 This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Heidi by Johanna Speary. Translated by Elizabeth Stork. Cast as you meet them. Barbara, read by April Gonzalez. Dita, read by Amanda Friday. Heidi, read by Sweet Pea. Peter, read by Willie. Grandfather, read by Adam. Peter's grandmother, read by Christine G. Raghita, Peter's mother, read by Tiffany Hala-Colona. Towns Pastor, read by Ken Garrett. Clara, read by Eden Ray-Hedrick. John the Coachman, read by Justin Grant. Sebastian the Butler, read by Kevin Green. Tenet, the Maid, read by Angela. Miss Rottenmeier, read by Arielle Lipshaw. Street Boy, read by Willie. Old Man in Church Tower, read by Adam. Mr. Candidate, the Teacher, read by Charlotte Duckett. Mr. Zeissamann, read by Ernst Otinama. Mrs. Zeissamann, Clara's grand-mama, read by Trisha G. Dr. Klassen, read by Chuck Williamson. The Towns Baker, read by Anna Simon. The Towns Teacher, read by Sarah DeFee. Part One, narrated by Grace Garrett. Part Two, narrated by Elizabeth Klatt. End of Cast. Part One, Heidi's Years of Learning and Travel. Chapter One, Going Up to the Almonkle. The little old town of Mayenfeld is charmingly situated. From it a footpath leads through the green well-wooded stretches, to the foot of the heights which look down imposingly upon the valley. Where the footpath begins to go steeply and abruptly up the Alps, the heath, with its short grass and pungent herbage, at once sends out its soft plumage to meet the wayfarer. One bright sunny morning in June, a tall vigorous maiden of the mountain region climbed up the narrow path, leading a little girl by the hand. The youngsters' cheeks were in such a glow that it showed even through her sun-brown skin. Small wonder, though, for in spite of the heat the little one, who is scarcely five years old, was bundled up as if she had to brave a bitter frost. Her shape was difficult to distinguish, for she wore two dresses, if not three, and around her shoulders a large red cotton shawl. With her feet encased in heavy, hob-nailed boots, this hot and shapeless little person toiled up the mountain. The pair had been climbing for about an hour when they reached a hamlet, half-way up the great mountain called the Alm. This hamlet was called Imdorfli, or the little village. It was the elder girl's hometown, and therefore she was greeted from nearly every house. People called to her from windows and doors, and very often from the road. But answering questions and calls as she went by, the girl did not loiter on her way and only stood still when she reached the end of the hamlet. There a few cottages lay scattered about, from the furthest of which a voice called out through an open door. Dita, please wait a moment, I'm coming with you, if you're going farther up. When the girl stood still to wait, the child instantly let go her hand and promptly sat down on the ground. Are you tired, Heidi? Dita asked the child. No, but hot! She replied, We shall be up in an hour if you take big steps and climb with all your little might. Thus the elder girl tried to encourage her small companion. A stout, pleasant-looking woman stepped out of the house and joined the two. The child had risen and wandered behind the old acquaintances, who immediately started gossiping about their friends in the neighborhood and the people of the hamlet generally. Where are you taking the child, Dita? Asked the newcomer. Is she the child's sister left? Yes, Dita assured her. I'm taking her up to the Almonkle, and there I want her to remain. You can't really mean to take her there, Dita. You must have lost your son's sister to go to him. I'm sure they almost showed a door and even listened to what you say. Why not? As he's her grandfather, it is high time he should do something for the child. I have taken care of her until this summer, and now a good place has been offered to me. The child shall not hinder me from accepting it. I tell you that. It would not be so hard if he were like other mortals. But you know him yourself. How could you look after a child, especially such a little one? She'll never get too long with him. I'm sure of that. But tell me of your prospects. I'm going to a splendid house in Frankfurt. Last summer some people went off to the bath and I took care of their rooms. They wanted to take me along, but I could not leave. They have come back now, and have persuaded me to go with them. I'm glad I'm not the child. I exclaimed Barbara with a shudder. Nobody knows anything about their oldest life of their. He doesn't speak to a living soul, and from one years and to the other he keeps away from the church. People get out of his way when he appears once in twelve months down her morners. We all fear him, and he is really just like a heathen and has such great eyebrows and that huge uncanny beard. And he wanders along the road that his twisted stick we are all afraid to meet him alone. That is not my fault, said Dennis stubbornly. He won't do her any harm, and if he should, he is responsible, not I. I wish I knew what ways an old man's conscience. Why are his eyes so fierce and why does he live up there all alone? Nobody ever sees him. Under him many strange things about him. Didn't your sister tell you anything, Dieter? Of course she did, but I shall hold my tongue. He would make me pay for it if I didn't. Barbara had been long anxious to know something about the old uncle and why he lived apart from everybody. Nobody had a good word for him, and when people talked about him they did not speak openly, but as if they were afraid. She could not even explain to herself why he was called the All-Muncle. He could not possibly be the uncle in the village, but since everybody spoke of him so, she did the same. Barbara, who had only lived in the village since her marriage, was glad to get some information from her friend. Dieter had been bred there, but since her mother's death had gone away to earn her livelihood, she confidently seized Dieter's arm and said, I wish you would tell me the truth about him, Dieter. You know it all. People only gossip. Did he always hate his fellow-creatures? I cannot tell you whether he always did and that for a very good reason. He, being sixty years old and I, only twenty-six, you can't expect me to give you an account of his early youth, but if you'll promise to keep it to yourself and not set all the people in Pretegan talking, I can tell you a good deal. My mother and he both came from Domelesk. How can you talk like that, Dieter? replied Barbara in an offended tone. People do not gossip much in Pretegan and I always get things from myself if I have to. You won't repent of having told me I assure you. All right, but keep your word, said Dieter warningly. Then she looked around to see that the child was not so close to them as to over here what might be said, but the little girl was nowhere to be seen. While the two young women had talked at such a rate, they had not noticed her absence. Quite a while must have elapsed following her companions. Detta, standing still, looked about her everywhere, but no one was on the path which, except for a few curves, was visible as far down as the village. There she is. Can't you see her there? exclaimed Barbara, pointing to a spot a good distance from the path. She's climbing up where the goat had peed down, his goats. I wonder why he's so late today. I must say, it suits us well enough. You can't look after the child while you tell me everything without being interrupted. It will be very easy for Peter to watch her. Remarked Detta. She is bright for her five years and keeps her eyes wide open. I have often noticed that, and I am glad for her, for it will be useful with the uncle. He has nothing left in the whole wide world but his cottage and two goats. Did he won't have more? asked Barbara. I should say so. He was aired to a large farm in Domleschke, but setting up to play the fine gentleman he soon lost everything with drink and play. His parents died with grief and he himself disappeared from these parts. After many years he came back with a half-grown boy, his son Tobias. That was his name. He came a carpenter and turned out to be a quiet, steady fellow. Any strange rumors went round about the uncle and I think that was why he left Domleschke for Durfle. We acknowledged relationship, my mother's grandmother being a cousin of his. We called him uncle and because we are related on my father's side to nearly all the people in the Hamlet, they too all called him uncle. He was named Almunkel when he moved up to the Alm. What happened to Tobias? asked Barbara eagerly. Just wait! How can I tell you everything at once? exclaimed Dede. Tobias was an apprentice in Melsch and when he was made master he came home to the village and married my sister Adelheid. They always had been fond of each other and they lived very happily as man and wife. Two years afterwards when Tobias was helping to build a house a beam fell on him and killed him. Adelheid was thrown into a violent fever with grief and fright and never recovered from it. She had never been strong and had often suffered from queer spells when we did not know whether she was awake or asleep. Only a few weeks after Tobias's death they buried poor Adelheid. People said that Heaven had punished the uncle for his misdeeds. After the death of his son he never spoke to a living soul. Suddenly he moved up to the Alm to live there at enmity with God and man. My mother and I took Adelheid's little year old baby, Heidi, to live with us. When I went to Ragaz I took her with me but in the spring the family whose work I had done last year came from Frankfurt and resolved to take me to their townhouse. I am very glad to get such a good position. And now you want to hunt over the child to this troubled old man? I wonder how it can do it, Dieter? said Barbara with reproach in her voice. It seems to me I have really done enough for the child. I do not know where else to take her as she's too young to come with me to Frankfurt. By the way, Barbara, where are you going? We are halfway up the Alm already. Dettish shook hands with her companion and stood still while Barbara approached the tiny dark brown mountain hut which lay in a hollow a few steps away from the path. Situated halfway up the Alm cottage was luckily protected from the mighty winds. Had it been exposed to the tempests it would have been a doubtful habitation in the state of decay it was in. Even as it was the doors and windows rattled and the old rafters shook when the south winds swept the mountainside. If the hut had stood on the Alm top the wind would have blown it down the valley without much ado when the storm season came. Here lived Peter the Goatherd a boy eleven years old who daily fetched the goats from the village and drove them up the mountain to the short and luscious grasses of the pastures. Peter raced down in the evening with a light-footed little goats. When he whistled sharply through his fingers every owner would come out and get his or her goat. These owners were mostly small boys and girls and, as the goats were friendly, they did not fear them. That was the only time Peter spent with other children. The rest of the day the animals were his sole companions. At home lived his mother and an old blind grandmother but he only spent enough time in the hut to swallow his bread and milk for breakfast and the same recast for supper. After that he sought his bed to sleep. He always left early in the morning and at night he came home late so that he could be with his friends as long as possible. His father had met with an accident some years ago. He also had been called Peter the Goatherd. His mother, whose name was Brigida was called Goatherd Peter's wife and his blind grandmother was called by young and old for many miles around just grandmother. Detta waited about ten minutes to see if the children were coming up behind with the goats. As she could not find them anywhere she climbed up a little higher to get a better view down the valley from there and peered from side to side with marks of great impatience on her countenance. The children in the meantime were ascending slowly in a zigzag way following where to find all sorts of good grazing places for his goats where they could nibble. Thus they strayed from side to side. The poor little girl had followed the boy only with the greatest effort and she was panting in her heavy clothes. She was so hot and uncomfortable that she only climbed by exerting all her strength. She did not say anything but looked enviously at Peter who jumped about so easily in his light trousers and bare feet. The little goats that climbed over bushes, stones and steep inclines with their slender legs. Suddenly sitting down on the ground the child swiftly took off her shoes and stockings. Getting up she ended the heavy shawl and two little dresses. Out she slipped without more ado and stood up in only a light petticoat. In sheer delight at the relief she threw up her dimpled arms that were bare up to her short sleeves. To save the trouble of carrying them her aunt had dressed her in her Sunday clothes over her workday garments. Heidi arranged her dresses neatly in a heap and joined Peter and the goats. She was now as light-footed as any of them when Peter, who had not paid much attention saw her suddenly in her light attire he grinned. Looking back he saw the little heap of dresses on the ground and then he grinned yet more till his mouth seemed to reach from ear to ear but he never said a word. The child, feeling free and comfortable started to converse with Peter and he had to answer many questions but he never said a word. And he had to answer many questions. She asked him how many goats he had and where he led them and what he did with them when he got there and so forth. At last the children reached the summit in front of the hut. When Dettah saw the little party of climbers she cried out shrilly, Heidi, what have you done? What a sight you are! Where are your dresses and your shawl? Are the new shoes gone that I just bought for you and the new stockings that I made myself? The child quietly pointed down and said There! The ant followed the direction of her finger and described a little heap with a small red dot in the middle which he recognized as the shawl. Unlucky child! Dettah said excitedly, What does all this mean? Why have you taken your things all off? Because I do not need them! said the child, not seeming in the least repentant of her deed. How can you be so stupid, Heidi? The ant went on, in a tone of mingled vexation and reproach. Who do you think will go way down there to fetch those things up again? It is half an hour's walk. Please, Peter, run down and get them. Do not stand and stare at me as if you were glued to the spot. I bled already, replied Peter, and stood without moving from the place where, with his hands in his trousers pockets, he had witnessed the violent outbreak of Heidi's ant. There you are, standing in staring, but that won't get you further, said Dettah. I'll give you this, if you bow down. With that she held a five-penny piece under his eyes. That made Peter start, and in a great hurry he ran down the straightest path. He arrived again in so short a time that Dettah had to praise him, and gave him her little coin without delay. He did not often get such a treasure, and therefore his face was beaming and he laughingly dropped the money deep into his pocket. If you are going up to the uncle, as we are, you can carry the pack till we get there, said Dettah. They still had to climb a steep ascent that lay behind Peter's hut. The boy readily took the things and followed Dettah, his left arm holding the bundle and his right swinging into the stick. Heidi jumped along gaily by his side with the goats. After three-quarters of an hour they reached the height where the hut of the old man stood on a prominent rock, exposed to every wind, but bathed in the full sunlight. From there you could gaze far down into the valley. Behind the hut stood three old fir trees with great shaggy branches. Further back the old grey rocks rose high and sheer. Above them you could see green and friddle pastures till at last the stony boulders reached the bare steep cliffs. Overlooking the valley the uncle had made himself a bench by the side of the hut. Here he sat with his pipe between his teeth and both hands resting on his knees. He quietly watched the children climbing up with the goats and Aunt Dettah behind them where the children had caught up to her long ago. Heidi reached the top first and approaching the old man she held out her hand to him and said, Good evening, Grandfather. Well, well, what does that mean? replied the old man in a rough voice. Giving her his hand only for a moment he watched her with a long and penetrating look from under his bushy brows. Heidi gazed back at him with an unweaking glance and examined him with much curiosity for he was strange to look at with his thick grey beard and shaggy eyebrows that met in the middle like a thicket. Heidi's aunt had arrived in the meantime with Peter who was eager to see what was going to happen. Good day to you, uncle, said Dettah as she approached. This is Tobias' and Adelheid's child. You won't be able to remember her because last time you saw her she was scarcely a year old. Where do you bring her here? asked the uncle and turning to Peter, he said. Get away and bring my goats. How late you are already. Peter obeyed and disappeared on the spot. The uncle had looked at him in such a manner that he was glad to go. Uncle, I have brought the little girl for you to keep, said Dettah. I have done my share these last four years and now it is your turn to provide for her. The old man's eyes flamed with anger. Indeed, he said. What on earth shall I do when she begins to whine and cry for you? Small children always do and then I'll be helpless. You'll have to look out for that. Dettah retorted. When the little baby was left in my hands a few years ago I had to find out how to care for the little innocent myself and nobody told me anything. I already had mother on my hands and there was plenty for me to do. You can't blame me if I want to earn some money now. If you can't keep the child you can do with her whatever you please. If she comes to harm you are responsible and I'm sure you do not want to burden your conscience any further. Dettah had said more in her excitement than she had intended just because her conscience was not quite clear. The uncle had risen during her last words and now he gave her such a look that she retreated a few steps. Stretching out his arm in a commanding gesture he said to her, Stay with you. Be gone. Stay wherever you came from and don't venture again into my sight. Dettah did not have to be told twice. She said, Goodbye to Heidi and farewell to the uncle and started down the mountain. Like stream her excitement seemed to drive her forward and she ran down at a tremendous rate. The people in the village called to her now more than they had on her way up because they were all wondering where she had left the child. They were well acquainted with both and knew their history. When she heard from doors and windows, where is the child? Where have you left her, Dettah? And so forth she answered more and more reluctantly, Up with the arm uncle. With the arm uncle. She became much provoked because the women called to her from every side. How could you do it? The poor little creature. The idea of leaving such a helpless child up there and over and over again the poor little deer. Dettah ran as quickly as she could and was glad when she heard no more calls because, to tell the truth, she herself was uneasy. Her mother had asked her on her deathbed to care for Heidi. But she can soldier herself with the thought that she would be able to do more for the child if she could earn some money. She was very glad to go away from the people who interfered in her affairs and looked forward with great delight to her new place. End of Chapter 1 Chapter 2 of Heidi This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Heidi by Johanna Speery. Translated by Elizabeth Stork. Chapter 2 With the Grandfather After Dettah had disappeared, the uncle sat down again on the bench, blowing big clouds of smoke out of his pipe. He did not speak but kept his eyes fastened on the ground. In the meantime, Heidi looked about her and, discovering the goat shed, peeped in. Nothing could be seen inside. Searching for some more interesting thing, she saw three old fir trees behind the hut. Here the wind was roaring through the branches and the treetops were swaying to and fro. Heidi stood still to listen. After the wind had ceased somewhat, she walked round the hut back to her grandfather. She found him in exactly the same position and, planting herself in front of the old man, with arms folded behind her back, she gazed at him. The grandfather, looking up, saw the child standing motionless before him. What do you want to do now? He asked her. I want to see what's in the hut. replied Heidi. Come, then. And without the grandfather got up and entered the cottage. Take your things along. he commanded. I do not want them anymore. answered Heidi. The old man, turning about, threw a penetrating glance at her. The child's black eyes were sparkling in expectation of all the things to come. She is not lacking in intelligence. He muttered to himself, aloud he added. Why don't you need them anymore? I want to go about like the late footed goats. All right, you can. But fetch the things and we'll put them in the cupboard. The child obeyed the command. The old man now opened the door and Heidi followed him into a fairly spacious room. Which took in the entire expanse of the hut. In one corner stood a table and a chair. In another the grandfather's bed. Across the room a large kettle was suspended over the hearth. And opposite to it a large door was sunk into the wall. This the grandfather opened. It was the cupboard in which all his clothes were kept. In one shelf were a few shirts, socks and towels. On another a few plates, cups and glasses. And on the top shelf Heidi could see a round loaf of bread some bacon and cheese. In this cupboard the grandfather kept everything that he needed for a subsistence. When he opened it Heidi pushed her things as far behind the grandfather's clothes as she could reach. She did not want them found again in a hurry. After looking around attentively in the room she asked Where am I going to sleep grandfather? Wherever you want to. He replied. That suited Heidi exactly. She peeped into all the corners of the room and looked at every little nook to find a cozy place to sleep. Beside the old man's bed she saw a ladder. Climbing up she arrived at a hayloft which was filled with fresh and fragrant hay. Through a tiny round window she could look far down into the valley. I want this. Heidi called down. Oh it is lovely here. Please come up grandfather and see it for yourself. I know it. Sounded from below. I'm making the bed now. The little girl called out again while she ran busily to and fro. Oh do come up and bring a sheet grandfather for every man must have a sheet. Is that so? Said the old man. After a while he opened the cupboard and rummaged around in it. At last he pulled out a long coarse cloth from under the shirts. It somewhat resembled a sheet and with this he climbed up to the loft. Here a neat little bed was already prepared. On top the hay was heaped up high so that the head of the occupant would lie exactly opposite the window. The grandfather was well pleased with the arrangement. To prevent the hard floor from being felt he made the couch twice as thick. Then he and Heidi together put the heavy sheet on, tucking the ends in as well. Heidi looked thoughtfully at her fresh new bed and said, Grandfather we forgot something. What? He asked. I have no cover. Why don't I go to bed and always creep it between the sheet and the cover? What shall we do if I haven't any? Asked the grandfather. Never mind. I'll just take the more hay to cover me. Heidi reassured him and was just going to the heap of hay when the old man stopped her. Just wait one minute. He said and went down to his own bed. From it he took a large, heavy linen bag and brought it to the child. Isn't this better than hay? He asked. Heidi pulled the sack to and fro with all her might but she could not unfold it for it was too heavy for her little arms. The grandfather put the thick cover on the bed while Heidi watched him. After it was all done she said, What a nice bed I have now. I want a splendid cover. I only wish the evening was here then I might go to sleep in it. I think we might eat something first. Said the grandfather. Don't you think so? Heidi had forgotten everything else in her interest for the bed but when she was reminded of her dinner she noticed how terribly hungry she really was. She had only had a piece of bread and a cup of thin coffee very early in the morning before her long journey. Heidi said approvingly, I think we might, grandfather. Let's go down then if we agree. Said the old man and followed close behind her. Going up to the fireplace he pushed the big kettle aside and reached for a smaller one that was suspended on a chain. Then sitting down on a three-legged stool he kindled a bright fire. When the kettle was boiling the old man put a large piece of cheese on a long iron fork and held it over the fire turning it to and fro till it was golden brown on all sides. Heidi had watched him eagerly. Suddenly she ran to the cupboard. When her grandfather brought a pot and the toasted cheese to the table he found it already nicely set with two plates and two knives and the bread in the middle. Heidi had seen things in the cupboard and knew that they would be needed for the meal. I'm glad to see that you can think for yourself. Said the grandfather while he put the cheese on top of the bread. But something is missing yet. Heidi saw the steaming pot and ran back to the cupboard in all haste. A single little bowl was on the shelf. It did not reflect Heidi though, for she saw two glasses standing behind. With those three things she returned to the table. You certainly can help yourself. Where shall you sit though? Asked the grandfather who occupied the only chair himself. Heidi flew to the hearth and bringing back a little stool sat down on it. Now you have a seat, but it is much too low. In fact you are too little to reach the table from my chair. Now you shall have something to eat at last. And with that the grandfather filled the little bowl with milk. Putting it on his chair he pushed it as near to the stool as was possible and in that way Heidi had a table before her. He commanded her to eat the large piece of bread and the slice of golden cheese. He sat down himself on the corner of the table and started his own dinner. Heidi drank without stopping, for she felt exceedingly thirsty after her long journey. Taking a long breath she put down her little bowl. How do you like the milk? The grandfather asked her. I never tasted better. Answered Heidi. Then you shall have more. And with that the grandfather filled the little bowl again. The little girl ate and drank with the greatest enjoyment. After she was through both went out into the goat shed. Here the old man busied himself and Heidi watched him attentively while he was sweeping and putting down fresh straw for the goats to sleep on. Then he went to the little shop alongside and fashioned a high chair for Heidi to the little girl's greatest amazement. What is this? Asked the grandfather. This is a chair for me. I am sure of it because it is so high. How quickly it was made. Said the child full of admiration and wonder. She knows what is what and has her eyes on the right place. The grandfather said to himself while he walked around the hut fastening a nail or a loose board here and there he wandered about with his hammer and nails repairing whatever was in need of fixing. Heidi followed him at every step and watched the performance with great enjoyment and attention. At last the evening came the old fir trees were wrestling and a mighty wind was roaring and howling through the treetops. Those sounds thrilled Heidi's heart and filled it with happiness and joy. She danced and jumped about under the trees where those sounds made her feel as if a wonderful thing had happened to her. The grandfather stood under the door watching her when suddenly a shrill whistle was heard. Heidi stood still and the grandfather joined her outside. Down from the heights came one goat after another with Peter in their midst. Out of a cry of joy, Heidi ran into the middle of the flock greeting her old friends. When they had all reached the hut they stopped on their way and two beautiful slender goats came out of the herd one of them white and the other brown. They came up to grandfather who held out some salt in his hands to them as he did every night. Heidi tenderly caressed first one and then the other singing beside herself with joy. Are they ours, grandfather? Do they both belong to us? Are they going to the stable? Are they going to stay with us? Heidi kept on asking in her excitement the grandfather hardly could put a nut. Yes, yes, surely. Between her numerous questions when the goats had licked up all the salt the old man said Go in, Heidi and fetch your bowl and the bread. Heidi obeyed and returned instantly. The grandfather milked a full bowl from the white goat cut a piece of bread for the child and told her to eat. Afterwards you can go to bed. If you need some shirts and other linen you will find them at the bottom of the cupboard. Aunt Dieta has left a bundle for you. Now good night. I have to look after the goats and lock them up for the night. Good night, grandfather. Oh, please tell me what their names are. Called Heidi after him. The white one's name is Schwanli and the brown one I call Berli. Was his answer. Good night, Schwanli. Good night, Barli. The little girl called loudly for they were just disappearing in the shed. Heidi now sat down on the bench and took her supper. The strong wind nearly blew her from her seat so she hurried with her meal to be able to go inside and up to her bed. She slept in it as well as a prince on his royal couch. Very soon after Heidi had gone up before it was quite dark the old man also sought his bed. He was always up in the morning with the sun which rose early over the mountainside in those summer days. It was a wild stormy night. The hut was shaking in the gusts and all the boards were creaking. The wind howled through the chimney and the old fir trees shook so strongly that many a dry branch came crashing down. In the middle of the night the grandfather got up saying to himself I am sure she is afraid. Climbing up the ladder he saw Heidi's bed. The first moment everything lay in darkness when all of a sudden the moon came out behind the clouds and sent his brilliant light across Heidi's bed. Her cheeks were burning red and she lay peacefully on her round and chubby arms. She must have had a happy dream for she was smiling in her sleep. The grandfather stood and watched her till a cloud flew over the moon and left everything in total darkness. Then he went down to seek his bed again. Chapter 3 of Heidi This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johannes Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 3 On the Pasture Heidi was awakened early next morning by a loud whistle. Opening her eyes she saw her little bed and the hay beside her bathed in golden sunlight. For a short while she did not know where she was but when she heard her grandfather's deep voice outside she recollected everything. She remembered how she had come up the mountain the day before and left old Ursula who was always shivering with cold and sat near the stove all day. While Heidi lived with Ursula she'd always been obliged to keep in the house where the old woman could see her. Being deaf Ursula was afraid to let Heidi go outdoors and the child had often fretted in the narrow room and had longed to run outside. She was therefore delighted to find herself in her new home and could hardly wait to see the goats again. Dumping out of bed she put on her few things in a short time, went down the ladder and ran outside. Heda was already there