 Chapter 1 of Folk Tales from Many Lands. This is LibriVox Recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Folk Tales from Many Lands by Lillian Gask. Chapter 1. The Story of the Ten Sources. A Legend of Hungary. In the wild Carpathians where the everlasting hills lift their peaks far into the serene blue of heaven, a torrent known as the River of the Ten Sources rushes with eager fury down the steep slopes of the mountain walls rising in wild disorder on every side. Even the perpetual thunder of its fall is soon swallowed up in the mightier silence which broods upon the scene. And save for the roar of some beast of prey, the profound stillness is rarely broken, even by the echo of the hunter's tally-ho. In this remote spot, the mountains Bük and Matra join hands together. And through the dense forests which cling to their shoulders and clothe their naked limbs, the cataract pursues its way to the abyss whose rocky jaws gape wide to receive it. High on the cliffs above, the passage of the torrent may be traced by clouds of spray and arches of glowing colors where the sunbeams play amidst the vapor tossed up by the impetuous stream. And farther up may be seen three faint reeds like gossamer garments of the mountain elves which mark the spots where three hot springs mingle with the icy stream from seven other sources nearby. Long, long ago, this wild and romantic scene was peopled by the fairies and on a day there came ten young hunters who had pressed far beyond the haunts of their kind on the tracks of bears, boars, bison, and other wild beasts which roamed the deep recesses of the woods. Ten bold and adventurous brothers they were and merrily did they wind their horns and blithely did they sing the deeds of brave warriors and bold huntsmen as they forced their way through the forest wilds. Suddenly they came to a glimpse of the open sky and they saw a sight which stilled their songs and riveted their feet to the ground. Something above the giant furs were two mountain peaks flushed with the rays of the noonday sun but fairer than the deep blue of the sky fairer than the rosy hues of the mountain peaks were the forms of a host of fairies the most beautiful that mortal eyes had ever looked upon. They were standing on the peaks tossing diamond balls from one to the other across the deep chasm and the sun shone upon the balls. It seemed to the brothers that they had never seen rainbow so beautiful as this glittering arch which spanned the abyss. As they stood open-mouthed with delight they beheld an even more wonderful sight for suddenly a fairy seated herself upon one of the balls and flew like the wind to the opposite peak. Others followed and while they sported in this charming way they laughed and sang as only fairies can and the young hunter's hearts leaped within them for joy at this awesome and wonderful sight. Suddenly however as with one mind they caught up their bows fitted the arrows to the strings and the ten shafts sped with unerring aim to as many diamond balls. The next moment a ball fell at each of the brothers feet but alas the fairies had vanished and the atrancing vision was seen no more. The young men picked up the balls and bestowed them safely in their knapsacks sighing the while at the foolishness which had led them to sacrifice so delightful a sight. They lingered for a while in the hope that they might again behold it but at last very sad at heart they turned away. Gradually the shadows lengthened in the forest aisles. Wild creatures crossed the hunter's path again and again but the brothers paid heed to knot as they wandered moodily on. They thought only of the rash act which had deprived them of the entrancing vision and the diamond ball which each had secured seemed but a poor substitute for the bewitching countenances of the fairy damsels. The young men were so deeply engaged in their bitter reflections that they failed to notice that they had come to the edge of the forest. Suddenly however an exclamation from one of the brothers caused them all to look up and low before them was a castle like no fastness that mortal eye had ever seen. Its walls were mossy and rugged like those of the mountains around but here and there were projecting casements rounded in form which sparkled and gleamed like the balls in the young men's knapsacks and a great dome like a gigantic diamond surmounted the castle and reflected the rays of the dying sun from a million points. But more wonderful and more grateful to the eyes of the brothers was the vision of the fairy damsels whom they beheld gazing tenderly upon them from the outer walls. With a cry of joy the hunters flew to the great gates. They found them open and unguarded and in less time than it takes to tell the story the young men had clasped each a maiden in his arms. There is small need for words when heart speaks to heart and all knew that they had met the desire of their souls. Together they now entered the castle where they were met by a crowd of gorgeously attired servants who invited the young men to refresh themselves after their toilsome march through the forest glades. They brought to them rich costumes befitting the sons of kings robes embroidered with emeralds and pearls and swords whose hilts and sheaths were studded with diamonds and rubies. The brothers were now conducted to the banqueting hall where preparations had been made for a wedding feast and the young men could hardly believe their good fortune when they learned that the lovely fairy maidens were to be their brides that very evening. You may be sure that they feasted and drank right merrily and never was there such a wedding feast. Golden dishes glided upon the table as though moved by invisible hands. Plates and glasses were filled of themselves. It was only necessary to wish and lo the choicest vines and the most delicious wines were before them. Many happy days followed in which the brothers forgot all else but the good fortune which had guided them to the castle. Their brides were as good as they were beautiful and it would have been wonderful indeed had they remembered that envious time bestows few such blissful days upon even the most favored. The fairy maidens were daughters of the queen of the stars who had been absent in a distant part of her realm when the young hunters arrived before her castle. Tidings of what had taken place had now reached her and in hot haste she descended upon a moonbeam and appeared before her daughters at the close of day. Miserable children, she said, what foolish deed have you committed? Know you not that fey and mortal may not mate and that she who disobeys this law of fairyland must be forever cast out of the happy companionship of the immortals? At these threatening words the poor maidens pleaded tearfully with their mother that she should not drop their stars from the sky. But the queen answered sorrowfully that she was powerless to save them from the fate which their disobedience had brought upon them. That same night the brothers one and all were visited by the self-same dream. In a vision of the night, the twirl, that ill-omend bird of war alighted upon each couch and croaked a call to battle which no hero may refuse to obey. The harsh sound was in their ears as they awoke on the morrow and each told his wife sadly of the summons that called him away. The fairy maidens knew full well that never would they see their beloved husbands again and very sad of heart were they as they bravely bade them goodbye and watched them disappear into the forest which had never before seemed so full of gloom. Seven days and seven nights went by. The maidens could not rest for the terrible fear that was in their hearts. Never before had they known of fear but now they tasted its bitterness both for themselves and those whom they loved so fondly. At last on the seventh night they were wandering in the forest for there was something in the stillness of the leafy aisles which eased their pain when they beheld ten stars fall from the sky. It was the death of their last lingering hopes. Their husbands had fallen in battle and never more would they hear their loved voices or gaze upon their manly forms. The maidens wept so piteously that even the stars which keep so cold a watch in the sky were moved. But they did not all weep for the same cause. The three youngest thought only of the husbands whom they had lost forever but their sisters grieved mostly for their own sad fate. At last, utterly exhausted all alike sank into a quiet and restful sleep and as they reclined upon the grassy bank where they had flung themselves in the first agony of grief the queen of the stars came on a moonbeam and gazed piteingly at upon her children. Her heart was full as she beheld the pearly tears which told of the grief which even sleep could not banish and silently she bestowed a tender kiss upon each loved face. Then she touched the maidens lightly with a magic wand and instantly the sleeping forms were changed into bubbling springs. Seven were icy cold but the streams which issued from the spots where the three youngest had lain were boiling hot. And to this day, if we go to where the buk and matra meet we may see the ten springs known to the peasants of that hill country as the ten sisters flowing to mingle their waters in the common stream which rushes forever through the valley far beneath. End of chapter 1 Read by