,” they thought, “and even though we can't pick any fruit from it, everyone will stop to admire it and come to us and praise it; who knows, maybe we’ll benefit from it?” But the next morning, the tree was gone, along with their hopes; when Little Two-eyes looked out of her window, it was standing there underneath, much to her delight. Little Two-eyes lived happily for a long time. One day, two poor women came to the castle to ask for help. Little Two-eyes looked at them and recognized her sisters, Little One-eye and Little Three-eyes, who had fallen on hard times and were begging for bread at her door. However, Little Two-eyes welcomed them and treated them so kindly that they both truly regretted how unkind they had been to their sister.
Grimm.
Grimm Tales.
JORINDE AND JORINGEL
There was once upon a time a castle in the middle of a thick wood where lived an old woman quite alone, for she was an enchantress. In the day-time she changed herself into a cat or a night-owl, but in the evening she became like an ordinary woman again. She could entice animals and birds to come to her, and then she would kill and cook them. If any youth came within a hundred paces of the castle, he was obliged to stand still, and could not stir from the spot till she set him free; but if a pretty girl came within this boundary, the old enchantress changed her into a bird, and shut her up in a wicker cage, which she put in one of the rooms in the castle. She had quite seven thousand of such cages in the castle with very rare birds in them.
There was once a castle in the middle of a dense forest where an old woman lived all alone because she was a witch. During the day, she transformed into a cat or a night owl, but in the evening she returned to looking like an ordinary woman. She could lure animals and birds to her, and then she would kill and cook them. If any young man came within a hundred paces of the castle, he was forced to stand still and couldn’t move until she released him; however, if a pretty girl entered that space, the old witch would turn her into a bird and lock her in a wicker cage, which she placed in one of the castle's rooms. She had around seven thousand of those cages filled with very rare birds.
Now, there was once a maiden called Jorinde, who was more beautiful than other maidens. She and a youth named Joringel, who was just as good-looking as she was, were betrothed to one another. Their greatest delight was to be together, and so that they might get a good long talk, they went one evening for a walk in the wood. ‘Take care,’ said Joringel, ‘not to come too close to the castle.’ It was a beautiful evening; the sun shone brightly between the stems of the trees among the dark green leaves of the forest, and the turtle-dove sang clearly on the old maybushes.
Now, there was once a girl named Jorinde, who was more beautiful than any other girls. She and a guy named Joringel, who was just as handsome as she was, were engaged to each other. Their greatest joy was being together, so one evening they decided to take a walk in the woods for a long, deep conversation. “Be careful,” Joringel said, “not to go too close to the castle.” It was a lovely evening; the sun shone brightly through the tree trunks among the dark green leaves of the forest, and the dove sang sweetly on the old maybushes.
Jorinde wept from time to time, and she sat herself down in the sunshine and lamented, and Joringel lamented too. They felt as sad as if they had been condemned to die; they looked round and got quite confused, and did not remember which was their way home. Half the sun was still above the mountain and half was behind it when Joringel looked through the trees and saw the old wall of the castle quite near them. He was terrified and half dead with fright. Jorinde sang:
Jorinde cried every now and then, sitting in the sunshine and mourning, and Joringel mourned alongside her. They felt as hopeless as if they were facing execution; they looked around and became disoriented, unable to remember the way home. Half the sun was still above the mountain while the other half was hidden behind it when Joringel glanced through the trees and spotted the old castle wall close by. He was terrified and nearly paralyzed with fear. Jorinde began to sing:
‘My little bird with throat so red Sings sorrow, sorrow, sorrow; He sings to the little dove that’s dead, Sings sorrow, sor—jug, jug, jug.’
‘My little bird with a bright red throat sings about sorrow, sorrow, sorrow; he sings to the little dove that's dead, sings sorrow, sor—jug, jug, jug.’
Joringel looked up at Jorinde. She had been changed into a nightingale, who was singing ‘jug, jug.’ A night-owl with glowing eyes flew three times round her, and screeched three times ‘tu-whit, tu-whit, tu-whoo.’ Joringel could not stir; he stood there like a stone; he could not weep, or speak, or move hand or foot. Now the sun set; the owl flew into a bush, and immediately an old, bent woman came out of it; she was yellow-skinned and thin, and had large red eyes and a hooked nose, which met her chin. She muttered to herself, caught the nightingale, and carried her away in her hand. Joringel could say nothing; he could not move from the spot, and the nightingale was gone. At last the woman came back again, and said in a gruff voice, ‘Good evening, Zachiel; when the young moon shines in the basket, you are freed early, Zachiel.’ Then Joringel was free. He fell on his knees before the old woman and implored her to give him back his Jorinde, but she said he should never have her again, and then went away. He called after her, he wept and lamented, but all in vain. ‘What is to become of me!’ he thought. Then he went away, and came at last to a strange village, where he kept sheep for a long time. He often went round the castle while he was there, but never too close. At last he dreamt one night that he had found a blood-red flower, which had in its centre a beautiful large pearl. He plucked this flower and went with it to the castle; and there everything which he touched with the flower was freed from the enchantment, and he got his Jorinde back again through it. When he awoke in the morning he began to seek mountain and valley to find such a flower. He sought it for eight days, and on the ninth early in the morning he found the blood-red flower. In its centre was a large dew-drop, as big as the most lovely pearl. He travelled day and night with this flower till he arrived at the castle. When he came within a hundred paces of it he did not cease to be able to move, but he went on till he reached the gate. He was delighted at his success, touched the great gate with the flower, and it sprung open. He entered, passed through the courtyard, and then stopped to listen for the singing of the birds; at last he heard it. He went in and found the hall in which was the enchantress, and with her seven thousand birds in their wicker cages. When she saw Joringel she was furious, and breathed out poison and gall at him, but she could not move a step towards him. He took no notice of her, and went and looked over the cages of birds; but there were many hundred nightingales, and how was he to find his Jorinde from among them? Whilst he was considering, he observed the old witch take up a cage secretly and go with it towards the door. Instantly he sprang after her, touched the cage with the flower, and the old woman as well. Now she could no longer work enchantments, and there stood Jorinde before him, with her arms round his neck, and more beautiful than ever. Then he turned all the other birds again into maidens, and he went home with his Jorinde, and they lived a long and happy life.
Joringel looked up at Jorinde. She had transformed into a nightingale, singing ‘jug, jug.’ An owl with glowing eyes flew around her three times and screeched three times ‘tu-whit, tu-whit, tu-whoo.’ Joringel couldn’t move; he stood there like a statue, unable to cry, speak, or move a muscle. As the sun set, the owl landed in a bush, and right away, an old, hunched woman emerged from it. She had yellowed skin, was thin, and had large red eyes and a hooked nose that met her chin. She muttered to herself, caught the nightingale, and carried her away in her hand. Joringel was speechless; he couldn't budge from the spot, and the nightingale was gone. Eventually, the woman returned and said in a rough voice, ‘Good evening, Zachiel; when the young moon shines in the basket, you are freed early, Zachiel.’ Then Joringel was released. He fell to his knees before the old woman, begging her to give him back his Jorinde, but she told him he would never have her again and then left. He called after her, cried, and lamented, but it was all in vain. ‘What will become of me!’ he thought. He then walked away and eventually came to a strange village, where he tended sheep for a long time. He often walked around the castle while he was there but never too close. One night, he dreamed that he found a blood-red flower with a beautiful large pearl at its center. He picked this flower and went to the castle; everything he touched with the flower was freed from the enchantment, and he got his Jorinde back through it. When he woke up in the morning, he began searching mountains and valleys to find such a flower. He looked for eight days, and on the ninth morning, he found the blood-red flower. In its center was a large dew drop, as big as the most beautiful pearl. He traveled day and night with this flower until he reached the castle. When he came within a hundred paces of it, he was still able to move, so he continued until he reached the gate. Excited about his success, he touched the big gate with the flower, and it swung open. He entered, walked through the courtyard, and then paused to listen for the birds' singing; finally, he heard it. He went in and found the hall where the enchantress was, along with seven thousand birds in their wicker cages. When she saw Joringel, she became furious, spewing poison and anger at him, but she couldn't take a step towards him. He ignored her and looked over the cages of birds, but there were hundreds of nightingales, and how was he to find his Jorinde among them? While he pondered, he noticed the old witch secretly take a cage and head towards the door. Immediately, he jumped after her, touched the cage with the flower, and touched the old woman too. Now she could no longer cast spells, and Jorinde stood before him, arms around his neck, more beautiful than ever. He then transformed all the other birds back into maidens, and he left with his Jorinde, and they lived a long and happy life.
Grimm.
Grimm Tales.
ALLERLEIRAUH; OR, THE MANY-FURRED CREATURE
There was once upon a time a King who had a wife with golden hair, and she was so beautiful that you couldn’t find anyone like her in the world. It happened that she fell ill, and when she felt that she must soon die, she sent for the King, and said, ‘If you want to marry after my death, make no one queen unless she is just as beautiful as I am, and has just such golden hair as I have. Promise me this.’ After the King had promised her this, she closed her eyes and died.
There was once a King who had a wife with golden hair, and she was so beautiful that no one else in the world compared to her. One day, she became ill, and sensing her end was near, she called for the King and said, “If you decide to remarry after I’m gone, don’t make anyone queen unless she’s as beautiful as I am and has the same golden hair as I do. Promise me this.” After the King promised her, she closed her eyes and passed away.
For a long time the King was not to be comforted, and he did not even think of taking a second wife. At last his councillors said, ‘The King must marry again, so that we may have a queen.’ So messengers were sent far and wide to seek for a bride equal to the late Queen in beauty. But there was no one in the wide world, and if there had been she could not have had such golden hair. Then the messengers came home again, not having been able to find a queen.
For a long time, the King couldn’t be consoled, and he didn't even consider marrying a second wife. Eventually, his advisors said, ‘The King needs to marry again, so we can have a queen.’ So messengers were sent far and wide to look for a bride who matched the late Queen's beauty. But there was no one in the whole world, and even if there had been, she wouldn’t have had such golden hair. Then the messengers returned home, unable to find a queen.
Now, the King had a daughter, who was just as beautiful as her dead mother, and had just such golden hair. One day when she had grown up, her father looked at her, and saw that she was exactly like her mother, so he said to his councillors, ‘I will marry my daughter to one of you, and she shall be queen, for she is exactly like her dead mother, and when I die her husband shall be king.’ But when the Princess heard of her father’s decision, she was not at all pleased, and said to him, ‘Before I do your bidding, I must have three dresses; one as golden as the sun, one as silver as the moon, and one as shining as the stars. Besides these, I want a cloak made of a thousand different kinds of skin; every animal in your kingdom must give a bit of his skin to it.’ But she thought to herself, ‘This will be quite impossible, and I shall not have to marry someone I do not care for.’ The King, however, was not to be turned from his purpose, and he commanded the most skilled maidens in his kingdom to weave the three dresses, one as golden as the sun, and one as silver as the moon, and one as shining as the stars; and he gave orders to all his huntsmen to catch one of every kind of beast in the kingdom, and to get a bit of its skin to make the cloak of a thousand pieces of fur. At last, when all was ready, the King commanded the cloak to be brought to him, and he spread it out before the Princess, and said, ‘Tomorrow shall be your wedding-day.’ When the Princess saw that there was no more hope of changing her father’s resolution, she determined to flee away. In the night, when everyone else was sleeping, she got up and took three things from her treasures, a gold ring, a little gold spinning-wheel, and a gold reel; she put the sun, moon, and star dresses in a nut-shell, drew on the cloak of many skins, and made her face and hands black with soot. Then she commended herself to God, and went out and travelled the whole night till she came to a large forest. And as she was very much tired she sat down inside a hollow tree and fell asleep.
Now, the King had a daughter who was just as beautiful as her late mother and had the same golden hair. One day, when she had grown up, her father looked at her and saw that she resembled her mother exactly, so he said to his advisors, “I will marry my daughter off to one of you, and she will become queen, because she is just like her late mother, and when I die, her husband will be king.” However, when the Princess heard about her father’s decision, she wasn’t happy at all and said to him, “Before I follow your command, I need three dresses: one as golden as the sun, one as silver as the moon, and one as sparkling as the stars. In addition to these, I want a cloak made of a thousand different kinds of skin; every animal in your kingdom must contribute a bit of its skin for it.” But she thought to herself, “This will be impossible, and then I won’t have to marry someone I don’t love.” The King, however, was determined to fulfill his plan, and he ordered the most skilled maidens in his kingdom to weave the three dresses, one as golden as the sun, one as silver as the moon, and one as sparkling as the stars; he also instructed all his hunters to catch one of every kind of creature in the kingdom and to take a piece of its skin to make the cloak of a thousand pieces of fur. Finally, when everything was ready, the King had the cloak brought to him, he laid it out before the Princess, and said, “Tomorrow will be your wedding day.” When the Princess realized that there was no hope left of changing her father’s mind, she decided to escape. That night, while everyone was asleep, she got up and took three items from her treasures: a gold ring, a small gold spinning wheel, and a gold reel; she packed the sun, moon, and star dresses in a nutshell, put on the cloak made of many skins, and darkened her face and hands with soot. Then she prayed to God and set out, traveling all night until she reached a large forest. Exhausted, she sat down inside a hollow tree and fell asleep.
The sun rose and she still slept on and on, although it was nearly noon. Now, it happened that the king to whom this wood belonged was hunting in it. When his dogs came to the tree, they sniffed, and ran round and round it, barking. The King said to the huntsmen, ‘See what sort of a wild beast is in there.’ The huntsmen went in, and then came back and said, ‘In the hollow tree there lies a wonderful animal that we don’t know, and we have never seen one like it; its skin is made of a thousand pieces of fur; but it is lying down asleep.’ The King said, ‘See if you can catch it alive, and then fasten it to the cart, and we will take it with us.’ When the huntsmen seized the maiden, she awoke and was frightened, and cried out to them, ‘I am a poor child, forsaken by father and mother; take pity on me, and let me go with you.’ Then they said to her, ‘Many-furred Creature, you can work in the kitchen; come with us and sweep the ashes together.’ So they put her in the cart and they went back to the palace. There they showed her a tiny room under the stairs, where no daylight came, and said to her, ‘Many-furred Creature, you can live and sleep here.’ Then she was sent into the kitchen, where she carried wood and water, poked the fire, washed vegetables, plucked fowls, swept up the ashes, and did all the dirty work.
The sun rose and she kept sleeping on and on, even though it was almost noon. Meanwhile, the king who owned this forest was out hunting. When his dogs reached the tree, they sniffed around it and ran circles, barking. The King told the hunters, ‘Check out what kind of wild animal is in there.’ The hunters went in, then returned, saying, ‘There’s a remarkable creature in the hollow tree that we’ve never seen before; its skin is made up of a thousand pieces of fur, but it’s sleeping.’ The King ordered, ‘See if you can catch it alive, then tie it to the cart, and we’ll take it with us.’ When the hunters grabbed the girl, she woke up in fright and shouted, ‘I’m just a poor child, abandoned by my parents; please have mercy on me and let me come with you.’ They replied, ‘Many-furred Creature, you can work in the kitchen; come with us and help sweep the ashes.’ So, they placed her in the cart and headed back to the palace. There, they showed her a small room under the stairs that had no natural light and told her, ‘Many-furred Creature, you can live and sleep here.’ Then, she was sent to the kitchen, where she fetched wood and water, stoked the fire, washed vegetables, plucked birds, swept the ashes, and did all the dirty work.
So the Many-furred Creature lived for a long time in great poverty. Ah, beautiful King’s daughter, what is going to befall you now?
So the Many-furred Creature lived for a long time in deep poverty. Ah, beautiful princess, what’s going to happen to you now?
It happened once when a great feast was being held in the palace, that she said to the cook, ‘Can I go upstairs for a little bit and look on? I will stand outside the doors.’ The cook replied, ‘Yes, you can go up, but in half-an-hour you must be back here to sweep up the ashes.’ Then she took her little oil-lamp, and went into her little room, drew off her fur cloak, and washed off the soot from her face and hands, so that her beauty shone forth, and it was as if one sunbeam after another were coming out of a black cloud. Then she opened the nut, and took out the dress as golden as the sun. And when she had done this, she went up to the feast, and everyone stepped out of her way, for nobody knew her, and they thought she must be a King’s daughter. But the King came towards her and gave her his hand, and danced with her, thinking to himself, ‘My eyes have never beheld anyone so fair!’ When the dance was ended, she curtseyed to him, and when the King looked round she had disappeared, no one knew whither. The guards who were standing before the palace were called and questioned, but no one had seen her.
It happened once during a big feast in the palace that she asked the cook, "Can I go upstairs for a bit and watch? I’ll stand outside the doors." The cook replied, "Yes, you can go up, but you have to be back here in half an hour to sweep up the ashes." Then she took her little oil lamp and went to her small room, took off her fur cloak, and washed the soot from her face and hands so that her beauty shone through, as if beams of sunlight were breaking through a dark cloud. Then she opened the nut and pulled out a dress that was as golden as the sun. Once she was ready, she went up to the feast, and everyone stepped aside for her, as no one recognized her, and they assumed she must be a princess. But the King approached her, took her hand, and danced with her, thinking to himself, "I’ve never seen anyone so beautiful!" When the dance ended, she curtsied to him, and when the King looked around, she had vanished without a trace. The guards standing in front of the palace were called and questioned, but no one had seen her.
She had run to her little room and had quickly taken off her dress, made her face and hands black, put on the fur cloak, and was once more the Many-furred Creature. When she came into the kitchen and was setting about her work of sweeping the ashes together, the cook said to her, ‘Let that wait till to-morrow, and just cook the King’s soup for me; I want to have a little peep at the company upstairs; but be sure that you do not let a hair fall into it, otherwise you will get nothing to eat in future!’ So the cook went away, and the Many-furred Creature cooked the soup for the King. She made a bread-soup as well as she possibly could, and when it was done, she fetched her gold ring from her little room, and laid it in the tureen in which the soup was to be served up.
She ran to her small room and quickly took off her dress, made her face and hands black, put on the fur cloak, and became the Many-furred Creature once again. When she entered the kitchen and started sweeping up the ashes, the cook said to her, "Let that wait until tomorrow and just cook the King’s soup for me; I want to take a quick look at the company upstairs. But make sure you don’t let a single hair fall into it, or you'll have nothing to eat from now on!" So the cook left, and the Many-furred Creature prepared the soup for the King. She made a bread-soup as best as she could, and when it was finished, she got her gold ring from her small room and placed it in the tureen where the soup was going to be served.
When the dance was ended, the King had his soup brought to him and ate it, and it was so good that he thought he had never tasted such soup in his life. But when he came to the bottom of the dish he saw a gold ring lying there, and he could not imagine how it got in. Then he commanded the cook to be brought before him. The cook was terrified when he heard the command, and said to the Many-furred Creature, ‘You must have let a hair fall into the soup, and if you have you deserve a good beating!’ When he came before the King, the King asked who had cooked the soup. The cook answered, ‘I cooked it.’ But the King said, ‘That’s not true, for it was quite different and much better soup than you have ever cooked.’ Then the cook said, ‘I must confess; I did not cook the soup; the Many-furred Creature did.’ ‘Let her be brought before me,’ said the King. When the Many-furred Creature came, the King asked her who she was. ‘I am a poor child without father or mother.’ Then he asked her, ‘What do you do in my palace?’ ‘I am of no use except to have boots thrown at my head.’ ‘How did you get the ring which was in the soup?’ he asked. ‘I know nothing at all about the ring,’ she answered. So the King could find out nothing, and was obliged to send her away.
When the dance ended, the King had his soup served to him and ate it, and it was so good that he thought he had never tasted such soup in his life. But when he reached the bottom of the bowl, he saw a gold ring lying there and couldn't figure out how it got in. He then ordered the cook to be brought before him. The cook was terrified when he heard the order and told the Many-furred Creature, “You must have let a hair fall into the soup, and if you did, you deserve a good beating!” When he stood before the King, the King asked who had made the soup. The cook replied, “I cooked it.” But the King said, “That’s not true, because it was completely different and much better soup than you've ever made.” Then the cook said, “I must admit; I didn’t cook the soup; the Many-furred Creature did.” “Bring her before me,” said the King. When the Many-furred Creature came in, the King asked her who she was. “I’m a poor child without a father or mother.” Then he asked her, “What do you do in my palace?” “I’m of no use except for having boots thrown at my head.” “How did you get the ring that was in the soup?” he asked. “I have no idea about the ring,” she replied. So the King couldn't find out anything and had to send her away.
After a time there was another feast, and the Many-furred Creature begged the cook as at the last one to let her go and look on. He answered, ‘Yes, but come back again in half-an-hour and cook the King the bread-soup that he likes so much.’ So she ran away to her little room, washed herself quickly, took out of the nut the dress as silver as the moon and put it on. Then she went upstairs looking just like a King’s daughter, and the King came towards her, delighted to see her again, and as the dance had just begun, they danced together. But when the dance was ended, she disappeared again so quickly that the King could not see which way she went. She ran to her little room and changed herself once more into the Many-furred Creature, and went into the kitchen to cook the bread-soup. When the cook was upstairs, she fetched the golden spinning-wheel and put it in the dish so that the soup was poured over it. It was brought to the King, who ate it, and liked it as much as the last time. He had the cook sent to him, and again he had to confess that the Many-furred Creature had cooked the soup. Then the Many-furred Creature came before the King, but she said again that she was of no use except to have boots thrown at her head, and that she knew nothing at all of the golden spinning-wheel.
After a while, there was another feast, and the Many-furred Creature asked the cook, like last time, if she could go and watch. He agreed, saying, “Sure, but come back in half an hour and make the King the bread-soup he loves.” So she hurried to her little room, quickly washed up, took out the dress as shiny as the moon from the nut, and put it on. Then she went upstairs looking just like a princess, and the King approached her, thrilled to see her again. As the dance had just started, they danced together. But when the dance ended, she vanished so quickly that the King couldn’t see where she went. She dashed back to her room, transformed again into the Many-furred Creature, and went to the kitchen to make the bread-soup. When the cook was upstairs, she grabbed the golden spinning-wheel and placed it in the dish, letting the soup pour over it. It was served to the King, who enjoyed it just as much as before. He called for the cook, who had to admit again that the Many-furred Creature had made the soup. Then the Many-furred Creature appeared before the King, but she insisted once more that she was only good for having boots thrown at her head and that she knew nothing about the golden spinning-wheel.
When the King had a feast for the third time, things did not turn out quite the same as at the other two. The cook said, ‘You must be a witch, Many-furred Creature, for you always put something in the soup, so that it is much better and tastes nicer to the King than any that I cook.’ But because she begged hard, he let her go up for the usual time. Now she put on the dress as shining as the stars, and stepped into the hall in it.
When the King hosted his third feast, it didn't go quite like the previous two. The cook said, “You must be a witch, Many-furred Creature, because you always add something to the soup that makes it taste better and more delicious to the King than anything I make.” But since she begged so earnestly, he allowed her to go up for the usual time. She then put on the dress that sparkled like the stars and walked into the hall wearing it.
The King danced again with the beautiful maiden, and thought she had never looked so beautiful. And while he was dancing, he put a gold ring on her finger without her seeing it, and he commanded that the dance should last longer than usual. When it was finished he wanted to keep her hands in his, but she broke from him, and sprang so quickly away among the people that she vanished from his sight. She ran as fast as she could to her little room under the stairs, but because she had stayed too long beyond the half-hour, she could not stop to take off the beautiful dress, but only threw the fur cloak over it, and in her haste she did not make herself quite black with the soot, one finger remaining white. The Many-furred Creature now ran into the kitchen, cooked the King’s bread-soup, and when the cook had gone, she laid the gold reel in the dish. When the King found the reel at the bottom, he had the Many-furred Creature brought to him, and then he saw the white finger, and the ring which he had put on her hand in the dance. Then he took her hand and held her tightly, and as she was trying to get away, she undid the fur-cloak a little bit and the star-dress shone out. The King seized the cloak and tore it off her. Her golden hair came down, and she stood there in her full splendour, and could not hide herself away any more. And when the soot and ashes had been washed from her face, she looked more beautiful than anyone in the world. But the King said, ‘You are my dear bride, and we will never be separated from one another.’ So the wedding was celebrated and they lived happily ever after.
The King danced again with the beautiful maiden, feeling that she had never looked so gorgeous. While they danced, he secretly slipped a gold ring onto her finger and ordered that the dance continue longer than usual. When it finally ended, he wanted to hold her hands, but she broke free and darted away among the crowd, disappearing from his view. She ran as fast as she could to her little room under the stairs, but since she had lingered too long past the thirty minutes, she couldn’t take off her beautiful dress; she only threw on the fur cloak over it. In her rush, she hadn’t completely covered herself in soot, leaving one finger white. The Many-furred Creature then hurried into the kitchen, made the King’s bread-soup, and after the cook left, she placed the gold reel in the bowl. When the King discovered the reel at the bottom, he summoned the Many-furred Creature, and then he noticed the white finger and the ring he had put on her hand during the dance. He grabbed her hand and held her tightly, and as she tried to escape, she loosened the fur cloak just enough for the star-dress to shine through. The King seized the cloak and whipped it off her. Her golden hair cascaded down, and she stood there in her full glory, unable to hide anymore. Once the soot and ashes had been washed from her face, she looked more beautiful than anyone in the world. The King then proclaimed, “You are my beloved bride, and we will never be apart.” Thus, the wedding was celebrated, and they lived happily ever after.
Grimm.
Grimm.
THE TWELVE HUNTSMEN
Once upon a time there was a King’s son who was engaged to a Princess whom he dearly loved. One day as he sat by her side feeling very happy, he received news that his father was lying at the point of death, and desired to see him before his end. So he said to his love: ‘Alas! I must go off and leave you, but take this ring and wear it as a remembrance of me, and when I am King I will return and fetch you home.’
Once upon a time, there was a prince who was engaged to a princess he loved dearly. One day, as he sat beside her, feeling very happy, he received news that his father was dying and wanted to see him one last time. He said to his beloved, "Oh no! I have to leave you, but take this ring and wear it as a reminder of me. When I become king, I will come back and take you home."
Then he rode off, and when he reached his father he found him mortally ill and very near death.
Then he rode off, and when he arrived at his father's side, he found him seriously ill and close to death.
The King said: ‘Dearest son, I have desired to see you again before my end. Promise me, I beg of you, that you will marry according to my wishes’; and he then named the daughter of a neighbouring King who he was anxious should be his son’s wife. The Prince was so overwhelmed with grief that he could think of nothing but his father, and exclaimed: ‘Yes, yes, dear father, whatever you desire shall be done.’ Thereupon the King closed his eyes and died.
The King said, “My dear son, I wanted to see you one last time before I go. Please promise me that you will marry someone I choose.” Then he mentioned the daughter of a neighboring King, who he wanted his son to marry. The Prince was so filled with sorrow that he could think of nothing but his father and shouted, “Yes, yes, dear father, whatever you want will be done.” With that, the King closed his eyes and passed away.
After the Prince had been proclaimed King, and the usual time of mourning had elapsed, he felt that he must keep the promise he had made to his father, so he sent to ask for the hand of the King’s daughter, which was granted to him at once.
After the Prince was declared King and the normal mourning period was over, he realized he needed to fulfill the promise he made to his father, so he asked for the hand of the King’s daughter, and she agreed immediately.
Now, his first love heard of this, and the thought of her lover’s desertion grieved her so sadly that she pined away and nearly died. Her father said to her: ‘My dearest child, why are you so unhappy? If there is anything you wish for, say so, and you shall have it.’
Now, his first love heard about this, and the thought of her boyfriend abandoning her made her so sad that she withered away and nearly died. Her father said to her: ‘My dear child, why are you so unhappy? If there’s anything you want, just say it, and you’ll have it.’
His daughter reflected for a moment, and then said: ‘Dear father, I wish for eleven girls as nearly as possible of the same height, age, and appearance as myself.’
His daughter thought for a moment, then said: ‘Dear father, I want eleven girls who are as close as possible in height, age, and looks to me.’
Said the King: ‘If the thing is possible your wish shall be fulfilled’; and he had his kingdom searched till he found eleven maidens of the same height, size, and appearance as his daughter.
Said the King: ‘If it’s possible, your wish will be granted’; and he had his kingdom searched until he found eleven maidens who were the same height, size, and appearance as his daughter.
Then the Princess desired twelve complete huntsmen’s suits to be made, all exactly alike, and the eleven maidens had to dress themselves in eleven of the suits, while she herself put on the twelfth. After this she took leave of her father, and rode off with her girls to the court of her former lover.
Then the Princess wanted twelve identical huntsmen’s outfits to be made, so the eleven maidens dressed in eleven of the outfits, while she wore the twelfth. After that, she said goodbye to her father and rode off with her girls to the court of her former lover.
Here she enquired whether the King did not want some huntsmen, and if he would not take them all into his service. The King saw her but did not recognize her, and as he thought them very good-looking young people, he said, ‘Yes, he would gladly engage them all.’ So they became the twelve royal huntsmen.
Here she asked if the King wanted some huntsmen and if he would hire them all. The King saw her but didn't recognize her, and since he thought they were all good-looking young people, he said, "Yes, I would gladly hire them all." So they became the twelve royal huntsmen.
Now, the King had a most remarkable Lion, for it knew every hidden or secret thing.
Now, the King had a truly remarkable Lion, because it was aware of every hidden or secret thing.
One evening the Lion said to the King: ‘So you think you have got twelve huntsmen, do you?’
One evening, the Lion said to the King, "So you really think you’ve got twelve hunters, huh?"
‘Yes, certainly,’ said the King, ‘they are twelve huntsmen.’
‘Yes, of course,’ said the King, ‘they are twelve huntsmen.’