with his flock waiting for Schvenli and Barely whom the grandfather was just bringing to join the other goats. Do you want to go with him to the pasture? Asked the grandfather to hide Heidi, clapping her hands. Go now and wash yourself first for the sun will laugh at you if it sees how dirty you are. Everything is ready there for you. He added pointing to a large tub of water that stood in the sun. Heidi did as she was told and washed and rubbed herself till her cheeks were glowing. In the meantime the grandfather called the Peter to come into the hut and bring his bag along. The boy followed the old man who commanded him to open the bag that he carried his scanty dinner. The grandfather put into the bag a piece of bread and a slice of cheese that were easily twice as large as those the boy had in the bag himself. The little bowl goes in too, said the uncle, for the child does not know how to drink straight from the goat the way you do. She is going to stay with you all day, therefore milk two bowls full for her dinner. Look out that she does not fall over the rocks, do you hear? Just then Heidi came running in. Grandfather, can the son still laugh at me? She asked. The child had rubbed herself so violently with the coarse towel which the grandfather had put beside the tub that her face, neck and arms were as red as a lobster. With a smile the grandfather said, No, he can't laugh anymore now. But when you come home tonight you must go into the tub like a fish. When one goes about like the goats, one gets dirty feet. Be off. They started merrily up the alp, a cloudless deep blue sky looked down on them, for the wind had driven away every little cloud in the night. The fresh green mountainside was bathed in brilliant sunlight, and many blue and yellow flowers had opened. Heidi was wild with joy and ran from side to side. In one place she saw big patches of fine red primroses. And everywhere the golden rock roses were nodding to her. In her transport at finding such treasures Heidi even forgot Peter and his goats. She ran far ahead of him and then straight away off to one side where the sparkling flowers tempted her here and there. Picking whole bunches of them to take home with her she put them all into her little apron. Peter, whose round eyes could only move about slowly had a hard time looking out for her. The goats were even worse shouting and whistling especially by swinging his rod could he drive them together. Heidi, where are you now? He called quite angrily. Here. It sounded from somewhere. Peter could not see her for she was sitting on the ground behind a little mound which was covered with fragrant flowers. The whole air was filled with their perfume and the child drew it in in long breaths. Follow me now. Peter called out. The grandfather has told me to look out for you and you must not fall over the rocks. Where are they? Asked Heidi without even stirring. Way up there and we still have far to go. If you come quickly we may see the eagle there at a huge little tree. That tempted Heidi and she came running to Peter with her apron full of flowers. You have enough now? He declared. If you pick them all today there won't be any left to borrow. Heidi admitted that besides which she had her apron already full. From now on she stayed at Peter's side. The goats, senting the pungent herbs, also hurried up without delay. Peter generally took his quarters for the day at the foot of a high cliff which seemed to reach far up into the sky. Overhanging rocks on one side made it dangerous so that the grandfather was wise to warn Peter. After they had reached their destination the boy took off his bag putting it in a little hollow in the ground. The wind often blew in violent gusts up there and Peter did not want to lose his precious load. Then he lay down in the sunny grass for he was very tired. Heidi, taking off her apron rolled it tightly together and put it beside Peter's bag. Then sitting down beside the boy she looked about her. Far down she saw the glistening valley. A large field of snow rose high in front of her. Heidi sat a long time without stirring with Peter asleep by her side and the goats climbing about between the bushes. A light breeze fanned her cheek and those big mountains about her made her feel happy as never before. She looked up at the mountaintops till they all seemed to have faces and soon they were familiar to her like old friends. Suddenly she heard a loud, sharp scream and looking up she beheld the largest bird she had ever seen flying above her. Without spread wings he flew in large circles over Heidi's head. Wake up Peter! Heidi called. See the eagle there! Peter got wide awake and then they both watched the bird breathlessly. It rose higher and higher into the azure till it disappeared at last behind the mountain peak. Where is it gone? Heidi asked. Was Peter's answer? Oh, does it really live way up there? How wonderful that must be! But tell me why it screams so loud. Heidi inquired. Because it has to. Oh, let's climb up. Implored Heidi. But Peter, expressing decided disapproval in his voice, answered, Oh, dear, oh, dear, not even goats can climb up there. Grandfather has told me not to let you fall down the rock so we can't go. Peter now began to call loudly and to whistle and soon all the goats were assembled on the green field. Heidi ran into their midst for she loved to see them leaping and playing about. He was preparing dinner for Heidi and himself by putting her large pieces on one side and his own small ones on the other. Then he milked barely and put the full bowl in the middle. When he was ready he called to the little girl but it took some time before she obeyed his call. Stop jumping now. Said Peter. Is this milk for me? She inquired. Yes, it is. Those large pieces also belong to you. With the milk I'll get you some more. After that I'll get mine. What milk do you get? Heidi inquired. I get it from my uncle that speckled fun over there but go ahead and eat. Peter commanded again. Heidi obeyed and when the bowl was empty he filled it again. Breaking off a piece of bread for herself she gave Peter the rest which was still bigger than his own portion had been. She handed him also the whole slice of cheese Peter was speechless with surprise for it would have been impossible for him to ever give up any of his share. Not taking Heidi in earnest he hesitated till she put the things on his knees. Then he saw that she really meant it and he seized his prize. Notting his thanks to her he ate the most luxurious meal he had ever had in all his life. Heidi was watching the goats in the meantime and asked Peter for their names. The boy could tell them all to her for their names were about the only thing he had to carry in his head. She soon knew them too for she had listened attentively. One of them was the big Turk who tried to stick his big horns into all the others. Most of the goats ran away from their rough comrade. The bold thistlefinch alone was not afraid and running his horns three or four times into the other so astonished the Turk with his great daring that he stood still and gave up fighting for the thistlefinch had sharp horns and a more like attitude. A small white goat called Snowhopper kept up bleeding in the most piteous way which induced Heidi to console it several times. Heidi at last went to the little thing again and throwing her arms around its head she asked What is the matter with you Snowhopper? The little goat pressed close to Heidi's side and became perfectly quiet. Peter was still eating but between the swallows he called to Heidi She is so unhappy and left us. She was sold to subjugate field two days ago. Who is the old goat? Your mother of course. Where is her grandmother? She has a teddy. At her grandfather? Haven't any either. Poor little Snowhopper said Heidi drawing the little creature tenderly to her. Don't grieve anymore see I'm coming up with you every day now and if there's anything in the matter you can come to me. She rubbed her head against Heidi's shoulder and stopped bleeding. When Peter had finally finished his dinner he joined Heidi. The little girl had just been observing that Swenly and Barely were by far the cleanest and prettiest of the goats. They evaded the obtrusive Turk with a sort of contempt and always managed to find the greenest bushes for themselves. She mentioned it to Peter who replied I know. Of course they are the prettiest because they were by far. All of a sudden Peter who had been lying on the ground jumped up and bounded after the goats. Heidi knowing that something must have happened followed him. She saw him running to a dangerous abyss on the side. Peter had noticed how the rash Thistlefinch had gone nearer and nearer to the dangerous spot. Peter only just came in time to prevent the goat from falling down over the very edge. Unfortunately Peter had stumbled over a stone in his hurry and was only able to catch the goat by one leg. The Thistlefinch, being enraged to find himself stopped in his charming ramble, deleted furiously. Not being able to get up Peter loudly called for help. Heidi immediately saw that Peter was nearly pulling off the animal's leg. She quickly picked some fragrant herbs and holding them under the animal's nose she said soothingly. The goat turned about and devoured the herbs Heidi held in her hand. When Peter got to his feet he led back the runaway with Heidi's help. After safety he raised his rod to beat it for punishment. The goat retreated shyly for it knew what was coming. Heidi screamed loudly. He well deserved it. Snarled Peter ready to strike but Heidi seizing his arm shouted full of indignation. Heidi's eyes were sparkling and when he saw her with her commanding mean he desisted and dropped his rope. I'll let him go if you give me a piece of your seas again tomorrow. He said for he wanted a compensation for his fright. You may have it all tomorrow and every day because I don't need it. Heidi assured him. I shall also give you a big piece of bread if you promise never to beat any of the goats. I don't care. Growled Peter and in that way he gave his promise. Thus the day had passed and the sun was already sinking down behind the mountains. Sitting on the grass Heidi looked at the bluebells and the wild roses that were shining in the last rays of the sun. They started to glow and Heidi suddenly called to the boy. Oh Peter! Peter was quietly appealing his rod and looking up said to Heidi This is no fire it always looks like that. Asked Heidi eagerly gazing about her everywhere. It gets that way of itself. Explained Peter. He answered. Oh see how beautiful roses were growing on those cliffs. Oh no they are getting grey. Oh dear the fire has gone out all over what a terrible shame. Said Heidi quite despondently. It'll be the same again tomorrow. Peter reassured her. Come now we have to go home. When Peter had called the goats together they started downwards. Will it be like that everyday when we are up? Asked Heidi eagerly. It usually is. Was the reply. What about tomorrow? She inquired. Peter affirmed. That made Heidi feel happy again. She walked quietly by Peter's side thinking over all the new things she had seen. At last reaching the hut they found the grandfather waiting for them on a bench under the fir trees. Heidi ran up to him and the two goats followed for they knew their master. Peter called to her. Come again tomorrow goodnight. Heidi gave him her hand assuring him that she would come and finding herself surrounded by the goats she hugged Snowhopper last time. When Peter had disappeared Heidi returned to her grandfather. Oh grandfather was so... With that Heidi shook them out of her apron but oh how miserable they look Heidi did not even know any of them anymore. Heidi exclaimed in her fright. They are made to bloom in the sun and not be shut up in an apron. Said the grandfather. And I shall never pick them anymore. Please grandfather tell me why this creature is so loudly. Asked Heidi. First go and take a bath while I go into the shed to get your milk. Afterwards we'll go inside together and I'll tell you all about it during supper time. They did as was proposed and when Heidi sat in her high chair before her milk she asked the same question as before. Because he is sneering at the people down below who sit in the villages and make each other angry. He calls down to them if you would go apart to live up on the heights like me you would feel much better. The grandfather said these last words with such a wild voice that it reminded Heidi of the eagle's screech. Why did the mountains have no names grandfather? Asked Heidi. They all have names and if you tell me their shape I can name them for you. Heidi described several and the old man could name them all. The child told him now about all the happenings of the day and especially about the wonderful fire. She asked how it came about. The sun does it. He exclaimed. Saying good night to the mountains he throws his most beautiful rays to them that they may not forget him till the morning. Heidi was so much pleased with this explanation that she could wait to see the sun's good night greetings repeated. It was now time to go to bed and Heidi slept soundly all night. She dreamt that the little snowhopper was bounding happily on the glowing mountains with many glistening roses blooming round her. End of Chapter 3 Chapter 4 of Heidi This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johannes Speery Translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 4 In the Grandmother's Hut Next morning Peter came again with his goats and Heidi went up to the pasture with them. This happened day after day and in this healthy life Heidi grew stronger and more sunburned every day. Soon the autumn came and when the wind was blowing across the mountainside the grandfather would say you must stay home today, Heidi for the wind can blow such a little thing as you down into the valley with a single gust. It always made Peter unhappy when Heidi did not come along for he saw nothing but misfortunes ahead of him. He hardly knew how to pass his time and besides he was deprived of his abundant dinner. The goats were so accustomed to Heidi by this time that they did not follow Peter when she was not with him. Heidi herself did not mind staying at home and nothing better than to watch her grandfather with his saw and hammer. Sometimes the grandfather would make small round cheeses on those days and there was no greater pleasure for Heidi than to see him stir the butter with his bare arms. When the wind would howl through the fir trees on those stormy days Heidi would run out to the grove thrilled and happy by the wondrous roaring in the branches. The sun had lost its figure and the child had to put on her shoes and stockings in her little dress. The wind had blown colder and when Peter came up in the morning he would blow into his hands he was so frozen. At last even Peter could not come up anymore for a deep snow had fallen overnight. Heidi stood at the window watching the snow falling down. It kept on snowing till it reached the windows. Still it did not stop and soon the windows could not be opened and they were all shut in. When it had lasted several days Heidi thought it would soon cover up the cottage. The grandfather went out to shovel the snow away from the door and windows piling it up high here and there. In the afternoon the two were sitting near the fire when noisy steps were heard outside and the door was pushed open. It was Peter who had come up to see Heidi muttering, he went up to the fire. His face was beaming and Heidi had to laugh when she saw little waterfalls trickling down from his person for all the ice and snow had melted in the great heat. The grandfather now asked Peter to come out along in school. Heidi was so interested that she asked him a hundred questions. Poor Peter, who was not an easy talker, found himself in great difficulty answering the little girl's inquiries but at least it gave him leisure to dry his clothes. During this conversation the grandfather's eyes had been twinkling and at last he said to the boy No, that you have been under fire, General. You need some strengthening. Come and join us at supper. With that the old man prepared a meal which amply satisfied Peter's appetite. It had begun to get dark and Peter knew that it was time to go. He said goodbye and thank you when turning to Heidi he remarked I'll come next Sunday, if I may. By the way, Heidi, grandmother asked me to tell you that she would love to see you. Heidi immediately approved of this idea and her first word next morning was Grandfather, I must go down to grandmother. She's expecting me. Four days later the sun was shining and the tight-packed frozen snow was crackling under every step. Heidi was sitting at the dinner table imploring the old man to let her make her visit then when he got up and fetching down her a heavy cover told her to follow him. They went out into the glistening snow no sound was heard and the snow-laden fir trees shone and glittered in the sun. Heidi and her transport was running to and fro. Grandfather, come out. She called to the grandfather who had just come out of his workshop with a wide sled. Wrapping the child up in her cover he put her on the sled holding her fast. Off they started at such a pace that Heidi shouted for joy where she seemed to be flying like a bird. The sled had stopped in front of Peter's hut and grandfather said Go in. When it gets dark start on your way home. When he unwrapped her he turned homewards with his sled. Near her door Heidi found herself in a tiny dark kitchen and going through another door she entered a narrow chamber. Near a table a woman was seated busy with mending Peter's coat which Heidi had recognized immediately. A bent old woman was sitting in a corner and Heidi approaching her once said How do you do, Grandmother? I have come down. I hope I haven't kept you waiting too long. Lifting her head the grandmother sought for Heidi's hand feeling it thoughtfully she said The little girl who lives up with the uncle is your name Heidi? Yes. Heidi replied The grandfather just brought me down in the sled. How is it possible? Your hands are as warm as toast. Brigida did the uncle really come down with the child? Brigida, Peter's mother had gotten up to look at the child she said I don't know if he did but I don't think so she probably doesn't know Heidi looking up said quite decidedly I know that grandfather wrapped me up in a cover when we coasted down together Peter was right after all said the grandmother We never thought the child would live more than three weeks with him Brigida, tell me what she looks like She has Adelaide's fine limbs and black eyes and curly hair like Tobias and the old man I think she looks like both of them While the women were talking Heidi had been taking in everything then she said Grandmother, look at the shutter over there it is hanging loose if grandfather were here he would fasten it it will break the window pane just look at it What a sweet child you are said the grandmother tenderly I can hear it but I cannot see it child this cottage rattles and creaks and when the wind blows it comes in through every chink some day the whole house will break the pieces and fall on top of us if only Peter knew how to mend it we have no one else do you see the shutter asked Heidi child I cannot see anything lamented the old woman can you see it when I open the shutter to let in the lights no, no, not even then nobody can ever show me the light again but you can see when you go out into the snow where everything is bright come with me grandmother I'll show you and Heidi taking the old woman by the hand tried to lead her out Heidi was frightened and got more anxious all the time just let me stay here child everything is dark for me and my poor eyes can either see the snow nor the light but grandmother does not get light in the summer when the sun shines down on the mountains to stay good night no child I can never see the fairy mountains anymore I have to live in darkness always Heidi burst out crying now and sobbed aloud can nobody make it light for you is there nobody who can do it grandmother nobody the grandmother tried all possible means to comfort the child it rung her heart to see her terrible distress it was awfully hard for Heidi to stop crying when she had once begun to go seldom the grandmother said Heidi let me tell you something people who cannot see love to listen to friendly words sit down beside me and tell me all about yourself talk to me about your grandfather for it has been long since I've heard anything about him I used to know him very well Heidi suddenly wiped away her tears for she had had a cheering thought grandmother I shall tell grandfather about it and I am sure he can make it light for you he can mend your little house and stop the rattling the old woman remained silent and Heidi with the greatest vivacity began to describe her life with the grandfather listening attentively the two women would say to each other sometimes do you hear what she says about the uncle did you listen Heidi's tale was interrupted suddenly by a great thumping on the door and who should come in but Peter no sooner had he seen Heidi then he smiled opening his round eyes as wide as possible Heidi called is it really time for him to come home exclaimed Peter's grandmother how quickly the time has flown good evening little Peter how is your reading going just the same the boy replied oh dear I was hoping for a change at last you're nearly 12 years old my boy why should there be a change inquired Heidi with greatest interest I'm afraid he'll never learn it after all on the shelf over there is an old prayer book with beautiful songs I have forgotten them all for I do not hear them anymore I longed that Peter should read them to me someday but he will never be able to Peter's mother got up from her work now saying I must make a light the afternoon has passed and now it's getting dark when Heidi heard those words she started and holding out her hand to all she said good night I have to go for it is getting dark but the anxious grandmother called out wait child don't go up alone go with her Peter and take care that she does not fall don't let her get cold do you hear that has Heidi a shawl I haven't but I won't be called Heidi called back for she had already escaped through the door she ran so fast that Peter could hardly follow her the old woman frettingly called out Brigida ran after her hit a warm shawl she'll freeze in this cold night hurry up Brigida obeyed the children had hardly climbed any distance when they saw the old man coming and with a few vigorous steps he stood beside them I'm glad you kept your word Heidi he said and packing her into her cover he started up the hill carrying the child in his arms Brigida had come in time to see it and told the grandmother what she had witnessed thank God, thank God the old woman said I hope she'll come again she has done me so much good with a soft heart she has the darling and how nicely she can talk all evening the grandmother said to herself if only let her come again I have something to look forward to in this world now thank God Heidi could hardly wait before they reached the cottage she had tried to talk on the way but no sound could be heard through the heavy cover as soon as they were inside the hut she began grandfather we must take some nails and hammer down to Mara a shedder is loosing grandmother's house and many other places shake everything rattles in her house is that so who says we must nobody told me but I know Heidi replied everything is loose in the house and poor grandmother told me she was afraid that the house might tumble down and light you help her make it light for her she had been clinging to her grandfather and looking up to him with trusting eyes at last he said glancing down all right child we'll see that it won't rattle anymore we can do it tomorrow Heidi was so overjoyed at these words that she danced around the room shouting the grandfather keeping his word took Heidi down the following day with the same instructions as before after Heidi had disappeared he went around the house inspecting it the grandmother and her joy at seeing the child again had stopped the wheel and called who is the child again she has come again Heidi grasping her outstretched hands sat herself on a low stool at the old woman's feet and began to chat suddenly violent blows were heard outside and the grandmother in her fright nearly upset the spinning wheel and screamed oh god it has come at last the hut is tumbling down said the child while she put her arms around her grandfather is suspecting is it possible has God not forgotten us after all Brigida have you heard it surely that is a hammer ask him to come in a moment if it is he for I must thank him when Brigida went out she found the old man busy with putting a new beam along the wall approaching him she said mother and I wish you a good afternoon we are very much obliged to you for doing us such a service mother would like to see you there are few that would have done it uncle and how can we thank you that will do I know what your opinion about me is go in or I can find what needs mending myself Brigida obeyed for the uncle had a way that nobody could oppose all afternoon the uncle hammered aloud even climbed up on the roof where there was much missing at last he had to stop for the last nail was gone from his pocket the darkness had come in the meantime and Heidi was ready to go up with him packed warmly in his arms thus the winter passed sunshine had come again into the blind woman's life and made her days less dark and dreary early every morning she would begin to listen for Heidi's footsteps and when the door was opened and the child ran in the grandmother exclaimed every time more joyfully thank God she has come again Heidi would talk about her life and make the grandmother smile and laugh and in that way the hours flew by in former times the old woman had always sighed Brigida it's the day not over yet but now she always exclaimed after Heidi's departure how quickly the afternoon has gone by don't you think so too Brigida her daughter had to ascend for Heidi had long ago won her heart if only God will spare us the child the grandmother would often say I hope the uncle will always be kind as he is now does Heidi look well Brigida was a frequent question which always got a reassuring answer Heidi also became very fond of the old grandmother and when the weather was fair she visited her every day that winter whenever the child remembered that the grandmother was blind she would get very sad her only comfort was that her coming brought such happiness the grandfather soon amended the cottage often he would take down big loads of timber which he used to good purpose the grandmother vowed that no rattling could be heard anymore and that thanks to the uncle's kindness she slept better that winter than she had done for many a year End of Chapter 4 Chapter 5 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 5 Two Visitors Two winters had nearly passed Heidi was happy for the spring was coming again with a soft delicious wind that made the fir trees roar soon she would be able to go up to the pasture where the blue and yellow flowers greeted her at every step she was nearly eight years old and had learned to take care of the goats who ran after her like little dogs several times the village teacher had sent word by Peter that the child was wanted in school but the old man had not paid any attention to the message and had kept her with him as before it was a beautiful morning in March the snow had melted on the slopes and was going fast snow drops were peeping through the ground which seemed to be getting ready for spring Heidi was running to and fro before the door when she suddenly saw an old gentleman dressed in black standing beside her as she appeared frightened he said kindly you must not be afraid of me for I'd love children give me your hand Heidi and tell me where your grandfather is he's inside making around what it's goods the child replied opening the door while she spoke it was the old pastor of the village who had known the grandfather years ago after entering he approached the old man saying the old man got up surprised and offering a seat to the visitor said good morning Mr. Parson here is a wooden chair if it is good enough sitting down the parson said it is long since I have seen you neighbor I've come today to talk over a matter with you I'm sure you can guess what it's about the clergyman here looked at Heidi who was standing near the door Heidi run out to see the goats said the grandfather and bring them some salt you can stay till I come Heidi disappeared on the spot the child should have come to school a year ago the parson went on to say didn't you get the teacher's warning what do you intend to do with the child I do not want her to go to school said the old man unrelentingly what do you want the child to be I want her to be free and happy as a bird but she is human and it is high time for her to learn something I have come now to tell you about it so you can make your plans she must come to school next winter remember that I shan't do it pastor was the reply do you think there is no way the clergyman replied a little hotly you know the world for you have traveled far what little sense you show you think I'm going to send this delicate child to school the storm and weather the old man said excitedly it is a two hours walk and I shall not let her go for the wind often howls so that it chokes me if I venture out did you know Adelaide her mother she was a sleepwalker and had fainting fits nobody shall compel me to let her go I will gladly fight it out in court you are perfectly right said the clergyman kindly you could not send her to school from here why don't you come down to live among us again you are leading a strange life here I wonder how you can keep the child warm in winter she has young blood and a good cover I know where to find good wood and all winter I keep a fire going I couldn't live in the village where the people there and I despise each other we had better keep apart you are mistaken I assure you make your peace with God and then you'll see how happy you will be the clergyman had risen and holding out his hand he said cordially I shall count on you next winter neighbor we shall receive you gladly reconciled with God and man but the uncle replied firmly while he shook his visitor by the hand thank you for your kindness but you will have to wait in vain God be with you said the parson and left him sadly the old man was out of humor that day and when Heidi begged to go to the grandmother he only growled next day they had hardly finished their dinner when another visitor arrived it was Heidi's aunt Dada she wore a hat with feathers and a dress with such a train that it swept up everything on such floor while the uncle looked at her silently Dada began to praise him and the child's red cheeks she told him that it had not been her intention to leave Heidi with him for long for she knew she must be in his way she had tried to provide for the child elsewhere and at last she had found a splendid chance for her very rich relations of her lady who owned the large house in Frankfurt had a lame daughter this poor little girl was confined to her rolling chair and needed a companion at her lessons Dada had learned from her lady that a sweet quaint child was wanted as a playmate and a schoolmate for the invalid she had gone to the housekeeper and told her all about Heidi the lady, delighted with the idea had told her to fetch the child at once she had come now and it was a lucky chance for Heidi for one never knew what might happen in such a case and who could tell? the old man interrupted her at last why one might think I was telling you the silliest things there is not a man in Pretagun who would not thank God for such news bring them to somebody else but not to me said the uncle coldly Dada, flaming up, replied do you want to hear what I think? don't I know how old she is eight years old and ignorant of everything they have told me that you refused to send her to church and to school she is my only sister's child and I shall not bear