Kalinda in Lüneburg, Germany on February 7th, 2009 Chapter 2 of Folk Tales from Many Lands This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Kalinda Folk Tales from Many Lands by Lillian Gask Chapter 2 Silence This is a favorite story in many parts of Germany. Master Gaspar was the king's tailor and high in favor with the nobility. Being an excellent workman, he had amassed a fortune but though he had a fine house, ample means and a handsome daughter who was admired by all he was still unsatisfied. If I had had a son, he sighed, I should have brought him up to be a tailor like myself and he would inherit my fortune. As it is, I have no one to succeed this fine business which I have built up by my own efforts. When he was weary of sighing for what fate had denied him he invited his nephew John to become his apprentice and live in his house. Now John was already in love with Marie whom he hoped one day to make his wife and he gladly accepted his uncle's invitation. He was a good-natured young fellow, not particularly fond of work but all would have gone well with him in his new home had it not been for his ceaseless chatter which distracted his companion's attention and made Master Gaspar justly angry. John was scolded and Marie wept but though the young man promised to mend his ways and work in silence, he soon forgot and once more began to talk. This went on until Master Gaspar was out of patience and decided that they must part. You must go, he said, but it need not be forever unless you wish. Take a journey through France and see if you cannot learn to conquer this foolish habit of yours. When you can show me six pieces of gold that you have earned by steady work I will take you back into the business. More than this, you shall have my daughter for your wife but not until you have proved that you deserve her. Marie's pretty face was sweet as a pink pea blossom in a shower of rain as she blushed through her tears and John wept with her for he had a tender heart. As Master Gaspar refused to listen to their joint entreaties there was nothing for John to do but to go so he mournfully took his departure. Filled with regrets he walked on and on until his uncle's house was far behind him and he reached the borders of a vast forest. A narrow pathway seemed to beckon to him and still thinking of the weeping Marie he strolled on listlessly beneath some gnarled old oak trees whose branches looked like the twisted limbs of tortured ogres. Needless to tell he lost his way and though he searched in every direction he could see no trace of the path by which he had entered the forest. Dusk came on and the trees grew dim and shadowy. The night birds called to each other sadly and he heard in the distance the howling of hungry wolves. The sound filled him with dread but in spite of his fears he was soon overcome by weariness and throwing himself at the foot of a tree fell into a deep slumber. The night was half over when he awoke and a ray of moonlight that shone through the boughs above showed a tiny dwarf standing close beside him. Without a word the strange little creature took him by the hand and led him to the heart of the forest where a bright wood fire lit up the darkness. Five other dwarfs, no less curious to look at than the first were grouped around the glowing embers and with silent gestures invited John to join them. He sat down gratefully and warmed his hands. Still no one spoke and after a while he ventured on a question. Where am I he began but could get no farther for the nearest dwarf gave him such a slap in the face that his breath was taken away. Furious with anger John leaped to his feet and would have flown at him but at his first gesture the tiny dwarf instantly assumed the stature of a giant and looked down so threateningly upon him that he feared to make another motion. As he did not stir the wrath of the giant subsided and he became a dwarf once more. Feeling much subdued John sat down again and did not open his lips for quite an hour. The forest was very still the wind had dropped and those of the wood folk who were not asleep were awfully that they made no sound. The silence was intolerable to chattering John and as a last resource he took out from his satchel his scissors needles and thread in order to mend an ugly rent which a briar had torn in his spick and span coat. At the sight of these the dwarfs got up and danced with glee showing him at the same time many rents in their own garments. Their joy emboldened John to speak once more. Who are you he cried and why are your coats so torn? The reply to his question was another blow and again he was overwhelmed with impotent anger. He was one against six however each of whom could transform himself at will into a mighty giant so with unusual prudence he decided to hold his tongue. When the dwarfs had thrown more wood on the fire so that it blazed up brightly he threaded his finest needle and set to work on his coat. Immediately the eldest dwarf took off his own and held it towards him in treatingly. John dared not refuse to do what he wanted so he started at once to repair it. He worked away for a whole hour and then in spite of himself burst out with another question. It met with the usual answer. His face ached all over with the slaps he had received but he had no means of retaliation. My uncle used to grumble if I chattered he groaned himself but these fellows reward me with frightful blows. As he did not know what else to do he kept on stitching until the coat was neatly mended when he handed it back to its owner without a word. The dwarf examined it with lively interest and having no fault to find took out of his pocket a gleaming piece of gold which John, to his great delight found was intended for himself. Come, he thought cheerfully, here's one piece of gold already. If I can earn the rest as quickly I shall not have long to wait before I can claim dear Marie for my wife. By this time the night was almost spent. The birds were beginning to twitter drowsily and the fire waned dull in the dawning light. With a sigh of relief John put it by his needles in thread and was preparing to leave his strange companions when one of them offered him a draft of wine which he readily accepted. It tasted like fairy nectar and he drained the silver cup to its very dregs. As he set it down a wave of cold ran through his body and he shivered like the leaves of an aspen when the wind blows up from a storm. In a few moments he had dwindled down to the size of the dwarfs themselves. His cry of alarm was met with another blow and as he staggered to his feet he felt with despair that resistance was useless. Making signs for him to follow them the dwarfs led the way through the waking forest and those shafts of sunlight pierced the canopy of leaves and made ladders of gold on the soft green moss over which he trod. John could think of nothing but his sad fate and what was likely to happen next. The forest came to an end at last and a huge black rock leamed before them like a giant's fortress. One of the dwarfs touched its jagged surface a hidden door flew open silently and John and his companions passed through it into a long, wide corridor. On both sides of this were tiny bedrooms with furniture of mother of pearl and small white beds with hangings of rose-pink silk. Sounds of exquisite music were wafted from a distance and John caught a glimpse of a brilliantly lighted ballroom at the far end of the corridor filled with many dancers. He would have liked nothing better than to question his guides but, wise at last, he resisted the inclination. After a moment's pause they showed him into one of the bedrooms and pointed to the bed. He at once undressed and laid his head on the pillow. The music was now as soft as the lapping of waves on the seashore and he fell asleep like a tired child. He woke in the twilight to find one of the dwarfs at the foot of his bed. The little fellow seemed impatient for him to rise and when John opened his lips as if to speak he raised his head so angrily that the youth deemed it advisable to keep his mouth shut. Dressing himself as quickly as he could he followed the dwarf into the wide corridor where the others joined them. All passed together out of the rock and re-entered the forest as the last ray of light faded out of the sky. A fire was blazing under an arch of beaches and once more John sat down and warmed himself. Not daring to speak he thought it would be more agreeable to sow than to do nothing so he again took out his needles and thread. At this another dwarf came forward with a torn coat and John, while skillfully repairing it made two attempts to speak. On each occasion he received one of the heavy blows he had learned to dread and for the rest of the night he uttered no word. Just before dawn the coat was finished and on handing it back he gave in a second piece of gold. Instead of rejoicing he could only mourn. What wretched luck that I should have been transformed into a dwarf he sighed as he followed the little men back to the rock. Two pieces of gold are mine already and were it not for my misfortune my uncle would give me Marie when I had earned six. The wind in the trees re-echoed his size as it rustled among the following leaves. The air was chill and already the frosts of winter were turning the berries red. That's curious said John. To himself you may be certain for he