‘There you are mistaken,’ said the Lion; ‘they are twelve maidens.’
‘You’re mistaken,’ said the Lion; ‘there are twelve maidens.’
‘That cannot possibly be,’ replied the King; ‘how do you mean to prove that?’
‘That can't be true,’ replied the King; ‘how do you plan to prove that?’
‘Just have a number of peas strewed over the floor of your ante-chamber,’ said the Lion, ‘and you will soon see. Men have a strong, firm tread, so that if they happen to walk over peas not one will stir, but girls trip, and slip, and slide, so that the peas roll all about.’
‘Just scatter some peas on the floor of your waiting room,’ said the Lion, ‘and you’ll see what I mean. Men walk with a solid, heavy step, so if they happen to step on peas, not a single one will move, but girls trip, and slip, and slide, causing the peas to roll everywhere.’
The King was pleased with the Lion’s advice, and ordered the peas to be strewn in his ante-room.
The King appreciated the Lion’s advice and instructed that the peas be scattered in his waiting room.
Fortunately one of the King’s servants had become very partial to the young huntsmen, and hearing of the trial they were to be put to, he went to them and said: ‘The Lion wants to persuade the King that you are only girls’; and then told them all the plot.
Fortunately, one of the King’s servants had developed a fondness for the young huntsmen. When he heard about the trial they were facing, he approached them and said, “The Lion is trying to convince the King that you’re just girls,” and then he shared the whole plan.
The King’s daughter thanked him for the hint, and after he was gone she said to her maidens: ‘Now make every effort to tread firmly on the peas.’
The King’s daughter thanked him for the tip, and once he was gone, she said to her maids: ‘Now make sure to step firmly on the peas.’
Next morning, when the King sent for his twelve huntsmen, and they passed through the ante-room which was plentifully strewn with peas, they trod so firmly and walked with such a steady, strong step that not a single pea rolled away or even so much as stirred. After they were gone the King said to the Lion: ‘There now—you have been telling lies—you see yourself they walk like men.’
Next morning, when the King called for his twelve huntsmen, they walked through the ante-room that was covered with peas. They walked so firmly and steadily that not a single pea rolled away or even moved. Once they had left, the King turned to the Lion and said, “See? You’ve been lying—look how they walk like normal people.”
‘Because they knew they were being put to the test,’ answered the Lion; ‘and so they made an effort; but just have a dozen spinning-wheels placed in the ante-room. When they pass through you’ll see how pleased they will be, quite unlike any man.’
‘Because they knew they were being tested,’ replied the Lion; ‘so they made an effort; just place a dozen spinning wheels in the anteroom. When they walk by, you’ll see how happy they'll be, totally different from any man.’
The King was pleased with the advice, and desired twelve spinning-wheels to be placed in his ante-chamber.
The King was happy with the advice and wanted twelve spinning wheels to be set up in his waiting room.
But the good-natured servant went to the huntsmen and told them all about this fresh plot. Then, as soon as the King’s daughter was alone with her maidens, she exclaimed: ‘Now, pray make a great effort and don’t even look at those spinning-wheels.’
But the good-hearted servant went to the hunters and told them all about this new scheme. Then, as soon as the princess was alone with her ladies, she exclaimed: ‘Now, please make a real effort and don’t even look at those spinning wheels.’
When the King sent for his twelve huntsmen next morning they walked through the ante-room without even casting a glance at the spinning-wheels.
When the King called for his twelve huntsmen the next morning, they walked through the anteroom without even looking at the spinning wheels.
Then the King said once more to the Lion: ‘You have deceived me again; they are men, for they never once looked at the spinning-wheels.’
Then the King said once more to the Lion: ‘You’ve tricked me again; they are men, because they didn’t even glance at the spinning wheels.’
The Lion replied: ‘They knew they were being tried, and they did violence to their feelings.’ But the King declined to believe in the Lion any longer.
The Lion replied, "They knew they were being tested, and they hurt their feelings." But the King no longer believed the Lion.
So the twelve huntsmen continued to follow the King, and he grew daily fonder of them. One day whilst they were all out hunting it so happened that news was brought that the King’s intended bride was on her way and might soon be expected. When the true bride heard of this she felt as though a knife had pierced her heart, and she fell fainting to the ground. The King, fearing something had happened to his dear huntsman, ran up to help, and began drawing off his gloves. Then he saw the ring which he had given to his first love, and as he gazed into her face he knew her again, and his heart was so touched that he kissed her, and as she opened her eyes, he cried: ‘I am thine and thou art mine, and no power on earth can alter that.’
So the twelve hunters kept following the King, and he grew more attached to them every day. One day while they were out hunting, news came that the King's intended bride was on her way and could arrive soon. When the true bride heard this, it felt like a knife had pierced her heart, and she fainted. The King, worried something had happened to his dear hunter, rushed over to help and started taking off his gloves. Then he noticed the ring he had given to his first love, and as he looked into her face, he recognized her again. His heart was so moved that he kissed her, and when she opened her eyes, he exclaimed, “I am yours and you are mine, and nothing on earth can change that.”
To the other Princess he despatched a messenger to beg her to return to her own kingdom with all speed. ‘For,’ said he, ‘I have got a wife, and he who finds an old key again does not require a new one.’
To the other Princess, he sent a messenger to ask her to return to her own kingdom quickly. ‘Because,’ he said, ‘I have a wife, and someone who finds an old key doesn’t need a new one.’
Thereupon the wedding was celebrated with great pomp, and the Lion was restored to the royal favour, for after all he had told the truth.
The wedding was celebrated with great fanfare, and the Lion was welcomed back into the royal favor, because in the end, he had spoken the truth.
Grimm.
Grim.
SPINDLE, SHUTTLE, AND NEEDLE
Once upon a time there lived a girl who lost her father and mother when she was quite a tiny child. Her godmother lived all alone in a little cottage at the far end of the village, and there she earned her living by spinning, weaving, and sewing. The old woman took the little orphan home with her and brought her up in good, pious, industrious habits.
Once upon a time, there was a girl who lost both her parents when she was very young. Her godmother lived alone in a small cottage at the edge of the village, where she made a living by spinning, weaving, and sewing. The old woman took the little orphan in and raised her with good, caring, and hardworking values.
When the girl was fifteen years old, her godmother fell ill, and, calling the child to her bedside, she said: ‘My dear daughter, I feel that my end is near. I leave you my cottage, which will, at least, shelter you, and also my spindle, my weaver’s shuttle, and my needle, with which to earn your bread.’
When the girl turned fifteen, her godmother got sick and, calling the girl to her bedside, said: ‘My dear daughter, I sense that my time is almost up. I'm leaving you my cottage, which will at least provide you with shelter, along with my spindle, my weaving shuttle, and my needle, so you can earn a living.’
Then she laid her hands on the girl’s head, blessed her, and added: ‘Mind and be good, and then all will go well with you.’ With that she closed her eyes for the last time, and when she was carried to her grave the girl walked behind her coffin weeping bitterly, and paid her all the last honours.
Then she placed her hands on the girl’s head, blessed her, and said, ‘Remember to be good, and everything will go well for you.’ With that, she closed her eyes for the last time, and when she was taken to her grave, the girl walked behind her coffin, crying heavily, and gave her all the last respects.
After this the girl lived all alone in the little cottage. She worked hard, spinning, weaving, and sewing, and her old godmother’s blessing seemed to prosper all she did. The flax seemed to spread and increase; and when she wove a carpet or a piece of linen, or made a shirt, she was sure to find a customer who paid her well, so that not only did she feel no want herself, but she was able to help those who did.
After that, the girl lived all by herself in the small cottage. She worked hard, spinning, weaving, and sewing, and her old godmother’s blessing seemed to help everything she did. The flax seemed to grow and multiply; whenever she made a carpet, a piece of linen, or a shirt, she always found a customer who paid her well, so she not only felt no need herself but was also able to help those who did.
Now, it happened that about this time the King’s son was making a tour through the entire country to look out for a bride. He could not marry a poor woman, and he did not wish for a rich one.
Now, it so happened that around this time, the King’s son was traveling across the entire country to find a bride. He couldn’t marry a poor woman, and he didn’t want a rich one.
‘She shall be my wife,’ said he, ‘who is at once the poorest and the richest.’
‘She will be my wife,’ he said, ‘who is both the poorest and the richest.’
When he reached the village where the girl lived, he inquired who was the richest and who the poorest woman in it. The richest was named first; the poorest, he was told, was a young girl who lived alone in a little cottage at the far end of the village.
When he got to the village where the girl lived, he asked who the richest and poorest women were. They named the richest first; they told him the poorest was a young girl who lived alone in a small cottage at the far end of the village.
The rich girl sat at her door dressed out in all her best clothes, and when the King’s son came near she got up, went to meet him, and made him a low curtsey. He looked well at her, said nothing, but rode on further.
The wealthy girl sat at her door wearing her finest clothes, and when the King’s son approached, she stood up, went to greet him, and gave him a low bow. He looked at her, said nothing, and rode on.
When he reached the poor girl’s house he did not find her at her door, for she was at work in her room. The Prince reined in his horse, looked in at the window through which the sun was shining brightly, and saw the girl sitting at her wheel busily spinning away.
When he arrived at the poor girl's house, he didn’t see her at the door because she was in her room working. The Prince stopped his horse, looked through the window where the sun was shining brightly, and saw the girl sitting at her wheel, busy spinning.
She looked up, and when she saw the King’s son gazing in at her, she blushed red all over, cast down her eyes and span on. Whether the thread was quite as even as usual I really cannot say, but she went on spinning till the King’s son had ridden off. Then she stepped to the window and opened the lattice, saying, ‘The room is so hot,’ but she looked after him as long as she could see the white plumes in his hat.
She looked up, and when she saw the King’s son staring at her, she blushed completely, lowered her eyes, and continued spinning. I can’t really say if the thread was as even as usual, but she kept spinning until the King’s son rode away. Then she walked to the window and opened the latch, saying, “It’s so hot in here,” but she watched him until she could no longer see the white feathers in his hat.
Then she sat down to her work once more and span on, and as she did so an old saying which, she had often heard her godmother repeat whilst at work, came into her head, and she began to sing:
Then she sat down to her work again and kept spinning, and as she did, an old saying that she had often heard her godmother repeat while working popped into her mind, and she started to sing:
‘Spindle, spindle, go and see, If my love will come to me.’
‘Spindle, spindle, go and check, If my love will come to me.’
Lo, and behold! the spindle leapt from her hand and rushed out of the room, and when she had sufficiently recovered from her surprise to look after it she saw it dancing merrily through the fields, dragging a long golden thread after it, and soon it was lost to sight.
Look, and see! The spindle jumped from her hand and dashed out of the room, and when she had gathered her thoughts enough to follow it, she saw it joyfully dancing through the fields, pulling a long golden thread behind it, and soon it disappeared from view.
The girl, having lost her spindle, took up the shuttle and, seating herself at her loom, began to weave. Meantime the spindle danced on and on, and just as it had come to the end of the golden thread, it reached the King’s son.
The girl, having lost her spindle, picked up the shuttle and, sitting down at her loom, started to weave. Meanwhile, the spindle kept spinning, and just as it finished the golden thread, it reached the King's son.
‘What do I see?’ he cried; ‘this spindle seems to wish to point out the way to me.’ So he turned his horses head and rode back beside the golden thread.
‘What do I see?’ he exclaimed; ‘this spindle seems to want to show me the way.’ So he turned his horse's head and rode back next to the golden thread.
Meantime the girl sat weaving, and sang:
Meantime, the girl sat weaving and sang:
‘Shuttle, weave both web and woof, Bring my love beneath my roof.’
‘Weave both the threads, bring my love under my roof.’
The shuttle instantly escaped from her hand, and with one bound was out at the door. On the threshold it began weaving the loveliest carpet that was ever seen. Roses and lilies bloomed on both sides, and in the centre a thicket seemed to grow with rabbits and hares running through it, stags and fawns peeping through the branches, whilst on the topmost boughs sat birds of brilliant plumage and so life-like one almost expected to hear them sing. The shuttle flew from side to side and the carpet seemed almost to grow of itself.
The shuttle suddenly slipped from her hand and, in a single leap, was out the door. On the threshold, it began weaving the most beautiful carpet anyone had ever seen. Roses and lilies bloomed on either side, and in the center, a thicket appeared with rabbits and hares darting through it, stags and fawns peeking out from the branches, while on the highest boughs sat birds with vibrant feathers that looked so real you almost expected them to sing. The shuttle moved from side to side, and the carpet seemed to grow by itself.
As the shuttle had run away the girl sat down to sew. She took her needle and sang:
As the shuttle sped away, the girl sat down to sew. She picked up her needle and started to sing:
‘Needle, needle, stitch away, Make my chamber bright and gay,’
‘Needle, needle, stitch away, Make my room bright and cheerful,’
and the needle promptly slipped from her fingers and flew about the room like lightning. You would have thought invisible spirits were at work, for in next to no time the table and benches were covered with green cloth, the chairs with velvet, and elegant silk curtains hung before the windows. The needle had barely put in its last stitch when the girl, glancing at the window, spied the white plumed hat of the King’s son who was being led back by the spindle with the golden thread.
and the needle quickly slipped from her fingers and zoomed around the room like lightning. You would have thought invisible spirits were at work, because in no time at all the table and benches were covered with green cloth, the chairs with velvet, and beautiful silk curtains hung in front of the windows. The needle had just finished its last stitch when the girl, looking at the window, spotted the white plumed hat of the King's son who was being led back by the spindle with the golden thread.
He dismounted and walked over the carpet into the house, and when he entered the room there stood the girl blushing like any rose. ‘You are the poorest and yet the richest,’ said he: ‘come with me, you shall be my bride.’
He got off his horse and walked over the carpet into the house, and when he entered the room, there was the girl blushing like a rose. "You are the poorest and yet the richest," he said. "Come with me, you’ll be my bride."
She said nothing, but she held out her hand. Then he kissed her, and led her out, lifted her on his horse and took her to his royal palace, where the wedding was celebrated with great rejoicings.
She didn’t say anything, but she extended her hand. Then he kissed her, helped her onto his horse, and took her to his royal palace, where they celebrated the wedding with a lot of joy.
The spindle, the shuttle, and the needle were carefully placed in the treasury, and were always held in the very highest honour.
The spindle, the shuttle, and the needle were carefully stored in the treasury and were always regarded with the utmost respect.
Grimm.
Grimm Tales.
THE CRYSTAL COFFIN
Now let no one say that a poor tailor can’t get on in the world, and, indeed, even attain to very high honour. Nothing is required but to set the right way to work, but of course the really important thing is to succeed.
Now let no one say that a poor tailor can’t make it in the world and even achieve great honor. All that's needed is to find the right approach, but of course, the most important thing is to succeed.
A very bright active young tailor once set off on his travels, which led him into a wood, and as he did not know the way he soon lost himself. Night came on, and there seemed to be nothing for it but to seek out the best resting-place he could find. He could have made himself quite comfortable with a bed of soft moss, but the fear of wild beasts disturbed his mind, and at last he determined to spend the night in a tree.
A very bright, active young tailor once set off on his travels, which took him into a forest, and since he didn't know the way, he soon got lost. Night fell, and there seemed to be no choice but to find the best place to rest. He could have made himself comfortable with a bed of soft moss, but the fear of wild animals worried him, and eventually, he decided to spend the night in a tree.
He sought out a tall oak tree, climbed up to the top, and felt devoutly thankful that his big smoothing-iron was in his pocket, for the wind in the tree-tops was so high that he might easily have been blown away altogether.
He looked for a tall oak tree, climbed to the top, and felt really thankful that he had his heavy smoothing iron in his pocket because the wind in the treetops was so strong that he could have easily been blown away.
After passing some hours of the night, not without considerable fear and trembling, he noticed a light shining at a little distance, and hoping it might proceed from some house where he could find a better shelter than in the top of the tree, he cautiously descended and went towards the light. It led him to a little hut all woven together of reeds and rushes. He knocked bravely at the door, which opened, and by the light which shone from within he saw an old gray-haired man dressed in a coat made of bright-coloured patches. ‘Who are you, and what do you want?’ asked the old man roughly.
After spending several hours of the night, feeling quite scared and anxious, he spotted a light shining in the distance and hoped it came from a house where he could find better shelter than up in the tree. He carefully climbed down and made his way toward the light. It led him to a small hut made entirely of reeds and rushes. He knocked firmly on the door, which opened, and by the light glowing from inside, he saw an old, gray-haired man wearing a coat made of colorful patches. "Who are you, and what do you want?" the old man asked gruffly.
‘I am a poor tailor,’ replied the youth. ‘I have been benighted in the forest, and I entreat you to let me take shelter in your hut till morning.’
‘I’m a poor tailor,’ the young man replied. ‘I got lost in the forest, and I kindly ask you to let me stay in your hut until morning.’
‘Go your way,’ said the old man in a sulky tone, ‘I’ll have nothing to do with tramps. You must just go elsewhere.’
‘Go away,’ the old man said in a grumpy tone, ‘I don’t want anything to do with beggars. You need to go somewhere else.’
With these words he tried to slip back into his house, but the tailor laid hold of his coat-tails, and begged so hard to be allowed to stay that the old fellow, who was by no means as cross as he appeared, was at length touched by his entreaties, let him come in, and after giving him some food, showed him quite a nice bed in one corner of the room. The weary tailor required no rocking to rest, but slept sound till early morning, when he was roused from his slumbers by a tremendous noise. Loud screams and shouts pierced the thin walls of the little hut. The tailor, with new-born courage, sprang up, threw on his clothes with all speed and hurried out. There he saw a huge black bull engaged in a terrible fight with a fine large stag. They rushed at each other with such fury that the ground seemed to tremble under them and the whole air to be filled with their cries. For some time it appeared quite uncertain which would be the victor, but at length the stag drove his antlers with such force into his opponent’s body that the bull fell to the ground with a terrific roar, and a few more strokes finished him.
With these words, he tried to slip back into his house, but the tailor grabbed his coat-tails and pleaded so earnestly to be allowed to stay that the old man, who wasn’t as grumpy as he seemed, was finally moved by his pleas, let him in, and after giving him some food, showed him a nice bed in one corner of the room. The tired tailor needed no rocking to rest and slept soundly until early morning, when he was awakened by a loud noise. Piercing screams and shouts echoed through the thin walls of the little hut. The tailor, filled with newfound courage, sprang up, quickly got dressed, and hurried outside. There, he saw a huge black bull battling fiercely with a large stag. They charged at each other with such intensity that the ground seemed to shake beneath them and the air was filled with their cries. For a while, it was unclear who would win, but eventually, the stag drove his antlers with such force into the bull's body that the bull collapsed to the ground with a tremendous roar, and a few more strikes finished him off.
The tailor, who had been watching the fight with amazement, was still standing motionless when the stag bounded up to him, and before he had time to escape forked him up with its great antlers, and set off at full gallop over hedges and ditches, hill and dale, through wood and water. The tailor could do nothing but hold on tight with both hands to the stag’s horns and resign himself to his fate. He felt as if he were flying along. At length the stag paused before a steep rock and gently let the tailor down to the ground.
The tailor, who had been watching the fight in disbelief, stood frozen in place when the stag dashed up to him. Before he could run away, the stag lifted him up with its massive antlers and took off at full speed, leaping over hedges and ditches, across hills and valleys, through forests and streams. The tailor could only grip the stag’s horns tightly and accept whatever would happen next. He felt like he was soaring through the air. Finally, the stag stopped in front of a steep rock and carefully lowered the tailor to the ground.
Feeling more dead than alive, he paused for a while to collect his scattered senses, but when he seemed somewhat restored the stag struck such a blow on a door in the rock that it flew open. Flames of fire rushed forth, and such clouds of steam followed that the stag had to avert its eyes. The tailor could not think what to do or which way to turn to get away from this awful wilderness, and to find his way back amongst human beings once more.
Feeling more dead than alive, he paused for a moment to gather his scattered thoughts, but just when he felt a bit better, the stag hit a door in the rock with such force that it flew open. Flames burst out, and huge clouds of steam followed, making the stag turn its head away. The tailor couldn't figure out what to do or which way to go to escape this terrible wilderness and find his way back to people again.
As he stood hesitating, a voice from the rock cried to him: ‘Step in without fear, no harm shall befall you.’
As he stood there unsure, a voice from the rock called out to him: ‘Step in without fear, you won't be harmed.’
He still lingered, but some mysterious power seemed to impel him, and passing through the door he found himself in a spacious hall, whose ceiling, walls, and floor were covered with polished tiles carved all over with unknown figures. He gazed about, full of wonder, and was just preparing to walk out again when the same voice bade him: ‘Tread on the stone in the middle of the hall, and good luck will attend you.’
He hesitated for a moment, but some unseen force seemed to urge him forward. Stepping through the door, he entered a large hall, with its ceiling, walls, and floor lined with shiny tiles etched with strange designs. He looked around, filled with curiosity, and was about to turn around and leave when the same voice said, “Step on the stone in the center of the hall, and good fortune will follow you.”
By this time he had grown so courageous that he did not hesitate to obey the order, and hardly had he stepped on the stone than it began to sink gently with him into the depths below. On reaching firm ground he found himself in a hall of much the same size as the upper one, but with much more in it to wonder at and admire. Round the walls were several niches, in each of which stood glass vessels filled with some bright-coloured spirit or bluish smoke. On the floor stood two large crystal boxes opposite each other, and these attracted his curiosity at once.
By this time, he had become so brave that he didn’t hesitate to follow the order, and as soon as he stepped on the stone, it began to sink gently with him into the depths below. When he reached solid ground, he found himself in a hall that was about the same size as the one above, but with a lot more to marvel at and admire. Around the walls were several niches, each holding glass containers filled with some brightly colored liquid or bluish smoke. On the floor were two large crystal boxes positioned across from each other, and they immediately caught his attention.
Stepping up to one of them, he saw within it what looked like a model in miniature of a fine castle surrounded by farms, barns, stables, and a number of other buildings. Everything was quite tiny, but so beautifully and carefully finished that it might have been the work of an accomplished artist. He would have continued gazing much longer at this remarkable curiosity had not the voice desired him to turn round and look at the crystal coffin which stood opposite.
Stepping up to one of them, he saw inside what looked like a miniature model of a beautiful castle surrounded by farms, barns, stables, and several other buildings. Everything was really small, but so beautifully and carefully crafted that it could have been done by a skilled artist. He would have kept staring at this amazing curiosity much longer if the voice hadn't urged him to turn around and look at the crystal coffin that was across from him.
What was his amazement at seeing a girl of surpassing loveliness lying in it! She lay as though sleeping, and her long, fair hair seemed to wrap her round like some costly mantle. Her eyes were closed, but the bright colour in her face, and the movement of a ribbon, which rose and fell with her breath, left no doubt as to her being alive.
What amazed him was seeing a stunningly beautiful girl lying there! She looked like she was sleeping, and her long, light hair seemed to cover her like an expensive cloak. Her eyes were closed, but the bright color in her face and the way a ribbon gently moved with her breath made it clear that she was alive.
As the tailor stood gazing at her with a beating heart, the maiden suddenly opened her eyes, and started with delighted surprise.
As the tailor looked at her with a racing heart, the young woman suddenly opened her eyes and gasped in delighted surprise.
‘Great heavens!’ she cried, ‘my deliverance approaches! Quick, quick, help me out of my prison; only push back the bolt of this coffin and I am free.’
‘Oh my gosh!’ she exclaimed, ‘my rescue is coming! Hurry, hurry, help me out of this prison; just push back the bolt of this coffin and I’m free.’
The tailor promptly obeyed, when she quickly pushed back the crystal lid, stepped out of the coffin and hurried to a corner of the hall, when she proceeded to wrap herself in a large cloak. Then she sat down on a stone, desired the young man to come near, and, giving him an affectionate kiss, she said, ‘My long-hoped-for deliverer, kind heaven has led you to me, and has at length put an end to all my sufferings. You are my destined husband, and, beloved by me, and endowed with every kind of riches and power, you shall spend the remainder of your life in peace and happiness. Now sit down and hear my story. I am the daughter of a wealthy nobleman. My parents died when I was very young, and they left me to the care of my eldest brother, by whom I was carefully educated. We loved each other so tenderly, and our tastes and interests were so much alike that we determined never to marry, but to spend our entire lives together. There was no lack of society at our home. Friends and neighbours paid us frequent visits, and we kept open house for all. Thus it happened that one evening a stranger rode up to the castle and asked for hospitality, as he could not reach the nearest town that night. We granted his request with ready courtesy, and during supper he entertained us with most agreeable conversation, mingled with amusing anecdotes. My brother took such a fancy to him that he pressed him to spend a couple of days with us, which, after a little hesitation, the stranger consented to do. We rose late from table, and whilst my brother was showing our guest to his room I hurried to mine, for I was very tired and longed to get to bed. I had hardly dropped off to sleep when I was roused by the sound of some soft and charming music. Wondering whence it could come, I was about to call to my maid who slept in the room next mine, when, to my surprise, I felt as if some heavy weight on my chest had taken all power from me, and I lay there unable to utter the slightest sound. Meantime, by the light of the night lamp, I saw the stranger enter my room, though the double doors had been securely locked. He drew near and told me that through the power of his magic arts he had caused the soft music to waken me, and had made his way through bolts and bars to offer me his hand and heart. My repugnance to his magic was so great that I would not condescend to give any answer. He waited motionless for some time, hoping no doubt for a favourable reply, but as I continued silent he angrily declared that he would find means to punish my pride, and therewith he left the room in a rage.
The tailor immediately complied when she quickly pushed back the crystal lid, stepped out of the coffin, and rushed to a corner of the hall to wrap herself in a large cloak. Then she sat down on a stone, asked the young man to come over, and, giving him a tender kiss, said, “My long-awaited savior, kind heavens have brought you to me and have finally ended all my suffering. You are my destined husband, and since you are beloved by me and blessed with all kinds of riches and power, you will spend the rest of your life in peace and happiness. Now sit down and listen to my story. I am the daughter of a wealthy nobleman. My parents died when I was very young, leaving me in the care of my oldest brother, who raised me with great care. We loved each other so dearly, and our preferences and interests were so aligned that we decided never to marry but to spend our lives together. There was no shortage of company at our home. Friends and neighbors visited us often, and we kept our doors open to everyone. One evening, a stranger rode up to the castle and requested hospitality since he couldn't reach the nearest town that night. We readily agreed, and during supper, he entertained us with pleasant conversation and amusing stories. My brother took such a liking to him that he encouraged him to stay a couple of days with us, which the stranger reluctantly agreed to. We stayed at the table late, and while my brother was showing our guest to his room, I hurried to mine, feeling very tired and eager to sleep. I had barely fallen asleep when I was awoken by the sound of soft and enchanting music. Curious about where it was coming from, I intended to call my maid, who slept in the room next to mine, when suddenly I felt as if a heavy weight on my chest had robbed me of all strength, and I lay there unable to make a sound. In the meantime, by the light of the night lamp, I saw the stranger enter my room, even though the double doors had been securely locked. He approached me and said that through the power of his magic arts, he had caused the soft music to wake me and had passed through locks and bolts to offer me his hand and heart. My aversion to his magic was so strong that I wouldn’t even respond. He stood there motionless for a while, probably hoping for a positive answer, but as I remained silent, he angrily declared that he would find a way to punish my pride and stormed out of the room in rage.
‘I spent the night in the greatest agitation, and only fell into a doze towards morning. As soon as I awoke I jumped up, and hurried to tell my brother all that had happened, but he had left his room, and his servant told me that he had gone out at daybreak to hunt with the stranger.
‘I spent the night feeling extremely restless, and I only dozed off a bit towards morning. As soon as I woke up, I jumped up and rushed to tell my brother everything that had happened, but he had already left his room, and his servant told me that he had gone out at daybreak to hunt with the stranger.
‘My mind misgave me. I dressed in all haste, had my palfrey saddled, and rode of at full gallop towards the forest, attended by one servant only. I pushed on without pausing, and ere long I saw the stranger coming towards me, and leading a fine stag. I asked him where he had left my brother, and how he had got the stag, whose great eyes were overflowing with tears. Instead of answering he began to laugh, and I flew into such a rage that I drew a pistol and fired at him; but the bullet rebounded from his breast and struck my horse in the forehead. I fell to the ground, and the stranger muttered some words, which robbed me of my senses.
‘Something felt off in my gut. I quickly got dressed, had my horse saddled, and rode full speed toward the forest, accompanied by just one servant. I kept pushing forward without stopping, and soon I saw the stranger coming toward me, leading a beautiful stag. I asked him where my brother was and how he had gotten the stag, whose large eyes were filled with tears. Instead of answering, he just laughed, and I got so furious that I pulled out a pistol and shot at him; but the bullet bounced off his chest and hit my horse in the forehead. I fell to the ground, and the stranger muttered some words that made me lose my senses.
‘When I came to myself I was lying in a crystal coffin in this subterranean vault. The Magician appeared again, and told me that he had transformed my brother into a stag, had reduced our castle and all its defences to miniature and locked them up in a glass box, and after turning all our household into different vapours had banished them into glass phials. If I would only yield to his wishes he could easily open these vessels, and all would then resume their former shapes.
‘When I came to, I was lying in a crystal coffin in this underground vault. The Magician appeared again and told me that he had turned my brother into a stag, shrunk our castle and all its defenses down to miniature size, and locked them in a glass box. He had also transformed our household into different vapors and trapped them in glass vials. He said that if I would just give in to his wishes, he could easily open these vessels, and everything would return to its original form.
‘I would not say a word more than I had done previously, and he vanished, leaving me in my prison, where a deep sleep soon fell on me. Amongst the many dreams which floated through my brain was a cheering one of a young man who was to come and release me, and to-day, when I opened my eyes, I recognised you and saw that my dream was fulfilled. Now help me to carry out the rest of my vision. The first thing is to place the glass box which contains my castle on this large stone.’