it for I am responsible you do not care for her how else could you be indifferent to such luck you had better give way or I shall get the people to back me if I were you I would not have it brought to court some things might be warmed up that you would not care to hear about be quiet the uncle thundered with flaming eyes take her and ruin her but do not bring her before my sight again I do not want to see her with feathers in her hat and wicked words like yours with long strides he went out you have made him angry said Heidi with a furious look he won't be cross long but come now where are your things asked Dada I won't come Heidi replied what? Dada said passionately but changing her tone she continued in a more friendly manner come now you don't understand me I am taking you to the most beautiful place you have ever seen after packing up Heidi's clothes she said again come child and take your hat it is not very nice but we can't help it I shall not come was the reply don't be stupid and obstinate like a goat listen to me grandfather is sending us away and we must do what he commands or he will get more angry still you'll see how fine it is in Frankfurt if you do not like it you can come home again and by that time grandfather will have forgiven us can I come home again tonight asked Heidi holding the bundle Dada led the child down the mountain on their way they met Peter who had not gone to school that day the boy thought it was a more useful occupation to look for hazel rods than to learn to read for he was always needing the rods he had had a most successful day for he carried an enormous bundle on his shoulder when he caught sight of Heidi and Dada he asked them where they were going I'm going to Frankfurt with that data Heidi replied but first I must see grandmother for she is waiting oh no it is too late you can see her when you come back but not now said Dada pulling Heidi along with her for she was afraid that the old woman might detain the child Peter ran into the cottage and hit the table with his rods the grandmother jumped up in her fright and asked him what that meant we have taken Heidi away Peter said with a groan who has Peter where has she gone the unhappy grandmother asked Brigida had seen Dada walking up the footpath a short while ago and they soon guessed what had happened with a trembling hand the old woman opened a window and called out as loudly as she could Dada Dada don't take the child away don't take her from us she struggled to get free and said I must go to grandmother she is calling me but Dada would not let her go she urged her on by saying that she might return soon again she also suggested that Heidi might bring a lovely present to the grandmother when she came back Heidi liked this prospect and followed Dada without more ado after a while she asked what shall I bring to the grandmother you might bring her some soft white rolls Heidi I think the black bread is too hard for poor grandmother to eat so I know that she always gives it to Peter Heidi confirmed her we must go quickly now we might get frank for today and then I can be back tomorrow with the rolls Heidi was running now and Dada had to follow she was glad enough to escape the questions that people might ask her in the village people could see that Heidi was pulling her along so she said I can't stop don't you see how the child is hurrying we have still far to go whenever she heard from all sides you, is she running away from the uncle what a wonder she is still alive what red cheeks she has and so on soon they had escaped and left the village far behind them from that time on the uncle looked more angry than ever when he came to the village everybody was afraid of him and the women would warn their children to keep out of his sight he came down but seldom and then only to sell his cheese and buy his provisions often people remarked how lucky it was they had seen her hurrying away so they thought that she had been glad to go the old grandmother alone stuck to him faithfully whenever anybody came up to her she would tell them what good care the old man had taken of Heidi she also told them that he had mended her little house these reports reached the village of course but people only half believed them for the grandmother was infirm and old she began her days with sighing again all happiness has left us with a child the days are so long and dreary and I have no joy left if only I could hear Heidi's voice before I die the poor old woman would exclaim day after day end of chapter 5 chapter 6 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery Elizabeth Stork chapter 6 a new chapter with new things in a beautiful house in Frankfurt lived a sick child by the name of Clara Seizeman she was sitting in a comfortable rolling chair which could be pushed from room to room Clara spent most of her time in the study where long rows of bookcases lined the walls this room was used as a living room and here she was also given her lessons Clara had a pale, thin face with soft blue eyes which at that moment were watching the clock impatiently at last she said oh Miss Rottenmeier isn't it time yet? the lady so addressed was the housekeeper who had lived with Clara since Mrs. Seizeman's death Miss Rottenmeier wore a peculiar uniform with a long cape and a high cap on her head Clara's father who was away from home a great deal left the entire management of the house to this lady on the condition that his daughter's wishes should always be considered while Clara was waiting Data had arrived at the front door with Heidi she was asking the coachman who had brought her if she could go upstairs that's not my business you must ring for the butler grumbled the coachman Sebastian, the butler a man with large brass buttons on his coat soon stood before her may I see Miss Rottenmeier? Data asked that's not my business the butler announced the maid with that he disappeared Data ringing again saw a girl with a brilliant white cap on her head coming down the stairway the maid stopped halfway down and asked scornfully what do you want? Data repeated her wish again Toonette told her to wait while she went upstairs but it did not take long before the two were asked to come up following the maid they found themselves in the study Data held on to Heidi's hand and the coachman and the coachman slowly getting up approached the newcomers she did not seem pleased with Heidi who wore her hat in shawl and was looking up at the lady's headdress with innocent wonder what is your name? the lady asked Heidi was the child's clear answer what? is that a Christian name? what name did you receive in baptism? inquired the lady again I don't remember that anymore what does that mean? said the housekeeper, shaking her head is the child ignorant or pert, Miss Data? I shall speak for the child if I may, madam Data said after giving Heidi a little blow for her unbecoming answer the child has never been in such a fine house and does not know how to behave I hope the lady will forgive her manners she is called Adelheid after her mother who was my sister oh, well, that is better but Miss Data the child seems peculiar for her age I thought I told you that Miss Clara's companion would have to be 12 years old like her to be able to share her studies how old is Adelheid? I am sorry but I am afraid she is somewhat younger than I thought I think she is about 10 years old Grandfather said that I was 8 years old said Heidi now Data gave her another blow but as the child had no idea why she did not get embarrassed only 8 years old Miss Rottenmeier exclaimed indignantly how can we get along? what have you learned? what books have you studied? dud! said Heidi but how did you learn to read? I can't read and Peter can't do it either Heidi retorted for mercy's sake, you cannot read cried the lady in her surprise how is it possible? what else have you studied? nothing! replied Heidi truthfully Miss Data how could you bring this child? said the housekeeper when she was more composed that however was not easily intimidated and said I am sorry but I thought this child would suit you she is small but older children are often spoiled and not like her I must go now for my mistress is waiting as soon as I can I'll come to see how the child is getting along with a bow she was outside and with a few quick steps hurried downstairs Miss Rottenmeier followed her and tried to call her back for she wanted to ask Data a number of questions Heidi was still standing on the same spot Clara had watched the scene and called the child now to come to her Heidi approached the rolling chair do you want to be called Heidi or Adelha? asked Clara my name is Heidi and nothing else was the child's answer I'll call you Heidi then but I like it very much said Clara I've never heard the name before was it always like that? I think so did you like to come to Frankfurt? asked Clara again oh no but then I am going home again tomorrow and she'll bring grandmother some soft white rolls Heidi explained what a curious child you are said Clara you've only come to Frankfurt to stay with me don't you know that? we shall have our lessons together and I think it will be great fun when you learn to read generally the morning seems to have no end but it comes at 10 and stays till 2 that is a long time but he has to yawn himself he gets so tired Mr. Rappenmeier and he both yawn together behind their books but when I do it Mr. Rappenmeier makes me take cuddle of a royal and says that I am ill so I am going to swallow my yawns for I hate the oil what fun it will be now when you learn to read Heidi shook her head doubtfully at these prospects everybody must learn to read Heidi Mr. Candidate is very patient and will explain it all to you he won't know what he means at first for it is difficult to understand him it won't take long to learn though and then you will know what he means when Miss Rappenmeier found that she was unable to recall Detta she came back to the children she was in a very excited mood for she felt responsible for Heidi's coming and did not know how to cancel this unfortunate step she soon got up again to go to the dining-room criticising the butler and giving orders to the maid Sebastian not daring to show his rage otherwise noisily opened the folding doors when he went up to Clara's chair he saw Heidi watching him intently at last she said you look like Peter Miss Rappenmeier was horrified with this remark and sent them all into the dining-room after Clara was lifted onto her chair the housekeeper sat down beside her Heidi was motioned to sit opposite the lady in that way they were placed at the enormous table when Heidi saw a roll on her plate she turned to Sebastian and pointing at it can I have this? Heidi had already great confidence in the butler especially on account of the resemblance she had discovered the butler nodded and when he saw Heidi put the bread into her pocket could hardly keep from laughing he came to Heidi now with a dish of small baked fish for a long time the child did not move Ben turning her eyes to the butler she said must I eat that? Sebastian nodded but another pause ensued why don't you give it to me? the child quietly asked looking at her plate the butler, hardly able to keep his countenance was told to place the dish on the table and leave the room when he was gone Miss Rappenmeier explained to Heidi with many sighs how to help herself at table she also told her to never speak to Sebastian unless it was important after that the child was told how to accost the servants and the governess when the question came up of how to call Clara the older girl said of course you shall call me Clara a great many rules followed now about behaviour at all times about the shutting of doors and about going to bed and a hundred other things poor Heidi's eyes were closing for she had risen at five that morning and leaning against her chair she fell asleep when Miss Rappenmeier had finished instructions she said I hope you will remember everything Adelheid did you understand me? Heidi went to sleep a long time ago said Clara highly amused it is atrocious what I have to bear with this child exclaimed Miss Rappenmeier ringing the bell with all her might when the two servants arrived they were hardly able to rouse Heidi enough to show her to her bedroom End of Chapter 6 Chapter 7 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 7 Miss Rappenmeier has an uncomfortable day when Heidi opened her eyes next morning she did not know where she was she found herself on a high white bed in a spacious room looking around she observed long white curtains before the windows several chairs and a sofa covered with critton in a corner she saw a wash stand the scariest thing standing on it suddenly Heidi remembered all the happenings of the previous day jumping out of bed she dressed in a great hurry she was eager to look at the sky and the ground below as she had always done at home what was her disappointment when she found that the windows were too high for her to see anything except the walls and windows opposite trying to open them she turned from one to the other but in vain the poor child felt like a little bird that has been placed in a glittering cage for the first time at last she had to resign herself and sat down on a low stool thinking of the melting snow on the slopes and the first flowers of spring that she had hailed with such delight suddenly to net open the door and said curtly, breakfast's ready Heidi did not take this for a summons for the maid's face was scornful and forbidding she was waiting patiently for what would happen next when Miss Rappenmeier burst into the room saying hide, didn't you understand? come to breakfast Heidi immediately followed the lady into the dining room where Clara greeted her with a smile she looked much happier than usual for she expected new things to happen that day when breakfast had passed without disturbance the two children were allowed to go into the library together and were soon left alone how can I see down to the ground Heidi asked open a window and peep out replied Clara, amused at the question but it is impossible to open them Heidi said sadly oh no, you can't do it and I can't help you either but if you ask Sebastian, he'll do it for you Heidi was relieved the poor child had felt like a prisoner in her room Clara now asked Heidi what her home had been like and Heidi told her gladly about her life in the hut the tutor had arrived in the meantime but he was not asked to go into the study as usual Miss Rappenmeier was very much excited about Heidi's coming and all the complications that arose therefrom she was really responsible for it having arranged everything herself she presented the unfortunate case before the teacher for she wanted him to help her to get rid of the child Mr. Candidate however was always careful of his judgements and not afraid of teaching beginners when the lady saw that he would not side with her she let him enter the study alone for the ABC held great horrors for her while she considered many problems with the noise as if something falling was heard in the adjoining room followed by a cry to Sebastian for help running in she beheld a pile of books and papers on the floor with the table cover on top a black stream of ink flowed across the length of the room Heidi had disappeared there Miss Rappenmeier exclaimed ringing her hands everything drenched with ink did such a thing ever happen before this child brings nothing but misfortunes on us the teacher was standing up looking at the devastation but Clara was highly entertained by these events and said Heidi has not done it on purpose and must not be punished in her hurry to get away she called on the table cover and pulled it down I think she must never have seen a coach in all her life for when she heard a carriage rumbling by she rushed out like mad didn't I tell you Mr. Candidate that she has no idea whatever about behavior she does not even know that she has to sit quiet at her lessons but where has she gone what would Mr. Sesseman say if she should run away when Miss Rappenmeier went downstairs to look for the child she saw her standing at the open door looking down the street what are you doing here how can you run away like that scolded Miss Rappenmeier I heard the fir trees rustled but I can't see them and do not hear them anymore replied Heidi looking in great perplexity down the street the trees of the passing carriage had reminded her of the roaring of the south wind on the Alps fir trees what nonsense we are not in a wood come with me now to see what you have done when Heidi saw the devastation she had caused she was greatly surprised for she had not noticed it in her hurry this must never happen again said the lady sternly you must sit quiet at your lessons if you get up again I shall tie you to your chair do you hear me Heidi understood and gave a promise to sit quietly during her lessons from that time on after the servants had straightened the room it was late and there was no more time for studies nobody had time to yawn that morning in the afternoon while Clara was resting Heidi was left to herself she planted herself in the hall and waited for the butler to come upstairs with the silver things when he reached the head of the stairs she said to him she saw that the butler seemed angry so she reassured him by saying that she did not mean any harm all right miss what is it my name is not miss why don't you call me Heidi miss Rottenmaier told me to call you miss did she well then it must be so I have three names already sighed the child what can I do for you asked Sebastian now can you open a window for me certainly he replied Sebastian got a stool for Heidi so it was too high for her to see over in great disappointment Heidi turned her head away I don't see anything but a street of stone is it the same way on the other side of the house yes where do you go to look far down at everything on a church tower do you see that one over there with a golden dome from there you can overlook everything Heidi immediately stepped down from the stool and ran downstairs opening the door she found herself in the street but she could not see the tower anymore she wandered on from street to street not daring to accost any of the busy people passing a corner she saw a boy who had a barrel organ on his back and a curious animal in his arm Heidi ran to him and asked where is the tower with the golden dome don't know was the reply who can tell me don't know can you show me another church of the tower of course I can come and show me to give me for it said the boy holding out his hand Heidi had nothing in her pocket but a little flower picture Clara had given it to her only this morning so she was loathed apart with it the temptation to look far down into the valley was too great for her though and she offered him the gift the boy shook his head to Heidi's satisfaction what else do you want money I have none but Clara has some how much was they give you twenty pennies come while they were wandering down the street Heidi found out what a barrel organ was where she had never seen one when they arrived before an old church with a tower Heidi was puzzled what to do next but having discovered a bell she pulled it with all her might the boy agreed to wait for Heidi and show her the way home if she gave him double fee the lock creaked now from the inside and an old man opened the door in an angry voice he said come for me can't you see that this is only for those who want to see the tower said Heidi what do you want to see did anybody send you asked the man no but I want to look down from up there get home and don't try it again with that the tower keeper was going to shut the door but Heidi held his coat tails and pleaded with him to let her come the tower keeper looked at the child's eyes and said come along if you care so much he said taking her by the hand the two climbed up now many many steps which got narrower all the time when they arrived on top the old man lifted Heidi up to the open window Heidi saw nothing but a sea of chimneys roofs and towers and her heart sank oh dear it's different from the way I thought it would be she said what could such a little girl know about a view we will go down now and you must promise never to ring at my tower anymore on their way they passed an attic where a large grey cat guarded her new family in a basket this cat caught a half dozen mice every day for herself for the old tower was full of rats and mice Heidi gazed at her in surprise and was delighted when the old man opened the basket she exclaimed in her delight when she saw them crawling about jumping and tumbling would you like to have one the old man asked for me Heidi asked for she could not believe her ears yes of course you can have several if you have room for them the old man said glad to find a good home for the kittens how happy Heidi was of course there was enough room in the huge house and Clara would be delighted when she saw the cunning things how can I take them with me the child asked after she had tried in vain to catch one I can bring them to your house if you tell me where you live said Heidi's new friend while he caressed the old cat who had lived with him many years bring them to Mr. Sesseman's house there is a golden dog on the door with a ring in his mouth the old man had lived in the tower a long time and knew everybody Sebastian also was a special friend of his I know he said but to whom shall I send them do you belong to Mr. Sesseman no please send them to Clara she will like them I am sure Heidi could hardly tear herself away from the pretty things so the old man put one kitten in each of her pockets to console her after that she went away the boy was waiting patiently for her and when she had taken leave of the tower keeper she asked the boy do you know where Mr. Sesseman's house is no she described it as well as she could till the boy remembered it off they started and soon Heidi found herself pulling the doorbell when Sebastian arrived he said hurry up Heidi went in and the boy was left outside for Sebastian had not even seen him come up quickly little miss they are all waiting for you in the dining room miss Rottenmeier looks like a loaded cannon how could you run away like that Heidi sat down quietly on her chair nobody said a word and there was an uncomfortable silence at last miss Rottenmeier began with a severe and solemn voice I shall speak with you later Adelheid how can you leave the house without a word your behavior was very remiss the idea of walking about till so late meow was the reply I didn't meow Sebastian nearly flung the dish on the table and disappeared miss Rottenmeier tried to say but her voice was hoarse with fury get up and leave the room Heidi got up she began again I made said Clara now why do you always say meow again if you see that miss Rottenmeier is angry kittens she explained she screamed the housekeeper Sebastian, Tenet take the horrible things away with that she ran into the study locking herself in for she feared kittens beyond anything on earth when Sebastian had finished his laugh he came into the room he had foreseen the excitement having caught sight of a kitten when Heidi came in the scene was a very peaceful one now Clara held the little kittens in her lap and Heidi was kneeling beside her they both played happily with the two graceful creatures the butler promised to look after the newcomers and prepared a bed for them in a basket a long time afterwards when it was time to go to bed miss Rottenmeier cautiously opened the door are they away she asked replied the butler quickly seizing the kittens and taking them away the lecture that miss Rottenmeier was going to give Heidi was postponed to the following day for the lady was too much exhausted after her fright they all went quietly to bed and the children were happy in the thought that their kittens had a comfortable bed End of Chapter 7 Chapter 8 of Heidi this is the LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 8 Great Disturbances in the Sessemen House A short time after the Tudor arrived next morning the doorbell rang so violently that Sebastian thought it must be Mr. Sessemen himself what was his surprise when a dirty street boy with a barrel organ on his back stood before him what do you mean by pulling the bell like that the butler said I want to see Clara can't you at least say Miss Clara you ragged urchin said Sebastian harshly said the boy you are crazy how do you know Miss Clara lives here I showed her the way yesterday as she caused the scare before the pennies what nonsense Miss Clara never goes out you had better take yourself off before I send you the boy however did not even budge and said I saw her she has curly hair black eyes and talks in a funny way Sebastian chuckled to himself that was the little miss pulling the boy into the house he said all right you can follow me wait at the door till I call you and then you can play something for Miss Clara knocking at the study door Sebastian said when he had entered a boy is here who wants to see Miss Clara Clara, delighted at his interruption said can't he come right up Mr. Candidate but the boy was already inside and started to play Miss Rottenmeier was in the adjoining room when she heard the sounds hurrying to the study she saw the street boy playing to the eager children stop, stop she called but in vain for the music drowned her voice suddenly she made a big jump for there between her feet called a black turtle only when she shrieked for Sebastian could her voice be heard the butler came straight in for he had seen everything behind the door and a great scene it had been glued to a chair in her fright Miss Rottenmeier called the boy away, take them away Sebastian obediently pulled the boy after him then he said here are forty pennies from Miss Clara and forty more for playing it was well done my boy with that he closed the door behind him Miss Rottenmeier found it wiser now to stay in the study to prevent further disturbances suddenly there was another knock at the door Sebastian appeared with a large basket which had been brought for Clara we had better have our lesson before we inspect it said Miss Rottenmeier but Clara turning to the tutor asked oh please Mr. Candidate can't we just peep in to see what it is I'm afraid you'll think of nothing else the teacher began just then something in the basket which had only been lightly fastened moved and one, two, three and still more little kittens jumped out scampering around the room with the utmost speed they bounded over the tutor's boots and bit his trousers climbed up on Miss Rottenmeier's dress and crawled around her feet mewing and running they caused a frightful confusion Clara called out in delight oh look at the kind of creatures look how they jump Heidi look at that one and oh see the one over there Heidi followed them about while the teacher shook them off when the housekeeper had collected her wits after the great fright she called for the servants they soon arrived and stored the little kittens safely in the new bed on that day either when Miss Rottenmeier, who had found out the culprit was alone with the children in the evening she began severely Adelheid, there is only one punishment for you I am going to send you to the cellar to think over your dreadful misdeeds in company with the rats a cellar held no terrors for Heidi for in her grandfather's cellar fresh milk and the good cheese had been kept and no rats had lodged there but Clara shrieked you must wait till Papa comes home and then he can punish Heidi the lady unwillingly replied all right Clara but I shall also speak a few words to Mr. Sessemon with those words she left the room since the child's arrival everything had been upset and the lady often felt discouraged though nothing remarkable happened for a few days Clara on the contrary enjoyed her companion society for she always did funny things in her lesson she could never get her letters straight they meant absolutely nothing to her except that they would remind her of goats and eagles the girls always spent their evenings together and Heidi would entertain her friend with tales of her former life till her longing grew so great that she added I have to go home now I must go tomorrow Clara soothing words and the prospect of more roles for the grandmother kept the child every day after dinner she was left alone in her room for some hours in the green fields at home of the sparkling flowers on the mountains she would sit in a corner till her desire for all those things became too great to bear her aunt had clearly told her that she might return if she wished to do so so one day she resolved to leave for the Alm hut in a great hurry she packed the bread in the red shawl and putting on her old straw hat started off the poor child did not get very far at the door she encountered Miss Rottenmeier who stared at Heidi and mute surprise what are you up to she exploded haven't I forbidden you to run away you look like a vagabond I was only going home whispered the frightened child what you want to run away from this house what would Mr. Sessemon say what is it that does not suit you here don't you get better treatment than you deserve have you ever before had such food service and such a room answer no was the reply don't I know that the furious lady proceeded what a thankless child you are just idle and good for nothing but Heidi could not bear it any longer she loudly wailed oh I want to go home what will poor snowhopper do without me grandmother is waiting for me every day poor thistlefish gets bloated pier gets no cheese again when he says good night to the mountains how the eagle would screech if he saw all the people here in Frankfurt for mercy's sake the child is crazy exclaimed Miss Rottenmeier running up the stairs in her hurry she had bumped into Sebastian who was just then coming down bring the unlucky child up she called to him rubbing her head all right many thanks answered the butler rubbing his head too for he had encountered something far harder than she had when the butler came down he saw Heidi standing near the door with flaming eyes trembling all over cheerfully he asked what has happened little one do not take it to heart and cheer up she nearly made a hole in my head just now but we must not get discouraged oh no come up with you she said so Heidi walked upstairs very slowly seeing her so changed Sebastian said don't give in don't be so sad you have been so courageous till now I have never heard you cry yet come up now and when the ladies away we'll go and look at the kittens they are running round like wild nodding cheerlessly the child disappeared in her room that night at supper Miss Rottenmeier watched Heidi constantly but nothing happened the child sat as quiet as a mouse hardly touching her food except the little roll talking with the tutor next morning Miss Rottenmeier told him her fears about Heidi's mind but the teacher had had more serious trouble still for Heidi had not even learned her ABC in all this time Heidi was sorely in need of some clothes so Clara had given her some Miss Rottenmeier was just busy arranging the child's wardrobe when she suddenly returned Adelheid she said contemptuously what do I find a big pile of bread in your wardrobe I never heard the like yes Clara it is true then calling to net she ordered her to take away the bread and the old straw hat she had found I must keep my hat the bread is for grandmother cried Heidi and despair you stay here while we take the rubbish away said the lady sternly Heidi threw herself down on Clara's chair and sobbed as if her heart would break now I can't bring grandmother any rolls oh they were for grandmother she lamented Heidi don't cry anymore Clara begged listen when you go home someday I'm going to give you as many rolls as you had and more they will be much softer and better than those stale ones you have kept those were not fit to eat Heidi stop now please and don't cry anymore only after a long long time did Heidi become quiet when she had heard Clara's promise she cried are you really going to as many as I had at supper Heidi's eyes were swollen and it was still hard for her to keep from crying Sebastian made strange signs to her that she did not