knew better by this time than to speak out loud. Yesterday was the fifteenth of October yet today one might well think that it was mid-November. Again the rock opened at the dwarf's light touch and they all went in as before. The same sweet music fell on John's ears and the dancers still twisted and turned in the brilliantly lighted ballroom at the far end of the corridor. John spent the day in the little white bed with the rose silk hangings and when once again he was roused by a dwarf he dressed himself without risking a question. Only three dwarfs awaited them in the corridor and on reaching the forest he was amazed to find that the ground was covered with snow. How strange he thought it might be December though only three days and nights have passed since I bad dear Marie farewell. Oh how changed I am. Marie would not know me now and even if she did my uncle would never let her marry a dwarf. Why did I chatter so heedlessly and play such tricks on my fellow apprentices? If I had held my tongue I should never have come to this dreadful forest to be struck and buffeted by stunted creatures who would not reach above my natural waist. A third night passed in the same way as the rest and only once did he forget himself and speak. The blow that followed made him sick with pain but when overcome by anger he put down his work the dwarfs looked so miserable that he took it up again and finished mending a third coat. For this he was given a third piece of gold and once again the dwarfs returned to the rock. A fourth and a fifth night passed in exactly the same way but on the sixth occasion only one dwarf accompanied him into the forest. The trees were still bare but the cold was not so intense here and there in sheltered nooks the snowdrops were showing their dainty heads. By this time John felt rich for five gold pieces jingled in his pockets. Ah! he thought as a rift in the trees above gave him a glimpse of the sky the blue of which reminded him of Marie's eyes. It seems to me as if it were months since the day I left her if uncle could see my plight he would be sorry for me. That night only the one dwarf sat with him by the fire. John worked on steadily at the last torn coat for he had now quite lost the habit of chattering and was as silent as Master Gaspar could have wished. As the sixth piece of gold was added to his store he could scarcely restrain his tears as he thought how but for his transformation he might now claim Marie for his bride. The grateful dwarf offered him another cup of wine but he shook his head and then to his great surprise the little man whom he had imagined to be dumb began to speak. Drink without fear young man he cried this wine will at once restore you to your former size. John seized the cup eagerly and emptied it at one draught. In a few moments he was as tall and as strong as when he had quitted his uncle's house but although his joy was great he did not dare express it audibly. No doubt the dwarf continued looking at him kindly you would like to have some explanation of what you have seen. A hundred years ago I and my five companions quarreled in the king's ballroom and flew at each other like angry wolves justly indignant at our folly for quarrelling is not allowed in his domains the king laid us under sentence of banishment decreeing that we should spend the fifteenth night of each month in this dreary forest until a tailor came who could mend the garments we had torn that we might learn to govern our unruly tongues we were condemned neither to speak nor be spoken to and the king declared that if we allowed anyone to talk to us we should never return to our own homes. Year after year went by with no sign of a tailor and we had lost all hope when we found you sleeping under a tree our hearts were filled with joy for by the marks on your thumb and forefinger we guessed what trade you belonged but alas you persisted in talking and so we were obliged to stop you in the only way we could now that you have mended our coats however our troubles are at an end and you can go back to your uncle's house you will be surprised to find how long you have been away for we made you sleep a month at a time it was the fifteenth of October when you arrived and now it is the fifteenth of March the bridal songs of the blackbirds and thrushes were not more gay than the merry tune John hummed to himself as he hurried homeward Marie greeted him with tender joy and when in answer to the questions of Master Gaspar he proudly showed him his six gold pieces he was at once allowed to take his old place in the workshop since he stitched most deftly and in utter silence his uncle was delighted and there was nothing now to come between him and his heart's desire his wedding with Marie was celebrated with much rejoicing and no man ever had a fairer or sweeter bride years afterwards he would sometimes relate his adventures to his boys and girls as they sat around on the fire on frosty nights ah my dear children he would say silence is an excellent thing I learnt the lesson in a painful manner but I have never regretted it chat away to your heart's content in your leisure moments but when you work work with all your might and be sure to do it in silence end of chapter two of folk tales from many lands recording by Kalinda in Hamburg, Germany on July 12th, 2008 chapter three of folk tales from many lands this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Kalinda folk tales from many lands by Lillian Gask chapter three The Bell of Atre a wise and just monarch was the good King John his kingdom extended over central Italy and included the famous town of Atre which in days gone by had been a famous harbor on the shores of the Adriatic now the sea had retreated from it and it lay inland no longer the crested waves rolled on its borders or tossed their showers of silver spray to meet the vivid turquoise of the sky the great desire of good King John was that every man, woman and child in his dominions should be able to obtain justice without delay be they rich or poor to this end since he could not possibly listen to all himself he hung a bell in one of the chief towns and issued a proclamation to say that when this was wrong a magistrate would immediately proceed to the public square and administer justice in his name the plan worked admirably both rich and poor were satisfied and since they knew that evildoers would be quickly punished and wrongs set right men hesitated to defraud or oppress their neighbors and the great bell peeled less often as years went on in the course of time however the bell rope wore thin and some ingenious citizen fastened a wisp of hay to it that this might serve as a handle one day in the height of summer when the deserted square was blazing with sunlight and most of the citizens were taking their noonday rest their siesta was disturbed by the violent peeling of the bell surely some great injustice has been done they cried shaking off their langer and hastening to the square to their amazement the beauty of all human beings saved themselves no angry supplicant appealed for justice but a poor old horse, lame and half blind with bones that nearly broke through his skin was trying with pathetic eagerness to eat the wisp of hay in struggling to do this he had wrung the bell and the judge, summoned so hastily for so light a cause was stirred to indignation to whom does this wretched horse belong? he shouted wrathfully what business has it here sir, he belongs to a rich nobleman who lives in that splendid palace whose tall towers glisten white above the palm grove said an old man coming forward with a deep bow time was that he bore his master to battle carrying him dauntlessly amid shot and shell and more than once saving his life by his courage and fleetness when the horse became old and feeble he was turned adrift since his master had no further use for him and now the poor creature picks up what food he can in highways and byways when hearing this the judge's face grew dark with anger bring his master before me he thundered and when the amazed nobleman appeared he questioned him more sternly than he would have done the meanest peasant is it true he demanded that you left this your faithful servant to starve since he could no longer serve you it is long since I have heard of such gross injustice are you not ashamed the nobleman hung his head in silence he had no word to say in his own defence as with scathing contempt the judge rebuked him adding that in the future he would neglect the horse at his peril for the rest of his life he said you shall care for the poor beast as he deserves so that after his long term of faithful service he may end his days in peace this decision was greeted with loud applause by the town folk who gathered in the square our bell is superior to all others they said to each other with nods and smiles for it is the means of gaining justice not only for men but for animals too in their time of need and with shouts of triumph they led the old war horse back to his stable knowing that for the future its miserly owner would not dare to begrudge it the comfort to which it was so justly entitled End of Chapter 3 of Folk Tales from Many Lands Recording by Kalinda in Hamburg, Germany on July 12th, 2008 Chapter 4 of Folk Tales from Many Lands This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Folk Tales from Many Lands by Lillian