‘I wouldn’t say anything more than I already had, and then he disappeared, leaving me in my prison, where I quickly fell into a deep sleep. Among the many dreams that floated through my mind was a hopeful one about a young man who would come and set me free, and today, when I opened my eyes, I recognized you and realized my dream had come true. Now help me to complete the rest of my vision. The first thing is to put the glass box that holds my castle on this large stone.’
As soon as this was done the stone gently rose through the air and transported them into the upper hall, whence they easily carried the box into the outer air. The lady then removed the lid, and it was marvellous to watch the castle, houses, and farmyards begin to grow and spread themselves till they had regained their proper size. Then the young couple returned by means of the movable stone, and brought up all the glass vessels filled with smoke. No sooner were they uncorked than the blue vapours poured out and became transformed to living people, in whom the lady joyfully recognised her many servants and attendants.
As soon as this was done, the stone gently lifted into the air and took them to the upper hall, where they easily carried the box outside. The lady then took off the lid, and it was amazing to watch the castle, houses, and farmyards start to grow and spread until they were back to their original size. Then, the young couple used the movable stone to return and brought up all the glass containers filled with smoke. As soon as they were uncorked, the blue vapors escaped and transformed into living people, among whom the lady joyfully recognized her many servants and attendants.
Her delight was complete when her brother (who had killed the Magician under the form of a bull) was seen coming from the forest in his proper shape, and that very day, according to her promise, she gave her hand in marriage to the happy young tailor.
Her joy was fully realized when her brother (who had defeated the Magician disguised as a bull) was seen emerging from the forest in his true form, and that very day, as she had promised, she agreed to marry the thrilled young tailor.
Grimm.
Grimm.
THE THREE SNAKE-LEAVES
There was once a poor man who could no longer afford to keep his only son at home. So the son said to him, ‘Dear father, you are so poor that I am only a burden to you; I would rather go out into the world and see if I can earn my own living.’ The father gave him his blessing and took leave of him with much sorrow. About this time the King of a very powerful kingdom was carrying on a war; the youth therefore took service under him and went on the campaign. When they came before the enemy, a battle took place, there was some hot fighting, and it rained bullets so thickly that his comrades fell around him on all sides. And when their leader fell too the rest wished to take to flight; but the youth stepped forward and encouraged them and called out, ‘We must not let our country be ruined!’ Then others followed him, and he pressed on and defeated the enemy. When the King heard that he had to thank him alone for the victory, he raised him higher than anyone else in rank, gave him great treasures and made him the first in the kingdom.
There was once a poor man who could no longer afford to keep his only son at home. So the son said to him, "Dear father, you're so poor that I’m just a burden to you; I’d rather go out into the world and see if I can earn my own living." The father gave him his blessing and bid him farewell with a heavy heart. Around this time, the King of a very powerful kingdom was engaged in a war; the young man therefore joined his service and went off to the campaign. When they faced the enemy, a battle broke out, and the fighting was intense, with bullets raining down so thickly that his comrades fell around him on all sides. When their leader fell too, the others wanted to flee; but the young man stepped forward, encouraged them, and shouted, "We can't let our country be destroyed!" Then others followed his lead, and he pushed forward, ultimately defeating the enemy. When the King learned that he alone was responsible for the victory, he elevated him above everyone else in rank, awarded him great treasures, and made him the highest in the kingdom.
The King had a daughter who was very beautiful, but she was also very capricious. She had made a vow to marry no one who would not promise her that if she died first, he would allow himself to be buried alive with her. ‘If he loves me truly,’ she used to say, ‘what use would life be to him then?’ At the same time she was willing to do the same, and if he died first to be buried with him. This curious vow had up to this time frightened away all suitors, but the young man was so captivated by her beauty, that he hesitated at nothing and asked her hand of her father. ‘Do you know,’ asked the King, ‘what you have to promise?’ ‘I shall have to go into her grave with her,’ he answered, ‘if I outlive her, but my love is so great that I do not think of the risk.’ So the King consented, and the wedding was celebrated with great splendour.
The King had a daughter who was really beautiful but also very unpredictable. She had vowed not to marry anyone who wouldn’t promise that if she died first, he would let himself be buried alive with her. “If he truly loves me,” she would say, “what would life mean to him then?” At the same time, she was ready to do the same and if he died first, she would be buried with him. This unusual vow had scared off all the suitors until a young man, totally captivated by her beauty, decided to take a chance and asked for her hand from her father. “Do you know,” the King asked, “what you have to promise?” “I would have to go into her grave with her,” he replied, “if I outlive her, but my love is so strong that I’m not worried about the risk.” So the King agreed, and the wedding was celebrated in grand style.
Now, they lived for a long time very happily with one another, but then it came to pass that the young Queen fell seriously ill, and no doctor could save her. And when she lay dead, the young King remembered what he had promised, and it made him shudder to think of lying in her grave alive, but there was no escape. The King had set guards before all the gates, and it was not possible to avoid his fate.
Now, they lived together happily for a long time, but then the young Queen became seriously ill, and no doctor could save her. When she died, the young King recalled his promise, and it terrified him to think of being alive in her grave, but there was no way out. The King had stationed guards at all the gates, and there was no escaping his fate.
When the day arrived on which the corpse was to be laid in the royal vault, he was led thither, then the entrance was bolted and closed up.
When the day came to place the body in the royal vault, he was taken there, and then the entrance was locked and sealed up.
Near the coffin stood a table on which were placed four candles, four loaves of bread, and four bottles of wine. As soon as this provision came to an end he would have to die. So he sat there full of grief and misery, eating every day only a tiny bit of bread, and drinking only a mouthful of ovine, and he watched death creeping nearer and nearer to him. One day as he was sitting staring moodily in front of him, he saw a snake creep out of the corner towards the corpse. Thinking it was going to touch it, he drew his sword and saying, ‘As long as I am alive you shall not harm her,’ he cut it in three pieces. After a little time a second snake crept out of the corner, but when it saw the first one lying dead and in pieces it went back and came again soon, holding three green leaves in its mouth. Then it took the three bits of the snake and laid them in order, and put one of the leaves on each wound. Immediately the pieces joined together, the snake moved itself and became alive and then both hurried away. The leaves remained lying on the ground, and it suddenly occurred to the unfortunate man who had seen everything, that the wonderful power of the leaves might also be exercised upon a human being.
Near the coffin stood a table with four candles, four loaves of bread, and four bottles of wine. Once this supplies ran out, he would have to die. So he sat there filled with sorrow and despair, eating only a tiny bit of bread each day and drinking just a mouthful of wine, watching death creep closer and closer to him. One day, as he sat staring gloomily ahead, he saw a snake slither out from the corner towards the corpse. Thinking it was going to touch it, he drew his sword and said, "As long as I'm alive, you won't harm her," and he cut it into three pieces. After a little while, a second snake emerged from the corner, but when it saw the first one dead and in pieces, it retreated and soon returned holding three green leaves in its mouth. Then it took the three bits of the first snake and laid them out in order, placing one of the leaves on each wound. Immediately the pieces rejoined, the snake moved, came back to life, and then both snakes hurried away. The leaves were left lying on the ground, and it suddenly occurred to the unfortunate man, who had witnessed everything, that the amazing power of the leaves might also work on a human being.
So he picked up the leaves and laid one of them on the mouth and the other two on the eyes of the dead woman. And scarcely had he done this, before the blood began to circulate in her veins, then it mounted and brought colour back to her white face. Then she drew her breath, opened her eyes, and said, ‘Ah! where am I?’ ‘You are with me, dear lady,’ he answered, and told her all that had happened, and how he had brought her to life again. He then gave her some wine and bread, and when all her strength had returned she got up, and they went to the door and knocked and called so loudly that the guards heard them, and told the King. The King came himself to open the door, and there he found both happy and well, and he rejoiced with them that now all trouble was over. But the young King gave the three snake-leaves to a servant, saying to him, ‘Keep them carefully for me, and always carry them with you; who knows but that they may help us in a time of need!’
So he picked up the leaves and placed one on the woman's mouth and the other two on her eyes. As soon as he did this, blood started to flow through her veins, and color returned to her pale face. Then she took a breath, opened her eyes, and said, "Ah! Where am I?" "You’re with me, dear lady," he replied, and he told her everything that had happened, including how he had brought her back to life. He then gave her some wine and bread, and when she regained her strength, she got up, and they went to the door, knocking and calling so loudly that the guards heard them and informed the King. The King himself came to open the door and found them both happy and healthy, and he rejoiced with them that all their troubles were over. But the young King handed the three snake leaves to a servant, saying, "Take good care of these for me and always keep them with you; who knows when they might be useful in a time of need!"
It seemed, however, as if a change had come over the young Queen after she had been restored to life, and as if all her love for her husband had faded from her heart. Some time afterwards, when he wanted to take a journey over the sea to his old father, and they were on board the ship, she forgot the great love and faithfulness he had shown her and how he had saved her from death, and fell in love with the captain. And one day when the young King was lying asleep, she called the captain to her, and seized the head of the sleeping King and made him take his feet, and together they threw him into the sea. When they had done this wicked deed, she said to him, ‘Now let us go home and say that he died on the journey. I will praise you so much to my father that he will marry me to you and make you the heir to the throne.’ But the faithful servant, who had seen everything, let down a little boat into the sea, unobserved by them, and rowed after his master while the traitors sailed on. He took the drowned man out of the water, and with the help of the three snake-leaves which he carried with him, placing them on his mouth and eyes, he brought him to life again.
It seemed like something had changed in the young Queen after she was brought back to life, as if all her love for her husband had faded away. Some time later, when he wanted to take a trip across the sea to visit his elderly father, and they were on the ship, she forgot all about the great love and loyalty he had shown her and how he had saved her from death, and instead fell for the captain. One day, while the young King was lying asleep, she called the captain to her, grabbed the head of the sleeping King, and forced him to take his feet, together they threw him into the sea. Once they had committed this terrible act, she said to him, "Now let’s go home and say he died on the journey. I’ll praise you so much to my father that he will marry me to you and make you the heir to the throne." But the loyal servant, who had witnessed everything, secretly lowered a small boat into the sea and rowed after his master while the traitors sailed on. He pulled the drowned man out of the water, and using the three snake leaves he had with him, placing them on his mouth and eyes, he revived him.
They both rowed as hard as they could night and day, and their little boat went so quickly that they reached the old King before the other two did. He was much astonished to see them come back alone, and asked what had happened to them. When he heard the wickedness of his daughter, he said, ‘I cannot believe that she has acted so wrongly, but the truth will soon come to light.’ He made them both go into a secret chamber, and let no one see them.
They both rowed as hard as they could, day and night, and their small boat moved so fast that they reached the old King before the other two. He was quite surprised to see them return alone and asked what had happened to them. When he heard about his daughter's wickedness, he said, "I can't believe she has done something so wrong, but the truth will come out soon." He had them both go into a secret room and didn't allow anyone to see them.
Soon after this the large ship came in, and the wicked lady appeared before her father with a very sad face. He said to her, ‘Why have you come back alone? Where is your husband?’
Soon after this, the large ship arrived, and the wicked lady faced her father with a very sad expression. He asked her, "Why have you returned alone? Where is your husband?"
‘Ah, dear father,’ she replied, ‘I have come home in great grief; my husband fell ill on the voyage quite suddenly, and died, and if the good captain had not given me help, I should have died too. He was at his death-bed and can tell you everything.’
‘Oh, dear Dad,’ she said, ‘I’ve come home feeling really sad; my husband got sick on the trip out of nowhere and died. If the kind captain hadn’t helped me, I would have died too. He was with him at the end and can tell you everything.’
The King said, ‘I will bring the dead to life again,’ and he opened the door of the room and called them both out. The lady was as if thunderstruck when she caught sight of her husband; she fell on her knees and begged for mercy. But the King said, ‘You shall have no mercy. He was ready to die with you, and restored you to life again; but you killed him when he was sleeping, and shall receive your deserts.’
The King said, "I will bring the dead back to life," and he opened the door of the room and called them both out. The lady was stunned when she saw her husband; she dropped to her knees and pleaded for mercy. But the King replied, "You will receive no mercy. He was willing to die for you and brought you back to life; but you killed him while he was sleeping, and now you'll get what you deserve."
So she and her accomplice were put in a ship which was bored through with holes, and were drawn out into the sea, where they soon perished in the waves.
So she and her accomplice were put on a ship that was full of holes and were taken out to sea, where they quickly drowned in the waves.
Grimm.
Grim.
THE RIDDLE
A King’s son once had a great desire to travel through the world, so he started off, taking no one with him but one trusty servant. One day he came to a great forest, and as evening drew on he could find no shelter, and could not think where to spend the night. All of a sudden he saw a girl going towards a little house, and as he drew nearer he remarked that she was both young and pretty. He spoke to her, and said, ‘Dear child, could I and my servant spend the night in this house?’
A king’s son once really wanted to travel the world, so he set off, taking only one loyal servant with him. One day, he arrived at a large forest, and as evening approached, he couldn’t find any shelter and had no idea where to spend the night. Suddenly, he spotted a girl heading towards a small house, and as he got closer, he noticed that she was young and beautiful. He spoke to her and said, “Dear girl, could my servant and I stay the night in this house?”
‘Oh yes,’ said the girl in a sad tone, ‘you can if you like, but I should not advise you to do so. Better not go in.’
‘Oh yes,’ said the girl in a sad tone, ‘you can if you want, but I wouldn’t recommend it. It’s better if you don’t go in.’
‘Why not?’ asked the King’s son.
"Why not?" the prince asked.
The girl sighed and answered, ‘My stepmother deals in black arts, and she is not very friendly to strangers.’
The girl sighed and replied, ‘My stepmom practices dark magic, and she isn’t very nice to outsiders.’
The Prince guessed easily that he had fallen on a witch’s house, but as by this time it was quite dark and he could go no further, and as moreover he was not at all afraid, he stepped in.
The Prince quickly figured out that he had stumbled upon a witch’s house, but since it was dark and he couldn’t go any further, and since he wasn't scared at all, he went inside.
An old woman sat in an armchair near the fire, and as the strangers entered she turned her red eyes on them. ‘Good evening,’ she muttered, and pretending to be quite friendly. ‘Won’t you sit down?’
An old woman sat in an armchair by the fire, and as the strangers entered, she turned her red eyes toward them. 'Good evening,' she mumbled, trying to seem friendly. 'Would you like to sit down?'
She blew up the fire on which she was cooking something in a little pot, and her daughter secretly warned the travellers to be very careful not to eat or drink anything, as the old woman’s brews were apt to be dangerous.
She stoked the fire where she was cooking something in a small pot, and her daughter quietly alerted the travelers to be very cautious about eating or drinking anything since the old woman's concoctions could be harmful.
They went to bed, and slept soundly till morning. When they were ready to start and the King’s son had already mounted his horse the old woman said: ‘Wait a minute, I must give you a stirrup cup.’ Whilst she went to fetch it the King’s son rode off, and the servant who had waited to tighten his saddle-girths was alone when the witch returned.
They went to bed and slept peacefully until morning. When they were set to leave and the King's son had already gotten on his horse, the old woman said, "Hold on a sec, I need to give you a farewell drink." While she went to get it, the King's son rode away, and the servant, who had been waiting to tighten his saddle, was alone when the witch came back.
‘Take that to your master,’ she said; but as she spoke the glass cracked and the poison spurted over the horse, and it was so powerful that the poor creature sank down dead. The servant ran after his master and told him what had happened, and then, not wishing to lose the saddle as well as the horse, he went back to fetch it. When he got to the spot he saw that a raven had perched on the carcase and was pecking at it. ‘Who knows whether we shall get anything better to eat to-day!’ said the servant, and he shot the raven and carried it off.
‘Take that to your master,’ she said; but as she spoke, the glass cracked and the poison spilled all over the horse, which was so strong that the poor animal fell down dead. The servant ran after his master to tell him what had happened, and then, not wanting to lose the saddle along with the horse, he went back to get it. When he arrived at the spot, he saw that a raven had landed on the carcass and was pecking at it. ‘Who knows if we'll find something better to eat today!’ said the servant, and he shot the raven and took it away.
Then they rode on all day through the forest without coming to the end. At nightfall they reached an inn, which they entered, and the servant gave the landlord the raven to dress for their supper. Now, as it happened, this inn was a regular resort of a band of murderers, and the old witch too was in the habit of frequenting it.
Then they traveled all day through the forest without reaching the end. At sunset, they arrived at an inn, went inside, and the servant handed the landlord the raven to prepare for their dinner. As luck would have it, this inn was a common hangout for a group of murderers, and the old witch was known to visit it frequently as well.
As soon as it was dark twelve murderers arrived, with the full intention of killing and robbing the strangers. Before they set to work, however, they sat down to table, and the landlord and the old witch joined them, and they all ate some broth in which the flesh of the raven had been stewed down. They had hardly taken a couple of spoonfuls when they all fell down dead, for the poison had passed from the horse to the raven and so into the broth. So there was no one left belonging to the house but the landlord’s daughter, who was a good, well-meaning girl, and had taken no part in all the evil doings.
As soon as it got dark, twelve murderers showed up, planning to kill and rob the strangers. But before they got started, they all sat down to eat, and the landlord and the old witch joined them. They shared some broth made with the stewed flesh of a raven. They had barely taken a couple of spoonfuls when they all dropped dead, because the poison had transferred from the horse to the raven and then into the broth. So the only one left in the house was the landlord’s daughter, a good and well-meaning girl who had nothing to do with all the terrible things that happened.
She opened all the doors, and showed the strangers the treasures the robbers had gathered together; but the Prince bade her keep them all for herself, as he wanted none of them, and so he rode further with his servant.
She opened all the doors and showed the strangers the treasures the robbers had collected, but the Prince told her to keep them all for herself, as he didn’t want any of it, and then he rode on with his servant.
After travelling about for some length of time they reached a town where lived a lovely but most arrogant Princess. She had given out that anyone who asked her a riddle which she found herself unable to guess should be her husband, but should she guess it he must forfeit his head. She claimed three days in which to think over the riddles, but she was so very clever that she invariably guessed them in a much shorter time. Nine suitors had already lost their lives when the King’s son arrived, and, dazzled by her beauty, determined to risk his life in hopes of winning her.
After traveling for a while, they reached a town where a beautiful but extremely arrogant Princess lived. She announced that anyone who posed her a riddle she couldn't solve would become her husband, but if she solved it, he would lose his head. She said she needed three days to think about the riddles, but she was so clever that she usually figured them out much faster. Nine suitors had already lost their lives when the King's son arrived, and, captivated by her beauty, he decided to risk his life in hopes of winning her.
So he came before her and propounded his riddle. ‘What is this?’ he asked. ‘One slew none and yet killed twelve.’
So he approached her and presented his riddle. 'What is this?' he asked. 'One killed none and yet took out twelve.'
She could not think what it was! She thought, and thought, and looked through all her books of riddles and puzzles, but she found nothing to help her, and could not guess; in fact, she was at her wits’ end. As she could think of no way to guess the riddle, she ordered her maid to steal at night into the Prince’s bedroom and to listen, for she thought that he might perhaps talk aloud in his dreams and so betray the secret. But the clever servant had taken his master’s place, and when the maid came he tore off the cloak she had wrapped herself in and hunted her off with a whip.
She couldn’t figure out what it was! She thought and thought, and looked through all her riddle and puzzle books, but she couldn’t find anything to help and couldn't guess; in fact, she was completely stumped. Since she couldn’t think of any way to solve the riddle, she told her maid to sneak into the Prince’s bedroom at night and listen, hoping that he might talk in his sleep and reveal the secret. But the clever servant had taken his master’s place, and when the maid arrived, he ripped off the cloak she had wrapped herself in and chased her away with a whip.
On the second night the Princess sent her lady-in-waiting, hoping that she might succeed better, but the servant took away her mantle and chased her away also.
On the second night, the Princess sent her lady-in-waiting, hoping she would have better luck, but the servant took her cloak and sent her away too.
On the third night the King’s son thought he really might feel safe, so he went to bed. But in the middle of the night the Princess came herself, all huddled up in a misty grey mantle, and sat down near him. When she thought he was fast asleep, she spoke to him, hoping he would answer in the midst of his dreams, as many people do; but he was wide awake all the time, and heard and understood everything very well.
On the third night, the King’s son felt secure enough to go to bed. But in the middle of the night, the Princess herself came, all bundled up in a misty gray cloak, and sat down next to him. When she thought he was fast asleep, she spoke to him, hoping he would respond in his dreams, like many people do; but he was fully awake and heard everything clearly.
Then she asked: ‘One slew none—what is that?’ and he answered: ‘A raven which fed on the carcase of a poisoned horse.’
Then she asked, "What does 'one slew none' mean?" and he replied, "It's a raven that fed on the carcass of a poisoned horse."
She went on: ‘And yet killed twelve—what is that?’ ‘Those are twelve murderers who ate the raven and died of it.’
She continued, “And yet killed twelve—what does that even mean?” “Those are twelve murderers who ate the raven and died from it.”
As soon as she knew the riddle she tried to slip away, but he held her mantle so tightly that she was obliged to leave it behind.
As soon as she figured out the riddle, she tried to get away, but he held onto her cloak so tightly that she had no choice but to leave it behind.
Next morning the Princess announced that she had guessed the riddle, and sent for the twelve judges, before whom she declared it. But the young man begged to be heard, too, and said: ‘She came by night to question me, otherwise she never could have guessed it.’
Next morning, the Princess declared that she had solved the riddle and called for the twelve judges to present her answer. However, the young man requested to speak as well and said, “She came to me at night to ask about it; otherwise, she never would have figured it out.”
The judges said: ‘Bring us some proof.’ So the servant brought out the three cloaks, and when the judges saw the grey one, which the Princess was in the habit of wearing, they said: ‘Let it be embroidered with gold and silver; it shall be your wedding mantle.’
The judges said, “Show us some proof.” So the servant brought out the three cloaks, and when the judges saw the gray one that the Princess usually wore, they said, “Let’s have it embroidered with gold and silver; it will be your wedding cloak.”
Grimm.
Grimm.
JACK MY HEDGEHOG
There was once a farmer who lived in great comfort. He had both lands and money, but, though he was so well off, one thing was wanting to complete his happiness; he had no children. Many and many a time, when he met other farmers at the nearest market town, they would teaze him, asking how it came about that he was childless. At length he grew so angry that he exclaimed: ‘I must and will have a child of some sort or kind, even should it only be a hedgehog!’
There was once a farmer who lived quite well. He owned land and had money, but despite his good fortune, there was one thing missing that would complete his happiness: he had no children. Time and again, when he met other farmers at the nearest market town, they would tease him, asking why he had no kids. Eventually, he became so frustrated that he shouted, "I must and will have a child of any sort, even if it's just a hedgehog!"
Not long after this his wife gave birth to a child, but though the lower half of the little creature was a fine boy, from the waist upwards it was a hedgehog, so that when his mother first saw him she was quite frightened, and said to her husband, ‘There now, you have cursed the child yourself.’ The farmer said, ‘What’s the use of making a fuss? I suppose the creature must be christened, but I don’t see how we are to ask anyone to be sponsor to him, and what are we to call him?’
Not long after, his wife gave birth to a child. However, while the lower half of the little one was a healthy boy, from the waist up it was a hedgehog. When his mother first saw him, she was quite frightened and said to her husband, “Look, you've cursed the child yourself.” The farmer replied, “What's the point in making a fuss? I guess we need to have him baptized, but I don’t know how we can ask anyone to be his godparent, and what should we even name him?”
‘There is nothing we can possibly call him but Jack my Hedgehog,’ replied the wife.
‘We can only call him Jack my Hedgehog,’ replied the wife.
So they took him to be christened, and the parson said: ‘You’ll never be able to put that child in a decent bed on account of his prickles.’ Which was true, but they shook down some straw for him behind the stove, and there he lay for eight years. His father grew very tired of him and often wished him dead, but he did not die, but lay on there year after year.
So they took him to get baptized, and the priest said, “You’ll never be able to put that kid in a decent bed because of his prickles.” Which was true, but they spread some straw for him behind the stove, and that’s where he lay for eight years. His father got really tired of him and often wished he were dead, but he didn’t die; he just lay there year after year.
Now one day there was a big fair at the market town to which the farmer meant to go, so he asked his wife what he should bring her from it. ‘Some meat and a couple of big loaves for the house,’ said she. Then he asked the maid what she wanted, and she said a pair of slippers and some stockings. Lastly he said, ‘Well, Jack my Hedgehog, and what shall I bring you?’
Now one day there was a big fair in the market town that the farmer planned to attend, so he asked his wife what she wanted him to bring back. “Some meat and a couple of big loaves for the house,” she replied. Then he asked the maid what she wanted, and she said a pair of slippers and some stockings. Lastly, he asked, “Well, Jack my Hedgehog, what do you want me to bring you?”
‘Daddy,’ said he, ‘do bring me a bagpipe.’ When the farmer came home he gave his wife and the maid the things they had asked for, and then he went behind the stove and gave Jack my Hedgehog the bagpipes.
‘Daddy,’ he said, ‘please bring me a bagpipe.’ When the farmer got home, he gave his wife and the maid the things they had requested, and then he went behind the stove and gave Jack my Hedgehog the bagpipes.
When Jack had got his bagpipes he said, ‘Daddy, do go to the smithy and have the house cock shod for me; then I’ll ride off and trouble you no more.’ His father, who was delighted at the prospect of getting rid of him, had the cock shod, and when it was ready Jack my Hedgehog mounted on its back and rode off to the forest, followed by all the pigs and asses which he had promised to look after.
When Jack got his bagpipes, he said, “Dad, please go to the blacksmith and have the house rooster shod for me; then I’ll ride off and won't bother you anymore.” His father, who was thrilled at the idea of getting rid of him, had the rooster shod. When it was ready, Jack the Hedgehog climbed onto its back and rode off to the forest, followed by all the pigs and donkeys he had promised to take care of.
Having reached the forest he made the cock fly up to the top of a very tall tree with him, and there he sat looking after his pigs and donkeys, and he sat on and on for several years till he had quite a big herd; but all this time his father knew nothing about him.
Having arrived at the forest, he made the rooster fly up to the top of a very tall tree with him, and there he sat watching over his pigs and donkeys. He stayed there for several years until he had quite a big herd; but all this time, his father had no idea where he was.
As he sat up in his tree he played away on his pipes and drew the loveliest music from them. As he was playing one day a King, who had lost his way, happened to pass close by, and hearing the music he was much surprised, and sent one of his servants to find out where it came from. The man peered about, but he could see nothing but a little creature which looked like a cock with a hedgehog sitting on it, perched up in a tree. The King desired the servant to ask the strange creature why it sat there, and if it knew the shortest way to his kingdom.
As he sat up in his tree, he played his pipes and created the most beautiful music. One day, while he was playing, a King who had lost his way happened to pass by and was very surprised by the music. He sent one of his servants to find out where it was coming from. The servant looked around but could only see a small creature that looked like a rooster with a hedgehog on it, perched in a tree. The King asked the servant to inquire why the strange creature was sitting there and if it knew the shortest way to his kingdom.
On this Jack my Hedgehog stepped down from his tree and said he would undertake to show the King his way home if the King on his part would give him his written promise to let him have whatever first met him on his return.
On this, Jack my Hedgehog climbed down from his tree and said he would take the King home if the King would promise in writing to give him whatever he came across first on his way back.
The King thought to himself, ‘That’s easy enough to promise. The creature won’t understand a word about it, so I can just write what I choose.’
The King thought to himself, ‘That’s easy enough to promise. The creature won’t understand a word of it, so I can just write whatever I want.’
So he took pen and ink and wrote something, and when he had done Jack my Hedgehog pointed out the way and the King got safely home.
So he grabbed a pen and some ink and wrote something, and once he was done, Jack my Hedgehog showed him the way, and the King got home safely.
Now when the King’s daughter saw her father returning in the distance she was so delighted that she ran to meet him and threw herself into his arms. Then the King remembered Jack my Hedgehog, and he told his daughter how he had been obliged to give a written promise to bestow whatever he first met when he got home on an extraordinary creature which had shown him the way. The creature, said he, rode on a cock as though it had been a horse, and it made lovely music, but as it certainly could not read he had just written that he would not give it anything at all. At this the Princess was quite pleased, and said how cleverly her father had managed, for that of course nothing would induce her to have gone off with Jack my Hedgehog.
Now, when the King’s daughter spotted her father coming back in the distance, she was so thrilled that she ran to greet him and jumped into his arms. The King then remembered Jack my Hedgehog and explained to his daughter that he had to give a written promise to reward whatever he first encountered when he got home, thanks to an unusual creature that had shown him the way. He described the creature as riding a rooster as if it were a horse and making beautiful music, but since it clearly couldn't read, he had simply written that he would not give it anything at all. Hearing this, the Princess was quite pleased and remarked on how cleverly her father had handled the situation, because, of course, nothing would have tempted her to run off with Jack my Hedgehog.
Meantime Jack minded his asses and pigs, sat aloft in his tree, played his bagpipes, and was always merry and cheery. After a time it so happened that another King, having lost his way, passed by with his servants and escort, wondering how he could find his way home, for the forest was very vast. He too heard the music, and told one of his men to find out whence it came. The man came under the tree, and looking up to the top there he saw Jack my Hedgehog astride on the cock.
In the meantime, Jack took care of his donkeys and pigs, sat up in his tree, played his bagpipes, and was always happy and cheerful. Eventually, another king, having gotten lost, passed by with his servants and guards, trying to figure out how to get home since the forest was quite large. He also heard the music and told one of his men to find out where it was coming from. The man went under the tree and looked up, where he saw Jack my Hedgehog sitting on the rooster.