understand what did he mean later though when she climbed into her high bed she found her old beloved straw hat hidden under her cover so Sebastian had saved it for her and had tried to tell her she crushed it for joy and wrapping it in a handkerchief End of Chapter 8 Chapter 9 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 9 the master of the house hears of strange doings a few days afterwards there was great excitement in the master of the house had just arrived the servants were taking upstairs one load after another for Mr. Sezman always brought many lovely things home with him when he entered his daughter's room Heidi shyly retreated into a corner he greeted Clara affectionately and she was equally delighted to see him for she loved her father dearly then he called to Heidi oh there is our little Swiss girl come and give me your hand that's right are you good friends my girls tell me now you don't fight together what Heidi replied Heidi has never even tried to fight Clara quickly remarked that's good I like to hear that said the father rising I must get my dinner now for I am hungry I shall come back soon and show you what I have brought home with me in the dining room we found Miss Rottenmeier surveying the table this tragic face you do not look very happy at my arrival Miss Rottenmeier what is the matter? Clara seems well enough he said to her oh Mr. Sezman we have been terribly disappointed said the lady how do you mean asked Mr. Sezman calmly sipping his wine we had decided as you know to have a companion for Clara knowing as I did that you would wish a noble pure child I thought of this Swiss child hoping she would go through life like a breath of pure air hardly touching the earth I think that even Swiss children are made to touch the earth otherwise they would have to have wings I think you understand what I mean I have been terribly disappointed for this child has brought the most frightful animals into the house Mr. Candidate can tell you the child does not look very terrible but what do you mean I cannot explain it because she does not seem in her right mind at times Mr. Sezman was getting worried at last when the tutor entered oh Mr. Candidate I hope you will explain please take a cup of coffee with me and tell me about my daughter's companion make it short if you please but this was impossible for Mr. Candidate who had to greet Mr. Sezman first he began to reassure his host about the child pointing out to him that her education had been neglected till then and so on but poor Mr. Sezman unfortunately did not get his answer he had to listen to very long-winded explanations of the child's character at last Mr. Sezman got up saying excuse me Mr. Candidate but I must go over to Clara now he found the children in the study turning to Heidi who had risen at his approach he said get me a glass of water fresh water? of course fresh water he replied when Heidi had gone he sat down near Clara holding her hand tell me little Clara he asked please tell me clearly what animals Heidi has brought into the house is she really not right in her mind Clara now began to relate to her father all the incidents with the kittens and the turtle and explained Heidi's speeches Mr. Sezman laughed heartily and asked Clara if she wished Heidi to remain of course Papa since she is here something amusing happens every day it used to be so dull but now Heidi keeps me company very good very good Clara oh here is your friend back again did you get nice fresh water? asked Mr. Sezman Heidi handed him the glass and said yes fresh from the fountain you did not go to the fountain yourself Heidi said Clara certainly but I had to get it from far there were so many people at the first and at the second fountain I had to go down another street and there I got it a gentleman with white hair sent his regards to you Mr. Sezman Clara's father laughed and asked who was the gentleman when he passed by the fountain and saw me there with a glass he stood still and said please give me to drink did you have a glass to whom are you bringing the water? that I said I am bringing it to Mr. Sezman when he heard that he laughed very loud and gave me his regards for you with the wish that you would enjoy your drink I wonder who it was what did the gentleman look like he has a friendly laugh and wears a gold pendant with a red stone on his thick gold chain there's a horse head on his cane oh that was the doctor exclaimed father and daughter at the same time in the evening Mr. Sezman told Miss Rottenmeyer that Heidi was going to remain but the children were very fond of each other and he found Heidi normal and very sweet I want the child to be treated kindly Mr. Sezman added decidedly her peculiarities must not be punished my mother's coming very soon to stay here and she will help you to manage the child for there's nobody in this world that my mother could not get along with as you know Miss Rottenmeyer of course I know that Mr. Sezman replied the lady but she was not very much pleased at the prospect Mr. Sezman only stayed two weeks for his business called him back to Paris he consulted his daughter by telling her that his mother was coming in a very few days Mr. Sezman had hardly left when the grandmother's visit was announced for the following day Clara was looking forward to this visit and told Heidi so much about her dear grandmother that Heidi also began to call her by that name to Miss Rottenmeyer's disapproval who thought that the child was not entitled to this intimacy end of chapter 9 chapter 10 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Sfiri translated by Elizabeth Stork chapter 10 the grandmama the following evening great expectation rained in the house Tannet had put on a new cap Sebastian was placing footstools in front of nearly every armchair and Miss Rottenmeyer walked with great dignity about the house inspecting everything when the carriage had last drove up the servants flew downstairs followed by Miss Rottenmeyer in one measured step Heidi had been sent to a room to wait further orders but it was not long before Tannet opened the door and said brusquely go into the study the grandmama, with her kind and loving way immediately befriended the child and made her feel as if she had known her always to the housekeeper's great mortification she called the child Heidi remarking to Miss Rottenmeyer if somebody's name is Heidi I call her so the housekeeper soon found that she had to respect the grandmother's ways and opinions Mrs. Sezmin always knew what was going on in the house the minute she entered it on the following afternoon Clara was resting and the old lady had shut her eyes for five minutes when she got up again and went into the dining room with a suspicion that the housekeeper was probably asleep she went into this lady's room knocking loudly on the door after a while somebody stirred inside and with a bewildered face Miss Rottenmeyer appeared staring at the unexpected visitor Rottenmeyer, where is the child she passed her time I want to know she just sits in her room not moving a finger she has not the slightest desire to do something useful and that is why she thinks of such absurd things that one can hardly mention them in polite society I should do exactly the same thing if I were left alone like that please bring her to my room now I want to show her some pretty books I have brought with me just the trouble what should she do with books in all this time she has not even learned the ABC for it is impossible to instill any knowledge into this being if Mr. Candidate was not as patient as an angel he would have given up teaching her long ago how strange the child does not look to me like one who cannot learn the ABC said Mrs. Sezeman please fetch her now we can look at the pictures anyway the housekeeper was going to say more but the old lady had turned already and gone to her room she was thinking over what she had heard about Heidi making up her mind to look into the matter Heidi had come and was looking with wondering eyes at the splendid pictures in the large books that Grandma Ma was showing her suddenly she screamed aloud for there on the picture she saw a peaceful flock grazing on a green pasture in the middle a shepherd was standing leaning on his crook one was shedding a golden light over everything with glowing eyes Heidi devoured the scene but suddenly she began to sob violently the Grandma Ma took her little hand in hers and said in the most soothing voice come child you must not cry did this remind you of something now stop and I'll tell you the story tonight there are lovely stories in this book that people can read and tell dry your eyes now darling I'll ask you something stand up now and look at me now we are Mary again Heidi did not stop at once but the kind lady gave her ample time to compose herself saying from time to time now it's all over now we'll be Mary again when the child was quiet at last she said tell me how your lessons are going what have you learnt child tell me nothing what is it that you can't learn I can't learn to read it is too hard what next who gave you this information Peter told me and he tried over and over again but he could not do it for it is too hard well what kind of a boy is he Heidi you must not believe what Peter tells you but try for yourself I am sure you had your thoughts elsewhere when Mr. Candidate showed you the letters it's no use Heidi said with such a tone as if she was resigned to her fate I am going to tell you something Heidi said the kind lady now you have not learned to read because you have believed what Peter said you shall believe me now and I prophesy that you will learn it in a very short time as a great many other children do that are like you and not like Peter when you can read I am going to give you this book you have seen the shepherd on the green pasture and then you'll be able to find out all the strange things that happened to him yes you can hear the whole story and what he does with his sheep and his goats you would like to know wouldn't you Heidi Heidi had listened attentively and said now with sparkling eyes if only I could read already it won't be long I can see that come now and let us go to Clara with that they both went over to the study since the day of Heidi's attempted flight a great change had come over the child she had realized that it would hurt her kind friends if she tried to go home again she knew now that she could not leave as rent dad had promised for they all, especially Clara and her father and the old lady would think her ungrateful but the burden grew heavier in her heart and she lost appetite and got paler and paler she could not get to sleep at night with flowers in the sunshine and only in her dreams she would be happy when she woke up in the morning she always found herself on her high white bed far away from home burying her head and her pillow she would often weep a long long time Mrs. Sussman had noticed the child's unhappiness but let a few days pass by hoping for a change but the change never came and often Heidi's eyes were red the child's were room one day and said with great sympathy in her voice tell me Heidi what is the matter with you what is making you so sad but as Heidi did not want to appear thankless she replied sadly I can't tell you no, can't you tell Clara perhaps oh no I can't tell anyone Heidi said looking so unhappy that the old lady's heart was filled with pity I tell you something little girl she continued if you have a sorrow that you cannot tell to anyone you can go to our father in heaven you can tell him everything that troubles you and if we ask him he can help us and take our suffering away do you understand me child don't you pray every night don't you thank him for all his gifts and ask him to protect you from evil oh no I never do that replied the child have you never prayed Heidi do you know what I mean I only prayed with my first grandmother but it is so long ago that I have forgotten see Heidi I understand now why you are so unhappy we all need somebody to help us and just think how wonderful it is to be able to go to the Lord when something distresses us and causes us pain we can tell him everything and ask him to comfort us what else can do it he can give us happiness and joy Heidi was gladdened by these tidings and asked can we tell him everything everything yes Heidi everything the child withdrawing her hand from the grandmama said hurriedly can I go now yes of course was the reply and with this Heidi ran to her room sitting down on a stool she folded her hands and poured out her heart to God and let her go home to her grandfather about a week later Mr. Candidate asked to see Mrs. Sezeman to tell her of something unusual that had occurred being called to the ladies room he began Mrs. Sezeman something has happened that I never expected and with many more words the happy grandmama was told that Heidi had suddenly learned to read with the utmost correctness most rare with beginners many strange things happen in this world Mrs. Sezeman remarked I went over to the study to witness Heidi's new accomplishment Heidi was sitting close to Clara reading her a story she seemed amazed at the strange new world that had opened up before her at supper Heidi found the large book with the beautiful pictures on her plate and looking doubtfully at grandmama she saw the old lady nod now it belongs to you Heidi she said forever also when I'm going home Heidi inquired confused with joy certainly forever the grandmama short her tomorrow we shall begin to read it but Heidi you must not go home no not for many years Clara exclaimed especially when grandmama goes away you must stay with me Heidi still looked at her book before going to bed that night and this book became her dearest treasure she would look at the beautiful pictures and read all the stories allowed to Clara and explain something here and there making it more beautiful than before Heidi loved the pictures with the shepherd best of all they told the story of the prodigal son and the child would read it and re-read it till she nearly knew it all by heart since Heidi had learned to read and possessed the book the days seemed to fly and the time had come near that the grandmama had fixed for her departure End of Chapter 10 Chapter 11 of Heidi This is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johannes Bury translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 11 Heidi gains in some respects and loses in others The grandmama sent for Heidi every day after dinner while Clara was resting and Miss Rottenmeyer disappeared into her room she talked to Heidi and amused her in various ways showing her how to make clothes for pretty little dolls that she had brought unconsciously Heidi had learned to sew and made now the sweetest dresses and coats for the little people out of lovely materials that the grandmama would give her often Heidi would read to the old lady for the oftener she read over the stories the dearer they became to her the child lived everything through the people and the tales and was always happy to be with them again but she never looked really cheerful and her sparkled merrily as before in the last week of Mrs. Esmond's day Heidi was called again to the old lady's room the child entered with her beloved book under her arm Mrs. Esmond drew Heidi close to her and laying the book aside she said come child and tell me why you are so sad do you still have the same sorrow yes Heidi replied did you confide it to our lord yes do you pray to him every day that he may make you happy again and take your affliction away oh no I don't pray anymore what do I hear Heidi why don't you pray it does not help for God has not listened I don't wonder she added for if all the people in Frankfurt pray every night he cannot listen to them all I am sure he has not heard me really why are you so sure because I have prayed for the same thing many many weeks and God has not done what I have asked him to that is not the way Heidi you see God in heaven is a good father to all of us who knows what we need better than we do when something we ask for is not very good for us he gives us something much better if we confide in him and do not lose confidence in his love I am sure what you asked for was not very good for you just now he has heard you for he can hear the prayers of all the people in the world at the same time because he is God almighty and not immortal like us he heard your prayers and said to himself yes Heidi shall get what she is praying for in time now while God was looking down on you to hear your prayers you lost confidence and went away from him if God does not hear your prayers anymore he will forget you also and let you go don't you want to go back to him Heidi and ask for forgiveness pray to him every day and hope in him that he may bring cheer and happiness to you Heidi had listened attentively she had unbounded confidence in the old lady whose words had made a deep impression on her full of repentance she said I shall go at once and ask her father I shall never forget him anymore that's right Heidi I am sure he will help you in time if you only trust in him the grandmother consoled her Heidi went to her room now and prayed earnestly to God that he would forgive her and fulfill her wish the day of departure had come but missus says him and arranged everything in such a way that the children hardly realized she was actually going still everything was empty and quiet when she had gone and the children quickly knew how to pass their time next day Heidi came to Clara in the afternoon and said can I always always read to you now Clara Clara ascended and Heidi began but she did not get very far for the story she was reading told of her grandmother's death suddenly she cried loud and wept in the most pitiful fashion whatever Heidi read always seemed real to her and now she thought it was her own grandmother at home louder and louder she sobbed now poor grandmother is dead and I can never see her anymore and she never got one single role Clara attempted to explain the mistake but Heidi was too much upset she pictured to herself how terrible it would be if her dear old grandfather would die too while she was far away how quiet and empty it would be in the hut and how lonely she would be Miss Rottenmeyer had overheard the scene and approaching the sobbing child she said impatiently Adelheid now you have screamed enough if I hear you again giving way to yourself in such a noisy fashion I shall take your book away forever Heidi turned pale at that for the book was her greatest treasure quickly drying her tears she choked down her sobs after that Heidi never cried again often she could hardly repress her sobs and was obliged to make the strangest faces to keep herself from crying out Clara often looked at her full of surprise but Miss Rottenmeyer did not notice them and found no occasion to carry out her threat however the poor child got more cheerless every day and looked so thin and pale that Sebastian became worried he tried to encourage her at table to help herself to all the good dishes but listlessly she would let them pass and hardly touch them in the evening she would cry quietly her heart bursting with longing to go home thus the time passed by Heidi never knew if it was summer or winter for the walls opposite never changed they drove out very seldom for Clara was only able to go a short distance they never saw anything else than streets houses and busy people no grass, no fir trees and no mountains Heidi struggled constantly against her sorrow but in vain autumn and winter had passed and Heidi knew that the time was coming when Peter would go up to the Alps with his goats where the flowers were glistening in the sunshine and the mountains were all afire she would sit down in a corner of her room and put both hands before her eyes not to see the glaring sunshine on the opposite wall there she would remain eating her heart away with longing till Clara would call for her to come Please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 12 The Sezamen House is Haunted For several days Miss Rottenmeier had been wandering silently about the house when she went from room to room or along the corridors she would often glance back as if she were afraid that somebody was following her if she had to go to the upper floor where the gorgeous guest rooms were or to the lower story where the big ballroom was situated she always told Toonette to come with her the strange thing was that none of the servants dared to go anywhere alone and always found an excuse to ask each other's company which requests were always granted the cook who had been in the house for many years would often shake her head and mutter that I should live to see this something strange and weird was happening in the house every morning when the servants came downstairs they found the front door wide open at first everybody thought that the house must have been robbed but nothing was missing every morning it was the same despite the double locks that were put on the door at last John and Sebastian taking courage prepared themselves to watch through the night to see who was the ghost armed and provided with some strengthening liquor they repaired to a room downstairs first they talked but soon getting sleepy they leaned silently back in their chairs when the clock from the old church tower struck one Sebastian awoke and roused his comrade which was no easy matter at last however John was wide awake and together they went out into the hall the same moment a strong wind put out the light that John held in his hand rushing back he nearly upset Sebastian who stood behind him and pulled the butler back into the room he locked the door in furious haste when the life was lit again Sebastian noticed that John was deadly pale and trembling like an aspen leaf Sebastian, not having seen anything asked anxiously what is the matter? what did you see? the door was open and a white form was on the stairs that went up that was gone in a moment gasped John cold shivers ran down the butler's back they sat without moving till the morning came and then shutting the door on the stairs to report to the housekeeper what they had seen the lady who was waiting eagerly heard the tale and immediately sat down to ride Mr. Sezeman she told him that fright had paralyzed her fingers and that terrible things were happening in the house then followed a tale of the appearance of the ghost Mr. Sezeman replied that he could not leave his business and advised Mr. Rottemeyer to ask his mother to come and stay with him for Mrs. Sezeman would easily dispatch the ghost Mr. Rottemeyer was offended with the tone of the letter which did not seem to take her account seriously Mrs. Sezeman also replied that she could not come so the housekeeper decided to tell the children all about it Clara, at the uncanny tale immediately exclaimed that she would not stay alone another moment and that she wished her father to come home the housekeeper arranged to sleep with the frightened child while Heidi who did not know what ghosts were was perfectly unmoved another letter was dispatched to Mr. Sezeman telling him that the excitement might have serious effects on his daughter's delicate constitution and mentioning several misfortunes that might probably happen if he did not relieve the household from this terror this brought Mr. Sezeman going to his daughter's room after his arrival he was overjoyed to see her as well as ever Clara was also delighted to see her father what new tricks has the ghost played in you Mrs. Rottemeyer asked Mr. Sezeman with a twinkle in his eye it is no joke Mr. Sezeman replied the lady seriously I am sure you will not laugh tomorrow those strange events indicate that something secret and horrible has happened in this house in days gone by is that so? this is new to me remarked Mr. Sezeman but will you please not suspect my venerable ancestors please call Sebastian I want to speak to him alone Mr. Sezeman knew that the two were not on good terms so he said to the butler come here Sebastian and tell me honestly if you have played the ghost for Mrs. Rottemeyer's pastime no upon my word master you must not think that replied Sebastian frankly I do not like it quite myself well I'll show you and John what ghosts look like by day you ought to be ashamed of yourself strong young men like you now go at once to my old friend and tell him to come to me at nine o'clock tonight tell him that I came from Paris especially to consult him and that I want him to sit up all night with me do you understand me Sebastian yes indeed I shall do as you say Mr. Sezeman Mr. Sezeman then went up to Clara's room to quiet and comfort her punctually at nine o'clock the doctor arrived though his hair was grey his face was still fresh and his eyes were lively and kind he laughed aloud and said well well you look pretty healthy for one who needs to be watched all night have patience my old friend replied Mr. Sezeman I am afraid the person we have to sit up for will look worse but first we must catch him what then somebody is sick in this house what do you mean far worse doctor far worse a ghost is in the house my house is haunted when the doctor laughed Mr. Sezeman continued I call that sympathy I wish my friend Ms. Rottenmaier could hear you she's convinced that an old zeus a man is wandering about expiating some dreadful deed how did she make his acquaintance asked the doctor much amused Mr. Sezeman then explained the circumstances he said that the matter was either a bad joke which an acquaintance of the servants was playing in his absence the gang of thieves who, after intimidating the people would surely rob his house by and by with these explanations they entered the room where the two servants had watched before a few bottles of wine stood on the table and two bright candelabras shed a brilliant light two revolvers were ready for emergencies they left the room only partly open for too much light might drive the ghost away then sitting down comfortably the two men passed their time by chatting making a sip now and then the ghost seems to have spied us and probably won't come today said the doctor we must have patience it is supposed to come at one replied his friend so they talked till one o'clock everything was quiet and not a sound came from the street suddenly the doctor raised his finger shh Sezeman don't you hear something while they both listened the bar was infacent and the door flew open Mr. Sezeman seized his revolver you are not afraid I hope said the doctor getting up better be cautious whispered Mr. Sezeman seizing the candelabra in the other hand the doctor followed with his revolver in the light and so they went out into the hall on the threshold stood a motionless white form lighted up by the moon who is there thundered the doctor approaching the figure it turned and uttered a low shriek there stood Heidi with bare feet and in her white nightgown looking bewildered at the bright light and the weapons she was shaking with fear while the two men were looking at her in amazement Sezeman this seems to be your little water carrier said the doctor child what does this mean asked Mr. Sezeman what did you want to do why have you come down here pale from fright Heidi said I did not know the doctor came forward now Sezeman this case belongs to my field please go and sit down while I take her to bed putting his revolver aside he led the trembling child upstairs don't be afraid just be quiet everything is all right don't be frightened when they had arrived in Heidi's room the doctor put the little girl to bed covering her up carefully drawing a chair near the couch waited till Heidi had calmed down and had stopped trembling then taking her hand in his he said kindly now everything is all right again tell me where you wanted to go I did not want to go anywhere Heidi assured him I did not go myself although I was there all of a sudden really tell me what did you dream I have the same dream every night I always think I am with my grandfather again in the fir trees roar I always think how beautiful the stars must be and then I opened the door of the hat and it was so wonderful but when I wake up I am always in Frankfurt Heidi had to fight the sobs that were rising in her throat does your back or your head hurt you child no but I feel as if a big stone was pressing me here as if you had eaten something that disagreed with you oh no I wanted to cry hard so and then you cry out don't you oh no he must never do that for Miss Rottenbier has forbidden it then you swallow it down yes do you like to be here was the faint uncertain reply where did you live with your grandfather up on the alp what wasn't it a little lonely there but Heidi could say no more the wrecked election the excitement of the night and all the restrained sorrow overpowered the child the tears rushed violently from her eyes and she broke out into loud sobs the doctor rose and soothing her said it won't hurt to cry you'll go to sleep afterward and when you wake up everything will come right then he left the room joining his anxious friend downstairs he said the little girl is a sleepwalker and has unconsciously scared your whole household besides she is so homesick that her little body has wasted away we shall have to act quickly the only remedy for her is to be restored to her native mountain air this is my prescription and she must go tomorrow what seek sleepwalker and wasted away in my house nobody even suspected it you think I should send this child back in this condition when she has come in good health no doctor ask everything but that take her in hand and prescribe for her but let her get well before I send her back sesame the doctor replied seriously just think what you are doing we cannot cure her with powders and pills the child has not a strong constitution and if you keep her here she might never get well again if you restore her to the bracing mountain air to which she is accustomed she probably will get perfectly well again when mr. sesaman heard this he said if that is your advice we must act at once this is the only way then with these words mr. sesaman took his friend's arm and walked about with him no matter over when everything was settled the doctor took his leave for the morning had already come and the sun was shining in through the door end of chapter 12 chapter 13 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johannes Bury translated by Elizabeth Stork chapter 13 Up the Alp on a summer evening Mr. Sesaman going upstairs in great agitation knocked at the housekeeper's door he asked her to hurry for preparations for a journey had to be made Miss Rottenmaier obeyed the summons with the greatest indignation for it was only half past four in the morning she dressed in haste though with great difficulty being nervous and excited all the other servants were summoned likewise and one in all thought that the master of the house had been seized by the ghost and that he was ringing for help when they had all come down with terrified looks they were most surprised to see Mr. Sesaman fresh and cheerful giving orders John was sent to get the horses ready and Tonette was told to prepare Heidi for her departure while Sebastian was commissioned to fetch Heidi's aunt Mr. Sesaman instructed the housekeeper to pack a trunk in all haste for Heidi Miss Rottenmaier experienced an extreme disappointment for she had hoped for an explanation of the great mystery but Mr. Sesaman evidently not in the mood to converse further went to his daughter's room Clara had been awakened by the unusual noises and was listening eagerly her father told her of what had happened and how the doctor had ordered Heidi back to her home because her condition was serious and might get worse she might even climb the roof or be exposed to similar dangers if she was not cured at once Clara was painfully surprised and tried to prevent her father from carrying out his plan he remained firm however promising to take her to Switzerland himself the following summer if she was good and sensible now so the child, resigning herself begged to have Heidi's trunk packed in her own Mr. Sesaman encouraged her to get together a good outfit for her little friend Heidi's aunt had arrived in the