Gask Chapter 4 Snow White This is the Russian version of the myth of the Snow Maiden so popular among all the nations of northern Europe One fine winter's day when the frost had spangled the dark green fir trees Ponds and rivers were thick with ice Ivan and Maria, two Russian peasants sat by their cottage window They were looking wistfully at a group of merry children busily engaged in making a huge snowman The little people were having a grand time and though Ivan and Marie were both kind-hearted the sight of their enjoyment made them very sad for they had no children of their own and their cottage was often lonely Fate has been unkind to us wife, said Ivan and Marie hid her face on his shoulder and tried to keep back her tears After a while, Ivan stopped sighing and his wife lifted her head See how these young children yonder are enjoying themselves, he said Why shouldn't we follow their example? Let us go into the garden and build a snow woman Marie smiled and agreed They would be children again, she cried and forget their trouble The clear dry air brought back the roses to her pale face and her husband gave her a tender kiss as they passed behind a glistening fir tree Let us make a little snow child, she suggested as Ivan began to shovel the crisp snow Ah, that's a very good idea, exclaimed her husband and soon he had shaped a little body with dainty hands and arms and feet While he did this, his wife modelled a little head It had such exquisite features that when it was fixed in his right place both stepped aside to admire it It's his lovely, cried Ivan and Marie sighed so deeply that the soft little curl she had given the little snow child seemed to stir on the pretty forehead As Marie and her husband added some finishing touches a stranger came down the road and inquired what they were doing We are making a snow child, replied Ivan Stepping back once more to admire the little figure As he did so, he saw with intense surprise a gentle quiver of its eyelids A soft pink colour stole into its cheeks and lips and a deep sigh lifted the little bosom and the dimpled fingers he had modelled so lovingly uncurled and stretched themselves There stood before him a living child a child more lovely than any that he or his wife had seen in their fairest dreams Who are you? he asked when he could speak and his wife lent tremblingly against him scarcely daring to breathe lest the entrancing vision of the child should vanish from her sight I am Snow White, your little daughter! replied the figure throwing her fairy-like arms around his neck as he bent towards her Marie in turn received a sweet embrace and weeping for joy they quickly took her into the cottage No longer now were Ivan and Marie lonely Snow White praddled to them by the hour together and they were never weary of watching her Her tiny feet padded over the snow like those of some small white elf and the colder it was, the happier she seemed to be Her favourite playthings were the glittering icicles that hung from the frosted trees Snow White's hair was like fine spun silk Her eyes were blue as the heavens and her skin white as snow So gentle and sweet were her looks and waves that everyone loved her dearly and the children in the village were never so happy as when they played with her The winter passed and the snow melted Before the spring sunshine had spread a wave of green over the land and studded the meadows with brilliant flowers Snow White had grown as tall as a girl of twelve As the days grew longer she lost her joyous spirits and became quiet and sad Are you ill my child? inquired her mother but Snow White shook her head No dear mother, I am not ill she murmured but instead of playing with the other children as she had loved to do before she stayed indoors gazing out of the window with dreamy eyes as if she saw what was not visible to mortal eyes Snow White! Snow White! What are you doing? cried a group of her small companions peeping in through the window Come with us, we are going to the woods with their flowers and dance round the fairy ring Yes, go to the woods with your little friends my darling said her mother fondly tying a ribbon over her pale gold curls that they might not be ruffled by the wind Snow White left the cottage reluctantly she would far rather have stayed home and her steps were the only listless ones in that merry throng When the children had filled their laps with many huge blossoms they wove them into wreaths and crowns like they were going to have a festival and they wanted to look like queens as the day wore on they returned to their homes but when dusk had fallen they came back for Snow White and once more she went with them her soft blue eyes were very wistful as she glanced at her father and mother but they bad her go and play there was a bonfire in the marketplace and the dancing flames leapt high the sparks flew round in gleaming showers and the children laughed and shouted look at us Snow White and do as we do said first one and then another jumping over the fire suddenly they saw that Snow White had vanished Where are you they cried but there was no reply Snow White had melted in the heat of the fire and floated away as vapor to the clouds from which she had first come in soft white flakes of snow her friends and playmates searched for her unavailingly and never again did she sit with her parents by their cottage door End of Chapter 4 of Folktales for Many Lands Recording by Kalinda in Hamburg, Germany on July 12th, 2008 Chapter 5 of Folktales for Many Lands This is LibriVox Recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Kalinda Folktales for Many Lands by Lillian Gask Chapter 5 Godfrey the Little Hermit Godfrey's father was very poor for though he worked hard the summer through tending the fields of his richer neighbors and since he lived by the seashore mended the fisherman's nets for them when it was too cold to go fishing it was only by the thrift and good management of his wife that the big family in the little cottage had enough to eat Godfrey helped his father to work in their own garden where they grew fruit and vegetables and many a golden marrow or sweet potato reached their frugal table as the result of his industry the boy was bright and intelligent but he liked play better than work and his father was touched when he noticed that Godfrey's affection for himself and his mother had overcome his distaste for drudgery you have pleased me greatly this last week my son, he said one day and I am going to give you some pleasure if tomorrow will be fine I will take you to the green island where my father lived in days gone by Godfrey had often longed to visit this green island which on a clear day he could see from the shelving beach where he loved to play with his small brothers and sisters he had often heard his father speak of the walnut trees that grew there and the drooping willows which would give them such a good supply of cane for making their baskets he was therefore delighted at the suggestion and could scarcely sleep that night very early next morning when the sky was still pink with dawn clouds he was up and a stir a faint gray haze over the distant hills gave a hint of rain but as the sun rose high in the heavens this melted into the blue and his fears of a storm as quickly vanished the moment breakfast was over he would have started full speed for the boat but his father would not allow gently my boy the good man cried you have several things to carry as he spoke he pointed out a long thick winter cloak various stores of bread and meat two choppers a big iron pot a coil of rope and two large baskets Godfrey looked at them in dismay why father he cried what do you want with all of these things the day is too warm for your winter cloak and as for the food one loaf and half that meat would be sufficient his father smiled indulgently it is well to be prepared for all things my son he remarked last time I was on the island a storm blew up and I was glad enough of my thick cloak to shelter me during the night for I had to remain there until morning and in spite of Godfrey's conviction that his father was making too much of a danger unlikely to happen each article was carefully carried down to the boat the sea was very calm Godfrey and his father each took an oar and soon their little cottage became but a tiny speck in the distance while a green island grew larger and larger until at last Godfrey could see the splendid grove of walnut trees which gave it its emerald hue springing on to the shore he made the boat fast with the rope and though Godfrey would have preferred to start nutting at once his father said he must wait for this until they had cut a good supply of willows it was hot work even with their sharp choppers and when dinner time came the sun was high in the sky Godfrey brought the iron pot from the boat and his father showed him how to set light to the heap of dry wood they had collected by rubbing two sticks together until these became so hot that they burst into flame when this was accomplished the iron pot was slung over the center by means of two bows and a portion of the meat was quickly cooked Godfrey had never enjoyed a meal so much before and when it was finished his thoughts flew off to the walnuts not so fast my son his father said as the boy picked up the baskets these things must first be taken back to the boat Godfrey obeyed