The servant asked Jack what he was doing up there. ‘I’m minding my pigs and donkeys; but what do you want?’ was the reply. Then the servant told him they had lost their way, and wanted some one to show it them. Down came Jack my Hedgehog with his cock, and told the old King he would show him the right way if he would solemnly promise to give him the first thing he met in front of his royal castle.
The servant asked Jack what he was doing up there. "I’m taking care of my pigs and donkeys; but what do you need?" was the reply. Then the servant told him they had lost their way and needed someone to show it to them. Down came Jack my Hedgehog with his rooster and told the old King he would show him the right way if he would promise to give him the first thing he encountered in front of his royal castle.
The King said ‘Yes,’ and gave Jack a written promise to that effect.
The King said, “Yes,” and gave Jack a written confirmation of that.
Then Jack rode on in front pointing out the way, and the King reached his own country in safety.
Then Jack rode ahead, showing the way, and the King made it back to his country safely.
Now he had an only daughter who was extremely beautiful, and who, delighted at her father’s return, ran to meet him, threw her arms round his neck and kissed him heartily. Then she asked where he had been wandering so long, and he told her how he had lost his way and might never have reached home at all but for a strange creature, half-man, half-hedgehog, which rode a cock and sat up in a tree making lovely music, and which had shown him the right way. He also told her how he had been obliged to pledge his word to give the creature the first thing which met him outside his castle gate, and he felt very sad at the thought that she had been the first thing to meet him.
Now he had an only daughter who was incredibly beautiful, and when she saw her father return, she ran to him, threw her arms around his neck, and gave him a big kiss. Then she asked where he had been wandering for so long, and he explained how he had gotten lost and might never have made it home if it weren't for a strange creature, part man, part hedgehog, that rode a rooster and sat in a tree playing beautiful music; this creature had shown him the right way. He also shared how he had to promise to give the creature the first thing that met him outside his castle gate, and he felt very sad knowing that she had been the first to greet him.
But the Princess comforted him, and said she should be quite willing to go with Jack my Hedgehog whenever he came to fetch her, because of the great love she bore to her dear old father.
But the Princess reassured him and said she would be totally willing to go with Jack my Hedgehog whenever he came to get her, because of the deep love she had for her dear old father.
Jack my Hedgehog continued to herd his pigs, and they increased in number till there were so many that the forest seemed full of them. So he made up his mind to live there no longer, and sent a message to his father telling him to have all the stables and outhouses in the village cleared, as he was going to bring such an enormous herd that all who would might kill what they chose. His father was much vexed at this news, for he thought Jack had died long ago. Jack my Hedgehog mounted his cock, and driving his pigs before him into the village, he let every one kill as many as they chose, and such a hacking and hewing of pork went on as you might have heard for miles off.
Jack the Hedgehog kept herding his pigs, and they multiplied so much that the forest seemed packed with them. So he decided he could no longer live there and sent a message to his father, asking him to clear out all the stables and outhouses in the village because he was bringing such a huge herd that anyone could kill as many as they wanted. His father was very upset by this news, thinking Jack had died a long time ago. Jack the Hedgehog rode his rooster into the village, driving his pigs ahead of him, and allowed everyone to kill as many as they liked, resulting in such a chopping and butchering of pork that you could hear it for miles.
Then said Jack, ‘Daddy, let the blacksmith shoe my cock once more; then I’ll ride off, and I promise you I’ll never come back again as long as I live.’ So the father had the cock shod, and rejoiced at the idea of getting rid of his son.
Then Jack said, “Dad, let the blacksmith put shoes on my rooster one more time; then I’ll ride off, and I promise I’ll never come back again as long as I live.” So the father had the rooster shod and was happy at the thought of getting rid of his son.
Then Jack my Hedgehog set off for the first kingdom, and there the King had given strict orders that if anyone should be seen riding a cock and carrying a bagpipe he was to be chased away and shot at, and on no account to be allowed to enter the palace. So when Jack my Hedgehog rode up the guards charged him with their bayonets, but he put spurs to his cock, flew up over the gate right to the King’s windows, let himself down on the sill, and called out that if he was not given what had been promised him, both the King and his daughter should pay for it with their lives. Then the King coaxed and entreated his daughter to go with Jack and so save both their lives.
Then Jack, my Hedgehog, set off for the first kingdom, where the King had given strict orders that anyone seen riding a rooster and carrying a bagpipe was to be chased off and shot at, and absolutely not allowed inside the palace. So when Jack rode up, the guards charged at him with their bayonets, but he spurred his rooster, soared over the gate right to the King’s windows, let himself down onto the sill, and shouted that if he wasn’t given what had been promised, both the King and his daughter would pay for it with their lives. Then the King urged and pleaded with his daughter to go with Jack and save both their lives.
The Princess dressed herself all in white, and her father gave her a coach with six horses and servants in gorgeous liveries and quantities of money. She stepped into the coach, and Jack my Hedgehog with his cock and pipes took his place beside her. They both took leave, and the King fully expected never to set eyes on them again. But matters turned out very differently from what he had expected, for when they had got a certain distance from the town Jack tore all the Princess’s smart clothes off her, and pricked her all over with his bristles, saying: ‘That’s what you get for treachery. Now go back, I’ll have no more to say to you.’ And with that he hunted her home, and she felt she had been disgraced and put to shame till her life’s end.
The Princess put on a beautiful white dress, and her father gave her a carriage with six horses, along with servants in splendid uniforms and plenty of money. She climbed into the carriage, and Jack, my Hedgehog, with his cock and pipes, took his place beside her. They both said their goodbyes, and the King fully expected never to see them again. But things turned out very differently than he had thought because once they had traveled a bit away from the town, Jack stripped the Princess of all her nice clothes and pricked her all over with his quills, saying, “That's what you get for being disloyal. Now go back, I don’t want to talk to you anymore.” With that, he chased her back home, and she felt disgraced and shamed for the rest of her life.
Then Jack my Hedgehog rode on with his cock and bagpipes to the country of the second King to whom he had shown the way. Now this King had given orders that, in the event of Jack’s coming the guards were to present arms, the people to cheer, and he was to be conducted in triumph to the royal palace.
Then Jack my Hedgehog rode on with his rooster and bagpipes to the kingdom of the second King he had guided. This King had commanded that when Jack arrived, the guards should salute, the people should cheer, and he was to be escorted in triumph to the royal palace.
When the King’s daughter saw Jack my Hedgehog, she was a good deal startled, for he certainly was very peculiar looking; but after all she considered that she had given her word and it couldn’t be helped. So she made Jack welcome and they were betrothed to each other, and at dinner he sat next her at the royal table, and they ate and drank together.
When the King’s daughter saw Jack my Hedgehog, she was quite startled, as he looked very unusual; but in the end, she remembered that she had given her word and there was no changing that. So she welcomed Jack, and they became engaged to one another. During dinner, he sat next to her at the royal table, and they ate and drank together.
When they retired to rest the Princess feared lest Jack should kiss her because of his prickles, but he told her not to be alarmed as no harm should befall her. Then he begged the old King to place a watch of four men just outside his bedroom door, and to desire them to make a big fire. When he was about to lie down in bed he would creep out of his hedgehog skin, and leave it lying at the bedside; then the men must rush in, throw the skin into the fire, and stand by till it was entirely burnt up.
When they went to bed, the Princess worried that Jack might kiss her because of his prickles, but he reassured her not to be afraid as no harm would come to her. Then he asked the old King to set up a watch of four men right outside his bedroom door and to have them make a large fire. When he was ready to get into bed, he would sneak out of his hedgehog skin and leave it by the bedside; then the men needed to rush in, throw the skin into the fire, and stand by until it was completely burned away.
And so it was, for when it struck eleven, Jack my Hedgehog went to his room, took off his skin and left it at the foot of the bed. The men rushed in, quickly seized the skin and threw it on the fire, and directly it was all burnt Jack was released from his enchantment and lay in his bed a man from head to foot, but quite black as though he had been severely scorched.
And so it was, that when the clock struck eleven, Jack, my hedgehog, went to his room, took off his skin, and left it at the foot of the bed. The men rushed in, quickly grabbed the skin, and threw it into the fire. As soon as it was completely burned, Jack was freed from his enchantment and lay in his bed as a man from head to toe, though he was completely black as if he had been badly burned.
The King sent off for his physician in ordinary, who washed Jack all over with various essences and salves, so that he became white and was a remarkably handsome young man. When the King’s daughter saw him she was greatly pleased, and next day the marriage ceremony was performed, and the old King bestowed his kingdom on Jack my Hedgehog.
The King called for his regular doctor, who bathed Jack with different oils and creams until he was clean and turned into a strikingly handsome young man. When the King’s daughter saw him, she was very happy, and the next day they had the wedding ceremony, and the old King gave his kingdom to Jack my Hedgehog.
After some years Jack and his wife went to visit his father, but the farmer did not recognize him, and declared he had no son; he had had one, but that one was born with bristles like a hedgehog, and had gone off into the wide world. Then Jack told his story, and his old father rejoiced and returned to live with him in his kingdom.
After a few years, Jack and his wife went to visit his father, but the farmer didn’t recognize him and insisted he had no son. He had one, but that son was born with bristles like a hedgehog and had left for the outside world. Then Jack shared his story, and his father was overjoyed and moved back to live with him in his kingdom.
Grimm.
Grimm.
THE GOLDEN LADS
A poor man and his wife lived in a little cottage, where they supported themselves by catching fish in the nearest river, and got on as best they could, living from hand to mouth. One day it happened that when the fisherman drew in his net he found in it a remarkable fish, for it was entirely of gold. As he was inspecting it with some surprise, the fish opened its mouth and said: ‘Listen to me, fisher; if you will just throw me back into the water I’ll turn your poor little cottage into a splendid castle.’
A poor man and his wife lived in a small cottage, where they made a living by fishing in the nearby river, getting by as best they could, living from day to day. One day, when the fisherman pulled in his net, he discovered a remarkable fish that was completely made of gold. As he examined it in surprise, the fish opened its mouth and said: ‘Listen to me, fisherman; if you throw me back into the water, I’ll transform your little cottage into a magnificent castle.’
The fisher replied: ‘What good, pray, will a castle be to me if I have nothing to eat in it?’
The fisherman replied, "What good is a castle to me if I have nothing to eat in it?"
‘Oh,’ said the gold fish, ‘I’ll take care of that. There will be a cupboard in the castle, in which you will find dishes of every kind of food you can wish for most.’
‘Oh,’ said the goldfish, ‘I’ll handle that. There will be a cupboard in the castle where you can find all kinds of food you could possibly wish for.’
‘If that’s the case,’ said the man, ‘I’ve no objection to oblige you.’
‘If that’s the case,’ said the man, ‘I have no problem helping you.’
‘Yes,’ observed the fish, ‘but there is one condition attached to my offer, and that is that you are not to reveal to a soul where your good fortune comes from. If you say a word about it, it will all vanish.’
‘Yes,’ said the fish, ‘but there’s one condition to my offer: you must not tell anyone where your good luck comes from. If you say anything about it, it will all disappear.’
The man threw the fish back into the water, and went home. But on the spot where his cottage used to stand he found a spacious castle. He opened his eyes wide, went in and found his wife dressed out in smart clothes, sitting in a splendidly furnished drawing-room. She was in high spirits, and cried out: ‘Oh husband! how can this all have happened? I am so pleased!’
The man threw the fish back into the water and went home. But where his cottage used to be, he found a large castle. He widened his eyes, entered, and saw his wife dressed in fancy clothes, sitting in a beautifully furnished living room. She was in great spirits and exclaimed, "Oh honey! How did all this happen? I'm so happy!"
‘Yes,’ said her husband, ‘so am I pleased; but I’m uncommonly hungry, and I want something to eat at once.’
‘Yes,’ said her husband, ‘I’m glad too; but I’m really hungry, and I want something to eat right now.’
Said his wife, ‘I’ve got nothing, and I don’t know where anything is in this new house.’
Said his wife, ‘I have nothing, and I don’t know where anything is in this new house.’
‘Never mind,’ replied the man. ‘I see a big cupboard there. Suppose you unlock it.’
'Don't worry about it,' said the man. 'I see a large cabinet over there. How about you unlock it?'
When the cupboard was opened they found meat, cakes, fruit, and wine, all spread out in the most tempting fashions. The wife clapped her hands with joy, and cried: ‘Dear heart! what more can one wish for?’ and they sat down and ate and drank.
When the cupboard was opened, they found meat, cakes, fruit, and wine, all laid out in the most tempting ways. The wife clapped her hands with joy and exclaimed, "Oh darling! What else could anyone want?" Then they sat down and ate and drank.
When they had finished the wife asked, ‘But husband, where do all these riches come from?’
When they were done, the wife asked, “But honey, where do all these riches come from?”
‘Ah!’ said he, ‘don’t ask me. I dare not tell you. If I reveal the secret to anyone, it will be all up with us.’
‘Ah!’ he said, ‘please don’t ask me. I can’t tell you. If I share the secret with anyone, it will all be over for us.’
‘Very well,’ she replied, ‘if I’m not to be told, of course I don’t want to know anything about it.’
‘Fine,’ she said, ‘if I’m not going to be told, then I definitely don’t want to know anything about it.’
But she was not really in earnest, for her curiosity never left her a moment’s peace by day or night, and she teazed and worried her husband to such a pitch, that at length he quite lost patience and blurted out that it all came from a wonderful golden fish which he had caught and set free again. Hardly were the words well out of his mouth, when castle, cupboard, and all vanished, and there they were sitting in their poor little fishing hut once more.
But she wasn't really serious, because her curiosity never gave her a moment's peace, day or night, and she nagged and stressed her husband so much that eventually he lost his patience and blurted out that it all came from a magical golden fish he had caught and set free. As soon as the words left his mouth, the castle, the cupboards, and everything else disappeared, and they found themselves back in their small fishing hut once again.
The man had to betake himself to his former trade, and set to fishing again. As luck would have it, he caught the golden fish a second time.
The man had to go back to his old job and started fishing again. As luck would have it, he caught the golden fish a second time.
‘Now listen,’ said the fish, ‘if you’ll throw me back into the water, I’ll give you back the castle and the cupboard with all its good things; but now take care, and don’t for your life betray where you got them, or you’ll just lose them again.’
‘Now listen,’ said the fish, ‘if you throw me back into the water, I’ll give you back the castle and the cupboard filled with all its treasures; but be careful, and don’t ever reveal where you got them, or you’ll just lose them again.’
‘I’ll be very careful,’ promised the fisher, and threw the fish back into the water. When he went home he found all their former splendour restored, and his wife overjoyed at their good fortune. But her curiosity still continued to torment her, and after restraining it with a great effort for a couple of days, she began questioning her husband again, as to what had happened, and how he had managed.
‘I’ll be very careful,’ promised the fisherman, and tossed the fish back into the water. When he got home, he found all their previous glory restored, and his wife thrilled about their good luck. But her curiosity still nagged at her, and after holding it back with a lot of effort for a couple of days, she started asking her husband again about what had happened and how he had managed it.
The man kept silence for some time, but at last she irritated him so much that he burst out with the secret, and in one moment the castle was gone, and they sat once more in their wretched old hut.
The man stayed quiet for a while, but eventually she annoyed him so much that he blurted out the secret, and in an instant the castle disappeared, leaving them sitting again in their miserable old hut.
‘There!’ exclaimed the man, ‘you would have it—now we may just go on short commons.’
‘There!’ exclaimed the man, ‘you got it—now we can just make do with less.’
‘Ah!’ said his wife, ‘after all I’d rather not have all the riches in the world if I can’t know where they come from—I shall not have a moment’s peace.’
‘Ah!’ said his wife, ‘after all, I’d rather not have all the riches in the world if I can’t know where they come from—I won’t have a moment’s peace.’
The man took to his fishing again, and one day fate brought the gold fish into his net for the third time. ‘Well,’ said the fish, ‘I see that I am evidently destined to fall into your hands. Now take me home, and cut me into six pieces. Give two bits to your wife to eat, two to your horse, and plant the remaining two in your garden, and they will bring you a blessing.’
The man went fishing again, and one day fate led the goldfish into his net for the third time. “Well,” said the fish, “I see that I’m clearly meant to end up in your hands. Now take me home, and cut me into six pieces. Give two pieces to your wife to eat, two to your horse, and plant the last two in your garden, and they will bring you a blessing.”
The man carried the fish home, and did exactly as he had been told. After a time, it came to pass that from the two pieces he had planted in the garden two golden lilies grew up, and that his horse had two golden foals, whilst his wife gave birth to twin boys who were all golden.
The man took the fish home and did exactly what he was told. After a while, two golden lilies sprouted from the two pieces he had planted in the garden, his horse had two golden foals, and his wife gave birth to twin boys, all of whom were golden.
The children grew up both tall and handsome, and the foals and the lilies grew with them.
The kids grew up tall and good-looking, and the foals and lilies grew alongside them.
One day the children came to their father and said, ‘Father, we want to mount on golden steeds, and ride forth to see the world.’
One day, the kids went to their dad and said, "Dad, we want to get on golden horses and go out to explore the world."
Their father answered sadly, ‘How can I bear it if, when you are far away, I know nothing about you?’ and they said, ‘The golden lilies will tell you all about us if you look at them. If they seem to droop, you will know we are ill, and if they fall down and fade away, it will be a sign we are dead.’
Their father replied sadly, "How can I handle it if I know nothing about you when you're far away?" They answered, "The golden lilies will tell you everything if you look at them. If they start to droop, you'll know we’re not well, and if they fall and fade away, it will mean we’re dead."
So off they rode, and came to an inn where were a number of people who, as soon as they saw the two golden lads, began to laugh and jeer at them. When one of them heard this, his heart failed him, and he thought he would go no further into the world, so he turned back and rode home to his father, but his brother rode on till he reached the outskirts of a huge forest. Here he was told, ‘It will never do for you to ride through the forest, it is full of robbers, and you’re sure to come to grief, especially when they see that you and your horse are golden. They will certainly fall on you and kill you.’ However, he was not to be intimidated, but said, ‘I must and will ride on.’
So off they rode and arrived at an inn where a bunch of people started laughing and mocking them as soon as they saw the two golden boys. One of them heard this and felt so discouraged that he decided he wouldn't go any further into the world. So he turned back and rode home to his father, but his brother kept going until he reached the edge of a massive forest. There, he was warned, "You can't ride through the forest; it’s full of robbers, and you’re bound to get into trouble, especially since you and your horse are golden. They will definitely attack you and kill you." However, he wouldn’t be scared off and said, "I have to and will ride on."
So he procured some bears’ skins, and covered himself and his horse with them, so that not a particle of gold could be seen, and then rode bravely on into the heart of the forest.
So he got some bear skins and wrapped himself and his horse in them, so not a bit of gold was visible, and then confidently rode deep into the forest.
When he had got some way he heard a rustling through the bushes and presently a sound of voices. Someone whispered on one side of him: ‘There goes someone,’ and was answered from the other side: ‘Oh, let him pass. He’s only a bear-keeper, and as poor as any church mouse.’ So golden lad rode through the forest and no harm befell him.
When he had traveled a bit, he heard rustling in the bushes and soon voices. Someone whispered beside him, “There goes someone,” and another voice replied from the other side, “Oh, let him pass. He’s just a bear keeper and as poor as a church mouse.” So the young man rode through the forest and nothing bad happened to him.
One day he came to a village, where he saw a girl who struck him as being the loveliest creature in the whole world, and as he felt a great love for her, he went up to her and said: ‘I love you with all my heart; will you be my wife?’ And the girl liked him so much that she put her hand in his and replied: ‘Yes, I will be your wife, and will be true to you as long as I live.’
One day he arrived at a village and saw a girl who he thought was the most beautiful person in the world. Feeling a strong love for her, he approached her and said, “I love you with all my heart; will you marry me?” The girl liked him so much that she took his hand and replied, “Yes, I will be your wife, and I will stay true to you for the rest of my life.”
So they were married, and in the middle of all the festivities and rejoicings the bride’s father came home and was not a little surprised at finding his daughter celebrating her wedding. He enquired: ‘And who is the bridegroom?’
So they got married, and in the midst of all the celebrations and festivities, the bride's father came home and was quite surprised to find his daughter celebrating her wedding. He asked, “And who is the groom?”
Then someone pointed out to him the golden lad, who was still wrapped up in the bear’s skin, and the father exclaimed angrily: ‘Never shall a mere bear-keeper have my daughter,’ and tried to rush at him and kill him. But the bride did all she could to pacify him, and begged hard, saying: ‘After all he is my husband, and I love him with all my heart,’ so that at length he gave in.
Then someone pointed out the golden boy, who was still wrapped in the bear skin, and the father shouted angrily, "No way will a simple bear keeper have my daughter!" He tried to charge at him to attack. But the bride did everything she could to calm him down and pleaded, saying, "After all, he is my husband, and I love him with all my heart," until he finally relented.
However, he could not dismiss the thought from his mind, and next morning he rose very early, for he felt he must go and look at his daughter’s husband and see whether he really was nothing better than a mere ragged beggar. So he went to his son-in-law’s room, and who should he see lying in the bed but a splendid golden man, and the rough bearskin thrown on the ground close by. Then he slipped quietly away, and thought to himself, ‘How lucky that I managed to control my rage! I should certainly have committed a great crime.’
However, he couldn't shake the thought from his mind, and the next morning he got up very early, feeling he needed to check on his daughter's husband and see if he was really just a ragged beggar after all. So, he went to his son-in-law's room, and who did he find lying in the bed but a magnificent golden man, with the coarse bearskin tossed on the ground nearby. He then quietly slipped away, thinking to himself, 'How lucky I am that I managed to control my anger! I definitely would have committed a serious crime.'
Meantime the golden lad dreamt that he was out hunting and was giving chase to a noble stag, and when he woke he said to his bride: ‘I must go off and hunt.’ She felt very anxious, and begged he would stay at home, adding: ‘Some mishap might so easily befall you,’ but he answered, ‘I must and will go.’
Meanwhile, the golden boy dreamed that he was out hunting, chasing a majestic stag. When he woke up, he told his bride, “I have to go hunting.” She was quite worried and pleaded with him to stay home, saying, “Something bad could easily happen to you,” but he replied, “I have to go, and I will go.”
So he went off into the forest, and before long a fine stag, such as he had seen in his dream, stopped just in front of him. He took aim, and was about to fire when the stag bounded away. Then he started off in pursuit, making his way through bushes and briars, and never stopped all day; but in the evening the stag entirely disappeared, and when golden lad came to look about him he found himself just opposite a hut in which lived a witch. He knocked at the door, which was opened by a little old woman who asked, ‘What do you want at this late hour in the midst of this great forest?’
So he wandered into the forest, and soon enough, a beautiful stag, just like the one he had seen in his dream, appeared right in front of him. He took aim and was about to shoot when the stag leaped away. Then he took off after it, pushing his way through bushes and thorns, and didn’t stop all day; but by evening, the stag had completely vanished, and when the golden lad looked around, he found himself right in front of a hut where a witch lived. He knocked on the door, and a little old woman opened it and asked, “What do you need at this late hour in the middle of this big forest?”
He said, ‘Haven’t you seen a stag about here?’
He asked, "Haven't you seen a deer around here?"
‘Yes,’ said she, ‘I know the stag well,’ and as she spoke a little dog ran out of the house and began barking and snapping at the stranger.
‘Yes,’ she said, ‘I know the stag well,’ and as she spoke, a small dog ran out of the house and started barking and snapping at the stranger.
‘Be quiet, you little toad,’ he cried, ‘or I’ll shoot you dead.’
‘Be quiet, you little toad,’ he shouted, ‘or I’ll shoot you dead.’
Then the witch flew into a great rage, and screamed out, ‘What! you’ll kill my dog, will you?’ and the next moment he was turned to stone and lay there immovable, whilst his bride waited for him in vain and thought to herself, ‘Alas! no doubt the evil I feared, and which has made my heart so heavy, has befallen him.’
Then the witch got really angry and shouted, ‘What! You’ll kill my dog, will you?’ In the next moment, he was turned to stone and lay there completely still, while his bride waited for him in vain, thinking to herself, ‘Oh no! The terrible thing I feared, which has made my heart so heavy, has happened to him.’
Meantime, the other brother was standing near the golden lilies at home, when suddenly one of them bent over and fell to the ground. ‘Good heavens!’ cried he, ‘some great misfortune has befallen my brother. I must set off at once; perhaps I may still be in time to save him.’
Meantime, the other brother was standing near the golden lilies at home when suddenly one of them bent over and fell to the ground. “Good heavens!” he exclaimed, “something terrible must have happened to my brother. I need to leave right away; maybe I can still save him.”
His father entreated him, ‘Stay at home. If I should lose you too, what would become of me?’
His father pleaded with him, ‘Stay home. If I lose you too, what will happen to me?’
But his son replied, ‘I must and will go.’
But his son replied, "I have to go, and I will."
Then he mounted his golden horse, and rode off till he reached the forest where his brother lay transformed to stone. The old witch came out of her house and called to him, for she would gladly have cast her spells on him too, but he took care not to go near her, and called out: ‘Restore my brother to life at once, or I’ll shoot you down on the spot.’
Then he got on his golden horse and rode until he reached the forest where his brother was turned to stone. The old witch came out of her house and called to him because she would have loved to cast her spells on him too, but he made sure to keep his distance and shouted, “Bring my brother back to life right now, or I’ll shoot you on the spot.”
Reluctantly she touched the stone with her finger, and in a moment it resumed its human shape. The two golden lads fell into each other’s arms and kissed each other with joy, and then rode off together to the edge of the forest, where they parted, one to return to his old father, and the other to his bride.
Reluctantly, she touched the stone with her finger, and in an instant, it took on its human form again. The two golden boys fell into each other’s arms and joyfully kissed, then rode off together to the edge of the forest, where they said goodbye—one heading back to his old father and the other to his bride.
When the former got home his father said, ‘I knew you had delivered your brother, for all of a sudden the golden lily reared itself up and burst into blossom.’
When the former got home, his father said, ‘I knew you had helped your brother, because suddenly the golden lily stood up and bloomed.’
Then they all lived happily to their lives’ ends, and all things went well with them.
Then they all lived happily ever after, and everything went well for them.
Grimm.
Grimm.
THE WHITE SNAKE
Not very long ago there lived a King, the fame of whose wisdom was spread far and wide. Nothing appeared to be unknown to him, and it really seemed as if tidings of the most secret matters must be borne to him by the winds. He had one very peculiar habit. Every day, after the dinner table had been cleared, and everyone had retired, a confidential servant brought in a dish. It was covered, and neither the servant nor anyone else had any idea what was on it, for the King never removed the cover or partook of the dish, till he was quite alone.
Not long ago, there was a King whose reputation for wisdom spread far and wide. It seemed there was nothing he didn't know, as if the whispers of the most secret news were carried to him on the winds. He had one very unusual habit. Every day, after the dinner table was cleared and everyone had left, a trusted servant would bring in a dish. It was covered, and neither the servant nor anyone else knew what was underneath, because the King never lifted the cover or touched the dish until he was completely alone.
This went on for some time till, one day, the servant who removed the dish was so overcome with curiosity, that he could not resist carrying it off to his own room. After carefully locking the door, he lifted the cover, and there he saw a white snake lying on the dish. On seeing it he could not restrain his desire to taste it, so he cut off a small piece and put it in his mouth.
This went on for a while until one day, the servant who took away the dish was so curious that he couldn't help but take it to his own room. After carefully locking the door, he lifted the cover, and there he found a white snake on the dish. Seeing it, he couldn't resist the urge to taste it, so he cut off a small piece and put it in his mouth.
Hardly had it touched his tongue than he heard a strange sort of whispering of tiny voices outside his window. He stepped to the casement to listen, and found that the sound proceeded from the sparrows, who were talking together and telling each other all they had seen in the fields and woods. The piece of the white snake which he had eaten had enabled him to understand the language of animals.
Hardly had it touched his tongue when he heard a weird sort of whispering from tiny voices outside his window. He moved to the window to listen and discovered that the sound came from the sparrows, who were chatting together and sharing everything they had seen in the fields and woods. The bite of the white snake he had eaten had given him the ability to understand the language of animals.
Now on this particular day, it so happened that the Queen lost her favourite ring, and suspicion fell on the confidential servant who had access to all parts of the palace. The King sent for him, and threatened him angrily, saying that if he had not found the thief by the next day, he should himself be taken up and tried.
Now on this specific day, the Queen happened to lose her favorite ring, and suspicion fell on the trusted servant who had access to every part of the palace. The King called for him and angrily threatened that if he hadn’t found the thief by the next day, he would be arrested and put on trial himself.
It was useless to assert his innocence; he was dismissed without ceremony. In his agitation and distress, he went down to the yard to think over what he could do in this trouble. Here were a number of ducks resting near a little stream, and pluming, themselves with their bills, whilst they kept up an animated conversation amongst themselves. The servant stood still listening to them. They were talking of where they had been waddling about all the morning, and of the good food they had found, but one of them remarked rather sadly, ‘There’s something lying very heavy on my stomach, for in my haste I’ve swallowed a ring, which was lying just under the Queen’s window.’
It was pointless to claim he was innocent; he was let go without any hesitation. In his frustration and worry, he went down to the yard to think about what he could do about this situation. There were several ducks resting near a small stream, preening themselves with their beaks while having a lively chat among themselves. The servant stood still, listening to them. They were discussing where they had been waddling around all morning and the delicious food they had found, but one of them sadly said, “There’s something weighing heavily on my stomach because in my rush, I swallowed a ring that was lying just under the Queen’s window.”