meantime being told to take her niece home with her she found no end of excuses which plainly showed that she did not want to do it for that it well remembered the uncle's parting words Mr. Sesaman dismissed her and summons about her Mr. Sesaman dismissed her and summons Sebastian the butler was told to get ready for travelling with the child he was to go to ball that day and spend the night at a good hotel which his master named the next day the child was to be brought to her home listen Sebastian Mr. Sesaman said and do exactly as I tell you I know the hotel in Basel and if you show my car they will give you good accommodations go to the child's room and barricade the windows so that they can only be opened by the greatest force when Heidi is gone to bed lock the door from outside for the child walks in her sleep and might come to harm in his strange hotel she might get up and open the door do you understand oh so it was she exclaimed the butler yes it was you are a coward and you can tell John he is the same such foolish men to be afraid with that Mr. Sesaman went to his room to write a letter to Heidi's grandfather Sebastian, feeling ashamed said to himself that he ought to have resisted John and found out alone Heidi was dressed in her Sunday frock and stood waiting for further commands Mr. Sesaman called her now good morning Mr. Sesaman Heidi said when she had entered what do you think about it little one he asked her Heidi looked up to him in amazement you don't seem to know anything about it laughed Mr. Sesaman Toonette had not even told the child for she thought it beneath her dignity to speak to the vulgar Heidi you are going home today oh Heidi repeated in a low voice she had the gasp so great was her surprise wouldn't you like to hear something about it asked Mr. Sesaman smiling oh yes I should like to said the blushing child good good gentlemen sit down and eat a big breakfast now for you are going away right after once the child could not even swallow a morsel though she tried to eat out of obedience it seemed to her as if it was only a dream go to Clara Heidi till the carriage comes Mr. Sesaman said kindly Heidi had been wishing to go and now she ran to Clara's room where a huge trunk was standing Heidi look at the things I have packed for you do you like them there were a great many lovely things in it but Heidi jumped for joy when she discovered a little basket with 12 round wide rolls for the grandmother the children had forgotten that the moment for parting had come when the carriage was announced Heidi had to get all her own treasures from her room yet the grandma's book was carefully packed and the red shawl that Miss Rottenmeyer had purposefully left behind then putting on her pretty hat she left her room to say goodbye to Clara there was not much time left to do so for Mr. Sesaman was waiting to put Heidi in the carriage when Miss Rottenmeyer who was standing on the stair to bid farewell to her pupil saw the red bundle in Heidi's hand she seized it and threw it on the ground Heidi looked imploringly at her kind protector and Mr. Sesaman seeing how much she treasured it gave it back to her the happy child at parting thanked him for all his goodness she also sent a message of thanks to the good old doctor whom she suspected to be the real cause of her going while Heidi was being lifted onto the carriage Mr. Sesaman assured her that Clara would never forget her Sebastian followed with Heidi's basket in a large bag with provisions Mr. Sesaman called out happy journey and the carriage rolled away only when Heidi was sitting in the train did she become conscious of where she was going she knew now that she would really see her grandfather and the grandmother again also Peter and the goats her only fear was that the poor blind grandmother might have died while she was away the thing she looked forward to most was giving the soft white rolls to the grandmother while she was musing over all these things she fell asleep in ball she was roused by Sebastian for there they were to spend the night the next morning they started off again and it took them many hours before they reached Meinfeld when Sebastian stood on the platform of the station he wished he could have travelled further in the train rather than have to climb a mountain the last part of the trip might be dangerous for everything seemed half-wild in this country looking round he discovered a small wagon with a lean horse a broad-shouldered man was just loading up large bags which had come by the train Sebastian, approaching the man asked some information concerning the least dangerous ascent to the Alps after a while it was settled that the man should take Heidi and her trunk to the village and see to it that somebody would go up with her from there not a word had escaped Heidi until she now said I can go up below for the village I know the road Sebastian felt relieved and calling Heidi to him presented her with a heavy roll of bills and a letter for the grandfather these precious things were put at the bottom of the basket under the rolls so that they could not possibly get lost Heidi promised to be careful of them and was lifted up to the cart the two old friends shook hands and parted and Sebastian, with a slightly bad conscience for having deserted the child so soon sat down on the station to wait for a returning train the driver was no other than the village baker who had never seen Heidi but had heard a great deal about her he had known her parents and immediately guessed she was the child who had lived with the Elm Uncle curious to know why she'd come home again he began a conversation are you Heidi the child who lived with the Elm Uncle yes why are you coming home again did you get on badly oh no nobody could have got on better than I did in Frankfurt then why are you coming back because Mr. Sebastian let me come cool why didn't you stay because I would rather be with my grandfather in the Alps than anywhere on earth you may think differently when you get there muttered the baker strange though she must know he said to himself Heidi when she recognized all the trees on the road and the lofty peaks of the mountains sometimes she felt as if she could not sit any longer but had to jump down and run with all her might they arrived at the village of the stroke of five immediately a large group of women and children surrounded the cart for the trunk and the little passenger it attracted everybody's notice when Heidi had been lifted down she found herself held and questioned on all sides but when they saw how frightened she was they let her go at last the baker had to tell of Heidi's arrival with a strange gentleman and assured all the people that Heidi loved her grandfather with all her heart let the people say what they would about him Heidi in the meantime was running up the path from time to time she was obliged to stop for her basket was heavy and she lost her breath her one idea was if only grandmother still sits in her corner by her spinning wheel oh if she should have died when the child caught sight of the hide at last her heart began to beat the quicker she ran the more it beat but at last she tremblingly opened the door she ran into the middle of the room unable to outer one tone she was so out of breath oh god it sounded from one corner Heidi used to come in like that oh if I just could have her again with me before I die who has come shouted the child throwing herself on her knees before the old woman she seized her hands and arms and snuggling up to her did not for joy utter one more word the grandmother had been so surprised that she could only silently caress the child's curly hair over and over again yes yes she said at last this is Heidi's hair and her beloved voice oh my god I think default is happiness out of her blind eyes big tears of joy fell down on Heidi's hand is it really you Heidi have you really come again yes yes grandmother the child replied you must not cry for I have come and will never leave you anymore now you won't have to eat hard black bread anymore for a little while look what I have brought you Heidi put one roll after another into the grandmother's lap child what a blessing you bring to me the old woman cried but you are my greatest blessing yourself Heidi then caressing the child's hair and flushed cheeks she entreated just say one more word while Heidi was talking Peter's mother arrived and exclaimed in her amazement surely this is Heidi but how can that be the child rose to shake hands with Brigida who could not get over Heidi's splendid frock and hat you can have my hat I don't want it anymore I have my old one still Heidi said, pulling out her old crushed straw hat Heidi had remembered her grandfather's words to Dutta about her feather hat that was why she had kept her old hat so carefully Brigida had last accepted the gift after a great many remonstrances suddenly Heidi took off her pretty dress and tied her old shawl about her taking the grandmother's hand she said goodbye I'm a school hope to grandfather now but I shall come again tomorrow good night grandmother oh please come again tomorrow Heidi implored the old woman while she held her fast why did you take your pretty dress off asked Brigida I'd rather go to grandfather that way or else he might not know me anymore the way you did Brigida accompanied the child outside and said mysteriously he would have known you in your frock you ought to have kept it on please be careful child but Peter tells us that the uncle never says a word to anyone and always seems so angry but Heidi was unconcerned and saying good night climbed up the path with the basket on her arm the evening sun was shining down on the grass before her every few minutes Heidi stood still to look at the mountains behind her suddenly she looked back and beheld such glory as she had not even seen in her most vivid dream the rocky peaks were flaming and brilliant light the snow fields glowed the grass was like an expanse of gold and before her the valley swam and golden mist the child stood still and in her joy and transport tears ran down her cheeks she folded her hands and looking up to heaven thanked the Lord that he had brought her home again she thanked him for restoring her to her beloved mountains in her happiness she could hardly find words to pray only when the glow had subsided was Heidi able to follow the path again she climbed so fast that she could soon discover first the treetops then the roof finally the hut now she could see her grandfather sitting on his bench smoking a pipe above the cottage the fir trees gently swayed and rustled in the evening breeze at last she had reached the hut and throwing herself in her grandfather's arms she hugged him and held him tight she could say nothing but grandpa in her agitation the old man said nothing either his eyes were moist and loosening Heidi's arms at last he sat her on his knee when he had looked at her a while he said so you have come home again Heidi why you certainly do not look very citified did they send you away oh no you must not think that grandfather they were all so good to me Clara, Mr. Sesame and Grandmother but Grandfather I felt as if I could not bear it any longer to be away from you I thought I should choke I could not tell anyone for that would have been ungrateful suddenly one morning Mr. Sesame called me very early I think it was the doctor's fault and but I think it is probably written in this letter with that Heidi brought the letter and the bank roll from her basket putting them on her grandfather's lap this belongs to you he said laying the roll beside him having read the letter he put it in his pocket do you think you can still drink milk with me Heidi he asked while he stepped into the cottage take your money with you you can buy a bed with it and close for many years I don't need it at all Grandfather Heidi assured him I have a bed and Clara has given me so many dresses that I should not need anymore all my life take it and put it in the cupboard or you will need it someday Heidi obeyed and danced around the hut in her delight to see all the beloved things again running up to the loft she exclaimed in great disappointment oh Grandfather my bed is gone it will come again the grandfather called up from below how could I know that you were coming back get your milk now Heidi coming down took her old seat she seized her bowl and emptied it eagerly as if it was the most wonderful thing she had ever tasted Grandfather our milk is the best in all the world suddenly Heidi hearing a shrill whistle rushed outside as Peter and all his goats came racing down Heidi greeted the boy who stopped rooted to the spot staring at her then she ran into the midst of her beloved friends who had not forgotten her either Sven Lee and Barely bleated for joy and all her other favorites pressed near to her Heidi was beside herself with joy and caressed little snowhopper and patted thislefinch till she felt herself pushed to and fro among them Peter why don't you come down and say good night to me Heidi called to the boy have you come again he exclaimed at last then he took Heidi's proffered hand and asked her as if she had always been there are you coming up with me tomorrow no tomorrow I was good to Grandmother but perhaps the day after Peter had a hard time with his goats that day for they would not follow him over and over again they came back to Heidi till she entered the shed with Barely and Sven Lee and shut the door when Heidi went up to her loft to sleep she found a fresh, fragrant bed waiting for her and she slept better that night than she had for many many months for her great and burning longing had been satisfied about ten times that night the grandfather rose from his couch to listen to Heidi's quiet breathing the window was filled up with hay for from now on the moon was not allowed to shine on Heidi anymore but Heidi slept quietly for she had seen the flaming mountains and heard the fir trees roar End of Chapter 13 Chapter 14 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johannes Bury translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 14 on Sunday when the church bells ring Heidi was standing under the swaying fir trees waiting for her grandfather to join her he had promised to bring up her trunk from the village while she went in to visit the grandmother the child was longing to see the blind woman again and to hear how she had liked the roles it was Saturday and the grandfather had been cleaning the cottage soon he was ready to start when they had descended and Heidi entered Peter's hut the grandmother called lovingly to her have you come again child she took hold of Heidi's hand and held it tight grandmother then told the little visitor how good the roles had tasted and how much stronger she felt already Brigitte related further that the grandmother had only eaten a single roll being so afraid to finish them too soon Heidi had listened attentively and said now grandmother I know what I shall do I am going to write to Clara and she'll surely send me a whole lot more but Brigitte remarked that is meant well but they get hard so soon if I only had a few extra pennies I could buy some from our baker he makes them too but I am hardly able to pay for the black bread Heidi's face suddenly shone oh grandmother I have an awful lot of money she cried now I know what I'll do with it but today you must have a fresh roll and two on Sunday Peter can bring them up from the village no, no child the grandmother implored that must not be you must give it to grandfather and he'll tell you what to do with it but Heidi did not listen but jumped gaily about the room calling over and over again now grandmother could have her roll every day she'll get well and strong she called with fresh delight and she'll see again too when you are strong and well the grandmother remained silent not to mar the happiness of the child seeing the old hymn book on the shelf Heidi said grandmother shall I read you a song from your book now I can read quite nicely she added after a pause oh yes I wish you would child can you really read Heidi climbing on a chair took down the dusty book from a shelf after she had carefully wiped it off she sat down on a stool what shall I read grandmother whatever you want to was the reply turning the pages Heidi found a song about the son and decided to read that aloud more and more eagerly she read while the grandmother with folded arms sat in her chair an expression of indescribable happiness drawn in her countenance though tears were rolling down her cheeks when Heidi had repeated the end of the song at times the old woman exclaimed oh Heidi everything seems bright to me again and my heart is light thank you child you have done me so much good Heidi looked enraptured at the grandmother's face which had changed from an old sorrowful expression to a joyous one she seemed to look up gratefully as if she could already behold the lovely celestial gardens told of Nahim soon the grandfather knocked on the window for it was time to go Heidi followed quickly assuring the grandmother that she would visit her every day now on the day she went up to the pasture with Peter she would return in the early afternoon for she did not want to miss the chance to make the grandmother's heart joyful and light Brigida urged Heidi to take her dress along and with it on her arm the child joined the old man and immediately told him what had happened on hearing of her plan to purchase roles for the grandmother every day the grandfather reluctantly consented at this the child gave a bound shouting oh grandfather now grandmother won't ever have to eat hard black bread anymore oh everything is so wonderful now if god or father had done immediately when I prayed for I should have come home at once and could not have brought half as many roles to grandmother I should not have been able to read either grandmother told me that god would make everything much better than I can ever dream I shall always pray from now on the way grandmother taught me when god does not give me something I pray for I should always remember how everything has worked out for the best this time we'll pray every day grandfather won't be for otherwise god might forget us and if somebody should forget to do it remember the old man oh he'll get on badly for god will forget him too if he's unhappy and wretched people don't pity him for they will say he went away from god and now the lord who alone can help him no pity on him is that true Heidi who told you so grandmother explained it off to me after a pause the grandfather said yes but if it has happened then there is no help nobody can come back to the lord when god has once forgotten him grandfather everybody can come back to him grandmother told me that and besides there's a beautiful story in my book oh grandfather you don't know it yet and I shall read it to you as soon as we get home the grandfather had brought a big basket with him in which he carried half the contents of Heidi's trunk it had been too large to be conveyed up the steep ascent arriving at the hut and setting down his load he had to sit beside Heidi who was ready to begin the tale with great animation Heidi read the story of the prodigal son who was happy at home with his father's cows and sheep the picture showed him leaning on his staff watching the sunset suddenly he wanted to have his own inheritance and be able to be his own master demanding the money for his father he went to win squadron all when he had nothing in the world left he had to go on as servant to a peasant who did not own fine cattle like his father but only swine cows were rags and for food he only got the husks on which the pigs were fed often he would think what a good hope he had left and when he remembered how good his father had been to him and his own ungratefulness he would cry for repentance and longing then he said to himself I shall go to my father and ask his forgiveness when he approached his former hope his father came out to meet him what do you think will happen now Heidi asked do you think that the father is angry and will say didn't I tell you but just listen and his father saw him and had compassion and ran and fell on his neck and the son said father I have syndicate heaven and in thy sight and am no more worthy to be called thy son but the father said to his servant bring forth the best robe and put it on him and put a ring on his head and shoes on his feet and break hither the fattest calf and kill it and let his head be merry for this my son was dead and is alive again he was lost and is fed and they began to be merry isn't it a beautiful story grandfather Heidi asked when he sat silently beside her yes Heidi it is said the grandfather but so seriously that Heidi quietly looked at the pictures look how happy he is she said pointing to it a few hours later when Heidi was sleeping soundly the old man climbed up the ladder placing a little lamp beside the sleeping child he watched her a long long time her little hands were folded and her rosy face looked confident and peaceful the old man now folded his hands and said in a low voice while big tears rolled down his cheeks father I have sinned against heaven and thee and am no more worthy to be thy son the next morning found the uncle standing before the door looking about him over valley and mountain a few early bells sounded from below and the birds sang their morning anthems re-entering the house he called Heidi get up the sun is shining but on a pretty dress for we are going to church that was a new call and Heidi obeyed quickly when the child came downstairs and her smart little frock she opened her eyes wide grandfather she exclaimed I have never seen you in your Sunday coat with the silver button oh how fine you look the old man turning to the child sighed with a smile you come now with Heidi's hand in his they wandered down together the nearer they came to the village the louder and richer the bells resounded oh grandfather do you hear it it seems like a big high feast said Heidi when they entered the church all the people were singing though they had sat down on the last bench behind the people had noticed their presence and whispered it from ear to ear when the pastor began to preach the words were a loud thanksgiving that moved all his hearers after the service the old man and the child walked to the parsonage the clergyman had opened the door and received them with friendly words I have come to ask your forgiveness for my harsh words said the uncle I want to follow your advice to spend the winter here among you if the people look at me as scants I can't expect any better I am sure Mr. Pastor you will not do so the pastor's friendly eyes sparkled and with many a kind word he commended the uncle for his change and putting his hand on Heidi's curly hair ushered them out thus the people who had been all talking together about this great event could see that their clergyman shook hands with the old man the parsonage was hardly shut when the whole assembly came forward with outstretched hands and friendly greetings great seemed to be their joy at the old man's resolution some of the people even accompanied him on his homeward way when they had parted at last the uncle looked up after them with his face shining as with an inward light Heidi looked up to him and said grandfather you have never looked so beautiful who do you think so you see Heidi I am more happy than I deserve to be at peace with God and men makes one's heart feel light God has been good to me to send you back when they arrived at Peter's hut the grandfather opened the door and entered how do you do grandmother he called out I think we must start to mend again before the fall wind comes oh my God the uncle exclaimed the grandmother enjoy surprise how happy am I to be able to thank you for what you have done uncle thank you God bless you for it with trembling joy the grandmother shook hands with her old friend there is something else I want to say to you uncle she continued if I have ever hurt you in any way do not punish me do not let Heidi go away again before I die I cannot tell you what Heidi means to me so saying she held the clinging child to her no danger of that grandmother I hope we shall all stay together now for many years to come Brigida now showed Heidi's feather hat to the old man and asked him to take it back but the uncle asked her to keep it since Heidi had given it to her what blessings this child has brought from Frankfurt Brigida said she often wondered if I should not send our little Peter too what do you think uncle the uncle's eyes sparkled with fun when he replied I am sure it would not hurt Peter nevertheless I should wait for a fitting occasion before I sent him the next morning Peter himself arrived in great haste he had a letter for Heidi which had been given to him in the village what an event a letter for Heidi she was down at the table while the child read it aloud the letter was from Clara Sezeman who wrote that everything had got so dull since Heidi left she said that she could not stand it very long and therefore her father had promised to take her to Raggetts this coming fall she announced that Grandmama was coming too for she wanted to see Heidi and her grandfather Grandmama having heard about the roles was sending some coffee too so that the grandmother would not have to eat them dry Grandmama also insisted on being taken to the grandmother herself when she came on her visit great was the delight caused by this news and what with all the questions and plans that followed the grandfather himself forgot how late it was this happy day which had united them all caused the old woman to say at parting the most beautiful thing of all though is to be able to shake hands again with an old friend as in days gone by it is a great comfort to find again what we have treasured you'll come soon again uncle I am counting on the child for tomorrow this promise was given while Heidi and her grandfather were on their homeward path the peaceful sound of evening bells accompanied them at last they reached the cottage which seemed to glow in the evening light end of chapter 14 end of part one of Heidi chapter 15 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork part two Heidi makes use of her experience chapter 15 preparations for a journey the kind doctor who had sent Heidi home to her beloved mountains was approaching the Sesamon residence on a sunny day in September everything about him was bright and cheerful but the doctor did not even raise his eyes from the pavement to the blue sky above his face was sad and his hair had turned very gray since spring a few months ago the doctor had lost his only daughter who had lived with him since his wife's early death the blooming girl had been his only joy and since she had gone from him the ever old doctor was bowed down with grief when Sebastian opened the door to the physician he bowed very low for the doctor made friends wherever he went I am glad you have come doctor Mr Sesamon called to his friend as he entered please let us talk over this trip to Switzerland again do you still give the same advice now that Clara is so much better what must you think of me Sesamon replied the doctor sitting down I wish your mother was here everything is clear to her and things go smoothly then this is the third time today that you have called me and always for the same thing it is true it must make you impatient said Mr Sesamon laying his hand on his friend's shoulder he continued I cannot say how hard it is for me to refuse Clara this trip haven't I promised it to her and hasn't she looked forward to it for months she has borne all her suffering so patiently just because she had hoped to be able to visit her little friend on the out I hate to rob her of this pleasure the poor child has so many trials and so little change but Sesamon you must do it was the doctor's answer when his friend remained silent he continued think what a hard summer Clara has had she never was more ill and we could not attempt this journey without risking the worst consequences remember we are in September now and though the weather may still be fine on the Alp it is sure to be very cool the days are getting shorter and she could only spend a few hours up there she had to return for the night it would take several hours to have her carried up from rockets you see yourself how impossible it is I shall come in with you though to talk to Clara and you'll find her sensible I'll tell you of my plan for next May first she can go to rockets to take the bath when it gets warm on the mountain be carried up from time to time she'll be stronger then and much more able to enjoy those excursions than she is now if we hope for an improvement in her condition we must be extremely cautious and careful remember that Mr. Sesamon who had been listening with the utmost submission now said anxiously doctor please tell me honestly if you still have hope left for any change with shrugging shoulders the doctor replied not very much but think of me Sesamon have you not a child who loves you and always welcomes you you don't have to come back to a lonely home and sit all alone at your table your child is well taken care of and if she has many privations she also has many advantages Sesamon you do not need to be pitied just think of my lonely home Mr. Sesamon had gotten up and was walking round the room as he always did when something occupied his thoughts suddenly he stood before his friend and said doctor I have an idea I cannot see you sad any longer you must get away you shall undertake this trip and visit Heidi in our stead the doctor had been surprised by this proposal and tried to object but Mr. Sesamon was so full of his new project that he pulled his friend with him into his daughter's room not leaving him time for any remonstrances Clara loved the doctor who had always tried to cheer her up on his visits by bright and funny tales she was sorry for the change that had come over him and would have given much to see him happy again when he had shaken hands with her both men pulled up their chairs to Clara's bedside Mr. Sesamon began to speak of their journey and how sorry he was to give it up then he quickly began to talk of his new plan Clara's eyes had filled with tears but she knew that her father did not like to see her cry and besides she was sure that her papa would only forbid her this pleasure because it was absolutely necessary to do so so she bravely fought her tears and caressing the doctor's hand said please doctor do go to Heidi then you can tell me all about her and can describe her grandfather to me and Peter with his goats I seem to know them all so well then you can take all the things to her that I had planned to take myself please doctor go and then I'll be good and take as much cod liver oil as ever you want me to who can tell if this promise decided the doctor at any rate he answered with a smile then I surely must go Clara that and strong as we both want to see you have you settled yet when I must go oh you had better go tomorrow morning doctor Clara urged she's right the father assented the sun is shining and you must not lose any more glorious days on the out the doctor had to laugh why don't you chide me for being here still I shall go as quickly as I can Sesamon Clara gave many messages to him for Heidi she also told him to be sure to observe everything closely so that he would be able to tell her all about it when he came back the things for Heidi were to be sent to him later for Miss Rottenmeier who had to pack them was out on one of her lengthy wanderings about town the doctor promised to comply with all Clara's wishes and to start the following day Clara rang for the maid and said to her when she arrived please to net pack a lot of fresh soft coffee cake in this box a box had been ready for this purpose many days when the maid was leaving the room she murmured that's a silly bother Sebastian, who had happened to overhear some remarks asked the physician when he was leaving to take his regards to the little miss as he called Heidi with a promise to deliver this message the doctor was just hastening out when he encountered an obstacle Miss Rottenmeier who had been obliged to return from her