unwillingly but not until all had been replaced was he permitted to go to the walnut groves once there he quickly forgot his vexation his father climbed high up in the trees and as he shook the branches there fell a shower of fine ripe nuts time after time Godfrey refilled the baskets emptying them when they threatened to overflow into the stern of the boat we shall have a splendid supply for the winter they said to each other as they worked away too happily occupied to notice the clouds that were gathering overhead these drifted at first in 2s and 3s then they gathered together in huge battalions until the sun was hidden and the seagulls flew low over the waves uttering strange shrill cries Godfrey happened to be in the boat emptying his baskets for the fourth time when his attention was suddenly aroused by a big wave which dashed it from its mooring so violently that the rope gave way father, father he cried but amidst the roar of the sea his voice was lost and though he did his best to steady the boat with a heavy oar it was swiftly carried away from the land on the strong current he was beyond help did his father come down to the shore the boat was carried swiftly on tossed from side to side by bingreen waves which, try as they would could not overturn it stricken with terror Godfrey crouched at the bottom and when at length the motion of the sea grew calmer and the rain ceased to beat on his shrinking form he could scarcely believe that the storm was over a little while later the boat struck on a rock the plank shivered but did not break and he was thrown out upon dry land when the first shock was over he sat up tremblingly and looked about him greatly to his surprise for he had often heard his father say that the green island was the only one on that coast he found himself upon a plateau of land wherever he looked there was nothing but rocks and sea and the sea was so desolate in its loneliness that he burst into tears what shall I do he cried gazing wildly around him the doleful call of the seagulls were his only answer and wrapping himself in his father's coat he sobbed himself to sleep when he awoke it was morning and the troubled sea of the night before was a sheet of golden ripples with renewed courage on a meal on some of the bread and meat which had escaped a wedding and as he did so he remembered how but for his father's insistence the day before he would now have no food at all as he was very thirsty he started to explore the little island hoping to find some stream or spring but for long he searched in vain his throat was parched and dry and his lips burning when he heard the murmur of trickling water following this he came to a deep ravine at the bottom of which ran a little stream how thankful he felt as he slaked his thirst and bathed his face in its sparkling shallows when he had rested a little he climbed a hill from whence he could see a long way around him but though the white sails of several vessels were clearly visible against the distant coastline of the green island his frantic signals failed to reach them and they soon passed out of sight Godfrey supped that night on bread and nuts and then wrapping himself once more in the big cloak said his prayers and fell asleep meanwhile his parents suffered agonies of distress his mother watched all through the night and when morning came without any sign of her dear ones return she hastened to implore the help of a rich neighbor do not weep he said to her very kindly most likely their boat has been carried away by the storm and they are in safe shelter I will seek them at once without a moment's delay he started for the green island in his fine new sailing vessel and before long Godfrey's parents were weeping in each other's arms when the mother heard what had happened to her boy she was almost broken hearted and his brothers and sisters were overwhelmed with grief we shall never see him again they sobbed and little Elsa who loved him best of all no longer sang when she played with her dolls or helped her mother put the little ones to bed as the days went on and no one came to his rescue Godfrey began to realize that if he wished to live he must besture himself the stock of food that he had brought with him in his boat was soon exhausted and since it was only in the crevices of the rocks that plants could grow on that island he found few berries to satisfy his hunger the sight of fish in deep pools left by the tide naturally suggested that he should catch them the pretty green ribbon that Elsa had pinned round his hat the morning he left home made an excellent line with a pin at one end and a rod of willow at the other after a long search he found a worm and casting the rod into a pool he soon hooked a fish this he cooked in the iron pot over a fire of dried moss what a good thing he thought that father made me carry all these things down to the boat if I had left them under the tree when we had finished our meal what should I have done now father was quite right order is a very good thing Godfrey did not stop at catching the small fish in the pools with the help of a sharp pointed stone he made a larger hook and so caught big ones he found a little salt too and this greatly improved their flavor mussels and limpets were now added to his usual fare and when he discovered some eatable seaweed he felt that he was fortunate indeed the summer days slipped quickly by and the stars smiled down on him through their friendly darkness in the dusk of the evening although alone he was not frightened until once more a heavy storm broke over the island drenching his cloak with rain drenching impossible he felt cold and wet and very miserable as he wondered what would happen to him when winter came it will soon be here eastside it is autumn now and the nights are getting colder I must find a cave or I shall be frozen to death it was not easy to do this but at last he discovered a snug little shelter behind some bushes and very close to the stream at which he slaked his thirst he collected a big heap of moss and took it inside to serve him as a bed opposite this he placed his precious chopper and iron pot and the few planks which were all that now remained of his father's boat his next task was to chip a deep hole in a rock close by so that he might fill this with water and use it as a little reservoir in which to keep a supply of fish some of the planks he cut up for firewood and the rest formed the roof of the stone kitchen he built between two rocks since it was impossible for him to have a fire inside the cave on account of the smoke as time went on he thought of many other contrivances for his comfort and became quite skilled in fashioning tools from the rough materials at his command using his chopper as a hammer and a large stone as an anvil before long he had quite a brave show of fishing tackle and if once the sea had been cruel to him he found it was now his kindest friend it provided him with sufficient food to keep him alive through the dreary winter and although he often went hungry to bed when spring came he was strong and well and the eggs of the sea birds that built their nests on the island soon afforded him a pleasant change from so much fish as the days grew longer and white sails crossed the calm blue waters he hoped once more that someone might see his signals but all in vain his poor little flag fluttered sadly in the breeze for the distant sailors if they saw it at all thought it only some homing sea bird on the wing one evening when the wind blew high and the waves that dashed on the rocky island threw up great clouds of spray the sound of most exquisite singing broke upon his ears it seemed to come from a little bay where the waters were always calm he hurried towards this full of wonder and there on the edge of a steep black rock he fancied he saw the most lovely mermaid her white neck decked with ropes of pearls and her glistening form half hidden in a veil of red gold hair she held out her arms to him and treatingly come to me come she chanted and the treasures of the deep shall be yours forever hunger and thirst shall trouble you no more and your sleep shall be sweet and dreamless godfrey would have flown to her embrace for her voice was sweeter than the song of birds but there flashed across his memory the warning beware of merfolk that he had once heard from his mother's lips so he shook his heads and resolutely turned away the dulcet tones of the mermaid's voice changed to a shriek of anger and tearing asunder her necklace of gleaming pearls she plunged into the sea all that night through he dreamt of the scattered gems if I could find them he thought wistfully as he made his way down to the shore my father would be rich then he remembered that it was very unlikely that he would ever see his father and mother again and when he reached the bay his eyes were filled with tears no mermaid sang there now and he could find no pearls but the sea had tossed up the delicate branches of pink and red coral and many shells after a while he noticed a bed of oysters the foot of the rock and taking some of these back to the cave with him he made a delicious breakfast to his great delight he found inside each oyster shell an exquisite round pearl and he placed these with the coral in a little bag he had woven out of coarse grasses to while away the time day by day as he ate more oysters he added to his