No sooner did the servant hear this than he seized the duck by the neck, carried it off to the kitchen, and said to the cook, ‘Suppose you kill this duck; you see she’s nice and fat.’
No sooner did the servant hear this than he grabbed the duck by the neck, took it to the kitchen, and said to the cook, “Why don’t you kill this duck? She’s nice and fat.”
‘Yes, indeed,’ said the cook, weighing the duck in his hand, ‘she certainly has spared no pains to stuff herself well, and must have been waiting for the spit for some time.’ So he chopped off her head, and when she was opened there was the Queen’s ring in her stomach.
‘Yes, for sure,’ said the cook, weighing the duck in his hand, ‘she definitely went all out to stuff herself and must have been waiting for the spit for a while.’ So he chopped off her head, and when he opened her up, there was the Queen’s ring in her stomach.
It was easy enough now for the servant to prove his innocence, and the King, feeling he had done him an injustice, and anxious to make some amends, desired him to ask any favour he chose, and promised to give him the highest post at Court he could wish for.
It was simple for the servant to clear his name now, and the King, realizing he had wronged him and wanting to make things right, told him to ask for any favor he wanted, promising to give him the highest position at Court he desired.
The servant, however, declined everything, and only begged for a horse and some money to enable him to travel, as he was anxious to see something of the world.
The servant, however, turned down everything and only asked for a horse and some money to help him travel, as he was eager to see more of the world.
When his request was granted, he set off on his journey, and in the course of it he one day came to a large pond, on the edge of which he noticed three fishes which had got entangled in the reeds and were gasping for water. Though fish are generally supposed to be quite mute, he heard them grieving aloud at the prospect of dying in this wretched manner. Having a very kind heart he dismounted and soon set the prisoners free, and in the water once more. They flapped with joy, and stretching up their heads cried to him: ‘We will remember, and reward you for saving us.’
When his request was granted, he set off on his journey, and one day he came across a large pond. On the edge, he noticed three fish that had gotten tangled in the reeds and were gasping for water. Even though fish are usually thought to be silent, he heard them lamenting the thought of dying in such a miserable way. With his kind heart, he got down and quickly freed them, placing them back in the water. They flopped around happily, and lifting their heads, they called out to him: ‘We will remember you and reward you for saving us.’
He rode further, and after a while he thought he heard a voice in the sand under his feet. He paused to listen, and heard the King of the Ants complaining: ‘If only men with their awkward beasts would keep clear of us! That stupid horse is crushing my people mercilessly to death with his great hoofs.’ The servant at once turned into a side path, and the Ant-King called after him, ‘We’ll remember and reward you.’
He rode on, and after a while, he thought he heard a voice in the sand beneath his feet. He stopped to listen and heard the King of the Ants complaining, “If only humans and their clumsy animals would stay away from us! That dumb horse is crushing my people mercilessly to death with his huge hooves.” The servant immediately took a side path, and the Ant-King called out to him, “We’ll remember and reward you.”
The road next led through a wood, where he saw a father and a mother raven standing by their nest and throwing out their young: ‘Away with you, you young rascals!’ they cried, ‘we can’t feed you any longer. You are quite big enough to support yourselves now.’ The poor little birds lay on the ground flapping and beating their wings, and shrieked, ‘We poor helpless children, feed ourselves indeed! Why, we can’t even fly yet; what can we do but die of hunger?’ Then the kind youth dismounted, drew his sword, and killing his horse left it there as food for the young ravens. They hopped up, satisfied their hunger, and piped: ‘We’ll remember, and reward you!’
The road next led through a forest, where he saw a mother and father raven standing by their nest and pushing their young ones out: ‘Get out of here, you little troublemakers!’ they shouted, ‘we can’t feed you anymore. You’re old enough to take care of yourselves now.’ The poor little birds lay on the ground flapping their wings and cried out, ‘We helpless little kids, feed ourselves? We can’t even fly yet; what can we do but starve?’ Then the kind young man got off his horse, drew his sword, and killed his horse, leaving it there as food for the young ravens. They hopped over, satisfied their hunger, and chirped: ‘We’ll remember this and repay you!’
He was now obliged to trust to his own legs, and after walking a long way he reached a big town. Here he found a great crowd and much commotion in the streets, and a herald rode about announcing, ‘The King’s daughter seeks a husband, but whoever would woo her must first execute a difficult task, and if he does not succeed he must be content to forfeit his life.’ Many had risked their lives, but in vain. When the youth saw the King’s daughter, he was so dazzled by her beauty, that he forgot all idea of danger, and went to the King to announce himself a suitor.
He had to rely on his own feet, and after walking for quite a while, he arrived at a large city. There, he encountered a huge crowd and a lot of commotion in the streets, while a herald rode around declaring, ‘The King’s daughter is looking for a husband, but anyone who wishes to win her must first complete a challenging task, and if he fails, he must be prepared to lose his life.’ Many had put their lives on the line, but to no avail. When the young man saw the King’s daughter, he was so captivated by her beauty that he forgot all about the danger and went to the King to present himself as a suitor.
On this he was led out to a large lake, and a gold ring was thrown into it before his eyes. The King desired him to dive after it, adding, ‘If you return without it you will be thrown back into the lake time after time, till you are drowned in its depths.’
On this, he was taken to a big lake, and a gold ring was tossed into it right in front of him. The King told him to dive for it, adding, ‘If you come back without it, you'll be thrown back into the lake over and over until you drown in its depths.’
Everyone felt sorry for the handsome young fellow and left him alone on the shore. There he stood thinking and wondering what he could do, when all of a sudden he saw three fishes swimming along, and recognised them as the very same whose lives he had saved. The middle fish held a mussel in its mouth, which it laid at the young man’s feet, and when he picked it up and opened it, there was the golden ring inside.
Everyone felt bad for the handsome young guy and left him alone on the shore. There he stood, thinking and wondering what he could do, when suddenly he saw three fish swimming by and recognized them as the ones whose lives he had saved. The middle fish had a mussel in its mouth, which it dropped at the young man’s feet. When he picked it up and opened it, there was a golden ring inside.
Full of delight he brought it to the King’s daughter, expecting to receive his promised reward. The haughty Princess, however, on hearing that he was not her equal by birth despised him, and exacted the fulfilment of a second task.
Full of joy, he brought it to the King’s daughter, expecting to receive his promised reward. The arrogant Princess, however, upon learning that he was not her equal by birth, looked down on him and demanded that he complete a second task.
She went into the garden, and with her own hands she strewed ten sacks full of millet all over the grass. ‘He must pick all that up to-morrow morning before sunrise,’ she said; ‘not a grain must be lost.’
She walked into the garden and personally scattered ten sacks full of millet all over the grass. "He has to pick all of this up by tomorrow morning before the sun comes up," she said; "not a single grain can be lost."
The youth sat down in the garden and wondered how it would be possible for him to accomplish such a task, but he could think of no expedient, and sat there sadly expecting to meet his death at daybreak.
The young man sat in the garden, wondering how he could possibly achieve such a task, but he couldn’t think of any way to do it. He sat there sadly, expecting to face his death at dawn.
But when the first rays of the rising sun fell on the garden, he saw the ten sacks all completely filled, standing there in a row, and not a single grain missing. The Ant-King, with his thousands and thousands of followers, had come during the night, and the grateful creatures had industriously gathered all the millet together and put it in the sacks.
But when the first rays of the rising sun hit the garden, he saw the ten sacks completely full, lined up in a row, with not a single grain missing. The Ant-King, with his thousands and thousands of followers, had come during the night, and the grateful creatures had worked hard to gather all the millet and fill the sacks.
The King’s daughter came down to the garden herself, and saw to her amazement that her suitor had accomplished the task she had given him. But even now she could not bend her proud heart, and she said, ‘Though he has executed these two tasks, yet he shall not be my husband till he brings me an apple from the tree of life.’
The princess went down to the garden herself and, to her surprise, saw that her suitor had completed the tasks she had given him. But even now she couldn’t lower her pride, and she said, “Even though he has done these two tasks, he will not be my husband until he brings me an apple from the tree of life.”
The young man did not even know where the tree of life grew, but he set off, determined to walk as far as his legs would carry him, though he had no hope of ever finding it.
The young man had no idea where the tree of life was located, but he started his journey, determined to walk as far as his legs could take him, even though he had no hope of ever finding it.
After journeying through three different kingdoms he reached a wood one night, and lying down under a tree prepared to go to sleep there. Suddenly he heard a sound in the boughs, and a golden apple fell right into his hand. At the same moment three ravens flew down to him, perched on his knee and said, ‘We are the three young ravens whom you saved from starvation. When we grew up and heard you were searching for the golden apple, we flew far away over the seas to the end of the world, where the tree of life grows, and fetched the golden apple for you.’
After traveling through three different kingdoms, he ended up in a forest one night and lay down under a tree, getting ready to sleep there. Suddenly, he heard a noise in the branches, and a golden apple dropped right into his hand. At the same time, three ravens flew down to him, landed on his knee, and said, "We are the three young ravens you saved from starving. Once we grew up and heard you were looking for the golden apple, we flew far across the seas to the edge of the world, where the tree of life grows, and brought back the golden apple for you."
Full of joy the young man started on his way back and brought the golden apple to the lovely Princess, whose objections were now entirely silenced. They divided the apple of life and ate it together, and her heart grew full of love for him, so they lived together to a great age in undisturbed happiness.
Full of joy, the young man set out on his way back and brought the golden apple to the beautiful Princess, whose objections were now completely gone. They shared the apple of life and ate it together, and her heart filled with love for him, so they lived together for many years in peaceful happiness.
Grimm.
Grimm.
THE STORY OF A CLEVER TAILOR
Once upon a time there lived an exceedingly proud Princess. If any suitor for her hand ventured to present himself, she would give him some riddle or conundrum to guess, and if he failed to do so, he was hunted out of the town with scorn and derision. She gave out publicly that all comers were welcome to try their skill, and that whoever could solve her riddle should be her husband.
Once upon a time, there was a very proud Princess. If any suitor came to present himself, she would challenge him with a riddle or puzzle, and if he couldn't solve it, he was chased out of town with ridicule and contempt. She announced publicly that everyone was welcome to try their luck, and whoever could solve her riddle would become her husband.
Now it happened that three tailors had met together, and the two elder thought, that after having successfully put in so many fine and strong stitches with never a wrong one amongst them, they were certain to do the right thing here too. The third tailor was a lazy young scamp who did not even know his own trade properly, but who thought that surely luck would stand by him now, just for once, for, if not, what was to become of him?
Now, it happened that three tailors gathered together, and the two older ones believed that after successfully making so many fine and strong stitches without a single mistake, they would definitely handle this situation right as well. The third tailor was a lazy young guy who didn’t even know his own trade well, but he thought that maybe luck would be on his side this time, because if it wasn't, what was going to happen to him?
The two others said to him, ‘You just stay at home, you’ll never get on much with your small allowance of brains.’ But the little tailor was not to be daunted, and said he had set his mind on it and meant to shift for himself, so off he started as though the whole world belonged to him.
The other two said to him, “Just stay home; you won't go far with your limited brainpower.” But the little tailor wasn’t discouraged and insisted he was determined to make his own way, so he set off as if the whole world was his to conquer.
The three tailors arrived at Court, where they had themselves duly presented to the Princess, and begged she would propound her riddles, ‘for,’ said they, ‘here were the right men at last, with wits so sharp and so fine you might almost thread a needle with them.’
The three tailors showed up at the Court, where they were formally introduced to the Princess, and they asked her to share her riddles, saying, "Because we are the right people for the job, with minds so sharp and clever you could almost use them to thread a needle."
Then said the Princess, ‘I have on my head two different kinds of hair. Of what colours are they?’
Then the Princess said, ‘I have two different kinds of hair on my head. What colors are they?’
‘If that’s all,’ said the first tailor, ‘they are most likely black and white, like the kind of cloth we call pepper-and-salt.’
‘If that’s all,’ said the first tailor, ‘they're probably black and white, like the type of fabric we call pepper-and-salt.’
‘Wrong,’ said the Princess.
"Incorrect," said the Princess.
‘Then,’ said the second tailor, ‘if they are not black and white, no doubt they are red and brown, like my father’s Sunday coat.’
‘Then,’ said the second tailor, ‘if they’re not black and white, they’re probably red and brown, just like my dad’s Sunday coat.’
‘Wrong again,’ said the Princess; ‘now let the third speak. I see he thinks he knows all about it.’
‘Wrong again,’ said the Princess; ‘now let the third one speak. I see he thinks he knows everything about it.’
Then the young tailor stepped boldly to the front and said, ‘The Princess has one silver and one golden hair on her head, and those are the two colours.’
Then the young tailor stepped up confidently and said, ‘The Princess has one silver and one golden hair on her head, and those are the two colors.’
When the Princess heard this she turned quite pale, and almost fainted away with fear, for the little tailor had hit the mark, and she had firmly believed that not a soul could guess it. When she had recovered herself she said, ‘Don’t fancy you have won me yet, there is something else you must do first. Below in the stable is a bear with whom you must spend the night, and if when I get up in the morning I find you still alive you shall marry me.’
When the Princess heard this, she went pale and nearly fainted from fear because the little tailor had hit the nail on the head, and she had believed that no one could figure it out. Once she collected herself, she said, “Don’t think you’ve won me yet; there’s something else you have to do first. Down in the stable is a bear that you must spend the night with, and if I find you alive in the morning, you can marry me.”
She quite expected to rid herself of the tailor in this way, for the bear had never left anyone alive who had once come within reach of his claws. The tailor, however, had no notion of being scared, but said cheerily, ‘Bravely dared is half won.’
She fully expected to get rid of the tailor like this, since the bear had never left anyone alive who had come within reach of his claws. The tailor, however, had no intention of being frightened and said cheerfully, “What you face boldly is halfway to victory.”
When evening came on he was taken to the stable. The bear tried to get at him at once and to give him a warm welcome with his great paws. ‘Gently, gently,’ said the tailor, ‘I’ll soon teach you to be quiet,’ and he coolly drew a handful of walnuts from his pocket and began cracking and eating them as though he had not a care or anxiety in the world. When the bear saw this he began to long for some nuts himself. The tailor dived into his pocket and gave him a handful, but they were pebbles, not nuts. The bear thrust them into his mouth, but try as he might he could not manage to crack them. ‘Dear me,’ thought he, ‘what a stupid fool I must be—can’t even crack a nut,’ and he said to the tailor, ‘I say, crack my nuts for me, will you?’
When evening arrived, he was taken to the stable. The bear immediately tried to greet him with his big paws. "Easy there," said the tailor, "I'll show you how to behave." He calmly pulled a handful of walnuts from his pocket and began cracking and munching on them like he had no worries at all. When the bear saw this, he started craving some nuts for himself. The tailor reached into his pocket and tossed him a handful, but they were pebbles, not nuts. The bear put them in his mouth, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't crack them. "Goodness," he thought, "what a silly fool I must be—can't even crack a nut," and he said to the tailor, "Hey, can you crack my nuts for me, please?"
‘You’re a nice sort of fellow,’ said the tailor; ‘the idea of having those great jaws and not being able even to crack a walnut!’ So he took the stone, quickly changed it for a nut, and crack! it split open in a moment.
‘You’re a nice guy,’ said the tailor; ‘the thought of having those huge jaws and not being able to even crack a walnut!’ So he took the stone, quickly swapped it for a nut, and crack! it split open in no time.
‘Let me try again,’ said the bear; ‘when I see the thing done it looks so easy I fancy I must be able to manage it myself.’
‘Let me try again,’ said the bear; ‘when I see it done, it looks so easy that I think I should be able to handle it myself.’
So the tailor gave him some more pebbles, and the bear bit and gnawed away as hard as he could, but I need hardly say that he did not succeed in cracking one of them.
So the tailor gave him some more pebbles, and the bear bit and gnawed away as hard as he could, but I hardly need to say that he didn’t succeed in cracking a single one.
Presently the tailor took out a little fiddle and began playing on it. When the bear heard the music he could not help dancing, and after he had danced some time he was so pleased that he said to the tailor, ‘I say, is fiddling difficult?’ ‘Mere child’s play,’ replied the tailor; ‘look here! you press the strings with the fingers of the left hand, and with the right, you draw the bow across them, so—then it goes as easily as possible, up and down, tra la la la la—’
Currently, the tailor pulled out a small fiddle and started playing it. When the bear heard the music, he couldn’t help but dance, and after dancing for a while, he was so happy that he asked the tailor, "Hey, is fiddling hard?" "It's just child's play," the tailor answered; "look here! You press the strings with the fingers of your left hand, and with your right, you draw the bow across them like this—then it’s as easy as can be, up and down, tra la la la la—"
‘Oh,’ cried the bear, ‘I do wish I could play like that, then I could dance whenever the fancy took me. What do you think? Would you give me some lessons?’
‘Oh,’ exclaimed the bear, ‘I really wish I could play like that; then I could dance whenever I wanted. What do you think? Would you teach me?’
‘With all my heart,’ said the tailor, ‘if you are sharp about it. But just let me look at your paws. Dear me, your nails are terribly long; I must really cut them first.’ Then he fetched a pair of stocks, and the bear laid his paws on them, and the tailor screwed them up tight. ‘Now just wait whilst I fetch my scissors,’ said he, and left the bear growling away to his heart’s content, whilst he lay down in a corner and fell fast asleep.
“Of course,” said the tailor, “if you’re in a hurry. But let me take a look at your paws first. Wow, your nails are super long; I really need to trim them first.” Then he got a pair of stocks, and the bear put his paws on them while the tailor fastened them tightly. “Just hang tight while I grab my scissors,” he said, and left the bear growling happily as he settled down in a corner and fell fast asleep.
When the Princess heard the bear growling so loud that night, she made sure he was roaring with delight as he worried the tailor.
When the Princess heard the bear growling loudly that night, she made sure he was roaring with joy as he troubled the tailor.
Next morning she rose feeling quite cheerful and free from care, but when she looked across towards the stables, there stood the tailor in front of the door looking as fresh and lively as a fish in the water.
Next morning she got up feeling cheerful and carefree, but when she glanced over at the stables, there was the tailor standing at the door, looking as fresh and lively as a fish in water.
After this it was impossible to break the promise she had made so publicly, so the King ordered out the state coach to take her and the tailor to church to be married.
After this, it was impossible to break the promise she had made so publicly, so the King ordered the state coach to take her and the tailor to church to get married.
As they were starting, the two bad-hearted other tailors, who were envious of the younger one’s happiness, went to the stable and unscrewed the bear. Off he tore after the carriage, foaming with rage. The Princess heard his puffing and roaring, and growing frightened she cried: ‘Oh dear! the bear is after us and will certainly catch us up!’ The tailor remained quite unmoved. He quietly stood on his head, stuck his legs out at the carriage window and called out to the bear, ‘Do you see my stocks? If you don’t go home this minute I’ll screw you tight into them.’
As they were getting started, the two envious tailors, who resented the younger one's happiness, went to the stable and unscrewed the bear. He charged after the carriage, foaming with anger. The Princess heard his huffing and roaring, and growing scared she shouted, "Oh no! The bear is chasing us and will definitely catch up!" The tailor remained completely unfazed. He calmly stood on his head, stuck his legs out of the carriage window, and called out to the bear, "Do you see my stocks? If you don’t go home right now, I’ll screw you tightly into them."
When the bear saw and heard this he turned right round and ran off as fast as his legs would carry him. The tailor drove on unmolested to church, where he and the Princess were married, and he lived with her many years as happy and merry as a lark. Whoever does not believe this story must pay a dollar.
When the bear saw and heard this, he immediately turned around and ran away as fast as he could. The tailor continued on to church without any trouble, where he and the Princess got married, and they lived together for many years, happily and joyfully. Anyone who doesn’t believe this story has to pay a dollar.
Grimm.
Grimm (the Brothers Grimm).
THE GOLDEN MERMAID
A powerful king had, among many other treasures, a wonderful tree in his garden, which bore every year beautiful golden apples. But the King was never able to enjoy his treasure, for he might watch and guard them as he liked, as soon as they began to get ripe they were always stolen. At last, in despair, he sent for his three sons, and said to the two eldest, ‘Get yourselves ready for a journey. Take gold and silver with you, and a large retinue of servants, as beseems two noble princes, and go through the world till you find out who it is that steals my golden apples, and, if possible, bring the thief to me that I may punish him as he deserves.’ His sons were delighted at this proposal, for they had long wished to see something of the world, so they got ready for their journey with all haste, bade their father farewell, and left the town.
A powerful king had, among many other treasures, a magnificent tree in his garden that produced beautiful golden apples every year. But the king could never enjoy his treasure; no matter how much he watched and guarded them, as soon as the apples began to ripen, they were always stolen. Finally, in despair, he called for his three sons and said to the two oldest, “Get ready for a journey. Take gold and silver with you, along with a large group of servants, as befits two noble princes, and travel the world until you find out who is stealing my golden apples, and, if possible, bring the thief to me so I can punish him as he deserves.” His sons were thrilled by this idea since they had long wanted to explore the world, so they quickly prepared for their journey, said goodbye to their father, and left the town.
The youngest Prince was much disappointed that he too was not sent out on his travels; but his father wouldn’t hear of his going, for he had always been looked upon as the stupid one of the family, and the King was afraid of something happening to him. But the Prince begged and implored so long, that at last his father consented to let him go, and furnished him with gold and silver as he had done his brothers. But he gave him the most wretched horse in his stable, because the foolish youth hadn’t asked for a better. So he too set out on his journey to secure the thief, amid the jeers and laughter of the whole court and town.
The youngest Prince was really disappointed that he wasn’t allowed to go on his travels too. But his dad wouldn’t let him, as he had always been seen as the dull one in the family, and the King worried something might happen to him. However, after begging and pleading for a long time, his father eventually agreed to let him go and provided him with gold and silver like his brothers had received. But he gave him the worst horse in the stable because the foolish youth hadn't asked for a better one. So, he set out on his journey to catch the thief, facing the mockery and laughter of the entire court and town.
His path led him first through a wood, and he hadn’t gone very far when he met a lean-looking wolf who stood still as he approached. The Prince asked him if he were hungry, and when the wolf said he was, he got down from his horse and said, ‘If you are really as you say and look, you may take my horse and eat it.’
His path took him through a forest, and he hadn't walked long when he came across a skinny-looking wolf who stood still as he got closer. The Prince asked him if he was hungry, and when the wolf replied that he was, he got off his horse and said, "If you're really as you seem, you can take my horse and eat it."
The wolf didn’t wait to have the offer repeated, but set to work, and soon made an end of the poor beast. When the Prince saw how different the wolf looked when he had finished his meal, he said to him, ‘Now, my friend, since you have eaten up my horse, and I have such a long way to go, that, with the best will in the world, I couldn’t manage it on foot, the least you can do for me is to act as my horse and to take me on your back.’
The wolf didn’t hesitate to accept the offer and quickly got to work, soon finishing off the poor animal. When the Prince saw how different the wolf looked after his meal, he said, “Now, my friend, since you’ve eaten my horse and I have a long way to go, there’s no way I can do it on foot. The least you can do for me is to carry me on your back.”
‘Most certainly,’ said the wolf, and, letting the Prince mount him, he trotted gaily through the wood. After they had gone a little way he turned round and asked his rider where he wanted to go to, and the Prince proceeded to tell him the whole story of the golden apples that had been stolen out of the King’s garden, and how his other two brothers had set forth with many followers to find the thief. When he had finished his story, the wolf, who was in reality no wolf but a mighty magician, said he thought he could tell him who the thief was, and could help him to secure him. ‘There lives,’ he said, ‘in a neighbouring country, a mighty emperor who has a beautiful golden bird in a cage, and this is the creature who steals the golden apples, but it flies so fast that it is impossible to catch it at its theft. You must slip into the Emperor’s palace by night and steal the bird with the cage; but be very careful not to touch the walls as you go out.’
“Absolutely,” said the wolf, and, once the Prince climbed onto his back, he happily trotted through the woods. After they’d gone a little way, he turned around and asked the Prince where he wanted to go. The Prince then told him the entire story about the golden apples that had been stolen from the King’s garden, and how his two brothers had set out with many followers to find the thief. When he finished his story, the wolf, who was actually a powerful magician and not just a wolf, said he thought he knew who the thief was and could help him catch the thief. “There’s a powerful emperor in a neighboring country who has a beautiful golden bird in a cage, and that creature is the one stealing the golden apples. It flies so fast that it’s impossible to catch it in the act. You need to sneak into the emperor’s palace at night and steal the bird along with the cage, but be very careful not to touch the walls as you leave.”
The following night the Prince stole into the Emperor’s palace, and found the bird in its cage as the wolf had told him he would. He took hold of it carefully, but in spite of all his caution he touched the wall in trying to pass by some sleeping watchmen. They awoke at once, and, seizing him, beat him and put him into chains. Next day he was led before the Emperor, who at once condemned him to death and to be thrown into a dark dungeon till the day of his execution arrived.
The next night, the Prince sneaked into the Emperor’s palace and found the bird in its cage, just as the wolf had said. He grabbed it carefully, but despite all his caution, he brushed against the wall while trying to get past some sleeping guards. They woke up immediately, grabbed him, beat him, and put him in chains. The next day, he was brought before the Emperor, who immediately sentenced him to death and ordered him to be thrown into a dark dungeon until the day of his execution.
The wolf, who, of course, knew by his magic arts all that had happened to the Prince, turned himself at once into a mighty monarch with a large train of followers, and proceeded to the Court of the Emperor, where he was received with every show of honour. The Emperor and he conversed on many subjects, and, among other things, the stranger asked his host if he had many slaves. The Emperor told him he had more than he knew what to do with, and that a new one had been captured that very night for trying to steal his magic bird, but that as he had already more than enough to feed and support, he was going to have this last captive hanged next morning.
The wolf, who, of course, was aware through his magical abilities of everything that had happened to the Prince, immediately transformed into a powerful king with a large entourage and made his way to the Emperor's Court, where he was welcomed with great honor. The Emperor and he talked about many topics, and, among other things, the stranger asked his host if he had many slaves. The Emperor replied that he had more than he knew how to manage, and that a new one had been captured that very night for attempting to steal his magical bird, but since he already had more than enough to feed and take care of, he planned to have this last captive executed the next morning.
‘He must have been a most daring thief,’ said the King, ‘to try and steal the magic bird, for depend upon it the creature must have been well guarded. I would really like to see this bold rascal.’ ‘By all means,’ said the Emperor; and he himself led his guest down to the dungeon where the unfortunate Prince was kept prisoner. When the Emperor stepped out of the cell with the King, the latter turned to him and said, ‘Most mighty Emperor, I have been much disappointed. I had thought to find a powerful robber, and instead of that I have seen the most miserable creature I can imagine. Hanging is far too good for him. If I had to sentence him I should make him perform some very difficult task, under pain of death. If he did it so much the better for you, and if he didn’t, matters would just be as they are now and he could still be hanged.’ ‘Your counsel,’ said the Emperor, ‘is excellent, and, as it happens, I’ve got the very thing for him to do. My nearest neighbour, who is also a mighty Emperor, possesses a golden horse which he guards most carefully. The prisoner shall be told to steal this horse and bring it to me.’
‘He must have been a really bold thief,’ said the King, ‘to try and steal the magic bird, because I’m sure that creature was well guarded. I’d really like to see this daring scoundrel.’ ‘Of course,’ said the Emperor; and he personally led his guest down to the dungeon where the unfortunate Prince was held captive. When the Emperor stepped out of the cell with the King, the latter turned to him and said, ‘Most powerful Emperor, I’m quite disappointed. I expected to find a formidable robber, but instead I’ve seen the most pitiful creature I can imagine. Hanging is way too good for him. If I had to pass judgment, I’d make him perform some really difficult task, under the threat of death. If he succeeds, that’s great for you, and if he fails, things would just stay as they are now, and he could still be hanged.’ ‘Your suggestion,’ said the Emperor, ‘is excellent, and as it turns out, I have just the task for him. My closest neighbor, who is also a mighty Emperor, has a golden horse that he guards very carefully. The prisoner will be ordered to steal this horse and bring it to me.’
The Prince was then let out of his dungeon, and told his life would be spared if he succeeded in bringing the golden horse to the Emperor. He did not feel very elated at this announcement, for he did not know how in the world he was to set about the task, and he started on his way weeping bitterly, and wondering what had made him leave his father’s house and kingdom. But before he had gone far his friend the wolf stood before him and said, ‘Dear Prince, why are you so cast down? It is true you didn’t succeed in catching the bird; but don’t let that discourage you, for this time you will be all the more careful, and will doubtless catch the horse.’ With these and like words the wolf comforted the Prince, and warned him specially not to touch the wall or let the horse touch it as he led it out, or he would fail in the same way as he had done with the bird.
The Prince was then released from his dungeon and told that his life would be spared if he managed to bring the golden horse to the Emperor. He didn't feel very happy about this news, since he had no idea how he was going to accomplish the task, and he began his journey weeping bitterly, wondering why he had left his father's home and kingdom. But before he had gone far, his friend the wolf appeared in front of him and said, "Dear Prince, why are you so down? It's true you didn't manage to catch the bird, but don't let that get you down. This time, you'll be more careful, and you'll definitely catch the horse." With these encouraging words, the wolf comforted the Prince and specifically warned him not to touch the wall or let the horse touch it while he was leading it out, or he would fail just like he did with the bird.