walk on account of the strong wind was just coming in she wore a large cape which the wind was blowing about her like two full sails both had retreated politely to give way to each other suddenly the wind seemed to carry the housekeeper straight towards the doctor who had barely time to avoid her this little incident which had ruffled Miss Rottenmeier's temper very much gave the doctor occasion to soothe her as she liked to be soothed by this man whom she respected more than anybody in the world telling her of his intended visit he entreated her to pack the things for Heidi as only she knew how Clara had expected some resistance from Miss Rottenmeier about the packing of her presents what was her surprise when this lady showed herself most obliging and immediately on being told brought together all the articles first came a heavy coat for Heidi with a hood which Clara meant her to use on visits to the grandmother in the winter then came a thick warm shawl and a large box with coffee-cake for the grandmother an enormous sausage for Peter's mother followed and a little sack of tobacco for the grandfather at last a lot of mysterious little parcels and boxes were packed things that Clara had gathered together for Heidi when the tidy pack lay ready on the ground Clara's heart filled with pleasure at the thought of her little friend's delight Sebastian now entered and putting the pack on his shoulder carried it to the doctor's house without delay End of Chapter 15 Chapter 16 of Heidi This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 16 A Guest on the Out The early dawn was tinging the mountains and a fresh morning breeze rocked the old fir trees to and fro Heidi opened her eyes for the rustling of the wind had awakened her These sounds always thrilled her heart and now they drew her out of bed Rising hurriedly she soon was neatly dressed and combed Coming down the little ladder and finding the grandfather's bed empty she ran outside The old man was looking up at the sky to see what the weather was going to be like that day Rosie clouds were passing overhead but gradually the sky grew more blue and deep and soon a golden light passed over the heights for the sun was rising in all his glory Good morning, grandfather Heidi exclaimed Are your eyes bright already? The grandfather retorted holding out his hand Heidi then ran over to her beloved fir trees and danced about while the wind was howling in the branches After the old man had washed and milked the goats he brought them out of the shed When Heidi saw her friends again she caressed them tenderly and they in their turn nearly crushed her between them Sometimes when barely got too wild Heidi would say But Farley, you pushed me like the big Turk and that was enough to quiet the goat Soon Peter arrived with the whole herd the jolly thistlefinch ahead of all the others Heidi being soon in the midst of them was pushed about among them Peter was anxious to say a word to the little girl so he gave a shrill whistle urging the goats to climb ahead When he was near her he said reproachfully You really won't come with me today? No, I can't, Peter said Heidi I can't come from Frankfurt anytime I must be home when they come How often have you said that? Grumbled the boy replied Heidi Do you really think I want to be away when I come from Frankfurt? Do you really think that, Peter? I could come to Uncle Peter growled Then the grandfather's strong voice was heard Why doesn't the army go forward? Is it the Field Marshal's fault or the fault of the troop? Peter immediately turned about and led his goats up the mountain without more due Since Heidi had come home again to her grandfather she did many things that had never occurred to her before For instance, she would make her bed every morning and run about the hut tidying and dusting With an old rag she would rub the chairs and table till they all shone and the grandfather would exclaim It is always Sunday with us now Heidi has not been away in vain On this day after breakfast when Heidi began her self-imposed task it took her longer than usual for the weather was too glorious to stay within Over and over again a bright sunbeam would tempt the busy child outside How could she stay indoors when the glistening sunshine was pouring down and all the mountains seemed to glow She had to sit down on the dry hard ground and look down into the valley and all about her Then suddenly remembering her little duties she would hasten back It was not long though till the roaring fir trees tempted her again The grandfather had been busy in his little shop merely glancing over at the child from time to time Suddenly he heard her call Oh, grandfather, come! He was frightened and came out quickly He saw her running down the hill crying They're coming! They're coming! Oh, the doctor is coming first When Heidi at last reached her old friend he held out his hand which Heidi immediately seized In the full joy of her heart she exclaimed How do you do, doctor? And I thank you a thousand times How are you, Heidi? But what are you thanking me for already? The doctor asked with a smile Because you let me come home again The child explained The gentleman's face lit up like sunshine He had certainly not counted on such a reception at the Alp On the contrary, not even noticing all the beauty around him he had climbed up sadly for he was sure that Heidi probably would not know him anymore He thought that he would be far from welcome being obliged to cause her a great disappointment Instead he beheld Heidi's bright eyes looking up at him in gratefulness and love She was still holding his arm when he said Come now, Heidi, and take me to your grandfather for I want to see where you live Like a kind father he had taken her hand but Heidi stood still and looked down the mountainside But she asked Child, I must tell you something now which will grieve you as much as it grieves me replied the doctor I had to come alone for Clara has been very ill and could not travel Of course Grandmama has not come either but the spring will soon be here and when the days get long and warm they will surely visit you Heidi was perfectly amazed She could not understand how all those things that she had pictured to herself so clearly would not happen after all She was standing perfectly motionless confused by the blow It was some time before Heidi remembered that after all she had come down to meet the doctor Looking up at her friend she was struck by his sad and cheerless face How changed he was since she had seen him She did not like to see people unhappy least of all the good kind doctor He must be sad because Clara and Grandmama had not come and to console him she said Oh, it won't last long till spring comes again then they will come for sure they'll be able to stay much longer and that will please Clara Now we'll go to grandfather Hand in hand she climbed up with her old friend all the way she tried to cheer him up by telling him again and again of the coming summer days After they had reached the cottage she called out to her grandfather quite happily They are not here yet but it won't be very long before they are coming The grandfather warmly welcomed his guest who did not seem at all a stranger for had not Heidi told him many things about the doctor They all three sat down on the bench before the door and the doctor told of the object of his visit He whispered to the child that something was coming up the mountain very soon which would bring her more pleasure than his visit What could it be? The uncle advised the doctor to spend the splendid days of autumn on the Alp, if possible and to take a little room in the village instead of in ragaz Then he could easily walk up every day to the hut and from there the uncle could take him all around the mountains This plan was accepted The sun was in its zenith and the wind had ceased Only a soft, delicious breeze fanned the cheeks of all The uncle now got up and went into the hut returning soon with a table and their dinner Go away in Heidi and set the table there I hope you will excuse our simple meal He said, turning to his guest I shall gladly accept this delightful invitation I am sure that dinner will taste good up here said the guest, looking down over the sun-bathed valley Heidi was running to and fro for it gave her great joy to be able to wait on her kind protector Soon the uncle appeared with the steaming milk, the toasted cheese and the finely sliced rosy meat that had been dried in the pure air The doctor enjoyed his dinner better than any he had ever tasted Oh yes, we must send Clara up here How she could gather strength, he said If she would have an appetite like mine today she couldn't help getting nice and fat At this moment a man could be seen walking up with a large sack on his shoulders Arriving on top he threw down his load breathing in the pure fresh air Opening the cover the doctor said This has come for you from Frankfurt, Heidi Come and look what is in it Heidi timidly watched the heap and only when the gentleman opened the box with the cakes for the grandmother she said joyfully Oh now grandmother can eat this lovely cake She was taking the box and the beautiful shawl on her arm and was going to race down to deliver the gifts when the men persuaded her to stay and unpack the rest What was her delight at finding the tobacco and all the other things? The men had been talking together when the child suddenly planted herself in front of them and said These things have not given me as much pleasure as the dear doctors coming Both men smiled When it was near sunset the doctor arose to start on his way down The grandfather carrying the box, the shawl and the sausage and the guest holding the little girl by the hand they wandered down the mountainside When they reached Peter's hut Heidi was told to go inside and wait for her grandfather there At parting she asked Would you like to come with me up to the pasture tomorrow doctor? With pleasure Goodbye Heidi was the reply The grandfather had deposited all the presents before the door and it took Heidi long to carry in the huge box with the sausage the shawl she put on the grandmother's knee Brigida had silently watched the proceedings and could not open her eyes wide enough when she saw the enormous sausage Never in her life had she seen the like and now she really possessed it and could cut it herself Oh, grandmother, don't the cakes please you awfully? Just look how soft they are The child exclaimed What was her amazement when she saw the grandmother more pleased with the shawl which would keep her warm in winter Grandmother Clara has sent you that Heidi said Oh, what kind good people they are to think of a poor old woman like me I never thought I should ever own such a splendid wrap At this moment Peter came stumbling in The uncle is coming up behind me and Heidi must That was as far as he got for his eyes had fastened on the sausage Heidi however had already said goodbye for she knew what he had meant Though her uncle never went by the hut any more without stepping in she knew it was too late today Heidi, come you must get your sleep he called through the open door bidding them all good night he took Heidi by the hand and under the glistening stars they wandered home to their peaceful cottage End of Chapter 16 Chapter 17 of Heidi This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Ioana Speery Translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 17 Retaliation Early the next morning the doctor climbed up the mountain in company with Peter and his goats The friendly gentleman made several attempts to start a conversation with the boy but as answer to his questions he got nothing more than mono syllables When they arrived on top they found Heidi already waiting fresh and rosy as the early dawn Are you coming? asked Peter as usual Of course I shall, if the doctor comes with us replied the child The grandfather coming out of the hut greeted the newcomer with great respect Then he went up to Peter and hung on his shoulder the sack which seemed to contain more than usual that day When they had started on their way Heidi kept urging forward the goats which were crowding about her When at last she was walking peacefully by the doctor's side she began to relate to him many things about the goats and all their strange pranks and about the flowers, rocks and birds they saw When they arrived at their destination time seemed to have flown Peter all the time was sending many an angry glance at the unconscious doctor who never even noticed it Heidi now took the doctor to her favorite spot From there they could hear the peaceful sounding bells of the grazing cattle below The sky was deep blue and above their heads the eagle was circling without stretched wings Everything was luminous and bright about them but the doctor had been silent Suddenly looking up he beheld Heidi's radiant eyes Heidi it is beautiful up here he said But how can anybody with a heavy heart enjoy the beauty? Tell me Oh! exclaimed Heidi One never has a sad heart here One only gets unhappy in Frankfurt A faint smile passed over the doctor's face Then he began But if somebody brought his sorrow away with him how would you comfort him? God in heaven alone can help him That is true child remarked the doctor But what can we do when God himself has sent us the affliction? After meditating a moment Heidi replied One must wait patiently for God knows how to turn the saddest things to something happy in the end God will show us what he has meant to do for us but he will only do so if we pray to him patiently I hope you will always keep this beautiful belief Heidi said the doctor Then looking up at the mighty cliffs above he continued Think how sad it would make us not to be able to see all these beautiful things Wouldn't that make us doubly sad? Can you understand me child? A great pain shot through Heidi's breast She had to think of the poor grandmother Her blindness was always a great sorrow to the child and she had been struck with it anew Seriously she replied Oh yes I can understand it but then we can read grandmother's songs they make us happy and bright again Which songs Heidi? Oh those of the sun and of the beautiful garden and then the last verses of the long one grandmother loves them so that I always have to read them over three times said Heidi I wish you would say them to me child for I should like to hear them said the doctor Heidi folding her hands began the consoling verses she stopped suddenly however for the doctor did not seem to listen he was sitting motionless holding his hand before his eyes thinking that he had fallen asleep she remained silent but the verses had recalled his childhood days he seemed to hear his mother and see her loving eyes for when he was a little boy she had sung this song to him a long time he sat there till he discovered that Heidi was watching him Heidi your song was lovely he said with a more joyful voice we must come here another day and then you can recite it to me again during all this time Peter had been boiling with anger now that Heidi had come again to the pastor with him she did nothing but talk to the old gentleman it made him very cross that he was not even able to get near her standing a little distance behind Heidi's friend he shook his fist at him and soon afterwards both fists finally raising them to the sky as Heidi and the doctor remained together when the sun stood in its zenith and Peter knew that it was noon he called over to them with all his might come to eat when Heidi was getting up to fetch their dinner the doctor just asked for a glass of milk which was all he wanted the child also decided to make the milk her soul repast running over to Peter and informing him of their resolution when the boy found that the whole contents of the bag was his he hurried with his task as never in his life before but he felt guilty on account of his former anger at the kind gentleman to show his repentance he held his hands up flat to the sky indicating by his action that his fists did not mean anything anymore only after that did he start with his feast Heidi and the doctor had wondered about the pastor till the gentleman had found it time to go he wanted Heidi to remain where she was but she insisted on accompanying him all the way down she showed him many places where the pretty mountain flowers grew all of whose name she could tell him when they parted at last Heidi waved to him from time to time he turned about and seeing the child still standing there he had to think of his own little daughter who used to wave to him like that when he went away from home the weather was warm and sunny that month every morning the doctor came up to the Alp spending his day very often with the old man many a climb they had together that took them far up to the bare cliffs near the eagle's haunt the uncle would show his guests all the herbs that grew on hidden places and were strengthening and healing he could tell many strange things of the beasts that lived in holes and rock and earth or in the high tops of trees in the evening they would part and the doctor would exclaim my dear friend I never leave you without having learned something but most of his days he spent with Heidi then the two would sit together on the child's favourite spot and Peter quite subdued behind them Heidi had to recite the verses as she had done the first day and entertain him with all the beautiful things she knew at last the beautiful month of September was over one morning the doctor came up with a sadder face than usual the time had come for him to go back to Frankfurt and great was the uncle's sadness at that news Heidi herself could hardly realise that her loving friend whom she had been seeing every day was really leaving the doctor himself was loath to go for the Alp had become as a home to him but it was necessary for him to go and shaking hands with the grandfather he said goodbye Heidi going along with him a little way hand in hand they wandered down till the doctor stood still then caressing Heidi's curly hair he said now I must go Heidi I wish I could take you along with me to Frankfurt then I could keep you at those words all the rows and rows of houses and streets Miss Rottenmeier and Tinette rose before Heidi's eyes hesitating a little she said I should like it better if you would come to see us again I believe that will be better now farewell said the friendly gentleman when they shook hands his eyes filled with tears turning quickly he hurried off Heidi standing on the same spot looked after him what kind eyes he had but they had been full of tears all of a sudden she began to cry bitterly and ran after her friend calling with all her might but interrupted by her sobs looking round he stood still and waited till the child had reached him her tears came rolling down her cheeks while she sobbed I'll come with you to Frankfurt first in my seat grandfather no no dear child he said affection at me not at once you must remain here I don't want you to get ill again but if I should get sick and lonely and ask you to come to me would you come and stay with me can I go away and think that somebody in this world still cares for me and loves me yes I shall come to see you the same day for I really love you as much as grandfather Heidi assured him crying all the time shaking hands again they parted Heidi stayed on the same spot waving her hand and looking after her departing friend till he seemed no bigger than a little dot then he looked back a last time at Heidi and the sunny alp muttering to himself it is beautiful up there body and soul get strengthened in that place and life seems worth living again End of Chapter 17 Chapter 18 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 18 Winter in the Village the snow lay so deep around the Alm hut that the windows seemed to stand level with the ground and the house door had entirely disappeared round Peter's hut it was the same when the boy went out to shovel the snow he had to creep through the window then he would sink deep into the soft snow and kick with arms and legs to get free taking a broom the boy would have to clear away the snow from the door to prevent its falling into the hut the uncle had kept his word when the first snow had fallen he had moved down to the village with Heidi and his goats near the church and the parish house lay an old ruin that once had been a spacious building a brave soldier had lived there in days gone by he had fought in the Spanish war and coming back with many riches had built himself a splendid house but having lived too long in the noisy world to be able to stand the monotonous life in the little town he soon went away, never to come back after his death many years later though the house was already beginning to decay a distant relation of his took possession of it the new proprietor did not want to build it up again so poor people moved in they had to pay little rent for the house which was gradually crumbling and falling to pieces years ago when the uncle had come to the village with Tobias he had lived there most of the time it had been empty for the winter lasted long and cold winds would blow through the chinks in the walls when poor people lived there their candles would be blown out and they would shiver with cold in the dark but the uncle had known how to help himself in the fall as soon as he had resolved to live in the village he came down frequently fitting up the place as best he could on approaching the house from the back one entered an open room where nearly all the walls lay in ruins on one side the remains of a chapel could be seen now covered with the thickest ivy a large hall came next with a beautiful stone floor and grass growing in the crevices most of the walls were gone and part of the ceiling also if a few thick pillars had not been left supporting the rest it would undoubtedly have tumbled down the uncle had made a wooden partition here for the goats and covered the floor with straw several corridors, most of them half decayed finally led to a chamber with a heavy iron door this room was still in good condition and had dark wood paneling on the four firm walls in one corner was an enormous stove which nearly reached up to the ceiling on the white tiles were painted blue pictures of old towers surrounded by high trees and of hunters with their hounds there also was a scene with a quiet lake where under shady oak trees a fisherman was sitting around the stove a bench was placed Heidi loved to sit there and as soon as she had entered their new abode she began to examine the pictures arriving at the end of the bench she discovered a bed which was placed between the wall and the stove oh, grandfather, I have exclaimed the little girl oh, how fine it is where are you going to sleep? your bed must be near the stove if you warm said the old man now, come and look at mine with that the grandfather led her into his bedroom from there a door led into the hugest kitchen Heidi had ever seen with a great deal of trouble the grandfather had fitted up this place many boards were nailed across the walls and the door had been fastened with heavy wires for beyond the building lay in ruins thick underbrush was growing there filtering thousands of insects and lizards Heidi was delighted with her new home and when Peter arrived next day she did not rest till he had seen every nook and corner of the curious dwelling place Heidi slept very well in her chimney corner but it took her many days to get accustomed to it when she woke up in the morning and could not hear the fir trees roar she would wonder where she was was the snow too heavy on the branches? was she away from home? as soon as she heard her grandfather's voice outside she remembered everything and would jump merrily out of bed after four days had gone by Heidi said to her grandfather I must go to grandmother now she has been alone so many days but the grandfather shook his head and said you can't go yet child the snow is fathoms deep up there and is still falling Peter can hardly get through a little girl like you would be snowed up and lost in no time wait a while till it freezes and then you can walk on top of the crust Heidi was very sorry but she was so busy now that the days flew by every morning and afternoon she went to school eagerly learning whatever was taught her she hardly ever saw Peter there for he did not come very often the mild teacher would only say from time to time it seems to me Peter is not here again school will do him good but I guess there's too much snow for him to get through but when Heidi came home towards evening Peter generally paid her a visit after a few days the sun came out for a short time at noon and the next morning the whole alp glistened and shone like a crystal when Peter was jumping as usual into the snow that morning he fell against something hard and before he could stop himself he flew a little way down the mountain when he had gained his feet at last he stamped upon the ground with all his might it really was frozen as hard as stone Peter could hardly believe it and quickly running up and swallowing his milk and putting his bread in his pocket he announced I must go to school today yes go and learn nicely answered his mother then sitting down on his sled the boy coasted down the mountain like a shot not being able to stop his course when he reached the village further and further till he arrived in the plane where the sled stopped of itself it was already late for school so the boy took his time and only arrived in the village when Heidi came home for dinner we've got it announced the boy on entering what general asked the uncle but no Peter replied oh now I can go up to grandmother Heidi rejoiced but Peter why didn't you come to school you could coast down today she continued reproachfully I went too far by sledded that it was too late Peter replied I call that deserting said the uncle people who do that must have their ears pulled do you hear the boy was frightened for there was no one in the world whom he respected more than the uncle a general like you ought to be doubly ashamed to do so the uncle went on what would you do with the goats if they did not obey you anymore Peter was the reply if you knew of a boy that was behaving like a disobedient goat and had to get spanked what would you say soups him right so now you know it goat general if you miss school again when you ought to be there you can come to me and get your due now at last Peter understood what the uncle had meant more kindly the old man then turned to Peter and said come to the table now and eat with us then you can go up with Heidi and when you bring her back at night you can get your supper here this unexpected change delighted Peter not losing any time he soon disposed of his full plate Heidi who had given the boy most of her dinner was already putting on Clara's new coat then together they climbed up Heidi chatting all the time but Peter did not say a single word he was preoccupied and had not even listened to Heidi's tales before they entered the hut the boy said stubbornly I think I'd rather go to schools and get a beaten from Uncle Heidi promptly confirmed him in his resolution when they went into the room Peter's mother was alone at the table mending the grandmother was nowhere to be seen Brigida now told Heidi the grandmother was obliged to stay in bed on those cold days as she did not feel very strong that was something new for Heidi quickly running to the old woman's chamber she found her lying in a narrow bed wrapped up in her gray shawl and thin blanket thank heaven the grandmother exclaimed when she heard her darling's step all autumn and winter long a secret fear had been gnawing at her heart that Heidi would be sent for by the strange gentleman of whom Peter had told her so much Heidi had approached the bed asking anxiously are you very sick grandmother? no no child the old woman reassured her the frost has just gone into my limbs a little are you going to be well again as soon as the warm weather comes? inquired Heidi yes yes and if God wills even sooner I want to go back to my spinning wheel and I nearly tried it today I'll get up tomorrow though the grandmother said confidently and she had noticed how frightened Heidi was the last speech made the child feel more happy then looking wonderingly at the grandmother she said in Frankfurt people put on a shawl and they go out why are you putting it on in bed grandmother? I put it on to keep me warm Heidi I'm glad to have it for my blanket is very thin planting down at your head where it ought to be high no bed ought to be like that I know child I can feel it well you're saying the old woman tried to change her position on the pillow that lay under her like a thin board my pillow never was very thick and sleeping on it all these years has made it flat oh dear if I'd only asked Clara to give me the bed I had in Frankfurt Heidi lamented it had three big pillows on it I could hardly sleep because I kept sliding down from them all the time could you sleep with them grandmother? of course because that would keep me warm I could breathe so much easier too said the grandmother trying to find a higher place to lie on but I must not talk about it anymore for I have to be thankful for many things I get a lovely role every day and I have this beautiful warm shawl I also have you my child Heidi wouldn't you like to read me something today? Heidi immediately fetched the book and read one song after another the grandmother in the meantime was lying with folded hands her face which had been sad a short time ago was lit up with a happy smile suddenly Heidi stopped are you well again grandmother? she asked I feel very much better Heidi at least finish the song will you? the child obeyed and when she came to the last words when my eyes grow dim and sad let thy love more brightly burn that my soul a wander glad safely homeward may return safely homeward may return she exclaimed oh grandmother I know what it is like to come home after a while she said it is getting dark grandmother I must go home now I am glad that you feel better again the grandmother holding the child's hand in hers said yes I am happy again though I have to stay in bed nobody knows how hard it is to lie here alone day after day I do not hear a word from anybody and cannot see a ray of sunlight I have very sad thoughts sometimes and often I feel as if I could not bear it any longer but when I can hear those blessed songs that you have read to me it makes me feel as if our light was shining into my heart giving me the purest joy shaking hands the child now said good night and pulling Peter with her ran outside the brilliant moon was shining down on the white snow light his day the two children were already flying down the Alps like birds soaring through the air after Heidi had gone to bed that night she lay awake a little while thinking over everything the grandmother had said especially about the joy the songs had given her if only poor grandmother could hear those comforting words every day Heidi knew that it might be a week or two again before she could repeat her visit the child became very sad when she thought how uncomfortable and lonely the old woman would be was there no way for help suddenly Heidi had an idea and it thrilled her so that she felt as if she could not wait till morning came to put her plan in execution but in her excitement she had forgotten her evening prayer so sitting up in bed she prayed fervently to God then falling back into the fragrant hay she soon slept peacefully and soundly till the bright morning came End of Chapter 18 Chapter 19 of Heidi This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 19 Winter Still Continues Peter arrived punctually at school next day he had brought his lunch with him in a bag for all the children that came from far away ate in school while the others went home in the evening Peter as usual paid his visit to Heidi the minute he opened the door she ran up to him saying Peter I have to tell you something say it he replied you must learn to read now said the child I have done it already yes yes Peter but I don't mean it that way Heidi eagerly proceeded you must learn so that you really know how afterwards I can't Peter remarked nobody believes