shining store and it saddened him to think that he could not send them home I wish that the seagulls would carry them if I may not go myself he sighed but the seagulls flew over his head in happy unconcern of all his troubles and the night wind whispered patience Godfrey had been on the island now for a whole year his clothes were quite worn out and but for the big winter cloak he would have had nothing to wear with much ingenuity he cut it into a long coat and when he had donned it he looked so like a monk or an old hermit that he laughed as he saw himself mirrored in the stream that summer he was never idle storing up moss and driftwood for fuel and drying fish in the hot sun for winter use he was very lonely but the wind told him tales of far off lands and the summer breezes told him to hope on still something will happen soon they murmured and Godfrey tried to believe them one morning he set off early to collect driftwood for the tide had been high the night before and the beach was strewn with the wreckage of a great ship that had gone down far away he had left a small fire burning in his little kitchen and on his return he was horrified to see that the wind had blown it into a great one that had caught the wooden ceiling his stock of fuel and fishing tackle were also burned fiercely even his table and bench had not been spared and when he saw that he would have nothing left he fell on his knees in utter despair I must die now he sobbed the winter is coming and I shall have neither food nor warmth since I cannot fish without my tackle and my fuel has all gone and though the sun streamed down on him very kindly and a soft little breeze tried to tell him that all was not yet lost he would not be comforted now it happened that on that very morning it had come into his father's head to visit the green island his stock of willows was at an end and despite his wife's forebodings he set off with two of the children promising faithfully that neither of them should get into the boat without him the poor woman watched him pull off sorrowfully she was thinking of God for whom she never expected to see again and her tears fell fast as she went about her work the little party reached the island safely and while the father busied himself in cutting willows the children played on the shore when his task was done they begged him to take them up the hill that they might catch a glimpse of their cottage how small it looks cried little Elsa as they gazed far over the sea look yonder father he added presently isn't that a wreath of smoke yes he replied very likely it is a ship on fire I think it is a volcano said his small son who had been reading about one in school but his father did not heed him it's very curious he said but I fancy I can see two hills if so that must be another island I never heard of it before if it's an island cried Elsa perhaps it is inhabited and Godfrey may be there the father had just had the same thought and it made him tremble it is possible he said let us go back as quickly as we can and I will speak to our neighbor he is a kind man and will lend me his sailing boat when they reached home their mother was told that they had seen and her heart beat with a new hope the neighbor consented gladly to lend his boat tomorrow he said to Godfrey's father if the weather is favorable we will go and perhaps neighbor John will accompany us the men set off early the following morning but when they reached the plateau of rocks where Godfrey had found a refuge they saw no signs of any dwelling nor a human being it is an uninhabited island neighbor John said sadly let us explore it carefully cried Godfrey's father perhaps we shall discover something that once belonged to my poor boy suddenly they caught sight of a slender figure in a long garment and took it to be that of a monk as they hastened towards it with eager questions the figure turned and sprang into the father's arms with a cry of joy it was no monkey found but Godfrey himself by this time the sun was setting and the sea was a field of gold as they sat together in the peaceful twilight for they could not leave the island until dawn Godfrey told his rescuers how he had contrived to live through the long winter and of his despair when the fire had destroyed his few possessions I thought I was quite forsaken he said and his father drew him yet closer to his side no my son he told him gravely you were not forsaken it was the smoke from that fire that made me think there was an island here but for this we should never have come to save you no words can describe his mother's joy when Godfrey was restored to her his brothers and sisters would hardly let him out of their sight the kindly neighbor made a feast for him and his friends gathered round from far and near to listen to the story of his adventures the courage and perseverance that he had shown under such great difficulties made them look upon him as a little hero and what pleased him most was the fact that his father would be poor no longer for the pearls and corals in Godfrey's little bag fetched so large a sum that he and his wife lived in comfort for the rest of their days and were able to give their children a good education which they could not do before Godfrey was taught many things at school but the lessons of patience and trust and perseverance which he had learned on that lonely island were more precious to him than all End of Chapter 5 of Folktales for Many Lands Recording by Kalinda in Hamburg, Germany on July 12th, 2008 Chapter 6 of Folktales for Many Lands This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Kalinda Folktales for Many Lands by Lillian Gask Chapter 6 The Two Gifts A heavy snowstorm was raging and flakes fell through the air like feathers shaken from the wings of an innumerable host of angels By the side of the roadway sat a poor old woman her scanty clothing affording but poor protection from the icy blast of the wind She was very hungry for she had tasted no food that day but her faded eyes were calm and patient telling of an unwavering trust and providence Perhaps, she thought some traveller might come that way and sit down on her and give her alms then she could return to the garret that she called home with bread to eat and fuel to kindle a fire The day drew in and still she sat and waited at last a traveller approached The thick snow muffled every sound and she was not aware of his coming until his burly figure loomed before her Her plaintive voice made him turn with a start Poor woman, he cried to look at her very pityingly It is hard for you to be out in such weather as this Then he passed on without giving her anything His conscience told him that he ought to have relieved her but he did not feel inclined to take off his thick glove in that bitter cold and without doing this he could not have found a coin The poor woman was naturally disappointed but she was grateful for his kind words By and by another traveller appeared This one was driving in a splendid carriage warmly wrapped in a great fur cloak As he caught sight of the poor creature by the roadside he felt vaguely touched by the contrast of his own comfort with her misery Obeying a sudden impulse with one hand he let down the carriage window and he signed to his coachman to stop and with the other felt in his pocket The poor old woman hurried up to the carriage a thrill of hope bringing a tinge of colour to her pale and withered cheeks How terribly cold it is exclaimed the rich man and as he took his hand from his pocket and held out a coin to her he noticed that instead of silver he was about to give her a piece of gold Dear me, that is far too much he cried but before he could return it to his pocket the coin slipped through his fingers and fell in the snow A rough blast of wind made his teeth chatter and pulling up the window in a great hurry with a little shiver he drew the fur rug around him It certainly was too much he murmured philosophically as the carriage rolled on but then I am very rich and can afford to do a generous action now and then When his comfortable dinner was over and he was sitting in front of a blazing fire he thought once more of the poor old woman It is not nearly so cold as I thought he remarked as he settled himself more comfortably in his deep armchair I certainly gave that old creature too much However, what's done is done and I hope she will make good use of it I was generous, very generous indeed and no doubt God will reward me Meanwhile the other traveller had also reached his journey's end and he too had found a blazing fire and a good dinner waiting for him He could not enjoy it however for he was haunted by the remembrance of that bent and shrunken figure in the waste of snow and fell very remorseful for not having stopped to help her at last he could bear it no longer Bring another plate, he said calling the servant to him There will be two to dine instead of one I shall be back soon Saying this, he hurried through the darkness to the spot where he had left the old woman She was still there feebly searching amongst the snow What are you looking for? he asked I am trying to find a piece of money which a gentleman threw me from his carriage window she told him falteringly scarcely able to speak from cold and hunger It was no wonder he thought that she had not found it for her hands were numbed and half frozen and she was not only