After a somewhat lengthy journey the Prince and the wolf came to the kingdom ruled over by the Emperor who possessed the golden horse. One evening late they reached the capital, and the wolf advised the Prince to set to work at once, before their presence in the city had aroused the watchfulness of the guards. They slipped unnoticed into the Emperor’s stables and into the very place where there were the most guards, for there the wolf rightly surmised they would find the horse. When they came to a certain inner door the wolf told the Prince to remain outside, while he went in. In a short time he returned and said, ‘My dear Prince, the horse is most securely watched, but I have bewitched all the guards, and if you will only be careful not to touch the wall yourself, or let the horse touch it as you go out, there is no danger and the game is yours. The Prince, who had made up his mind to be more than cautious this time, went cheerfully to work. He found all the guards fast asleep, and, slipping into the horse’s stall, he seized it by the bridle and led it out; but, unfortunately, before they had got quite clear of the stables a gadfly stung the horse and caused it to switch its tail, whereby it touched the wall. In a moment all the guards awoke, seized the Prince and beat him mercilessly with their horse-whips, after which they bound him with chains, and flung him into a dungeon. Next morning they brought him before the Emperor, who treated him exactly as the King with the golden bird had done, and commanded him to be beheaded on the following day.
After a pretty long journey, the Prince and the wolf arrived at the kingdom ruled by the Emperor who owned the golden horse. Late one evening, they reached the capital, and the wolf advised the Prince to get to work right away, before the guards noticed they were in the city. They quietly slipped into the Emperor’s stables and into the area where the guards were thickest, because the wolf correctly guessed they would find the horse there. When they reached a certain inner door, the wolf told the Prince to stay outside while he went in. Shortly after, he returned and said, “My dear Prince, the horse is heavily guarded, but I’ve put all the guards under a spell. If you can just be careful not to touch the wall yourself, or let the horse touch it as you leave, you’ll be fine and the horse will be yours.” The Prince, determined to be extra careful this time, got to work eagerly. He found all the guards fast asleep and, slipping into the horse’s stall, he grabbed it by the bridle and led it out. Unfortunately, before they had completely left the stables, a gadfly stung the horse, making it swat its tail and touch the wall. In an instant, all the guards woke up, grabbed the Prince, and mercilessly beat him with their horse-whips. Then they chained him up and threw him into a dungeon. The next morning, they brought him before the Emperor, who treated him just like the King with the golden bird had and ordered him to be beheaded the next day.
When the wolf-magician saw that the Prince had failed this time too, he transformed himself again into a mighty king, and proceeded with an even more gorgeous retinue than the first time to the Court of the Emperor. He was courteously received and entertained, and once more after dinner he led the conversation on to the subject of slaves, and in the course of it again requested to be allowed to see the bold robber who had dared to break into the Emperor’s stable to steal his most valuable possession. The Emperor consented, and all happened exactly as it had done at the court of the Emperor with the golden bird; the prisoner’s life was to be spared only on condition that within three days he should obtain possession of the golden mermaid, whom hitherto no mortal had ever approached.
When the wolf-magician saw that the Prince had failed again, he transformed himself once more into a powerful king and arrived at the Emperor's Court with an even more impressive entourage than before. He was warmly welcomed and entertained, and after dinner, he steered the conversation toward the topic of slaves. During this discussion, he asked to meet the daring robber who had attempted to steal the Emperor's most prized possession from the stable. The Emperor agreed, and everything unfolded just as it had at the Emperor's court with the golden bird; the prisoner's life would be spared only if he could acquire the golden mermaid within three days, a creature that no human had ever approached before.
Very depressed by his dangerous and difficult task, the Prince left his gloomy prison; but, to his great joy, he met his friend the wolf before he had gone many miles on his journey. The cunning creature pretended he knew nothing of what had happened to the Prince, and asked him how he had fared with the horse. The Prince told him all about his misadventure, and the condition on which the Emperor had promised to spare his life. Then the wolf reminded him that he had twice got him out of prison, and that if he would only trust in him, and do exactly as he told him, he would certainly succeed in this last undertaking. Thereupon they bent their steps towards the sea, which stretched out before them, as far as their eyes could see, all the waves dancing and glittering in the bright sunshine. ‘Now,’ continued the wolf, ‘I am going to turn myself into a boat full of the most beautiful silken merchandise, and you must jump boldly into the boat, and steer with my tail in your hand right out into the open sea. You will soon come upon the golden mermaid. Whatever you do, don’t follow her if she calls you, but on the contrary say to her, “The buyer comes to the seller, not the seller to the buyer.” After which you must steer towards the land, and she will follow you, for she won’t be able to resist the beautiful wares you have on board your ship.’
Very depressed by his dangerous and difficult task, the Prince left his gloomy prison; but to his great joy, he met his friend the wolf before he had traveled many miles on his journey. The clever creature pretended he knew nothing of what had happened to the Prince and asked him how he had fared with the horse. The Prince recounted his misadventure and the condition on which the Emperor had promised to spare his life. The wolf reminded him that he had rescued him from prison twice before, and if he would just trust him and do exactly what he said, he would definitely succeed in this last endeavor. Then they headed towards the sea, which stretched out before them as far as they could see, with waves dancing and glittering in the bright sunshine. ‘Now,’ the wolf continued, ‘I’m going to turn myself into a boat filled with the most beautiful silken merchandise, and you must boldly jump into the boat and steer with my tail in your hand right out into the open sea. You will soon come across the golden mermaid. Whatever you do, don’t follow her if she calls you; instead, say to her, “The buyer comes to the seller, not the seller to the buyer.” After you say that, you must steer towards land, and she will follow you because she won't be able to resist the beautiful goods you have on board your ship.’
The Prince promised faithfully to do all he had been told, whereupon the wolf changed himself into a ship full of most exquisite silks, of every shade and colour imaginable. The astonished Prince stepped into the boat, and, holding the wolf’s tail in his hand, he steered boldly out into the open sea, where the sun was gilding the blue waves with its golden rays. Soon he saw the golden mermaid swimming near the ship, beckoning and calling to him to follow her; but, mindful of the wolf’s warning, he told her in a loud voice that if she wished to buy anything she must come to him. With these words he turned his magic ship round and steered back towards the land. The mermaid called out to him to stand still, but he refused to listen to her and never paused till he reached the sand of the shore. Here he stopped and waited for the mermaid, who had swum after him. When she drew near the boat he saw that she was far more beautiful than any mortal he had ever beheld. She swam round the ship for some time, and then swung herself gracefully on board, in order to examine the beautiful silken stuffs more closely. Then the Prince seized her in his arms, and kissing her tenderly on the cheeks and lips, he told her she was his for ever; at the same moment the boat turned into a wolf again, which so terrified the mermaid that she clung to the Prince for protection.
The Prince promised to do everything he was told, and then the wolf transformed into a ship filled with the most beautiful silks in every shade and color you could imagine. The amazed Prince hopped into the boat, holding the wolf’s tail as he confidently sailed into the open sea, where the sun was shining on the blue waves with golden light. Soon, he spotted a golden mermaid swimming near the ship, waving and calling for him to follow her; but remembering the wolf’s warning, he shouted back that if she wanted to buy anything, she needed to come to him. With that, he turned the magical ship around and headed back toward the shore. The mermaid called out for him to stop, but he ignored her and didn’t slow down until he reached the sandy beach. There, he waited for the mermaid, who had followed him. When she got closer to the boat, he noticed she was more beautiful than any human he had ever seen. She swam around the ship for a while and then gracefully climbed aboard to get a better look at the gorgeous silks. Then the Prince took her in his arms and kissed her tenderly on the cheeks and lips, telling her she was his forever; at that moment, the boat transformed back into a wolf, which scared the mermaid so much that she held onto the Prince for safety.
So the golden mermaid was successfully caught, and she soon felt quite happy in her new life when she saw she had nothing to fear either from the Prince or the wolf—she rode on the back of the latter, and the Prince rode behind her. When they reached the country ruled over by the Emperor with the golden horse, the Prince jumped down, and, helping the mermaid to alight, he led her before the Emperor. At the sight of the beautiful mermaid and of the grim wolf, who stuck close to the Prince this time, the guards all made respectful obeisance, and soon the three stood before his Imperial Majesty. When the Emperor heard from the Prince how he had gained possession of his fair prize, he at once recognized that he had been helped by some magic art, and on the spot gave up all claim to the beautiful mermaid. ‘Dear youth,’ he said, ‘forgive me for my shameful conduct to you, and, as a sign that you pardon me, accept the golden horse as a present. I acknowledge your power to be greater even than I can understand, for you have succeeded in gaining possession of the golden mermaid, whom hitherto no mortal has ever been able to approach.’ Then they all sat down to a huge feast, and the Prince had to relate his adventures all over again, to the wonder and astonishment of the whole company.
So the golden mermaid was successfully caught, and she soon felt quite happy in her new life when she saw that she had nothing to fear from the Prince or the wolf—she rode on the back of the latter, and the Prince rode behind her. When they reached the land ruled by the Emperor with the golden horse, the Prince jumped down, helped the mermaid get off, and led her before the Emperor. At the sight of the beautiful mermaid and the fierce wolf, who stayed close to the Prince this time, the guards all bowed respectfully, and soon the three stood before his Imperial Majesty. When the Emperor heard from the Prince how he had gained his fair prize, he immediately realized that some magic was at play, and there and then gave up all claims to the beautiful mermaid. "Dear young man," he said, "forgive me for my shameful behavior towards you, and as a sign that you pardon me, accept the golden horse as a gift. I recognize your power to be greater than I can comprehend, for you have managed to capture the golden mermaid, whom no mortal has ever been able to approach before." Then they all sat down to a grand feast, and the Prince had to recount his adventures all over again, to the wonder and amazement of everyone present.
But the Prince was wearying now to return to his own kingdom, so as soon as the feast was over he took farewell of the Emperor, and set out on his homeward way. He lifted the mermaid on to the golden horse, and swung himself up behind her—and so they rode on merrily, with the wolf trotting behind, till they came to the country of the Emperor with the golden bird. The renown of the Prince and his adventure had gone before him, and the Emperor sat on his throne awaiting the arrival of the Prince and his companions. When the three rode into the courtyard of the palace, they were surprised and delighted to find everything festively illuminated and decorated for their reception. When the Prince and the golden mermaid, with the wolf behind them, mounted the steps of the palace, the Emperor came forward to meet them, and led them to the throne room. At the same moment a servant appeared with the golden bird in its golden cage, and the Emperor begged the Prince to accept it with his love, and to forgive him the indignity he had suffered at his hands. Then the Emperor bent low before the beautiful mermaid, and, offering her his arm, he led her into dinner, closely followed by the Prince and her friend the wolf; the latter seating himself at table, not the least embarrassed that no one had invited him to do so.
But the Prince was eager to return to his own kingdom, so as soon as the feast was over he said goodbye to the Emperor and began his journey home. He lifted the mermaid onto the golden horse and climbed up behind her—and they rode on happily, with the wolf trotting behind, until they reached the Emperor's land with the golden bird. The Prince’s reputation and his adventure had preceded him, and the Emperor sat on his throne waiting for the arrival of the Prince and his companions. When the three rode into the palace courtyard, they were surprised and delighted to find everything beautifully lit and decorated for their welcome. As the Prince and the golden mermaid, with the wolf behind them, climbed the palace steps, the Emperor stepped forward to greet them and led them to the throne room. At that moment, a servant appeared with the golden bird in its golden cage, and the Emperor asked the Prince to accept it with his affection and to forgive him for the previous offense. Then the Emperor bowed low before the beautiful mermaid, offering her his arm and leading her to dinner, closely followed by the Prince and her friend the wolf; the wolf sat down at the table, completely unbothered that no one had invited him to join.
As soon as the sumptuous meal was over, the Prince and his mermaid took leave of the Emperor, and, seating themselves on the golden horse, continued their homeward journey. On the way the wolf turned to the Prince and said, ‘Dear friends, I must now bid you farewell, but I leave you under such happy circumstances that I cannot feel our parting to be a sad one.’ The Prince was very unhappy when he heard these words, and begged the wolf to stay with them always; but this the good creature refused to do, though he thanked the Prince kindly for his invitation, and called out as he disappeared into the thicket, ‘Should any evil befall you, dear Prince, at any time, you may rely on my friendship and gratitude.’ These were the wolf’s parting words, and the Prince could not restrain his tears when he saw his friend vanishing in the distance; but one glance at his beloved mermaid soon cheered him up again, and they continued on their journey merrily.
As soon as the lavish meal was finished, the Prince and his mermaid said goodbye to the Emperor and, hopping onto the golden horse, resumed their trip home. Along the way, the wolf turned to the Prince and said, “Dear friends, I must now say farewell, but I leave you on such happy terms that I cannot see our parting as sad.” The Prince felt very upset when he heard this and asked the wolf to stay with them forever; however, the kind creature declined, though he warmly thanked the Prince for the offer. As he disappeared into the bushes, he called out, “If any trouble comes your way, dear Prince, you can count on my friendship and gratitude.” These were the wolf’s farewell words, and the Prince couldn’t hold back his tears when he saw his friend fading into the distance; but one look at his beloved mermaid quickly lifted his spirits, and they continued on their journey happily.
The news of his son’s adventures had already reached his father’s Court, and everyone was more than astonished at the success of the once despised Prince. His elder brothers, who had in vain gone in pursuit of the thief of the golden apples, were furious over their younger brother’s good fortune, and plotted and planned how they were to kill him. They hid themselves in the wood through which the Prince had to pass on his way to the palace, and there fell on him, and, having beaten him to death, they carried off the golden horse and the golden bird. But nothing they could do would persuade the golden mermaid to go with them or move from the spot, for ever since she had left the sea, she had so attached herself to her Prince that she asked nothing else than to live or die with him.
The news of his son’s adventures had already reached his father’s court, and everyone was more than surprised by the success of the once-disregarded prince. His older brothers, who had unsuccessfully chased the thief of the golden apples, were furious about their younger brother’s good luck and plotted how to kill him. They hid in the forest that the prince had to pass through on his way to the palace, ambushed him, and, after beating him to death, took the golden horse and the golden bird. But nothing they did could convince the golden mermaid to leave or move from the spot, because ever since she had left the sea, she had become so devoted to her prince that all she wanted was to live or die with him.
For many weeks the poor mermaid sat and watched over the dead body of her lover, weeping salt tears over his loss, when suddenly one day their old friend the wolf appeared and said, ‘Cover the Prince’s body with all the leaves and flowers you can find in the wood.’ The maiden did as he told her, and then the wolf breathed over the flowery grave, and, lo and behold! the Prince lay there sleeping as peacefully as a child. ‘Now you may wake him if you like,’ said the wolf, and the mermaid bent over him and gently kissed the wounds his brothers had made on his forehead, and the Prince awoke, and you may imagine how delighted he was to find his beautiful mermaid beside him, though he felt a little depressed when he thought of the loss of the golden bird and the golden horse. After a time the wolf, who had likewise fallen on the Prince’s neck, advised them to continue their journey, and once more the Prince and his lovely bride mounted on the faithful beast’s back.
For many weeks, the poor mermaid sat and watched over the dead body of her lover, shedding salty tears over his loss. Then, one day, their old friend the wolf showed up and said, “Cover the Prince’s body with all the leaves and flowers you can find in the woods.” The maiden did as he instructed, and then the wolf breathed over the flowery grave, and, lo and behold! the Prince lay there sleeping as peacefully as a child. “Now you can wake him if you want,” said the wolf. The mermaid leaned over him and gently kissed the wounds his brothers had made on his forehead, and the Prince awoke. You can imagine how happy he was to find his beautiful mermaid beside him, even though he felt a bit down when he thought about losing the golden bird and the golden horse. After a while, the wolf, who had also nuzzled the Prince's neck, suggested they continue their journey. Once again, the Prince and his lovely bride climbed onto the faithful beast's back.
The King’s joy was great when he embraced his youngest son, for he had long since despaired of his return. He received the wolf and the beautiful golden mermaid most cordially too, and the Prince was made to tell his adventures all over from the beginning. The poor old father grew very sad when he heard of the shameful conduct of his elder sons, and had them called before him. They turned as white as death when they saw their brother, whom they thought they had murdered, standing beside them alive and well, and so startled were they that when the King asked them why they had behaved so wickedly to their brother they could think of no lie, but confessed at once that they had slain the young Prince in order to obtain possession of the golden horse and the golden bird. Their father’s wrath knew no bounds, and he ordered them both to be banished, but he could not do enough to honour his youngest son, and his marriage with the beautiful mermaid was celebrated with much pomp and magnificence. When the festivities were over, the wolf bade them all farewell, and returned once more to his life in the woods, much to the regret of the old King and the young Prince and his bride.
The King was incredibly happy when he hugged his youngest son, as he had long given up hope of seeing him again. He welcomed the wolf and the beautiful golden mermaid warmly as well, and the Prince was asked to share his adventures from the start. The poor old father felt very sad when he heard about the disgraceful behavior of his older sons, and he called them before him. They turned as pale as ghosts when they saw their brother, whom they thought they had killed, standing next to them alive and well. They were so shocked that when the King asked them why they had treated their brother so maliciously, they couldn’t think of any lies and immediately confessed that they had murdered the young Prince to take the golden horse and the golden bird. Their father’s anger was unmatched, and he ordered them both to be banished, but he couldn’t do enough to honor his youngest son, and the wedding with the beautiful mermaid was celebrated with great pomp and elegance. Once the festivities ended, the wolf said goodbye to everyone and returned to his life in the woods, much to the sorrow of the old King, the young Prince, and his bride.
And so ended the adventures of the Prince with his friend the wolf.
And so ended the adventures of the Prince and his friend the wolf.
Grimm.
Grimm.
THE WAR OF THE WOLF AND THE FOX
There was once upon a time a man and his wife who had an old cat and an old dog. One day the man, whose name was Simon, said to his wife, whose name was Susan, ‘Why should we keep our old cat any longer? She never catches any mice now-a-days, and is so useless that I have made up my mind to drown her.’
There was once a man and his wife who had an old cat and an old dog. One day the man, named Simon, said to his wife, named Susan, “Why should we keep our old cat any longer? She never catches mice anymore, and she's so useless that I've decided to drown her.”
But his wife replied, ‘Don’t do that, for I’m sure she could still catch mice.’
But his wife said, "Don’t do that, because I’m sure she can still catch mice."
‘Rubbish,’ said Simon. ‘The mice might dance on her and she would never catch one. I’ve quite made up my mind that the next time I see her, I shall put her in the water.’
‘Nonsense,’ said Simon. ‘The mice could dance on her and she wouldn’t catch a single one. I’ve definitely decided that the next time I see her, I’m going to toss her in the water.’
Susan was very unhappy when she heard this, and so was the cat, who had been listening to the conversation behind the stove. When Simon went off to his work, the poor cat miawed so pitifully, and looked up so pathetically into Susan’s face, that the woman quickly opened the door and said, ‘Fly for your life, my poor little beast, and get well away from here before your master returns.’
Susan was really upset when she heard this, and so was the cat, who had been listening to the conversation behind the stove. When Simon left for work, the poor cat meowed so sadly and looked up so desperately into Susan’s face that she quickly opened the door and said, ‘Run for your life, my poor little creature, and get far away from here before your owner comes back.’
The cat took her advice, and ran as quickly as her poor old legs would carry her into the wood, and when Simon came home, his wife told him that the cat had vanished.
The cat followed her advice and ran as fast as her tired old legs could carry her into the woods, and when Simon got home, his wife told him that the cat had disappeared.
‘So much the better for her,’ said Simon. ‘And now we have got rid of her, we must consider what we are to do with the old dog. He is quite deaf and blind, and invariably barks when there is no need, and makes no sound when there is. I think the best thing I can do with him is to hang him.’
‘So much the better for her,’ said Simon. ‘And now that we’ve gotten rid of her, we need to think about what to do with the old dog. He’s totally deaf and blind, barks for no reason, and doesn’t make a sound when he should. I think the best thing to do with him is to put him down.’
But soft-hearted Susan replied, ‘Please don’t do so; he’s surely not so useless as all that.’
But kind-hearted Susan replied, ‘Please don’t do that; he’s definitely not as useless as all that.’
‘Don’t be foolish,’ said her husband. ‘The courtyard might be full of thieves and he’d never discover it. No, the first time I see him, it’s all up with him, I can tell you.’
‘Don’t be stupid,’ her husband said. ‘The courtyard could be crawling with thieves and he wouldn’t even realize it. No, the first time I see him, it's all over for him, I promise you.’
Susan was very unhappy at his words, and so was the dog, who was lying in the corner of the room and had heard everything. As soon as Simon had gone to his work, he stood up and howled so touchingly that Susan quickly opened the door, and said ‘Fly for your life, poor beast, before your master gets home.’ And the dog ran into the wood with his tail between his legs.
Susan was really upset by what he said, and the dog felt the same way. He was lying in the corner of the room and had heard everything. As soon as Simon left for work, the dog stood up and howled so sadly that Susan quickly opened the door and said, "Run for your life, poor thing, before your master comes back." And the dog ran into the woods with his tail between his legs.
When her husband returned, his wife told him that the dog had disappeared.
When her husband came back, his wife said that the dog was gone.
‘That’s lucky for him,’ said Simon, but Susan sighed, for she had been very fond of the poor creature.
‘That’s lucky for him,’ said Simon, but Susan sighed because she had been very fond of the poor creature.
Now it happened that the cat and dog met each other on their travels, and though they had not been the best of friends at home, they were quite glad to meet among strangers. They sat down under a holly tree and both poured forth their woes.
Now it turned out that the cat and dog ran into each other on their journeys, and even though they hadn't been the closest friends back home, they were happy to see each other among strangers. They sat down under a holly tree and both shared their troubles.
Presently a fox passed by, and seeing the pair sitting together in a disconsolate fashion, he asked them why they sat there, and what they were grumbling about.
Right now, a fox walked by and saw the couple sitting together looking unhappy. He asked them why they were sitting there and what they were complaining about.
The cat replied, ‘I have caught many a mouse in my day, but now that I am old and past work, my master wants to drown me.’
The cat replied, ‘I've caught plenty of mice in my time, but now that I'm old and can't work anymore, my owner wants to drown me.’
And the dog said, ‘Many a night have I watched and guarded my master’s house, and now that I am old and deaf, he wants to hang me.’
And the dog said, ‘I’ve spent many nights watching over my master’s house, and now that I’m old and deaf, he wants to put me down.’
The fox answered, ‘That’s the way of the world. But I’ll help you to get back into your master’s favour, only you must first help me in my own troubles.’
The fox replied, “That’s how things go in the world. But I’ll help you win back your master’s favor, as long as you help me with my own problems first.”
They promised to do their best, and the fox continued, ‘The wolf has declared war against me, and is at this moment marching to meet me in company with the bear and the wild boar, and to-morrow there will be a fierce battle between us.’
They promised to give it their all, and the fox went on, ‘The wolf has declared war on me, and right now he’s marching to confront me along with the bear and the wild boar. Tomorrow, there will be a brutal battle between us.’
‘All right,’ said the dog and the cat, ‘we will stand by you, and if we are killed, it is at any rate better to die on the field of battle than to perish ignobly at home,’ and they shook paws and concluded the bargain. The fox sent word to the wolf to meet him at a certain place, and the three set forth to encounter him and his friends.
‘Okay,’ said the dog and the cat, ‘we’ll stick with you, and if we get killed, it’s still better to die in battle than to die disgracefully at home,’ and they shook paws and sealed the deal. The fox sent a message to the wolf to meet him at a specific spot, and the three of them set off to confront him and his friends.
The wolf, the bear, and the wild boar arrived on the spot first, and when they had waited some time for the fox, the dog, and the cat, the bear said, ‘I’ll climb up into the oak tree, and look if I can see them coming.’
The wolf, the bear, and the wild boar got there first, and after waiting a while for the fox, the dog, and the cat, the bear said, ‘I’ll climb up into the oak tree and see if I can spot them coming.’
The first time he looked round he said, ‘I can see nothing,’ and the second time he looked round he said, ‘I can still see nothing.’ But the third time he said, ‘I see a mighty army in the distance, and one of the warriors has the biggest lance you ever saw!’
The first time he looked around, he said, ‘I can’t see anything,’ and the second time he looked around, he said, ‘I still can’t see anything.’ But the third time he said, ‘I see a huge army in the distance, and one of the warriors has the biggest spear you’ve ever seen!’
This was the cat, who was marching along with her tail erect.
This was the cat, strutting along with her tail held high.
And so they laughed and jeered, and it was so hot that the bear said, ‘The enemy won’t be here at this rate for many hours to come, so I’ll just curl myself up in the fork of the tree and have a little sleep.’
And so they laughed and mocked, and it was so hot that the bear said, ‘At this rate, the enemy won’t arrive for many hours, so I’ll just curl up in the fork of the tree and take a little nap.’
And the wolf lay down under the oak, and the wild boar buried himself in some straw, so that nothing was seen of him but one ear.
And the wolf lay down under the oak tree, and the wild boar buried himself in some straw, so that only one ear was visible.
And while they were lying there, the fox, the cat and the dog arrived. When the cat saw the wild boar’s ear, she pounced upon it, thinking it was a mouse in the straw.
And while they were lying there, the fox, the cat, and the dog showed up. When the cat saw the wild boar’s ear, she jumped on it, thinking it was a mouse in the straw.
The wild boar got up in a dreadful fright, gave one loud grunt and disappeared into the wood. But the cat was even more startled than the boar, and, spitting with terror, she scrambled up into the fork of the tree, and as it happened right into the bear’s face. Now it was the bear’s turn to be alarmed, and with a mighty growl he jumped down from the oak and fell right on the top of the wolf and killed him as dead as a stone.
The wild boar jumped up in a panic, let out a loud grunt, and vanished into the woods. But the cat was even more shocked than the boar and, hissing in fear, scrambled up into the tree fork, right into the bear's face. Now it was the bear's turn to be scared, and with a powerful growl, he jumped down from the oak tree and landed right on top of the wolf, killing him instantly.
On their way home from the war the fox caught score of mice, and when they reached Simon’s cottage he put them all on the stove and said to the cat, ‘Now go and fetch one mouse after the other, and lay them down before your master.’
On their way home from the war, the fox caught a bunch of mice, and when they reached Simon’s cottage, he put them all on the stove and said to the cat, ‘Now go and bring one mouse after another, and lay them down in front of your master.’
‘All right,’ said the cat, and did exactly as the fox told her.
‘All right,’ said the cat, and did exactly what the fox told her.
When Susan saw this she said to her husband, ‘Just look, here is our old cat back again, and see what a lot of mice she has caught.’
When Susan saw this, she said to her husband, "Look, our old cat is back, and look at all the mice she caught."
‘Wonders will never cease,’ cried Simon. ‘I certainly never thought the old cat would ever catch another mouse.’
‘Wonders will never cease,’ exclaimed Simon. ‘I honestly never thought the old cat would catch another mouse again.’
But Susan answered, ‘There, you see, I always said our cat was a most excellent creature—but you men always think you know best.’
But Susan replied, "There you go, I always said our cat was a really great animal—but you guys always think you know everything."
In the meantime the fox said to the dog, ‘Our friend Simon has just killed a pig; when it gets a little darker, you must go into the courtyard and bark with all your might.’
In the meantime, the fox said to the dog, "Our friend Simon just killed a pig; when it gets a bit darker, you should go into the courtyard and bark as loud as you can."
‘All right,’ said the dog, and as soon as it grew dusk he began to bark loudly.
‘Okay,’ said the dog, and as soon as it got dark, he started barking loudly.
Susan, who heard him first, said to her husband, ‘Our dog must have come back, for I hear him barking lustily. Do go out and see what’s the matter; perhaps thieves may be stealing our sausages.’
Susan, who heard him first, said to her husband, “Our dog must have come back, because I hear him barking loudly. Please go outside and see what’s going on; maybe thieves are stealing our sausages.”
But Simon answered, ‘The foolish brute is as deaf as a post and is always barking at nothing,’ and he refused to get up.
But Simon replied, "That stupid animal is as deaf as a wall and is constantly barking at nothing," and he wouldn’t get up.
The next morning Susan got up early to go to church at the neighbouring town, and she thought she would take some sausages to her aunt who lived there. But when she went to her larder, she found all the sausages gone, and a great hole in the floor. She called out to her husband, ‘I was perfectly right. Thieves have been here last night, and they have not left a single sausage. Oh! if you had only got up when I asked you to!’
The next morning, Susan woke up early to go to church in the neighboring town, planning to take some sausages to her aunt who lived there. But when she went to her pantry, she found all the sausages missing and a big hole in the floor. She shouted to her husband, “I knew it! Thieves were here last night, and they didn’t leave a single sausage. Oh! If only you had gotten up when I asked you to!”
Then Simon scratched his head and said, ‘I can’t understand it at all. I certainly never believed the old dog was so quick at hearing.’
Then Simon scratched his head and said, ‘I don’t get it at all. I never thought the old dog could hear so well.’
But Susan replied, ‘I always told you our old dog was the best dog in the world—but as usual you thought you knew so much better. Men are the same all the world over.’
But Susan replied, ‘I always said our old dog was the best dog in the world—but, as usual, you thought you knew better. Men are the same everywhere.’
And the fox scored a point too, for he had carried away the sausages himself!
And the fox also scored a point because he had taken the sausages himself!
Grimm.
Grimm.
THE STORY OF THE FISHERMAN AND HIS WIFE
There was once a fisherman and his wife who lived together in a little hut close to the sea, and the fisherman used to go down every day to fish; and he would fish and fish. So he used to sit with his rod and gaze into the shining water; and he would gaze and gaze.
There was once a fisherman and his wife who lived in a small hut by the sea, and the fisherman went out every day to fish; he would fish and fish. He would sit with his rod and stare into the sparkling water; and he would stare and stare.
Now, once the line was pulled deep under the water, and when he hauled it up he hauled a large flounder with it. The flounder said to him, ‘Listen, fisherman. I pray you to let me go; I am not a real flounder, I am an enchanted Prince. What good will it do you if you kill me—I shall not taste nice? Put me back into the water and let me swim away.’