you about that anymore and I won't either Heidi said resolutely when I was in Frankfurt Grandmama told me that it wasn't true and that I shouldn't believe you Peter's astonishment was great I'll teach you for I know how when you have learned to you must read one or two songs to Grandmother every day I shan't grumbled the boy this obstinate refusal made Heidi very angry with flaming eyes she planted herself before the boy and said I'll tell you what will happen if you don't want to learn your mother has often said that she'll send you to Frankfurt Clara showed me the terrible large boys' school there where you'll have to go you must stay there until you are a man Peter you mustn't think that there is only one teacher there and such a kind one as we have here no indeed there are whole rows of them and when they are out walking they have high black hats on their heads I saw them myself and I was out driving cold shivers ran down Peter's back yes you'll have to go there and when they find out that you can't read or even spell the laugh at you okay said Peter half angry and half frightened oh I am glad let us start right away said Heidi joyfully pulling Peter over to the table among the things that Clara had sent Heidi had found a little book with the ABC and some rhymes she had chosen this for the lessons Peter having to spell the first rhyme found great difficulty so Heidi said I'll read it to you and then you'll be able to do it better listen if ABC you do not know before the school board you must go I won't go said Peter stubbornly where? before the court hurry up and learn the three letters then you won't have to Peter beginning again repeated the three letters till Heidi said now you know them having observed the good result of the first rhyme she began to read again DEF you then must read or of misfortune take good heed who over L and M does stumble must pay a penance and feel humble there's trouble coming if you knew you'd quickly learn N-O-P-Q if still you halt on R-S-T you'll suffer for it speedily Heidi's stopping looked at Peter who was still so frightened by all these threats and mysterious horrors that he sat as still as a mouse Heidi's tender heart was touched and she said comfortingly don't be afraid Peter if you come to me every day you'll soon learn all the letters and then those things won't happen but come every day even when it snows, promise Peter did so and departed obeying Heidi's instructions he came daily to her for his lesson sometimes the grandfather would sit in the room smoking his pipe often the corners of his mouth would twitch as if he could hardly keep from laughing he generally invited Peter to stay to supper afterwards which liberally rewarded the boy for all his great exertions thus the days passed by in all this time Peter had really made some progress though the rhyme still gave him difficulty when they had come to you, Heidi read whoever mixes you and me will go where he won't want to be and further if W you still ignore look at the rod beside the door often Peter would growl and object to these measures but nevertheless he kept on learning and soon had but three letters left the next few days the following rhymes with their threats made Peter more eager than ever if you the letter X forget for you no supper will be set if you still hesitate with why for shame you'll run away and cry when Heidi read the last and he who makes his Z with blots must journey to the hot and tauts Peter sneered nobody even knows where they are I am sure grandfather does Heidi retorted jumping up just wait one minute and I shall ask him he is over with the person and with that she had opened the door wait shrieked Peter in great alarm for he saw himself already transported to those dreadful people what's the matter with you said Heidi standing still nothing but stay here or learn he blubbered but Heidi wanting to know something about the hot and tauts herself could only be kept back by piteous screams from Peter so at last they settled down again and before it was time to go Peter knew the last letter and had even begun to read syllables from this day on he progressed more quickly it was three weeks since Heidi had paid her last visit to the grandmother for much snow had fallen since one evening Peter coming home said triumphantly I can do it what is it you can do Peter asked his mother eagerly we eat what is it possible did you hear it grandmother exclaimed Brigitte the grandmother also was curious to learn how this had happened I must read a song now Heidi told me to Peter continued to the women's amazement Peter began after every verse his mother would exclaim who would have ever thought it while the grandmother remained silent one day later when it happened that it was Peter's turn to read in school the teacher said Peter must I pass by you again as usual or do you want to try I shall not say to read but to stammer through a line Peter began and read three lines without stopping in dumb astonishment the teacher putting down his book looked at the boy what a miracle has happened to you he exclaimed for a long time I tried to teach you all my patience and you were not even able to grasp the letters but now I had given you up as hopeless you have not only learned how to spell but even to read how did this happen Peter it was Heidi the boy replied in great amazement the teacher looked at the little girl then the kind man continued I have noticed a great change in you Peter you used to stay away from school sometimes more than a week and lately you have not even missed a day who has brought about this change the uncle every evening now Peter on his return home read one song to his grandmother but never more to the frequent praises of Brigida the old woman once replied I am glad he has learnt something but nevertheless I am longing for the spring to come then Heidi can visit me but when she reads the verses sound so different I cannot always follow Peter and the songs don't thrill me the way they do when Heidi says them and no wonder for Peter would often leave out long and difficult words what did three or four words matter so it happened sometimes that there were hardly any nouns left in the hymns that Peter read End of Chapter 19 Chapter 20 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 20 News from Distant Friends May had come warm sunshine was bathing the whole Alp in glorious light and having melted the last snow had brought the first spring flowers to the surface a merry spring wind was blowing drying up the damp places in the shadow high above in the azure heaven the eagle floated peacefully Heidi and her grandfather were back on the Alp the child was so happy to be home again that she jumped about among the beloved objects here she discovered a new spring bud and there she watched the gay little gnats and beetles that were swarming in the sun the grandfather was busy in his little shop and a sound of hammering and sawing could be heard Heidi had to go and see what the grandfather was making there before the door stood a neat new chair while the old man was busy making a second so what's there for? said Heidi Gailey you were making them for Clara and Grandmama oh but we need a third or do you think that Miss Rottenmare won't come perhaps? I really don't know said grandfather but it is safer to have a chair for her if she should come Heidi thoughtfully looking at the backless chairs remarked grandfather I don't think she would sit down on those then we must invite her to sit down on the beautiful green lounge of grass quietly answered the old man while Heidi was still wondering what the grandfather had meant Peter arrived whistling and calling as usual Heidi was soon surrounded by the goats who also seemed happy to be back on the Alp Peter angrily pushing the goats aside marched up to Heidi thrusting a letter into her hand did you get a letter from me on the pastor? Heidi said astonished no where did it come from? from my bag? a letter had been given to Peter the previous evening putting it in his lunch bag the boy had forgotten it there till he opened the bag for his dinner Heidi immediately recognized Clara's handwriting and bounding over to her grandfather exclaimed a letter has come from Clara wouldn't you like me to read it to you grandfather? Heidi immediately read to her two listeners as follows dear Heidi we are all packed up and shall travel in two or three days Papa is leaving too but not with us but he has to go to Paris first the dear doctor visits us now every day and as soon as he opens the door he calls away to the Alp where you can hardly wait for us to go if you only knew how he enjoyed being with you last fall he came nearly every day this winter to tell us all about you and the grandfather and the mountains and the flowers he saw he said that it was so quiet and pure delicious air away from towns and streets that everybody has to get well there he is much better himself since his visit and seems younger and happier oh how I look forward to it all the doctor's advice is that I shall go to Raga first for about six weeks then I can go to live in the village and from there I shall come to see you every fine day Grandmama who is coming with me is looking forward to the trip too but just think Miss Broughtonmire does not want to go when Grandmama urges her she always declines politely I think Sebastian must have given her such a terrible description of the high rocks and fearful abysses that she is afraid I think he told her that it was not safe for anybody and that only goats can climb such dreadful heights she used to be so eager to go to Switzerland but now neither Tannet nor she wants to take the risk I can hardly wait to see you again goodbye dear Heidi with much love from Grandmama I am your true friend Clara when Peter heard this he swung his rod to right and left furiously driving the goats before him he bounded down the hill Heidi visited the grandmother next day for she had to tell her the good news sitting up in her corner the old woman was spinning as usual her face looked sad for Peter had already announced the near visit of Heidi's friends and she dreaded the result after having poured out her full heart Heidi looked at the old woman what is it grandmother? said the child are you not glad? oh yes Heidi I am glad because you are happy but grandmother you seem so anxious do you still think Miss Rottenmeier is coming? oh no it is nothing give me your hand for I want to be sure that you are still here I suppose it will be for the best even if I shall live to see the day oh but then I would not care about this coming said the child the grandmother had hardly slept all night for thinking of Clara's coming would they take Heidi away from her now that she was well and strong but for the sake of the child she resolved to be brave Heidi she said please read me the song that begins with God will see to it Heidi immediately did as she was told she knew nearly all the grandmother's favourite hymns by now and always found them quickly that does me good child the old woman said the expression of her face seemed happier and less troubled please read it a few times over child she entreated thus evening came and when Heidi wandered homewards one twinkling star after another appeared in the sky Heidi stood still every few minutes looking up to the firmament in wonder when she arrived home her grandfather also was looking up to the stars murmuring to himself what a wonderful month one day clearer than the other the herbs will be fine and strong this year the blossom month had passed and June with the long long days had come quantities of flowers were blooming everywhere filling the air with perfume the month was nearing its end when one morning Heidi came running out of the hut where she had already completed her duties suddenly she screamed so loud that the grandfather hurriedly came out to see what had happened grandfather a strange procession was winding up the alp first marched two men carrying an open sedan chair with a young girl in it wrapped up in many shawls then came a stately lady on horseback who talking with the young guide beside her looked eagerly right and left then an empty rolling chair carried by a young fellow was followed by a porter who had so many covers shawls and furs piled up on his basket that they towered high above his head cried Heidi in her joy and soon the party had arrived at the top great was the happiness of the children at seeing each other again when Grand Mama had descended from her horse she tenderly greeted Heidi first and then turned to the uncle who had approached the group the two met like old friends they had heard so much about each other after the first words were exchanged the grandmother exclaimed my dear uncle what a wonderful residence you have who would have ever thought it kings could envy you here oh how well my Heidi is looking just like a little rose she continued drawing the child closely to her side and patting her cheeks what glory everywhere Clara what do you say to it all Clara looking about her rapturously cried oh how wonderful how glorious I have never dreamt it could be as beautiful as that oh Grand Mama I wish I could stay here the uncle had busied himself in the meantime with getting Clara's rolling chair for her then going up to the girl he gently lifted her into her seat putting some covers over her knees he talked her feet in warmly it seemed as if the grandfather had done nothing else all his life the nurse lame people my dear uncle said the Grand Mama surprised please tell me where you learned that for I shall send all the nurses I know here immediately the uncle smiled faintly while he replied it comes more from care than study his face became sad before his eyes had risen by gone times for that was the way he used to care for his poor wounded captain whom he had found in Sicily after a violent battle he alone would have been allowed to nurse him till his death and now he would take just as good care of poor lame Clara when Clara had looked a long time at the cloudless sky above and all the rocky crags she said longingly I wish I could walk round the hut to the fir trees if only I could see all the things you taught me so much about Heidi pushed with all her might and behold the chair rolled easily over the dry grass when they had come into the little grove Clara could not see her fill of those splendid trees that must have stood there so many many years although the people had changed and vanished they had remained the same even looking down into the valley when they passed the empty goat shed Clara said pitifully oh Grand Mama if only I could wait here for Swanley and Barley but I'm afraid I shall see Peter and his goats if we have to go away so soon again dear child enjoy now what you can said the Grand Mama who had followed oh what wonderful flowers exclaimed Clara again oh bushes of exquisite red blossoms oh if I could only pick some of those blue bells Heidi immediately gathering a large bunch put them in Clara's lap Clara this is really nothing in comparison with the many flowers in the pasture you must come up once and see them there are so many that the Grand seems golden with them if you ever sit down among them you will feel as if you could never get up anymore it is so beautiful oh Grand Mama do you think I could ever go up there Clara asked with a wild longing in her eyes if only I can walk with you Heidi and climb round everywhere I'll push you Heidi said for comfort to show how easy it was she pushed the chair at such a rate that it would have tumbled down the mountain if the grandfather had not stopped it at the last moment it was time for dinner now the table was spread near the bench and soon everybody sat down the Grand Mother was so overcome by the view and the delicious wind that fanned her cheek that she remarked what a wondrous place this is I have never seen it's like but what do I see I think you are actually eating your second piece of cheese Clara oh Grand Mama it tastes better than all the things we get in rackets replied the child eagerly eating the savoury dish don't stop our mountain wind helps along where the cooking is faulty contentedly said the old man during the meal the uncle and the Grand Mama had soon got into a lively conversation they seemed to agree on many things and understood each other like old friends a little later the Grand Mama looked over to the west we must soon start Clara for the sun is already low our guides will be here shortly Clara's face had become sad and she entreated oh please let us stay here another hour or so we haven't even seen the hut yet I wish the day were twice as long the Grand Mama assented to Clara's wish to go inside when the rolling chair was found too broad for the door the uncle quietly lifted Clara in his strong arms and carried her in Grand Mama was eagerly looking about her glad to see everything so neat then going up the little ladder to the hay loft she discovered Heidi's bed is that your bed Heidi what a delicious perfume it must be a healthy place to sleep she said looking out through the window the grandfather with Clara was coming up too with Heidi following Clara was perfectly entranced what a lovely place to sleep oh Heidi you can look right up to the sky from your bed what a good smell you can hear the fir trees roar here can't you oh I never saw more delightful bedroom the uncle looking at the old lady said now I have an idea that would give Clara new strength to stay up here with us a little while of course I only mean if you do not object you have brought so many wraps that we can easily make a soft bed for Clara here my dear lady you can easily leave the care to me I'll undertake it gladly the children screamed for joy and Grand Mama's face was beaming what a fine man you are she burst out I was just thinking myself that a stay here would strengthen the child but then I thought of the care and trouble for you you have offered to do it as if it was nothing at all how can I thank you enough uncle after shaking hands many times the two prepared Clara's bed which thanks to the old lady's precautions was soon so soft the hay could not be felt through at all the uncle had carried his new patient back to her rolling chair and there they found her sitting with Heidi beside her they were eagerly talking of their plans for the coming weeks when they were told that Clara might stay for a month or so their faces beamed more than ever the guide with the horse and the carriers of the chair now appeared but the last two were not needed anymore and could be sent away when the grandmother got ready to leave Clara called Gaely to her oh Grandma I won't be long for you must often come and see us while the uncle was leading the horse down the steep incline the Grand Mama told him that she would go back to Ragaz for the Dorfley was too lonely for her she also promised to come back from time to time before the grandfather had returned Peter came racing down to the hut with all his goats seeing Heidi they ran up to her in haste and so Clara made the acquaintance of Shvon Lee and Barley and all the others Peter however kept away only sending furious looks at the two girls when they bade him good night he only ran away beating the air with his stick the end of the joyous day had come the two children were both lying in their beds oh Heidi Clara exclaimed I can see so many glittering stars and I feel as if we were driving in a high carriage straight into the sky yes and do you know why the stars twinkle so merrily inquired Heidi no but tell me because they know that God in heaven looks after us marthels and we never need to fear see they twinkle and show us how to be married too but Clara we must not forget to pray to God and ask him to think of us and keep us safe sitting up in bed they then said their evening prayer as soon as Heidi laid down she fell asleep but Clara could not sleep quite yet it was too wonderful to see the stars from her bed in truth she had never seen them before because in Frankfurt all the blinds were always down long before the stars came out and at night she had never been outside the house she could hardly keep her eyes shut and had to open them again and again to watch the twinkling glistening stars till her eyes closed at last and she saw two big glittering stars in her dream End of Chapter 20 Chapter 21 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 21 of Further Events on the Alps The sun was just rising and the All-Mongol was watching how mountain and dale awoke to the new day and the clouds above grew brighter next the old man turned to go back into the hut and softly climbed the ladder Clara having just a moment to go opened her eyes looked about her in amazement bright sunbeams danced on her bed where was she but soon she discovered her sleeping friend and heard the grandfather's cheery voice How did you sleep? Not tired? Clara, feeling refreshed and rested said that she had never slept better in all her life Heidi was soon awaked too and lost no time in coming down to join Clara who was already sitting in the sun A cool morning breeze fanned their cheeks and the spicy fragrance from the fir trees filled their lungs with every breath Clara had never experienced such well-being in all her life she had never breathed such pure cool morning air and never felt such warm, delicious sunshine on her feet and hands it surpassed all her expectations Oh, Heidi, I wish I could always stay up here with you she said Now you can see that everything is as beautiful as I told you Heidi replied triumphantly Up on the Alps grandfather's the loveliest spot in all the world The grandfather was just coming out of the shed with two bowls full of steaming white milk handing one to each of the children he said to Clara This will do you good, little girl it comes from schwanly and will give you strength to your health, just drink it he said encouragingly for Clara had hesitated a little but when she saw that Heidi's bowl was nearly empty already she also drank without even stopping Oh, how good it was it tasted like cinnamon and sugar we'll take two tomorrow said the grandfather after their breakfast Peter arrived while the goats were rushing up to Heidi bleeding loudly the grandfather took the boy aside just listen and do what I tell you he said from now on you must let schwanly go wherever she likes she knows where to get the richest herbs and you must follow her even if she should go higher up than usual it won't do you any harm to climb a little more it will do all the others good I want the goats to give me splendid milk, remember what are you looking at me so furiously Peter was silent and without more ado started off still angrily looking back now and then as Heidi had followed a little way Peter called to her you have come along Heidi schwanly no, but I can't hold back I won't be able to come as long as Clara is with me grandfather has promised though to let us come up with you once with those words Heidi returned to Clara while the goat herd was hurrying onward angrily shaking his fists the children had promised to write a letter to grand mama every day so they immediately started on their task Heidi brought out her own little three-legged stool her school books and her papers and with these on Clara's lap they began to write stopped after nearly every sentence for she had to look around oh how peaceful it was with the little gnats dancing in the sun and the rustling of the trees from time to time they could hear the shouting of a shepherd re-echoed from many rocks the morning had passed they knew not how and dinner was ready they again ate outside for Clara had to be in the open air all day if possible the afternoon was spent in the cool shadow of the fir trees there were many things to relate to Frankfurt and all the people that Heidi knew it was not long before Peter arrived with his flock but without even answering the girl's friendly greeting he disappeared with a grim scowl while Schwanli was being milked in the shed Clara said oh Heidi I feel as if I could not wait for my milk isn't it funny all my life I have only eaten because I had to everything always tasted to me like cod-lib-royal and I have often wished I should never have to eat you're so hungry oh yes I know Heidi replied she had to think of the days in Frankfurt when her food seemed to stick in her throat when at last the full bowls were brought by the old man Clara seizing hers eagerly drank the contents in one draft and even finished before Heidi please may I have a little more she asked holding out the bowl nodding much pleased the grandfather soon refilled it for the children he had gone to Mayansas that afternoon to get the butter and his trouble was well rewarded they enjoyed it as if it had been the rarest dish this evening Clara fell asleep the moment she laid down two or three days passed in this pleasant way the next brought a surprise two strong porters came up the out each carrying on his back a fresh white bed they also brought a letter from grandmama in which she thanked the children for their thoughtful writing and told them that the beds were meant for them when they went to sleep that night they found their new beds in exactly the same position as their former ones had been Clara's rapture in her new life grew greater every day and she could not write enough of the grandfather's kindly care and of Heidi's entertaining stories she told her grandmama that her first thought in the morning always was thank God I am still in the Alm hut grandmama was highly pleased at those reports but her projected visit off a little while for she had found the ride pretty tiring the grandfather took excellent care of his little patient and no day passed on what she did not climb around to find the most savory herbs for schwanli the little goat thrived so that everybody could see it in the way her eyes were flashing it was the third week of Clara's stay every morning after the grandfather had carried her down he said to her would my Clara try to stand a little Clara always sighed oh it hurts me so but though she would cling to him he made her stand a little longer every day this summer was the finest that had been for years day after day the sun shone on a cloudless sky and at night it would pour its purple rosy light down on the rocks and snow fields till everything seemed to glow like fire Heidi had told Clara over and over again of all the flowers on the pasture of the masses of golden roses and the blue flowers that covered the ground she had just been telling it again when a longing seized her and jumping up she ran over to her grandfather who was busy carving in the shop she cried from afar all right I will he replied but tell Clara that she must do something to please me she must try to stand longer this evening with me she barely came running with her message of course Clara promised for was it not her greatest wish to go up with Heidi to the pasture when Peter returned this evening he heard of the plan for the morrow but for answer Peter only growled nearly hitting poor Thistlefinch in his anger the children had just resolved to stay awake all night to talk about the coming day when their conversation suddenly ceased and they were both peacefully slumbering in her dreams Clara saw before her a field that was thickly strewn with light blue flowers while Heidi heard the eagles scream to her from above come, come, come End of Chapter 21 Chapter 22 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork Chapter 22 Something Unexpected Happens The next day dawned cloudless and fair the grandfather was still with the children when Peter came climbing up his goats kept at a good distance from him to evade the rod which was striking right and left the truth was that the boy was terribly embittered and angry by the changes that had come when he passed the hut in the morning Heidi was always busy with the strange child and in the evening it was the same all summer long Heidi had not been up with him a single time it was too much and today she was coming at last but again in company with this hateful stranger it was then that Peter noticed the rolling chair standing near the hut after carefully glancing about him he rushed at the hated object and pushed it down the incline barely flew away and had soon disappeared Peter's conscience smote him now and he raced up the Alp not daring to pause till he had reached a blackberry bush there he could hide when the uncle might appear looking down he watched his fallen enemy tumbling downwards downwards sometimes it was thrown high up into the air to crash down again the next moment harder than ever pieces were falling from it right and left now the stranger would have to travel home and Heidi would be his again but Peter had forgotten that a bad deed always brings a punishment Heidi just now came out of the hut the grandfather with Clara followed Heidi at first stood still and then running right and left she returned to the old man what does this mean have you rolled the chair away Heidi he asked I am just looking for it everywhere grandfather you said it was beside the shop door said the child still hunting for the missing object a strong wind was blowing which at this moment violently closed the shop door grandfather the wind has done it exclaimed Heidi eagerly oh dear if it has rolled all the way down to the village it will be too late to go today it will take us a long time to fetch it if it has rolled down there we shall never get it anymore for it will be smashed to pieces said the old man looking down and measuring the distance from the corner of the hut I don't see how it happened he remarked what a shame now I'll never be able to go up to the pasture lamented Clara I'm afraid I'll have to go home now what a pity you can find a way for her to stay grandfather can't you go up to the pasture today as we have planned then we shall see what further happens the children were delighted and the grandfather lost no time in getting ready first he fetched a pile of covers and seating Clara on a sunny spot on the dry ground he got their breakfast I wonder why Peter is so late today he said leading his goats out of the shed then lifting Clara up in one strong arm he carried the covers on the other now March he cried that suited Heidi and with one arm round Schwanli and the other round Barley she wandered up her little companions were so pleased at having her with them again that they nearly crushed her with affection what was their astonishment when arriving on top they saw Peter already lying on the ground what did you mean by going bias like that I'll teach you called the uncle to him Peter was frightened for he knew the voice nobody was up yet the boy retorted have you seen the chair asked the uncle again let's Peter growled the uncle said no more unfolding the covers he put Clara down on the dry grass then when he had been assured of Clara's comfort he got ready to go home the three were to stay there till his return in the evening when dinner time had come Heidi was to prepare the meal and see that Clara got Schwanli's milk the sky was a deep blue and the snow on the peaks was glistening the eagle was floating above the rocky crags the children felt wonderfully happy now and then one of the goats would come and lie down near them tender little snowhopper it would seem oftener than any and would rub her head against their shoulders they had been sitting quietly for a few hours drinking in the beauty about them when Heidi suddenly began to long for the spot where so many flowers grew in the evening it would be too late to see them for they always shut their little eyes by then oh Clara she said hesitatingly would you be angry if I went away from you a minute and left you alone I want to see the flowers but wait jumping away she brought Clara some bunches of fragrant herbs and put them in her lap soon after she returned with little snowhopper so now you don't need to be alone said Heidi when Clara assured her that it would give her pleasure to be left alone with the goats Heidi started on her walk Clara slowly handed one leaf after another to the little creature it became more and more confiding and cuddling close to the child ate the herbs out of her hand it was easy to see how happy it was to be away from the