old but nearly blind I am afraid you will never find it now he said But come with me, he added consolingly I will take you to my inn where there is a bright fire and a good dinner waiting for both of us You shall be my guest and I will see that you have a comfortable night's lodging The poor old woman could scarcely believe her good fortune but she tremblingly prepared to follow her new friend Noticing that she was lame as well as nearly blind he took her arm and with slow and patient steps led her to the hotel When the recording angel wrote that night in the Book of Heaven he made no mention of the piece of gold which the wealthy traveler had given by mistake for only a worthy motive gains credit in that book But amidst the good deeds that had been wrought that day he gave a foremost place to that of the man who had repented of his hardness and faced once more the bitter cold that he might share his comforts with a fellow creature so much less fortunate than himself End of Chapter 6 Chapter 7 of Folktales from Many Lands This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Kalinda Folktales from Many Lands by Lillian Gask Chapter 7 Better than that Joseph was one of Austria's greatest emperors and many trembled at his frown The monarchs of other lands paid court to him and he was the envied of all But he often grew weary of the cares of state and longed for a more simple life than he could live in his palace His greatest pleasure at such times was to leave his nobles and wander unattended to the dress that he might have been one of his poorer subjects through the streets of his grand capital Sometimes he would go for a ramble in the surrounding country finding in the company of the woodfolk and the rustling of the forest leaves far more delight than in the gorgeous functions at the palace One Sunday in autumn when the trees had dawned their richest garb of red and orange he determined to go for a long drive and taking an unpretentious buggy with his greatest horses in his stable he set off by himself Though the sky had been cloudless when he started and the people he met were dressed in their best as if bad weather were out of the question the wind blew up from the rainy quarter and before long a sharp shower made him raise the hood of his buggy The citizens now were hurrying to shelter and he too thought it well to return He had not driven far upon the homeward road when a soldier accosted him I beg your pardon sir he said but I thought that perhaps he would give me a lift as I should not inconvenience you My uniform is a new one and I don't want it to get spoiled He was a fine handsome young fellow with a frank and open face The emperor was much taken by his appearance and invited him to jump in In a few minutes they were chatting together as if they had been well acquainted and the soldier treated his new friend to a glowing account of a pleasant day with his old comrade He gave me a famous dinner I can tell you he concluded and the emperor much amused inquired of what this had consisted Guess! cried the soldier chuckling with delight at the recollection of the feast Cabbage soup perhaps questioned his majesty with an indulgent smile Soup indeed! the soldier exclaimed with much contempt Better than that you must guess again said then Better than that even was the laughing answer and the same reply was given when the emperor suggested a big slice of ham Much better than that cried the soldier triumphantly I had a roast pheasant and one that I shot myself on his majesty's estate for my friend is now one of the emperor's gamekeepers It was delicious and no mistake His companion made no reply but the soldier chatted away quite a disease telling him of the aged parents who were so proud of him and the dear little Greta who would one day become his wife Where do you live inquired his majesty as they neared the city the rain has ceased but I should like to drive you home Much gratified by this further kindness the soldier thanked him warmly and begged that he would tell him his name Ah! it is your turn to guess now remarked the emperor Who do you think I am? Perhaps you also have something to do with the army? Hazarded the soldier with a searching look the emperor nodded You are a private soldier? was the next guess Better than that the emperor smilingly returned a lieutenant then better than that A colonel stammered the soldier beginning to feel alarmed Better than that I assure you Perhaps then you are a general the man said timidly in desperation as the emperor shook his head he suggested a field marshal Better than that said the emperor once more and the soldier turned pale with terror Then you must be his majesty himself he gasped and would have sprung from the buggy if the emperor had not prevented him We will keep to our bargain he said and insisted upon driving him right up to his home On the way he gave the young man some good advice that he never forgot and ended by saying that kindly twinkle in his deep-set eyes and be careful in future not to kill pheasants before first obtaining the owner's permission or to tell tales of your friends to the first stranger who comes your way End of Chapter 7 Chapter 8 of Folk Tales from Many Lands This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Kalinda Folk Tales from Many Lands by Lillian Gask Chapter 8 Aisha's Stratagem This is a very popular story with the Arabs The town of Clemson in Algeria was under siege and its ill-starred inhabitants were now on the point of starvation Daily provisions became more scarce meat and bread fetched unheard of prices and in the poorer quarters many of the weaker folk had already perished from hunger The hospitals were crowded with sick wherever one turned there were scenes of misery and destitution and even the bravest men seemed to have lost all hope It was Clemson's darkest hour In desperation the mayor summoned a meeting of the citizens My friends, he said there is nothing for it but to surrender the town We have come to the end of our resources and starvation stares us in the face The men met this announcement in heartbroken silence and the sound of bitter weeping came from the spot where wives and mothers clung together in their despair After a moment's pause a very old woman detached herself from her companions Her name was Aisha and from her wrinkled face looked out a pair of bright keen eyes that were far seeing as an eagles As she came forward they flashed with scorn a shrunken figure straightened itself and grew tall again No, no she cried We will not give in yet I have a plan by which we can save the town Our prophet Muhammad will help us if you will but do as I say The enemy will retreat and we shall be spared the shame of a surrender So impressed was the mayor with the earnestness of her speech that a glimmer of hope came back to his gloomy mind He motioned the old woman to come near Then good Aisha he commanded Speak loudly that all may hear Raising her voice until it was born to the farthest extremity of the marketplace Aisha said briefly First you must find me a calf A calf cried the mayor in amazement While the last was killed long ago it would be impossible to obtain one now for its weight in gold But Aisha persisted that a calf should be found and her friends and neighbors scattered far and wide to search for one They were presently rewarded by the discovery of a beautiful milk-white little animal that had been hidden away in the cowshed of an old miser who had thought to fetch a great price for it later on In spite of his protestations it was carried off in triumph and when Aisha sought her thin lips smiled Now bring me some grain, she cried and at this there was a dismayed outcry There is none to be had, woman, as you should know said the mayor indignantly Afraid that the hope with which she had inspired him was but a will of the wisp Search from house to house she urged the people and though they shook their heads they did her bidding with the result that after some hours' work they brought her enough corn to fill a measure Aisha moistened it to increase its bulk and it once began to feed the hungry calf The mayor was horrified What terrible waste he exclaimed Don't you know that even the children are starving and that the sick in the hospitals are without food? Never you squander thus that precious grain Aisha went on feeding the calf as if she had not heard until the threatening mean of the mayor compelled her to speak Give me my way, she depleted eagerly and the enemy will retreat So he shrugged his shoulders and let her be When the calf had emptied the measure Aisha led it to the gates of the city and followed by a wondering crowd she commanded the sentry to open the gates for her This he very properly refused to do until the mayor had come in person to enforce the order When the gates were at last unlocked Aisha pushed out the calf which at once began to browse on the short grass outside the ramparts The enemy scarcely allowed it to enjoy a mouthful however for it was at once seized by a posse of soldiers who carried it into their camp with much rejoicing The king and his generals stared as though they could hardly believe the evidence of their eyes I thought that the town was starving exclaimed his majesty, looking much perturbed but if this were the case the citizens would most certainly have killed this beautiful calf It is rather lean remarked one