Now, once the line was pulled deep under the water, and when he pulled it up, he brought up a large flounder with it. The flounder said to him, “Listen, fisherman. I beg you to let me go; I’m not a real flounder, I’m an enchanted Prince. What good will it do you if you kill me—I won’t taste good? Put me back into the water and let me swim away.”
‘Well,’ said the man, ‘you need not make so much noise about it; I am sure I had much better let a flounder that can talk swim away.’ With these words he put him back again into the shining water, and the flounder sank to the bottom, leaving a long streak of blood behind. Then the fisherman got up, and went home to his wife in the hut.
‘Well,’ said the man, ‘there’s no need to make such a fuss; I’d be better off letting a talking flounder swim away.’ With that, he placed it back into the sparkling water, and the flounder sank to the bottom, leaving a long trail of blood behind. Then the fisherman got up and went home to his wife in the hut.
‘Husband,’ said his wife, ‘have you caught nothing to-day?’
‘Husband,’ his wife said, ‘have you not caught anything today?’
‘No,’ said the man. ‘I caught a flounder who said he was an enchanted prince, so I let him swim away again.’
‘No,’ said the man. ‘I caught a flounder who claimed to be an enchanted prince, so I let him swim away again.’
‘Did you wish nothing from him?’ said his wife.
‘Did you not want anything from him?’ his wife asked.
‘No,’ said the man; ‘what should I have wished from him?’
‘No,’ said the man; ‘what would I want from him?’
‘Ah!’ said the woman, ‘it’s dreadful to have to live all one’s life in this hut that is so small and dirty; you ought to have wished for a cottage. Go now and call him; say to him that we choose to have a cottage, and he will certainly give it you.’
‘Ah!’ said the woman, ‘it’s awful to have to spend your whole life in this tiny, dirty hut; you should have wished for a cottage. Go now and call him; tell him that we want a cottage, and he’ll definitely give it to you.’
‘Alas!’ said the man, ‘why should I go down there again?’
‘Oh no!’ said the man, ‘why should I go down there again?’
‘Why,’ said his wife, ‘you caught him, and then let him go again, so he is sure to give you what you ask. Go down quickly.’
‘Why,’ said his wife, ‘you caught him, and then let him go again, so he’s sure to give you what you want. Go down quickly.’
The man did not like going at all, but as his wife was not to be persuaded, he went down to the sea.
The man didn't want to go at all, but since his wife couldn't be convinced otherwise, he went down to the sea.
When he came there the sea was quite green and yellow, and was no longer shining. So he stood on the shore and said:
When he arrived, the sea was a dull green and yellow, and it no longer sparkled. So he stood on the shore and said:
‘Once a prince, but changed you be Into a flounder in the sea. Come! for my wife, Ilsebel, Wishes what I dare not tell.’
‘Once a prince, but now you’ve turned Into a flounder in the sea. Come! for my wife, Ilsebel, Wants what I can’t bring myself to say.’
Then the flounder came swimming up and said, ‘Well, what does she want?’
Then the flounder swam up and asked, 'So, what does she want?'
‘Alas!’ said the man, ‘my wife says I ought to have kept you and wished something from you. She does not want to live any longer in the hut; she would like a cottage.’
‘Oh no!’ said the man, ‘my wife says I should have kept you and asked for something from you. She doesn’t want to live in the hut anymore; she wants a cottage.’
‘Go home, then,’ said the flounder; ‘she has it.’
‘Go home, then,’ said the flounder; ‘she has it.’
So the man went home, and there was his wife no longer in the hut, but in its place was a beautiful cottage, and his wife was sitting in front of the door on a bench. She took him by the hand and said to him, ‘Come inside, and see if this is not much better.’ They went in, and inside the cottage was a tiny hall, and a beautiful sitting-room, and a bedroom in which stood a bed, a kitchen and a dining-room all furnished with the best of everything, and fitted up with every kind of tin and copper utensil. And outside was a little yard in which were chickens and ducks, and also a little garden with vegetables and fruit trees.
So the man went home, and instead of the hut, there was a beautiful cottage, and his wife was sitting on a bench in front of the door. She took his hand and said, “Come inside and see if this isn’t much better.” They went in, and inside the cottage was a small hallway, a lovely living room, and a bedroom that had a bed, a kitchen, and a dining room all furnished with the best of everything, equipped with various tin and copper utensils. Outside, there was a small yard with chickens and ducks, and a little garden with vegetables and fruit trees.
‘See,’ said the wife, ‘isn’t this nice?’
‘Look,’ said the wife, ‘isn’t this great?’
‘Yes,’ answered her husband; ‘here we shall remain and live very happily.’
‘Yes,’ replied her husband; ‘here we will stay and live happily.’
‘We will think about that,’ said his wife.
‘We’ll think about that,’ said his wife.
With these words they had their supper and went to bed. All went well for a week or a fortnight, then the wife said:
With these words, they had their dinner and went to bed. Everything went smoothly for about a week or two, then the wife said:
‘Listen, husband; the cottage is much too small, and so is the yard and the garden; the flounder might just as well have sent us a larger house. I should like to live in a great stone castle. Go down to the flounder, and tell him to send us a castle.’
‘Listen, husband; the cottage is way too small, and so is the yard and the garden; the flounder might as well have sent us a bigger house. I want to live in a big stone castle. Go down to the flounder and ask him to send us a castle.’
‘Ah, wife!’ said the fisherman, ‘the cottage is quite good enough; why do we choose to live in a castle?’
‘Ah, wife!’ said the fisherman, ‘the cottage is just fine; why do we want to live in a castle?’
‘Why?’ said the wife. ‘You go down; the flounder can quite well do that.’
‘Why?’ the wife asked. ‘You go down; the flounder can handle that just fine.’
‘No, wife,’ said the man; ‘the flounder gave us the cottage. I do not like to go to him again; he might take it amiss.’
‘No, wife,’ said the man; ‘the flounder gave us the cottage. I don’t want to go to him again; he might take it the wrong way.’
‘Go,’ said his wife. ‘He can certainly give it us, and ought to do so willingly. Go at once.’
‘Go,’ said his wife. ‘He can definitely provide it for us, and he should be happy to do so. Go now.’
The fisherman’s heart was very heavy, and he did not like going. He said to himself, ‘It is not right.’ Still, he went down.
The fisherman felt a deep sadness and didn’t want to go. He said to himself, ‘This isn’t right.’ Still, he went down.
When he came to the sea, the water was all violet and dark-blue, and dull and thick, and no longer green and yellow, but it was still smooth.
When he reached the sea, the water was all purple and dark blue, and heavy and thick, no longer green and yellow, but it was still calm.
So he stood there and said:
So he stood there and said:
‘Once a prince, but changed you be Into a flounder in the sea. Come! for my wife, Ilsebel, Wishes what I dare not tell.’
‘Once a prince, but now you’ve been transformed into a flounder in the sea. Come! for my wife, Ilsebel, wants something that I can't reveal.’
‘What does she want now?’ said the flounder.
‘What does she want now?’ said the flounder.
‘Ah!’ said the fisherman, half-ashamed, ‘she wants to live in a great stone castle.’
‘Ah!’ said the fisherman, kind of embarrassed, ‘she wants to live in a big stone castle.’
‘Go home; she is standing before the door,’ said the flounder.
‘Go home; she’s standing at the door,’ said the flounder.
The fisherman went home and thought he would find no house. When he came near, there stood a great stone palace, and his wife was standing on the steps, about to enter. She took him by the hand and said, ‘Come inside.’
The fisherman went home, expecting to find no house. When he got closer, there stood a huge stone palace, and his wife was on the steps, about to go inside. She took his hand and said, ‘Come inside.’
Then he went with her, and inside the castle was a large hall with a marble floor, and there were heaps of servants who threw open the great doors, and the walls were covered with beautiful tapestry, and in the apartments were gilded chairs and tables, and crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and all the rooms were beautifully carpeted. The best of food and drink also was set before them when they wished to dine. And outside the house was a large courtyard with horse and cow stables and a coach-house—all fine buildings; and a splendid garden with most beautiful flowers and fruit, and in a park quite a league long were deer and roe and hares, and everything one could wish for.
Then he went with her, and inside the castle was a large hall with a marble floor, where lots of servants opened the big doors, and the walls were covered with beautiful tapestries. The apartments had gilded chairs and tables, and crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, with all the rooms beautifully carpeted. The best food and drinks were served when they wanted to eat. Outside the house was a large courtyard with horse and cow stables and a coach house—all impressive buildings; and a gorgeous garden filled with the most beautiful flowers and fruits, and in a park stretching about a league long were deer, roe, and hares, with everything one could wish for.
‘Now,’ said the wife, ‘isn’t this beautiful?’
‘Now,’ said the wife, ‘isn’t this lovely?’
‘Yes, indeed,’ said the fisherman. ‘Now we will stay here and live in this beautiful castle, and be very happy.’
‘Yes, absolutely,’ said the fisherman. ‘Now we will stay here and live in this beautiful castle, and be very happy.’
‘We will consider the matter,’ said his wife, and they went to bed.
‘We’ll think about it,’ said his wife, and they went to bed.
The next morning the wife woke up first at daybreak, and looked out of the bed at the beautiful country stretched before her. Her husband was still sleeping, so she dug her elbows into his side and said:
The next morning, the wife woke up first at dawn and looked out of the bed at the beautiful countryside spread out before her. Her husband was still sleeping, so she nudged him with her elbows and said:
‘Husband, get up and look out of the window. Could we not become the king of all this land? Go down to the flounder and tell him we choose to be king.’
‘Husband, wake up and look out the window. Can’t we become the king of all this land? Go to the flounder and tell him we want to be king.’
‘Ah, wife!’ replied her husband, ‘why should we be king? I don’t want to be king.’
‘Ah, wife!’ her husband replied, ‘why should we be king? I don’t want to be king.’
‘Well,’ said his wife, ‘if you don’t want to be king, I will be king. Go down to the flounder; I will be king.’
‘Well,’ said his wife, ‘if you don’t want to be king, I’ll be king. Go down to the flounder; I’ll be king.’
‘Alas! wife,’ said the fisherman, ‘why do you want to be king? I can’t ask him that.’
‘Oh no! Wife,’ said the fisherman, ‘why do you want to be king? I can’t ask him that.’
‘And why not?’ said his wife. ‘Go down at once. I must be king.’
‘And why not?’ his wife said. ‘Go down right now. I have to be king.’
So the fisherman went, though much vexed that his wife wanted to be king. ‘It is not right! It is not right,’ he thought. He did not wish to go, yet he went.
So the fisherman went, although he was really annoyed that his wife wanted to be king. ‘This isn’t fair! This isn’t fair,’ he thought. He didn’t want to go, but he went anyway.
When he came to the sea, the water was a dark-grey colour, and it was heaving against the shore. So he stood and said:
When he reached the sea, the water was a dark gray, and it was crashing against the shore. So he stood there and said:
‘Once a prince, but changed you be Into a flounder in the sea. Come! for my wife, Ilsebel, Wishes what I dare not tell.’
‘Once a prince, but now you've turned into a flounder in the sea. Come! My wife, Ilsebel, wants something I can’t say.’
‘What does she want now?’ asked the flounder.
‘What does she want now?’ asked the flounder.
‘Alas!’ said the fisherman, ‘she wants to be king.’
‘Oh no!’ said the fisherman, ‘she wants to be king.’
‘Go home; she is that already,’ said the flounder.
‘Go home; she’s already that,’ said the flounder.
The fisherman went home, and when he came near the palace he saw that it had become much larger, and that it had great towers and splendid ornamental carving on it. A sentinel was standing before the gate, and there were numbers of soldiers with kettledrums and trumpets. And when he went into the palace, he found everything was of pure marble and gold, and the curtains of damask with tassels of gold. Then the doors of the hall flew open, and there stood the whole Court round his wife, who was sitting on a high throne of gold and diamonds; she wore a great golden crown, and had a sceptre of gold and precious stones in her hand, and by her on either side stood six pages in a row, each one a head taller than the other. Then he went before her and said:
The fisherman went home, and as he approached the palace, he noticed that it had grown much larger, with impressive towers and beautiful intricate carvings. A guard was stationed at the gate, and there were lots of soldiers with kettledrums and trumpets. When he entered the palace, he discovered that everything was made of pure marble and gold, with damask curtains adorned with gold tassels. Then the doors of the hall swung open, revealing the entire Court gathered around his wife, who was seated on a grand throne of gold and diamonds. She wore a large golden crown and held a scepter made of gold and precious stones, flanked on either side by six pages lined up, each one taller than the last. He then approached her and said:
‘Ah, wife! are you king now?’
‘Oh, wife! Are you the king now?’
‘Yes,’ said his wife; ‘now I am king.’
‘Yes,’ said his wife; ‘now I’m the queen.’
He stood looking at her, and when he had looked for some time, he said:
He stood there looking at her, and after a while, he said:
‘Let that be enough, wife, now that you are king! Now we have nothing more to wish for.’
‘Let that be enough, wife, now that you’re king! Now we don’t have anything more to wish for.’
‘Nay, husband,’ said his wife restlessly, ‘my wishing powers are boundless; I cannot restrain them any longer. Go down to the flounder; king I am, now I must be emperor.’
‘No, husband,’ his wife said anxiously, ‘my desires are limitless; I can’t hold them back any longer. Go down to the flounder; I’m a queen now, but I need to be an empress.’
‘Alas! wife,’ said the fisherman, ‘why do you want to be emperor?’
“Why do you want to be emperor, wife?” the fisherman said.
‘Husband,’ said she, ‘go to the flounder; I will be emperor.’
‘Husband,’ she said, ‘go to the flounder; I will be the emperor.’
‘Ah, wife,’ he said, ‘he cannot make you emperor; I don’t like to ask him that. There is only one emperor in the kingdom. Indeed and indeed he cannot make you emperor.’
‘Ah, wife,’ he said, ‘he can’t make you emperor; I really don’t want to ask him that. There’s only one emperor in the kingdom. Seriously, he can’t make you emperor.’
‘What!’ said his wife. ‘I am king, and you are my husband. Will you go at once? Go! If he can make king he can make emperor, and emperor I must and will be. Go!’
‘What!’ said his wife. ‘I’m the queen, and you’re my husband. Will you leave right now? Go! If he can make a king, he can make an emperor, and I must and will be an emperor. Go!’
So he had to go. But as he went, he felt quite frightened, and he thought to himself, ‘This can’t be right; to be emperor is too ambitious; the flounder will be tired out at last.’
So he had to leave. But as he left, he felt really scared, and he thought to himself, 'This can't be right; being emperor is too much; the flounder will be worn out eventually.'
Thinking this he came to the shore. The sea was quite black and thick, and it was breaking high on the beach; the foam was flying about, and the wind was blowing; everything looked bleak. The fisherman was chilled with fear. He stood and said:
Thinking this, he reached the shore. The sea was deep black and heavy, crashing dramatically on the beach; foam was spraying everywhere, and the wind was fierce; everything felt desolate. The fisherman was gripped by fear. He stood there and said:
‘Once a prince, but changed you be Into a flounder in the sea. Come! for my wife, Ilsebel, Wishes what I dare not tell.’
‘You were once a prince, but now you've become a flounder in the sea. Come! My wife, Ilsebel, wants something that I can't bring myself to say.’
‘What does she want now?’ asked flounder.
‘What does she want now?’ asked Flounder.
‘Alas! flounder,’ he said, ‘my wife wants to be emperor.’
‘Oh no! Flounder,’ he said, ‘my wife wants to be the emperor.’
‘Go home,’ said the flounder; ‘she is that already.’
‘Go home,’ said the flounder; ‘she's already there.’
So the fisherman went home, and when he came there he saw the whole castle was made of polished marble, ornamented with alabaster statues and gold. Before the gate soldiers were marching, blowing trumpets and beating drums. Inside the palace were walking barons, counts, and dukes, acting as servants; they opened the door, which was of beaten gold. And when he entered, he saw his wife upon a throne which was made out of a single block of gold, and which was quite six cubits high. She had on a great golden crown which was three yards high and set with brilliants and sparkling gems. In one hand she held a sceptre, and in the other the imperial globe, and on either side of her stood two rows of halberdiers, each smaller than the other, from a seven-foot giant to the tiniest little dwarf no higher than my little finger. Many princes and dukes were standing before her. The fisherman went up to her quietly and said:
So the fisherman went home, and when he arrived, he saw that the entire castle was made of polished marble, decorated with alabaster statues and gold. Soldiers were marching by the gate, playing trumpets and beating drums. Inside the palace, barons, counts, and dukes were walking around as servants; they opened the door, which was made of beaten gold. When he stepped inside, he saw his wife seated on a throne made from a single block of gold, standing about six cubits high. She wore a huge golden crown that was three yards tall and adorned with diamonds and sparkling gems. In one hand, she held a scepter, and in the other, the imperial globe, with two rows of halberdiers on either side of her, each smaller than the last, from a seven-foot giant to the tiniest dwarf no taller than my little finger. Many princes and dukes were standing in front of her. The fisherman walked up to her quietly and said:
‘Wife, are you emperor now?’
"Wife, are you the emperor now?"
‘Yes,’ she said, ‘I am emperor.’
‘Yes,’ she said, ‘I am the emperor.’
He stood looking at her magnificence, and when he had watched her for some time, said:
He stood admiring her beauty, and after watching her for a while, said:
‘Ah, wife, let that be enough, now that you are emperor.’
‘Ah, wife, that should be enough now that you are emperor.’
‘Husband,’ said she, ‘why are you standing there? I am emperor now, and I want to be pope too; go down to the flounder.’
‘Husband,’ she said, ‘why are you just standing there? I’m the emperor now, and I want to be pope too; go talk to the flounder.’
‘Alas! wife,’ said the fisherman, ‘what more do you want? You cannot be pope; there is only one pope in Christendom, and he cannot make you that.’
‘Oh, wife,’ said the fisherman, ‘what more do you want? You can’t be the pope; there’s only one pope in Christendom, and he can’t make you that.’
‘Husband,’ she said, ‘I will be pope. Go down quickly; I must be pope to-day.’
‘Husband,’ she said, ‘I’m going to be pope. Hurry down; I need to be pope today.’
‘No, wife,’ said the fisherman; ‘I can’t ask him that. It is not right; it is too much. The flounder cannot make you pope.’
‘No, wife,’ said the fisherman; ‘I can’t ask him that. It’s not right; it’s too much. The flounder can’t make you pope.’
‘Husband, what nonsense!’ said his wife. ‘If he can make emperor, he can make, pope too. Go down this instant; I am emperor and you are my husband. Will you be off at once?’
‘Husband, what nonsense!’ said his wife. ‘If he can make an emperor, he can make a pope too. Go down this instant; I am the emperor and you are my husband. Will you leave right now?’
So he was frightened and went out; but he felt quite faint, and trembled and shook, and his knees and legs began to give way under him. The wind was blowing fiercely across the land, and the clouds flying across the sky looked as gloomy as if it were night; the leaves were being blown from the trees; the water was foaming and seething and dashing upon the shore, and in the distance he saw the ships in great distress, dancing and tossing on the waves. Still the sky was very blue in the middle, although at the sides it was an angry red as in a great storm. So he stood shuddering in anxiety, and said:
So he was scared and went outside; but he felt really weak, trembling and shaking, and his knees and legs started to buckle. The wind was blowing hard across the land, and the clouds racing across the sky looked as dark as if it were nighttime; leaves were being whipped off the trees; the water was churning and crashing against the shore, and in the distance, he saw ships in serious trouble, bobbing and tossing on the waves. Still, the sky was bright blue in the center, even though the edges were a fierce red like during a huge storm. So he stood there shaking with anxiety and said:
‘Once a prince, but changed you be Into a flounder in the sea. Come! for my wife, Ilsebel, Wishes what I dare not tell.’
‘Once a prince, but now you’ve turned Into a flounder in the sea. Come! For my wife, Ilsebel, Wants what I can’t dare to say.’
‘Well, what does she want now?’ asked the flounder.
‘Well, what does she want now?’ asked the flounder.
‘Alas!’ said the fisherman, ‘she wants to be pope.’
‘Oh no!’ said the fisherman, ‘she wants to be pope.’
‘Go home, then; she is that already,’ said the flounder.
‘Go home, then; she already is that,’ said the flounder.
Then he went home, and when he came there he saw, as it were, a large church surrounded by palaces. He pushed his way through the people. The interior was lit up with thousands and thousands of candles, and his wife was dressed in cloth of gold and was sitting on a much higher throne, and she wore three great golden crowns. Round her were numbers of Church dignitaries, and on either side were standing two rows of tapers, the largest of them as tall as a steeple, and the smallest as tiny as a Christmas-tree candle. All the emperors and kings were on their knees before her, and were kissing her foot.
Then he went home, and when he arrived, he saw what looked like a large church surrounded by palaces. He pushed through the crowd. The inside was lit with thousands of candles, and his wife was dressed in golden fabric and sitting on a much higher throne, wearing three large golden crowns. Surrounding her were many church officials, and on either side were two rows of candles, the tallest as high as a steeple and the smallest as tiny as a Christmas-tree candle. All the emperors and kings were on their knees before her, kissing her foot.
‘Wife,’ said the fisherman looking at her, ‘are you pope now?’
‘Wife,’ said the fisherman, looking at her, ‘are you the pope now?’
‘Yes,’ said she; ‘I am pope.’
‘Yes,’ she said; ‘I am the pope.’
So he stood staring at her, and it was as if he were looking at the bright sun. When he had watched her for some time he said:
So he stood there staring at her, and it felt like he was looking at the bright sun. After watching her for a while, he said:
‘Ah, wife, let it be enough now that you are pope.’
'Oh, wife, let it be enough that you are the pope now.'
But she sat as straight as a tree, and did not move or bend the least bit. He said again:
But she sat up straight like a tree, not moving or bending at all. He said again:
‘Wife, be content now that you are pope. You cannot become anything more.’
‘Wife, be happy now that you’re pope. You can’t become anything more.’
‘We will think about that,’ said his wife.
‘We’ll think about that,’ said his wife.
With these words they went to bed. But the woman was not content; her greed would not allow her to sleep, and she kept on thinking and thinking what she could still become. The fisherman slept well and soundly, for he had done a great deal that day, but his wife could not sleep at all, and turned from one side to another the whole night long, and thought, till she could think no longer, what more she could become. Then the sun began to rise, and when she saw the red dawn she went to the end of the bed and looked at it, and as she was watching the sun rise, out of the window, she thought, ‘Ha! could I not make the sun and man rise?’
With these words, they went to bed. But the woman wasn't satisfied; her greed kept her awake, and she kept thinking about what else she could become. The fisherman slept well and soundly because he had worked hard that day, but his wife couldn’t sleep at all. She tossed and turned all night, thinking until she could think no more about what more she could achieve. Then the sun started to rise, and when she saw the red dawn, she got up from the end of the bed and looked out the window. As she watched the sun rise, she thought, 'Ha! Could I make the sun and the man rise?'
‘Husband,’ said she, poking him in the ribs with her elbows, ‘wake up. Go down to the flounder; I will be a god.’
‘Husband,’ she said, nudging him in the ribs with her elbows, ‘wake up. Go down to the flounder; I will be a goddess.’
The fisherman was still half asleep, yet he was so frightened that he fell out of bed. He thought he had not heard aright, and opened his eyes wide and said:
The fisherman was still half asleep, but he was so scared that he fell out of bed. He thought he had misheard and opened his eyes wide and said:
‘What did you say, wife?’
'What did you say, babe?'
‘Husband,’ she said, ‘if I cannot make the sun and man rise when I appear I cannot rest. I shall never have a quiet moment till I can make the sun and man rise.’
‘Husband,’ she said, ‘if I can’t make the sun and people rise when I show up, I can’t rest. I won’t have a moment of peace until I can make the sun and people rise.’
He looked at her in horror, and a shudder ran over him.
He stared at her in shock, and a chill swept over him.
‘Go down at once; I will be a god.’
‘Go down right now; I will be like a god.’
‘Alas! wife,’ said the fisherman, falling on his knees before her, ‘the flounder cannot do that. Emperor and pope he can make you. I implore you, be content and remain pope.’
‘Oh no! Wife,’ said the fisherman, kneeling before her, ‘the flounder can’t do that. He can make you an emperor and a pope. I beg you, be satisfied and stay as pope.’
Then she flew into a passion, her hair hung wildly about her face, she pushed him with her foot and screamed:
Then she got really angry, her hair was all over her face, she kicked him with her foot and screamed:
‘I am not contented, and I shall not be contented! Will you go?’
‘I am not satisfied, and I won’t be satisfied! Are you leaving?’
So he hurried on his clothes as fast as possible, and ran away as if he were mad.
So he quickly put on his clothes and ran away as if he were crazy.
But the storm was raging so fiercely that he could scarcely stand. Houses and trees were being blown down, the mountains were being shaken, and pieces of rock were rolling in the sea. The sky was as black as ink, it was thundering and lightening, and the sea was tossing in great waves as high as church towers and mountains, and each had a white crest of foam.
But the storm was raging so fiercely that he could barely stand. Houses and trees were being knocked down, the mountains were shaking, and chunks of rock were rolling into the sea. The sky was pitch black, there was thunder and lightning, and the sea was churning with huge waves as tall as church towers and mountains, each topped with a white crest of foam.
So he shouted, not able to hear his own voice:
So he shouted, unable to hear his own voice:
‘Once a prince, but changed you be Into a flounder in the sea. Come! for my wife, Ilsebel, Wishes what I dare not tell.’
‘Once a prince, but now you've transformed Into a flounder in the sea. Come! for my wife, Ilsebel, Wants something I’m afraid to reveal.’
‘Well, what does she want now?’ asked the flounder.
‘Well, what does she want now?’ asked the flounder.
‘Alas!’ said he, ‘she wants to be a god.’
“Unfortunately,” he said, “she wants to be a god.”
‘Go home, then; she is sitting again in the hut.’
‘Go home, then; she’s sitting in the hut again.’
And there they are sitting to this day.
And there they are sitting to this day.
Grimm.
Grimm.
THE THREE MUSICIANS
Once upon a time three musicians left their home and set out on their travels. They had all learnt music from the same master, and they determined to stick together and to seek their fortune in foreign lands. They wandered merrily from place to place and made quite a good living, and were much appreciated by everyone who heard them play. One evening they came to a village where they delighted all the company with their beautiful music. At last they ceased playing, and began to eat and drink and listen to the talk that was going on around them. They heard all the gossip of the place, and many wonderful things were related and discussed. At last the conversation fell on a castle in the neighbourhood, about which many strange and marvellous things were told. One person said that hidden treasure was to be found there; another that the richest food was always to be had there, although the castle was uninhabited; and a third, that an evil spirit dwelt within the walls, so terrible, that anyone who forced his way into the castle came out of it more dead than alive.
Once upon a time, three musicians left their home and set out on their travels. They had all learned music from the same teacher and decided to stick together to seek their fortune in foreign lands. They joyfully wandered from place to place, made a good living, and were well-liked by everyone who heard them play. One evening, they arrived in a village where they thrilled everyone with their beautiful music. Eventually, they stopped playing, started to eat and drink, and listened to the conversations happening around them. They caught up on all the local gossip, and many amazing stories were shared and discussed. Eventually, the conversation turned to a nearby castle, where strange and marvelous tales were told. One person mentioned that hidden treasure could be found there; another claimed that the finest food was always available, even though the castle was uninhabited, and a third person said that an evil spirit lived within the walls, so terrifying that anyone who dared to enter the castle came out more dead than alive.
As soon as the three musicians were alone in their bedroom they agreed to go and examine the mysterious castle, and, if possible, to find and carry away the hidden treasure. They determined, too, to make the attempt separately, one after the other, according to age, and they settled that a whole day was to be given to each adventurer in which to try his luck.
As soon as the three musicians were alone in their bedroom, they agreed to go check out the mysterious castle and, if they could, find and take the hidden treasure. They also decided to attempt it separately, one after the other based on their age, and settled on giving each adventurer a whole day to try their luck.
The fiddler was the first to set out on his adventures, and did so in the best of spirits and full of courage. When he reached the castle he found the outer gate open, quite as if he were an expected guest, but no sooner had he stepped across the entry than the heavy door closed behind him with a bang, and was bolted with a huge iron bar, exactly as if a sentinel were doing his office and keeping watch, but no human being was to be seen anywhere. An awful terror overcame the fiddler; but it was hopeless to think of turning back or of standing still, and the hopes of finding gold and other treasures gave him strength and courage to force his way further into the castle. Upstairs and downstairs he wandered, through lofty halls, splendid rooms, and lovely little boudoirs, everything beautifully arranged, and all kept in the most perfect order. But the silence of death reigned everywhere, and no living thing, not even a fly, was to be seen. Notwithstanding, the youth felt his spirits return to him when he entered the lower regions of the castle, for in the kitchen the most tempting and delicious food was spread out, the cellars were full of the most costly wine, and the store-room crammed with pots of every sort of jam you can imagine. A cheerful fire was burning in the kitchen, before which a roast was being basted by unseen hands, and all kinds of vegetables and other dainty dishes were being prepared in like manner. Before the fiddler had time to think, he was ushered into a little room by invisible hands, and there a table was spread for him with all the delicious food he had seen cooking in the kitchen.