boisterous big goats which often annoyed it Clara felt a sensation of contentment such as she had never before experienced she loved to sit there on the mountain side with the confiding little goat by her a great desire rose in her heart that hour she longed to be her own master and to be able to help others instead of being helped by them many other thoughts and ideas rushed through her mind how would it be to live up here in continual sunshine the world seemed so joyous and wonderful all of a sudden premonitions of future undreamt of happiness made her heart beat suddenly she threw both arms about the little goat and said oh little snowhopper how beautiful it is up here I could always stay with you Heidi in the meantime had reached the spot where as she had expected the whole ground was covered with yellow rock roses here together in patches the bluebells were nodding gently in the breeze but all the perfume that filled the air came from the modest little brown flowers that hid their heads between the golden flower cups Heidi stood and raptured drawing in the perfumed air suddenly she turned and ran back to Clara shouting to her from far oh you must come Clara it is so lovely there in the evening it won't be so fine anymore don't you think I could carry you but Heidi Clara said of course you can't you're a smaller than I am oh I wish I could walk Heidi meditated a little Peter was still lying on the ground he had been staring down for hours unable to believe what he saw before him he had destroyed the chair to get rid of the stranger and there she was again sitting right beside his playmate Heidi now called to him to come down but as reply he only grumbled she didn't come you must come quickly for I want you to help me quickly urged the child don't want to sounded the reply Heidi hurried up the mountain now and shouted angrily to the boy Peter if you don't come this minute I shall do something that you won't like those words scared Peter for his conscience was not clear his deed had rejoiced him till this moment when Heidi seemed to talk as if she knew it all about it trembling with fear Peter obeyed I shall only come if you promise not to do what you said insisted the boy no no I won't don't be afraid said Heidi compassionately just come along it isn't so hard Peter on approaching Clara was told to help raise the lame child from the ground on one side while Heidi helped on the other this went easily enough but difficulties soon followed Clara was not able to stand alone and how could they get any further you must take me around the neck said Heidi who had seen what poor guides they made the boy who had never offered his arm to anybody in his life had to be shown how first before further efforts could be made but it was too hard Clara tried to set her feet forward but got discouraged press your feet on the ground more and I am sure it will hurt you less do you think so said Clara timidly but obeying she ventured a firmer step and soon another uttering a little cry as she went oh it really has hurt me less she said joyfully try it again Heidi urged her Clara did and took another step and then another and another still suddenly she cried aloud oh Heidi I can do it oh I really can just look Heidi rapturously exclaimed she kept on saying joyfully Clara held on tight to the children but with every new step she became more firm now you can come up here every day cried Heidi now we can walk wherever we want to and you don't have to be pushed in a chair anymore now you'll be able to walk all your life oh Clara's greatest wish to be able to be well like other people had been fulfilled at last it was not very far to the flowering field soon they reached it and sat down among the wealth of bloom it was the first time that Clara had ever rested on the dry warm earth all about them the flowers nodded and exhaled their perfume it was a scene of exquisite beauty the two children could hardly grasp this happiness that had come to them it filled their hearts brimming full and made them silent Peter also lay motionless for he had gone to sleep and the day was long past noon suddenly all the goats arrived where they had been seeking the children they did not like to graze in the flowers and were glad when Peter awoke with their loud bleeding the poor boy was mightily bewildered for he had dreamt that the rolling chair with the red cushion stood again before his eyes unawaking he had seen still the golden nails but soon he discovered that they were nothing but flowers remembering his deed he obeyed Heidi's instructions willingly when they came back to their former place Heidi lost no time in setting out the dinner the bag was very full today and Heidi hurried to fulfil her promise to Peter who with bad conscience had understood her threat differently she made three heaps of the good things and when she and Clara were through there was still a lot left for the boy it was too bad that all this treat did not give him the usual satisfaction for some things seemed to stick in his throat soon after their belated dinner the grandfather was seen climbing up the Alp Heidi ran to meet him confusedly telling him of the great event the old man's face shown at this news going over to Clara he said so you have risked it now we have won then picking her up he put one arm round her waist and the other one he stretched out his support and with his help she marched more firmly than ever Heidi jumped and bounded gaily by their side in all this excitement the grandfather did not lose his judgment and before long lifted Clara on his arm to carry her home he knew that too much exertion would be dangerous and rest was needed for the tired girl Peter arriving in the village late that day saw a large disputing crowd they were all standing about an interesting object and everybody pushed and fought for a chance to get nearest it was no other than the chair I saw it when they carried it up I never heard the baker say I bet it was worth at least 500 francs I should just like to know what has happened the wind might have blown it down remarked Barbara who was staring open mouthed at the beautiful velvet cushions the uncle said say himself it is a good thing if nobody else has done it continued the baker when the gentleman from Frankfurt hears what has happened he'll surely find out all about it and I should pity the culprit I'm glad I haven't been up on the Elm for so long as they might suspect me as they would anybody who happened to be up there at the time many more opinions were uttered but Peter had heard enough he quietly slipped away and went home what if they should find out he had done it a policeman might arrive any time now and they might take him away to prison Peter's hair stood up on end at this alarming thought he was so troubled when he came home that he did not answer any questions and even refused his dish of potatoes slowly creeping into bed he groaned I am sure Peter has eaten sorrel again and that makes him groan so said his mother you must give him a little more bread in the morning Brigida take a piece of mine said the compassionate grandmother when Clara and Heidi were lying in their beds that night glancing up at the shining stars Heidi remarked didn't you think today Clara that it is fortunate God does not always give us what we pray for only because he knows of something better what do you mean Heidi asked Clara you see when I was in Frankfurt I prayed and prayed to come home again and when I couldn't I thought he had forgotten me but if I had gone away so soon he would never have come here and would never have gotten well Clara becoming thoughtful said then we could not pray for anything anymore because he would feel that he always knows of something better but Clara we must pray to God every day and we don't forget that all gifts come from him Grandmama has told me that God forgets us if we forget him but if some wish remains unfulfilled we must show our confidence in him for he knows best how did you ever think of that asked Clara Grandmama told me but I know that it is so we must thank God today that he has made you able to walk Clara I'm glad you have reminded me Heidi but I've nearly forgotten in my excitement the children both prayed and sent their thanks up to heaven for the restoration of the invalid next morning a letter was written to Grandmama inviting her to come up to the Alps within a week's time for the children had planned to take her by surprise Clara hoped then to be able to walk alone with Heidi for her guide the following days were happier still for Clara every morning she awoke with her heart singing over and over again now I am well now I can walk with the great people she progressed and took longer walks every day her appetite grew amazingly and the grandfather had to make larger slices of the bread and butter that to his delight disappeared so rapidly he had to fill bowl after bowl of the foaming milk for the hungry children in that way they reached the end of the week that was to bring the Grandmama end of chapter 22 chapter 23 of Heidi this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork chapter 23 parting to meet again a day before her visit the Grandmama had sent a letter to announce her coming Peter brought it up with him next morning the grandfather was already before the hut with the children and his merry goats his face looked proud as he contemplated the rosy faces of the girls and the shining hair of his two goats Peter approaching neared the uncle slowly as soon as he had delivered the letter he sprang back shyly looking about him as if he was afraid then with a leap he started off I should like to know why Peter behaves like the big Turk when he's afraid of the rod said Heidi watching his strange behavior maybe Peter fears a rod that he deserves said the old man all the way Peter was tormented with fear he could not help thinking of the policemen who was coming from Frankfurt to fetch him to prison it was a busy morning for Heidi who put the hut in order for the expected visitor the time went by quickly and soon everything was ready to welcome the good grandmama the grandfather also returned from a walk on which he had gathered a glorious bunch of deep blue gensions the children who were sitting on the bench exclaimed for joy when they saw the glowing flowers Heidi getting up from time to time to spy down the path suddenly discovered grandmama sitting on a white horse and accompanied by two men one of them carried plenty of wraps for without those the lady did not dare to pay such a visit the party came nearer and nearer and soon reached the top what do I see Clara what is this why are you not sitting in your chair how is this possible cried the grandmama in alarm dismounting hastily before she had quite reached the children she threw her arms up in great excitement Clara is that really you you have read round cheeks my child I hardly know you anymore grandmama was going to rush at her grandchild when Heidi slipped from the bench and Clara taking her arm they quietly took a little walk the grandmama was rooted to the spot from fear what was this upright and firm Clara walked beside her friend when they came back their rosy faces beamed rushing toward the children the mother hugged them over and over again looking over to the bench she beheld the uncle who sat there smiling taking Clara's arm in hers she walked over to him continually venting her delight when she reached the old man she took both his hands and hers and said my dear, dear uncle what have we to thank you for this is your work your care in nursing but our lord's sunshine and mountain air interrupted the uncle smiling then Clara called yes, and also swan these good delicious milk grandmama you have to see how much goat milk I can drink now oh it is so good indeed I can see that from your cheeks said the grandmama smiling no I hardly recognize you anymore you have become broad and round I never dreamt that you could get so stout and tall oh Clara is it really true I cannot look at you enough but now I must telegraph your father to come I shan't tell him anything about you for it will be the greatest joy of all his life my dear uncle how are we going to manage it have you sent the men away I have but I can easily send the goat herd so they decided that Peter should take the message the uncle immediately whistled so loud that it resounded from all sides soon Peter arrived white with fear for he thought his doom had come but he only received a paper that was to be carried to the post office of the village relieved for the moment Peter set out now all the happy friends sat down round the table and grandmama was told how the miracle had happened often the talk was interrupted by exclamations of surprise from grandmama who still believed it was all a dream how could this be her pale weak little Clara the children were in a constant state of joy to see how their surprise had worked meanwhile Mr. Sesseman having finished his business in Paris was also preparing a surprise without writing his mother he travelled to Regaz on a sunny summer morning he had arrived on this very day some hours after his mother's departure and now taking a carriage he drove to Mayenfeld a long ascent to the out from there seemed very weary and far to the traveller when would he reach the goat-herds hut there were many little roads branching off in several directions and sometimes Mr. Sesseman doubted if he had taken the right path but not a soul was near and no sound could be heard except the rustling of the wind and the hum of little insects a merry little bird was singing on a large tree but nothing more standing still and cooling his brow he saw a boy running down the hill at topmost speed Mr. Sesseman called to him but with no success for the boy kept at a shy distance now my boy can't you tell me if I am on the right path to the hut where Heidi lives and the people from Frankfurt are staying a dull sound of terror was the only reply Peter shot off and rushed head over heels down the mountainside turning wild somersaults on his perilous way resembled the course his enemy had taken some days ago what a funny patchful mountaineer Mr. Sesseman remarked to himself thinking that the appearance of a stranger had upset this simple son of the Alps after watching the downward course of the boy a little while he soon proceeded on his way in spite of the greatest effort Peter could not stop himself and kept rolling on but his frightened terror were still more terrible than his bumps and blows Sesseman that was a certain fact at last being thrown against a bush he clutched it wildly good here's another one a voice near Peter said I wonder who's going to be pushed down tomorrow looking like a half open potato bag the village baker was making fun of him for a little rest after his weary work he had quietly watched the boy Peter regained his feet and slung away how did the baker know the chair had been pushed he longed to go home to his bed and hide for there alone he felt safe but he had to go up to the goats and the uncle had clearly told him to come back as quickly as he could groaning he limped away up to the Alps how could he run now with his fear and all his poor sore limbs Mr. Sesseman had reached the hut soon after meeting Peter and felt reassured climbing further with renewed courage he at last saw his goal before him but not without long and weary exertion he saw him running with a weary exertion he saw the Aum Hut above him and this weighing fir trees Mr. Sesseman eagerly hurried to encounter his beloved child they had seen him long ago from the hut and a treat was prepared for him that he never expected as he made the last steps he saw two forms coming towards him a tall girl with light hair and rosy face was leaning on Heidi whose dark eyes sparkled with keen delight Mr. Sesseman stopped short staring at this vision suddenly big tears rushed from his eyes for this shape before him recalled sweet memories Clara's mother had looked exactly like this fair maiden Mr. Sesseman at this moment did not know if he was awake or dreaming Papa, don't you know me anymore? Clara called with beaming eyes Have I changed so much? Mr. Sesseman rushed up to her folding her in his arms Yes, you have changed How is it possible? Is it really true? Is it really you Clara? Asked the overjoyed father embracing her again and again and then gazing at her as she stood tall and firm by his side His mother joined them now for she wanted to see the happiness of her son What do you say to this, my son? Isn't our surprise finer than yours? She greeted him But come over to our benefactor now I mean the uncle Yes, indeed I also must greet our little Heidi Said the gentleman shaking Heidi's hand Well, always fresh and happy on the mountain I guess I don't need to ask for no alpine rose can look more blooming How a child with joy this is to me With beaming eyes the child looked at the kind gentleman who had always been so good to her her heart throbbed in sympathy with his joy While the two men who had at last approached each other were conversing Grandmama walked over to the grove There under the fir trees another surprise awaited her A beautiful bunch of wondrously blue gensions stood as if they had grown there How exquisite, how wonderful! What a sight! She exclaimed, clapping her hands Heidi, come here Have you brought me those? Oh, they are beautiful! The children had joined her Heidi assuring her that it was another person's deed Oh, Grandmama, up on the pasture it looks just like that Clara remarked Just guess who brought you the flowers At that moment a rustle was heard and they saw Peter, who was trying to sneak up behind the trees to avoid the hut Immediately the old lady called to him for she thought that Peter himself had picked the flowers for her He must be creeping away out of sheer modesty the kind lady thought Give him his reward, she called Come here, my boy, don't be afraid Petrified with fear Peter stood still What had gone before had robbed him of his courage He thought now that all was over with him with his hair standing up on end and his pale face distorted by anguish he approached Come straight to me, boy The old lady encouraged him Now tell me, boy, if you have done that In his anxiety Peter did not see the Grandmama's finger that pointed to the flowers He only saw the uncle standing near the hut looking at him penetratingly and beside him the policeman the greatest horror for him in the world Trembling in every limb Peter answered Yes Well, but what are you so frightened about? Because, because it is broken I can never be finished again Peter said, his knees tottering under him The Grandmama now walked over to the hut My dear uncle She asked kindly Is this poor boy He asked kindly Is this poor lad out of his mind? Not at all Was the reply Only the boy was the wind which blew away the wheelchair He is expecting the punishment he well deserves Grandmama was very much surprised for she vowed that Peter looked far from wicked Why should he have destroyed the chair? The uncle told her that he had noticed many signs of anger in the boy since Clara's advent on the Alps He assured her that he had suspected the boy from the beginning My dear uncle The old lady said with animation We must not punish him further We must be just It was very hard on him when Clara robbed him of Heidi who is and was his greatest treasure When he had to sit alone day after day it roused him to a passion which drove him to this wicked deed It was rather foolish but we all get so when we get angry The lady walked over to the boy again who was still quivering with fear Sitting down on the bench she began Come Peter, I'll tell you something Stop trembling and listen You pushed the chair down to destroy it You knew very well that it was wicked and deserved punishment You tried very hard to conceal it did you not? But if somebody thinks that nobody knows about a wicked deed God always knows it As soon as he finds that a man is trying to conceal an evil he has done he awakens a little watchman in his heart who keeps on pricking the person with a thorn till all his rest is gone He keeps on calling to the evil doer Now you'll be found out Now your punishment is near His joy has flown for fear and terror take its place Have you not just had such an experience, Peter? Peter nodded all contrite He certainly had experienced this You have made a mistake The grand mama continued By thinking that you would hurt Clara by destroying her chair it has so happened that what you have done has been the greatest good for her She would probably have never tried to walk if her chair had been there If she should stay here she might even go up to the pasture every single day Do you see, Peter? God can turn a misdeed to the good of the injured person and bring trouble on the offender Have you understood me, Peter? Remember the little watchman when you longed to do a wicked deed again Will you do that? Yes I shall! Peter replied, still fearing the policeman who had not yet left So now that matter is all settled said the old lady in conclusion Now tell me if you have a wish, my boy for I am going to give you something by which to remember your friends from Frankfurt What is it? What would you like to have? Peter, lifting his head stared at the grand mama with round astonished eyes He was confused by this sudden change of prospect Being again urged to utter a wish he saw at last that he was saved from the power of the terrible man He felt as if the most crushing load had fallen off him as if at once when something had gone wrong so he said I have also lost the paper Reflecting a while the grand mama understood and said That is right, always confess what is wrong then it can be settled and now what would you like to have? So Peter could choose everything in the world he wished His brain got dizzy He saw before him all the wonderful things in the fair in Mayenfeld He had often stood there for hours with his muscles and the little knives Unfortunately Peter had never possessed more than half what those objects cost He stood thinking not able to decide when a bright thought struck him Ten pennies, said Peter with decision That certainly is not too much The old lady said with a smile taking out of her pocket a big round taller on top of which she laid twenty pennies Now I'll explain this to you Here you have as many times ten pennies as there are weeks in the year You'll be able to spend one every Sunday through the year On my life Peter asked quite innocently The grand mama began to laugh so heartily at this that the two men came over to join her Laughingly she said You shall have it my boy I will put it in my will and then you will do the same my son Listen Peter the goat herge shall have a ten penny piece weekly as he lives Mr. Sessemon nodded Peter looking at his gift said solemnly God be sent Jumping and bounding he ran away His heart was so light that he felt he could fly A little later the whole party sat round the table holding a merry feast After dinner Clara who was as lively as never before said to her father Papa if you only knew all the things grandfather did for me it would take many days to tell you I shall never forget them all my life oh if we could please him only have as much as what he did for me It is my greatest wish to dear child said her father I have been trying to think of something all the time we have to share our gratitude in some way Accordingly Mr. Sessemon walked over to the old man and began My dear friend may I say one word to you I am sure you believe me when I tell you that I have not known any real joy for years what was my wealth to me when I could not kill my child and make her happy with the help of the Lord you have made her well you have given her a new life please tell me how to show my gratitude to you I know I shall never be able to repay you but what is in my power I shall do have you any request to make please let me know the uncle had listened quietly and had looked at the happy father Mr. Sessemon you can be sure that I am repaid by the great joy I experience at the recovery of Clara said the uncle firmly I thank you for your kind offer Mr. Sessemon as long as I live I have enough for me and the child but I have one wish this could be fulfilled my life would be free of care speak my dear friend urged Clara's father I am old continued the uncle and shall not live many years when I die I cannot leave Heidi anything the child has no relations except one who even might try to take advantage of her if she could if you would give me the assurance Mr. Sessemon that Heidi will never be obliged to go into the world and earn her bread you would amply repay me for what I was able to do for you and Clara my dear friend there is no question of that began Mr. Sessemon the child belongs to us I promise at once that we should look after her so that there will not be any need for her ever earning her bread we all know that she is not fashioned for a life among strangers nevertheless she has made some true friends and one of them will be here very shortly Dr. Klassen is just now completing his last business in Frankfurt he intends to take your advice and live here he has never felt so happy as with you and Heidi the child will have two protectors near her and I hope with God's will that they may be spared a long, long time and may it be God's will added the grandmama who with Heidi had joined them shaking the uncle tenderly by the hand putting her arms around the child she said Heidi I want to know if you also have a wish yes indeed I have said Heidi pleased tell me what it is child I should like to have my bed from Frankfurt very high pillows and a thick warm cover then grandmother will be able to keep warm and won't have to wear her shawl in bed oh I'll be so happy when she won't have to lie with her head lower than her heels hardly able to breathe Heidi had said all this in one breath she was so eager oh dear I had nearly forgotten what I meant to do I am so glad you reminded me Heidi if God sends us happiness we must think of those who have many privations I shall telegraph immediately for the bed and if Miss Roddenmeyer sends it off at once it can be here in two days I hope the poor blind grandmother will sleep better when it comes Heidi in her happiness could hardly wait to bring the old woman the good news soon it was resolved that everybody should visit the grandmother who had been left alone so long before starting however Mr. Sessemann revealed his plans he proposed to travel through Switzerland with his mother and Clara he would spend the night in the village so as to fetch Clara from the Alm next morning for the journey from there they would go first to Regaz and then further the telegram was to be mailed that night Clara's feelings were divided for she was sorry to leave the Alp but the prospect of the trip delighted her when everything was settled they all went down the uncle carrying Clara who could not have risked the lengthy walk all the way down Heidi told the old lady of her friends in the hut the cold they had to bear in the winter and the little food they had Brigidia was just hanging up Peter's shirt to dry when the whole company arrived rushing into the house she called to her mother now they are all going away uncle is going too carrying the lame child oh must it really be sighed the grandmother have you seen whether he took Heidi away oh if she only could give me her hand once more oh I longed to hear her voice once more the same moment the door was flung open and Heidi held her tight grandmother just think my bed with the three pillows and the thick cover is coming from Frankfurt Grandmother has said that it will be here in two days Heidi thought that the grandmother would be beside herself with joy but the old woman smiling sadly said oh what a good lady she must be I know I ought to be glad she's taking you to Heidi but I don't think I shall survive it long but nobody has said so the grandmama who had overheard these words said kindly pressing the old woman's hand she continued it is out of the question Heidi will stay with you and make you happy to see Heidi again we will come up every year to the Alm for we have many reasons to thank the lord there immediately the face of the grandmother lighted up the wide tears of joy oh what wonderful things God is doing for me said the grandmother deeply touched how good people are to trouble themselves about such a poor old woman as I nothing in this world strengthens the belief in a good father in heaven more than this mercy and kindness shown to a poor useless little woman like me my dear grandmother said mrs. Sessemon before God in heaven we are all equally miserable and poor woe to us if he should forget us but now we must say goodbye next year we shall come to see you just as soon as we come up the Alm we shall never forget you with that mrs. Sessemon shook her hand it was some time before she was allowed to leave however because the grandmother thanked her over and over again and invoked all heaven's blessings on her and her house mrs. Sessemon and his mother went on down while Clara was carried up to spend her last night in the hut next morning Clara shed hot tears at parting from the beloved place where such gladness had been hers Heidi consoled her with plans for the coming summer that was to be even more happy than this one had been mrs. Sessemon then arrived and a few last parting words were exchanged Clara half crying suddenly said please give my love to Peter and the goats Heidi please greet swan especially from me for she has helped a great deal in making me well what could I give her you could set her salt Clara you know how far she is of that advised little Heidi oh I will surely do that Clara assented I'll send her a hundred pounds of salt as a remembrance from me it was time to go now and Clara was able to ride proudly beside her father standing on the edge of the slope her eyes following Clara till she had disappeared the bed has arrived grandmother sleeps so very well every night now that before long she will be stronger than ever grand mama has not forgotten the cold winter on the Alps and to send a great many warm covers and shawls to the goat herds hut grandmother can wrap herself up now and will not have to sit shivering in a corner in the village a large building the doctor has arrived and is living it present in his old quarters he has taken the uncle's advice and has bought the old ruins that sheltered Heidi and her grandfather the winter before he is rebuilding for himself the portion with the fine apartment already mentioned the other side is being prepared for Heidi and her grandfather the doctor knows that his friend is an independent man and likes to have his own dwelling barely and swanly of course are not forgotten and the winter in a good solid stable that is being built for them the doctor and the Almonk will become better friends every day when they overlook the progress of the building they generally come to speak of Heidi they both look forward to the time when they will be able to move into the house with their merry charge they have agreed to share together the pleasure and responsibility that Heidi brings them the uncle's heart is filled with gratitude too deep for any words when the doctor tells him there is ample provision for the child now her grandfather's heart is free of care for if he is called away another father will take care of Heidi and love her in his stead at the moment when our story closes Heidi and Peter are sitting in grandmother's hut the little girl has so many interesting things to relate and Peter is trying so hard not to miss anything that in their eagerness they are not aware that they are near the happy grandmother's chair all summer long they have hardly met and very many wonderful things have happened they are all glad at being together again and it is hard to tell who is the happiest of the group I think Brigida's face is more radiant than any for Heidi has just told her the story of the perpetual ten penny piece finally the grandmother says Heidi please read me a song of thanksgiving in praise I feel that I must praise and thank the lord for the blessings he has brought to us all End of chapter 23 End of Heidi by Johanna Speery translated by Elizabeth Stork