The fiddler was the first to head out on his adventures, feeling upbeat and full of courage. When he arrived at the castle, he found the outer gate wide open as if he were an expected guest. However, as soon as he stepped inside, the heavy door slammed shut behind him and was secured with a massive iron bar, as if a guard were doing his job and keeping watch, yet there wasn't a soul in sight. The fiddler was overcome by a terrible fear, but he realized it was pointless to think about turning back or standing still. The hope of finding gold and other treasures gave him the strength and courage to push deeper into the castle. He wandered up and down, through grand halls, luxurious rooms, and charming little sitting areas, all beautifully arranged and perfectly maintained. Yet, an eerie silence hung in the air, and not a single living thing, not even a fly, could be seen. Despite this, the young man felt his spirits lift when he entered the lower part of the castle, for in the kitchen, a mouthwatering spread of delicious food was laid out, the cellars were packed with expensive wine, and the pantry overflowed with jars of every type of jam imaginable. A cheerful fire blazed in the kitchen, with a roast being basted by unseen hands, and all sorts of vegetables and other gourmet dishes being prepared similarly. Before the fiddler could gather his thoughts, invisible hands ushered him into a small room where a table was set for him with all the delectable food he had seen cooking in the kitchen.
The youth first seized his fiddle and played a beautiful air on it which echoed through the silent halls, and then he fell to and began to eat a hearty meal. Before long, however, the door opened and a tiny man stepped into the room, not more than three feet high, clothed in a dressing-gown, and with a small wrinkled face, and a grey beard which reached down to the silver buckles of his shoes. And the little man sat down beside the fiddler and shared his meal. When they got to the game course the fiddler handed the dwarf a knife and fork, and begged him to help himself first, and then to pass the dish on. The little creature nodded, but helped himself so clumsily that he dropped the piece of meat he had carved on to the floor.
The young man first grabbed his fiddle and played a beautiful tune that echoed through the quiet halls. Then, he sat down and started to enjoy a hearty meal. Before long, though, the door opened, and a tiny man walked into the room, no more than three feet tall, wearing a dressing gown, with a small wrinkled face and a gray beard that reached down to the silver buckles of his shoes. The little man sat down next to the fiddler and joined him for the meal. When they reached the main course, the fiddler handed the dwarf a knife and fork, asking him to serve himself first and then pass the dish along. The little creature nodded but was so clumsy that he dropped the piece of meat he had cut onto the floor.
The good-natured fiddler bent down to pick it up, but in the twinkling of an eye the little man had jumped on to his back, and beat him till he was black and blue all over his head and body. At last, when the fiddler was nearly dead, the little wretch left off, and shoved the poor fellow out of the iron gate which he had entered in such good spirits a few hours before. The fresh air revived him a little, and in a short time he was able to stagger with aching limbs back to the inn where his companions were staying. It was night when he reached the place, and the other two musicians were fast asleep. The next morning they were much astonished at finding the fiddler in bed beside them, and overwhelmed him with questions; but their friend hid his back and face, and answered them very shortly, saying, ‘Go there yourselves, and see what’s to be seen! It is a ticklish matter, that I can assure you.’
The good-natured fiddler bent down to pick it up, but in a flash, the little man jumped onto his back and beat him until he was bruised all over. Finally, when the fiddler was nearly unconscious, the little brat stopped and pushed the poor guy out of the iron gate he had entered just a few hours earlier in high spirits. The fresh air revived him a bit, and soon he was able to stumble back to the inn where his friends were staying, his limbs aching. It was night when he got there, and the other two musicians were sound asleep. The next morning, they were shocked to find the fiddler in bed with them and bombarded him with questions, but their friend hid his back and face and answered them briefly, saying, ‘Go see for yourselves! It’s a tricky situation, that’s for sure.’
The second musician, who was a trumpeter, now made his way to the castle, and everything happened to him exactly as it had to the fiddler. He was just as hospitably entertained at first, and then just as cruelly beaten and belaboured, so that next morning he too lay in his bed like a wounded hare, assuring his friends that the task of getting into the haunted castle was no enviable one. Notwithstanding the warning of his companions, the third musician, who played the flute, was still determined to try his luck, and, full of courage and daring, he set out, resolved, if possible, to find and secure the hidden treasure.
The second musician, a trumpeter, now headed to the castle, and everything that happened to him was exactly like what the fiddler experienced. At first, he was just as warmly welcomed, but then he was just as brutally beaten and battered, leaving him the next morning lying in bed like a wounded hare, telling his friends that trying to get into the haunted castle was not something to be envied. Despite his friends' warnings, the third musician, who played the flute, was still determined to give it a shot. Full of courage and audacity, he set out, resolved to find and claim the hidden treasure if he could.
Fearlessly he wandered the whole castle, and as he roamed through the splendid empty apartments he thought to himself how nice it would be to live there always, especially with a full larder and cellar at his disposal. A table was spread for him too, and when he had wandered about for some time, singing and playing the flute, he sat down as his companions had done, prepared to enjoy the delicious food that was spread out in front of him. Then the little man with the beard entered as before and seated himself beside the flute-player, who wasn’t the least startled at his appearance, but chatted away to him as if he had known him all his life. But he didn’t find his companion very communicative. At last they came to the game, and, as usual, the little man let his piece fall on the ground. The flute-player was good-naturedly just going to pick it up, when he perceived that the little dwarf was in the act of springing on his back. Then he turned round sharply, and, seizing the little creature by his beard, he gave him such a shaking that he tore his beard out, and the dwarf sank groaning to the ground.
He wandered through the entire castle without fear, and as he wandered through the beautiful empty rooms, he thought about how nice it would be to live there forever, especially with a stocked pantry and wine cellar at his service. A table was also set for him, and after exploring for a while, singing and playing the flute, he sat down just like his friends had, ready to enjoy the delicious food laid out before him. Then the little bearded man entered again and sat down next to the flute player, who wasn’t surprised at his appearance at all and started chatting with him as if they had been friends forever. However, he found his companion not very talkative. Eventually, it was time for the game, and, as usual, the little man dropped his piece on the floor. The flute player, being good-natured, was just about to pick it up when he noticed the little dwarf was trying to jump onto his back. He quickly turned around and, grabbing the little guy by his beard, gave him such a shake that he pulled out the beard, and the dwarf fell to the ground groaning.
But as soon as the youth had the beard in his hands he felt so strong that he was fit for anything, and he perceived all sorts of things in the castle that he had not noticed before, but, on the other hand, all strength seemed to have gone from the little man. He whined and sobbed out: ‘Give, oh give me my beard again, and I will instruct you in all the magic art that surrounds this castle, and will help you to carry off the hidden treasure, which will make you rich and happy for ever.’
But as soon as the young man had the beard in his hands, he felt so powerful that he was ready for anything. He noticed all kinds of things in the castle that he hadn’t seen before, but, on the other hand, all strength seemed to have left the little man. He whined and sobbed, “Please, give me my beard back, and I will teach you all the magic that surrounds this castle and help you find the hidden treasure that will make you rich and happy forever.”
But the cunning flute-player replied: ‘I will give you back your beard, but you must first help me as you have promised to do. Till you have done so, I don’t let your beard out of my hands.’
But the sly flute-player answered, "I'll give you your beard back, but you have to help me first, just like you promised. Until you do that, I'm keeping your beard with me."
Then the old man found himself obliged to fulfil his promise, though he had had no intention of doing so, and had only desired to get his beard back. He made the youth follow him through dark secret passages, underground vaults, and grey rocks till at last they came to an open field, which looked as if it belonged to a more beautiful world than ours. Then they came to a stream of rushing water; but the little man drew out a wand and touched the waves, whereupon the waters parted and stood still, and the two crossed the river with dry feet. And how beautiful everything on the other side was! lovely green paths leading through woods and fields covered with flowers, birds with gold and silver feathers singing on the trees, lovely butterflies and glittering beetles fluttered and crawled about, and dear little beasts hid in the bushes and hedges. The sky above them was not blue, but like rays of pure gold, and the stars looked twice their usual size, and far more brilliant than on our earth.
Then the old man found himself forced to keep his promise, even though he hadn't planned to do so and had only wanted to get his beard back. He led the young man through dark secret passages, underground vaults, and grey rocks until they finally reached an open field that seemed like it belonged to a more beautiful world than ours. They soon came to a rushing stream; but the little man pulled out a wand and touched the water, causing it to part and stand still, allowing them to cross the river with dry feet. Everything on the other side was so beautiful! There were lovely green paths winding through woods and flower-filled fields, birds with gold and silver feathers singing in the trees, charming butterflies and shiny beetles fluttering and crawling around, and adorable little animals hiding in the bushes and hedges. The sky above them wasn’t blue, but shone like pure gold, and the stars looked twice their usual size, way more brilliant than on our earth.
The youth grew more and more astonished when the little grey man led him into a castle far bigger and more splendid than the one they had left. Here, too, the deepest silence reigned. They wandered all through the castle, and came at last to a room in the middle of which stood a bed hung all round with heavy curtains. Over the bed hung a bird’s cage, and the bird inside it was singing beautiful songs into the silent space. The little grey man lifted the curtains from the bed and beckoned the youth to approach. On the rich silk cushions embroidered with gold a lovely maiden lay sleeping. She was as beautiful as an angel, with golden hair which fell in curls over her marble shoulders, and a diamond crown sparkled on her forehead. But a sleep as of death held her in its spell, and no noise seemed able to waken the sleeper.
The young man grew more and more amazed as the little grey man brought him into a castle that was much larger and more impressive than the one they had just left. Here, the stillness was just as profound. They explored the castle until they finally reached a room where a bed, surrounded by heavy curtains, stood in the center. Above the bed was a cage, and a bird inside was singing beautiful melodies into the quiet space. The little grey man pulled back the curtains from the bed and signaled for the young man to come closer. On the luxurious silk pillows embroidered with gold lay a lovely maiden, fast asleep. She was as beautiful as an angel, with golden hair cascading in curls over her marble shoulders, and a diamond crown sparkled on her forehead. Yet, a slumber like death held her captive, and no sound seemed to stir her from her sleep.
Then the little man turned to the wondering youth and said: ‘See, here is the sleeping child! She is a mighty Princess. This splendid castle and this enchanted land are hers, but for hundreds of years she has slept this magic sleep, and during all that time no human being has been able to find their way here. I alone have kept guard over her, and have gone daily to my own castle to get food and to beat the greedy gold-seekers who forced their way into my dwelling. I have watched over the Princess carefully all these years and saw that no stranger came near her, but all my magic power lay in my beard, and now that you have taken it away I am helpless, and can no longer hold the beautiful Princess in her enchanted sleep, but am forced to reveal my treasured secret to you. So set to work and do as I tell you. Take the bird which hangs over the Princess’s head, and which by its song sang her into this enchanted sleep—a song which it has had to continue ever since; take it and kill it, and cut its little heart out and burn it to a powder, and then put it into the Princess’s mouth; then she will instantly awaken, and will bestow on you her heart and hand, her kingdom and castle, and all her treasures.
Then the little man turned to the amazed young man and said, “Look, here is the sleeping child! She is a powerful Princess. This incredible castle and this enchanted land belong to her, but for hundreds of years she has been in this magical sleep, and during all that time, no one has been able to find their way here. I alone have watched over her, going back to my own castle each day to get food and fend off the greedy treasure hunters who tried to invade my home. I have taken great care of the Princess all these years and made sure no stranger came near her, but all my magic power was in my beard, and now that you have taken it away, I am powerless and can no longer keep the beautiful Princess in her enchanted sleep. I’m forced to reveal my precious secret to you. So, get to work and do as I say. Take the bird that hangs above the Princess’s head, which sang her into this enchanted sleep—a song it has had to keep singing ever since; take it and kill it, cut out its tiny heart and turn it to powder, then place it in the Princess’s mouth; she will instantly wake up and reward you with her heart and hand, her kingdom and castle, and all her treasures.”
The little dwarf paused, quite worn out, and the youth did not wait long to do his bidding. He did all he was told carefully and promptly, and having cut the little bird’s heart out he proceeded to make it into a powder. No sooner had he placed it in the Princess’s mouth than she opened her lovely eyes, and, looking up into the happy youth’s face, she kissed him tenderly, thanked him for freeing her from her magic sleep, and promised to be his wife. At the same moment a sound as of thunder was heard all over the castle, and on all the staircases and in every room sounds were to be heard. Then a troop of servants, male and female, flocked into the apartment where the happy couple sat, and after wishing the Princess and her bridegroom joy, they dispersed all over the castle to their different occupations.
The little dwarf paused, clearly exhausted, and the young man quickly set to work. He followed all instructions carefully and without delay, and after he removed the little bird's heart, he turned it into a powder. As soon as he placed it in the Princess’s mouth, she opened her beautiful eyes and, gazing up at the joyful young man, kissed him gently, thanking him for waking her from her enchanted sleep and promising to be his wife. At that moment, a sound like thunder echoed throughout the castle, and noises filled every staircase and room. Then, a group of male and female servants rushed into the room where the happy couple was seated, congratulating the Princess and her groom and then scattering throughout the castle to resume their duties.
But the little grey dwarf began now to demand his beard again from the youth, for in his wicked heart he was determined to make an end of all their happiness; he knew that if only his beard were once more on his chin, he would be able to do what he liked with them all. But the clever flute-player was quite a match for the little man in cunning, and said: ‘All right, you needn’t be afraid, you shall get your beard back before we part; but you must allow my bride and me to accompany you a bit on your homeward way.’
But the little grey dwarf started to demand his beard back from the young man, because in his wicked heart he was set on ending all their happiness. He knew that if he got his beard back, he could control them all. However, the clever flute player was just as cunning as the little man and said, “Sure, you don’t need to worry; you’ll get your beard back before we part ways, but you have to let my bride and me join you for a bit on your way home.”
The dwarf could not refuse this request, and so they all went together through the beautiful green paths and flowery meadows, and came at last to the river which flowed for miles round the Princess’s land and formed the boundary of her kingdom. There was no bridge or ferryboat to be seen anywhere, and it was impossible to get over to the other side, for the boldest swimmer would not have dared to brave the fierce current and roaring waters. Then the youth said to the dwarf: ‘Give me your wand in order that I may part the waves.’
The dwarf couldn't say no to the request, so they all headed together along the beautiful green paths and flowery meadows until they finally reached the river that flowed for miles around the Princess’s land, marking the border of her kingdom. There wasn't a bridge or ferry in sight, and it was impossible to cross to the other side because even the bravest swimmer wouldn't risk facing the strong current and crashing waves. Then the young man said to the dwarf, "Give me your wand so I can part the waves."
And the dwarf was forced to do as he was told because the youth still kept his beard from him; but the wicked little creature chuckled with joy and thought to himself: ‘The foolish youth will hand me my beard as soon as we have crossed the river, and then my power will return, and I will seize my wand and prevent them both ever returning to their beautiful country.’
And the dwarf had to do as he was told because the young man still kept his beard from him; but the wicked little creature laughed with delight and thought to himself, ‘The silly young man will give me my beard as soon as we cross the river, and then my power will come back, and I’ll grab my wand and make sure they never return to their beautiful land.’
But the dwarf’s wicked intentions were doomed to disappointment. The happy youth struck the water with his wand, and the waves at once parted and stood still, and the dwarf went on in front and crossed the stream. No sooner had he done so than the waters closed behind him, and the youth and his lovely bride stood safe on the other side. Then they threw his beard to the old man across the river, but they kept his wand, so that the wicked dwarf could never again enter their kingdom. So the happy couple returned to their castle, and lived there in peace and plenty for ever after. But the other two musicians waited in vain for the return of their companion; and when he never came they said: ‘Ah, he’s gone to play the flute,’ till the saying passed into a proverb, and was always said of anyone who set out to perform a task from which he never returned.
But the dwarf’s evil plans were bound to fail. The joyful young man struck the water with his wand, and the waves immediately parted and stood still, allowing the dwarf to cross the stream ahead of them. As soon as he did, the waters closed behind him, and the young man and his beautiful bride found themselves safe on the other side. They threw the dwarf’s beard to the old man across the river, but kept his wand, ensuring that the wicked dwarf could never enter their kingdom again. The happy couple then returned to their castle and lived in peace and plenty forever after. Meanwhile, the other two musicians waited in vain for their friend to come back; when he didn’t, they said: ‘Ah, he’s gone to play the flute,’ and that saying eventually became a proverb, always used to describe anyone who set out to do something and never returned.
Grimm.
Grimm Tales.
THE THREE DOGS
There was once upon a time a shepherd who had two children, a son and a daughter. When he was on his death-bed he turned to them and said, ‘I have nothing to leave you but three sheep and a small house; divide them between you, as you like, but don’t quarrel over them whatever you do.’
There was once a shepherd who had two kids, a son and a daughter. As he lay dying, he turned to them and said, ‘I have nothing to leave you but three sheep and a small house; divide them however you want, but don’t fight over them, whatever you do.’
When the shepherd was dead, the brother asked his sister which she would like best, the sheep or the little house; and when she had chosen the house he said, ‘Then I’ll take the sheep and go out to seek my fortune in the wide world. I don’t see why I shouldn’t be as lucky as many another who has set out on the same search, and it wasn’t for nothing that I was born on a Sunday.’
When the shepherd died, the brother asked his sister what she preferred, the sheep or the little house. When she chose the house, he said, “Then I’ll take the sheep and head out to find my fortune in the big world. I don’t see why I can’t be as lucky as many others who have gone on the same journey, and it’s not like I was born on a Sunday for no reason.”
And so he started on his travels, driving his three sheep in front of him, and for a long time it seemed as if fortune didn’t mean to favour him at all. One day he was sitting disconsolately at a cross road, when a man suddenly appeared before him with three black dogs, each one bigger than the other.
And so he set out on his journey, herding his three sheep ahead of him, and for a long while, it looked like luck was not on his side at all. One day, he was sitting sadly at a crossroads when a man suddenly appeared in front of him with three black dogs, each larger than the last.
‘Hullo, my fine fellow,’ said the man, ‘I see you have three fat sheep. I’ll tell you what; if you’ll give them to me, I’ll give you my three dogs.’
‘Hello, my good man,’ said the man, ‘I see you have three plump sheep. I’ll tell you what; if you give them to me, I’ll give you my three dogs.’
In spite of his sadness, the youth smiled and replied, ‘What would I do with your dogs? My sheep at least feed themselves, but I should have to find food for the dogs.’
In spite of his sadness, the young man smiled and replied, ‘What would I do with your dogs? My sheep can at least feed themselves, but I would have to find food for the dogs.’
‘My dogs are not like other dogs,’ said the stranger; ‘they will feed you instead of you them, and will make your fortune. The smallest one is called “Salt,” and will bring you food whenever you wish; the second is called “Pepper,” and will tear anyone to pieces who offers to hurt you; and the great big strong one is called “Mustard,” and is so powerful that it will break iron or steel with its teeth.’
‘My dogs aren’t like other dogs,’ said the stranger; ‘they’ll feed you instead of you feeding them, and will make you rich. The smallest one is named “Salt,” and will bring you food whenever you want; the second is called “Pepper,” and will rip apart anyone who tries to hurt you; and the big strong one is named “Mustard,” and is so powerful that it can break iron or steel with its teeth.’
The shepherd at last let himself be persuaded, and gave the stranger his sheep. In order to test the truth of his statement about the dogs, he said at once, ‘Salt, I am hungry,’ and before the words were out of his mouth the dog had disappeared, and returned in a few minutes with a large basket full of the most delicious food. Then the youth congratulated himself on the bargain he had made, and continued his journey in the best of spirits.
The shepherd finally let himself be convinced and gave the stranger his sheep. To check if the stranger was telling the truth about the dogs, he immediately said, “I’m hungry, bring me some salt,” and before he could finish speaking, the dog had vanished and came back a few minutes later with a big basket full of the most delicious food. Then the young man felt proud of the deal he had made and continued his journey feeling very happy.
One day he met a carriage and pair, all draped in black; even the horses were covered with black trappings, and the coachman was clothed in crape from top to toe. Inside the carriage sat a beautiful girl in a black dress crying bitterly. The horses advanced slowly and mournfully, with their heads bent on the ground.
One day, he came across a black-draped carriage
‘Coachman, what’s the meaning of all this grief?’ asked the shepherd.
‘Driver, what’s the deal with all this sadness?’ asked the shepherd.
At first the coachman wouldn’t say anything, but when the youth pressed him he told him that a huge dragon dwelt in the neighbourhood, and required yearly the sacrifice of a beautiful maiden. This year the lot had fallen on the King’s daughter, and the whole country was filled with woe and lamentation in consequence.
At first, the coachman wouldn’t say anything, but when the young man kept asking, he told him that a huge dragon lived nearby and demanded a beautiful maiden as a sacrifice every year. This year, the King’s daughter had been chosen, and the entire country was filled with grief and mourning because of it.
The shepherd felt very sorry for the lovely maiden, and determined to follow the carriage. In a little it halted at the foot of a high mountain. The girl got out, and walked slowly and sadly to meet her terrible fate. The coachman perceived that the shepherd wished to follow her, and warned him not to do so if he valued his life; but the shepherd wouldn’t listen to his advice. When they had climbed about half-way up the hill they saw a terrible-looking monster with the body of a snake, and with huge wings and claws, coming towards them, breathing forth flames of fire, and preparing to seize its victim. Then the shepherd called, ‘Pepper, come to the rescue,’ and the second dog set upon the dragon, and after a fierce struggle bit it so sharply in the neck that the monster rolled over, and in a few moments breathed its last. Then the dog ate up the body, all except its two front teeth, which the shepherd picked up and put in his pocket.
The shepherd felt really sorry for the beautiful girl and decided to follow the carriage. Soon, it stopped at the base of a tall mountain. The girl got out and walked slowly and sadly toward her dreadful fate. The coachman noticed that the shepherd wanted to follow her and warned him not to do so if he valued his life, but the shepherd ignored his advice. As they climbed about halfway up the hill, they saw a terrifying monster with a snake's body and huge wings and claws approaching them, breathing fire and ready to capture its prey. Then the shepherd shouted, “Pepper, come to the rescue,” and the second dog charged at the dragon. After a fierce fight, it bit the monster hard in the neck, making it roll over, and moments later, it breathed its last. Then the dog devoured the body, leaving only its two front teeth, which the shepherd picked up and put in his pocket.
The Princess was quite overcome with terror and joy, and fell fainting at the feet of her deliverer. When she recovered her consciousness she begged the shepherd to return with her to her father, who would reward him richly. But the youth answered that he wanted to see something of the world, and that he would return again in three years, and nothing would make him change this resolve. The Princess seated herself once more in her carriage, and, bidding each other farewell, she and the shepherd separated, she to return home, and he to see the world.
The Princess was overwhelmed with both fear and joy, and fainted at the feet of her savior. When she regained consciousness, she asked the shepherd to come back with her to her father, who would reward him handsomely. But the young man replied that he wanted to explore the world and that he would return in three years, and nothing would change his mind about that. The Princess got back into her carriage, and after saying their goodbyes, she went home while he set off to see the world.
But while the Princess was driving over a bridge the carriage suddenly stood still, and the coachman turned round to her and said, ‘Your deliverer has gone, and doesn’t thank you for your gratitude. It would be nice of you to make a poor fellow happy; therefore you may tell your father that it was I who slew the dragon, and if you refuse to, I will throw you into the river, and no one will be any the wiser, for they will think the dragon has devoured you.’
But while the Princess was crossing a bridge, the carriage suddenly stopped, and the coachman turned to her and said, ‘Your rescuer is gone and doesn’t appreciate your gratitude. It would be kind of you to make a poor guy happy; so you can tell your father that I’m the one who killed the dragon, and if you don’t, I’ll throw you into the river, and no one will know the difference because they'll think the dragon got you.’
The maiden was in a dreadful state when she heard these words; but there was nothing for her to do but to swear that she would give out the coachman as her deliverer, and not to divulge the secret to anyone. So they returned to the capital, and everyone was delighted when they saw the Princess had returned unharmed; the black flags were taken down from all the palace towers, and gay-coloured ones put up in their place, and the King embraced his daughter and her supposed rescuer with tears of joy, and, turning to the coachman, he said, ‘You have not only saved the life of my child, but you have also freed the country from a terrible scourge; therefore, it is only fitting that you should be richly rewarded. Take, therefore, my daughter for your wife; but as she is still so young, do not let the marriage be celebrated for another year.’
The young woman was in a terrible state when she heard these words; but she had no choice but to promise that she would say the coachman was her rescuer and keep the secret to herself. So, they went back to the capital, and everyone was thrilled to see the Princess returned safe and sound; the black flags were taken down from all the palace towers, and colorful ones were raised in their place. The King hugged his daughter and her supposed savior with tears of joy, and then turning to the coachman, he said, “You have not only saved my child's life, but you've also freed the country from a terrible threat; so, it’s only right that you should be handsomely rewarded. Therefore, take my daughter as your wife; but since she is still so young, let’s wait a year before the wedding.”
The coachman thanked the King for his graciousness, and was then led away to be richly dressed and instructed in all the arts and graces that befitted his new position. But the poor Princess wept bitterly, though she did not dare to confide her grief to anyone. When the year was over, she begged so hard for another year’s respite that it was granted to her. But this year passed also, and she threw herself at her father’s feet, and begged so piteously for one more year that the King’s heart was melted, and he yielded to her request, much to the Princess’s joy, for she knew that her real deliverer would appear at the end of the third year. And so the year passed away like the other two, and the wedding-day was fixed, and all the people were prepared to feast and make merry.
The coachman thanked the King for his kindness and was then taken away to be dressed in fine clothes and trained in the skills and manners suitable for his new role. But the poor Princess cried inconsolably, even though she didn’t dare to share her sorrow with anyone. When the year was up, she pleaded so earnestly for another year’s delay that it was granted to her. However, this year passed as well, and she threw herself at her father’s feet, begging so desperately for one more year that the King’s heart softened, and he agreed to her request, much to the Princess’s delight, as she believed her true savior would appear at the end of the third year. And so the year went by like the previous two, the wedding day was set, and everyone prepared to celebrate and have a good time.
But on the wedding-day it happened that a stranger came to the town with three black dogs. He asked what the meaning of all the feasting and fuss was, and they told him that the King’s daughter was just going to be married to the man who had slain the terrible dragon. The stranger at once denounced the coachman as a liar; but no one would listen to him, and he was seized and thrown into a cell with iron doors.
But on the day of the wedding, a stranger arrived in town with three black dogs. He asked what all the celebration was about, and they informed him that the King’s daughter was about to marry the man who had killed the terrible dragon. The stranger immediately accused the coachman of lying, but no one paid attention to him, and he was captured and thrown into a cell with iron doors.
While he was lying on his straw pallet, pondering mournfully on his fate, he thought he heard the low whining of his dogs outside; then an idea dawned on him, and he called out as loudly as he could, ‘Mustard, come to my help,’ and in a second he saw the paws of his biggest dog at the window of his cell, and before he could count two the creature had bitten through the iron bars and stood beside him. Then they both let themselves out of the prison by the window, and the poor youth was free once more, though he felt very sad when he thought that another was to enjoy the reward that rightfully belonged to him. He felt hungry too, so he called his dog ‘Salt,’ and asked him to bring home some food. The faithful creature trotted off, and soon returned with a table-napkin full of the most delicious food, and the napkin itself was embroidered with a kingly crown.
While he was lying on his straw mattress, sadly thinking about his situation, he thought he heard his dogs whining outside. Then an idea struck him, and he shouted as loudly as he could, “Mustard, come help me!” In an instant, he saw the paws of his biggest dog at the window of his cell, and before he could even count to two, the dog had chewed through the iron bars and stood beside him. They both climbed out of the prison through the window, and the poor young man was free again, although he felt very down thinking about how someone else would get the reward that he deserved. He felt hungry too, so he called his dog “Salt” and asked him to bring back some food. The loyal dog ran off and soon returned with a napkin full of the most delicious food, and the napkin was embroidered with a royal crown.
The King had just seated himself at the wedding-feast with all his Court, when the dog appeared and licked the Princess’s hand in an appealing manner. With a joyful start she recognised the beast, and bound her own table-napkin round his neck. Then she plucked up her courage and told her father the whole story. The King at once sent a servant to follow the dog, and in a short time the stranger was led into the Kings presence. The former coachman grew as white as a sheet when he saw the shepherd, and, falling on his knees, begged for mercy and pardon. The Princess recognized her deliverer at once, and did not need the proof of the two dragon’s teeth which he drew from his pocket. The coachman was thrown into a dark dungeon, and the shepherd took his place at the Princess’s side, and this time, you may be sure, she did not beg for the wedding to be put off.
The King had just settled down at the wedding feast with all his Court when the dog appeared and licked the Princess’s hand in a pleading way. With a happy jolt, she recognized the animal and tied her napkin around its neck. Then, gathering her courage, she told her father the whole story. The King immediately sent a servant to follow the dog, and soon the stranger was brought before him. The former coachman turned as pale as a ghost when he saw the shepherd and, falling to his knees, begged for mercy and forgiveness. The Princess recognized her rescuer right away and didn’t need the proof of the two dragon’s teeth he pulled from his pocket. The coachman was thrown into a dark dungeon, and the shepherd took his place at the Princess’s side, and this time, you can be sure, she didn’t ask to delay the wedding.
The young couple lived for some time in great peace and happiness, when suddenly one day the former shepherd bethought himself of his poor sister and expressed a wish to see her again, and to let her share in his good fortune. So they sent a carriage to fetch her, and soon she arrived at the court, and found herself once more in her brother’s arms. Then one of the dogs spoke and said, ‘Our task is done; you have no more need of us. We only waited to see that you did not forget your sister in your prosperity.’ And with these words the three dogs became three birds and flew away into the heavens.
The young couple lived happily for a while, but one day the former shepherd remembered his poor sister and wanted to see her again to share his good luck. So they sent a carriage to bring her, and she soon arrived at the castle, finding herself in her brother’s embrace once more. Then one of the dogs spoke and said, “Our job is done; you don’t need us anymore. We were just waiting to make sure you didn’t forget your sister in your good fortune.” With those words, the three dogs transformed into three birds and flew up into the sky.
Grimm.
Grimm.
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