of the nobles Still, your majesty is right they must be better provisioned than we ourselves or they would have killed and eaten it long before now The troops were naturally greatly discouraged by this new aspect of affairs and in order to please them the king decreed that as it was some time since they had eaten fresh meat they should have the calf for their own use and make a feast with it They killed it joyfully, for they too were on short commons and when they found inside it a quantity of undigested corn they were more surprised than ever at the resources of Clemson The king grew very grave when this was reported to him and at once summoned his generals If the townspeople have grain to spare for their cattle he pointed out, it is we and not they who will perish with hunger if the siege be not soon raised The generals sadly agreed Already discontent was brooding amidst the soldiers and their officers knew there was danger of mutiny There was nothing for it but to retreat, they sighed and the news ran like wildfire through the camp That night, as Aisha had prophesied the enemy disappeared and when morning came the plains were empty Thanks to her stratagem the town was saved The grateful citizens carried her on their shoulders through all the principal streets with loud acclamations from the populace and the mayor himself took steps to ensure that the rest of her life should be spent in comfort End of Chapter 8 Chapter 9 of Folktales for Many Lands This is the LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Kalinda Folktales for Many Lands by Lillian Gask Chapter 9 The Emperor and the Abbot A similar story is related of one of our English kings, John and the Abbot of Canterbury The Emperor Charlemagne was a splendid horseman and there was nothing he enjoyed more than a long ride through field and forest He galloped just where his fancy led him only staying his flying steed when he wished to gaze with pride over his vest dominions On one of these occasions he saw before him the Abbie of Sankal and noticed with much amusement the sleek and contented air of the good Abbot who was just then strolling through the lovely gardens His brow was smooth and open his eyes were bright and placid as a child and from his well nourished appearance it was plain that Charis sat lightly upon him As the Emperor surveyed him, himself unseen he felt a pang of envy My good Abbot takes life too easily, he thought I must give him something to think of And leaving his horse with a startled servitor he entered the gardens and greeted the Abbot with kindly dignity So pleasant was he in his inquiries as to his mode of life, the way he employed his time and so on, that the Abbot was ill-prepared for his concluding speech I have three more questions to ask you said the Emperor If you can answer them correctly you shall continue to be the Abbot of Sankal If you fail, however, I shall command you to ride round the city on an ass with your back towards his head and holding his tail in your hand instead of a bridal The Abbot turned pale and trembled and his voice shook as he inquired what his Majesty's will might be He knew, poor man, that he was far from clever and the thought of riding upon the ass and the way described disturbed him as nothing had done for years The Emperor, well satisfied to have ruffled his calm content, smiled to himself as he continued Listen, he cried, and listen well For the peace of your future depends upon this I will ask you my questions now but I will give you three months in which to answer them so that you cannot complain I have taken you unawares The first one is How long to a minute will it take me to go round the world The Abbot gasped and the Emperor smiled grimly as he put the second question How much am I worth to a penny when my crown is on my head my scepter in my hand my royal robes He paused a moment to let the import of his words sink into the Abbot's mind then struck his final blow Lastly he said You must not only tell me of what I am thinking at the moment when I next put the question but you must prove that I am mistaken and quite in the wrong The Abbot was beyond speech now and laughing heartily at his discomforture and reminding him of the ignominious penance that awaited him if he failed The Emperor mounted his horse and rode away Gone was the good Abbot's peace of mind Night and day he was haunted by those terrible questions he could not sleep and he could not eat His plight indeed was pitiable In vain he consulted the learned men throughout the Emperor's dominions The wisest professors in the great university shook their heads when the questions were put to them and the answers they gave were so unsatisfactory that even the Abbot could see they would not do A month flew by as if its flight were winged a second followed it swiftly and when the third drew to its close the Abbot was in despair None of his friends could comfort him and sad at heart he wandered over the country envying the humblest creature that made its home in the fields He was in this mood when he was suddenly accosted by a shepherd to whom he was well known by sight Good morning Lord Abbot said the man You seem distressed I would gladly serve you if I could For many a sup of good red wine did you send my wife when she was ill and food for the children when times were hard Tell me I pray you, what troubles you so sorely A mouse before now has been known to help a lion The Abbot was touched by the poor man's sympathy which he accepted as simply as it was offered Be thankful, he said, that you are only a shepherd for many are the ills that your precision spares you and laying aside his usual reserve with his inferiors he told him of the penance he must perform if he failed to answer the emperor's terrible questions The time that his majesty gave me has nearly expired he added mournfully and I am no nearer to solving them than I was at first Too dispirited to try and hide the tears that filled his eyes the Abbot sadly resumed his walk The shepherd laid a detaining hand on his flowing mantle My lord, he said I am only a humble shepherd but I believe I can answer those questions for you If you will lend me your cloak, your mitre, and your cross I will appear before the emperor in your place and you will be spared this trial The Abbot shook his head at this suggestion but after a moment or two it did not appear to him so wild as it had done at first Strange to relate, the shepherd was much the same build as himself and had the rosy cheeks and unwrinkled brow that had been his own before the emperor's visit His eyes also were similar in color to the good Abbot and when he spoke gently as he did now his voice was not too rough You are a good fellow, said the Abbot gratefully and suddenly realizing that if the shepherd took his place before the emperor he would likewise have to carry out the prescribed penance if he failed to answer the questions After a little more urging on the poor man's part he consented to his request It was a forlorn hope but a drowning man catches at a straw and the Abbot's dreams were still haunted by a giant ass which had the head of the emperor and a thousand tongues When the last day of the three months grace had expired his majesty, who had by this time forgotten the whole occurrence was told that the Abbot of Senk'al awaited his royal pleasure Laughing maliciously he contemplated for some moments the man whom he believed to be the victim of his ingenious questions noting with satisfaction that his figure appeared less bulky than before Oh-ho! he cried It strikes me, Lord Abbot, that you were somewhat thinner than you used to be less sleek of hair, too, and your face is oval instead of round Have you found the answers to my questions? If not, remember, you must pay the penalty To his amazement the Abbot looked him bravely in the face instead of cringing I quite understand your majesty, he replied and am prepared to carry out your conditions Well then, said the emperor, rather taken aback tell me in the first place the exact time to the very minute in which I could go round the world on horseback Do not hurry, I want an accurate reply If your majesty will set out the instant the sun flames his banners above the horizon and travel as quickly round the world as he does you will have completed the tour in just twenty-four hours This answer so amazed the emperor that he remained silent for a while As he could find no fault with it he passed on to the second question Well then, how much am I worth to the very penny when clad in my royal robes with my crown on my head and my scepter in my hand Without showing the least sign of fear or hesitation the pretended Abbot still looked him steadily in the face and reverently lowered his voice The savior of the world, he said, was sold for thirty pieces of silver and since your majesty would not claim to be so great as he I therefore estimate your value at one piece less The answer did not please the emperor but he could not openly find fault with it Well, he said haughtily, you have certainly answered two of my questions but the third is yet to come and if you fail with this you must still ride through the city on an ass Tell me what I think at this present moment You think that I am the Abbot of St. Gall was the quick reply I do, returned the emperor, and I am curious to know how you are going to prove that I am wrong The shepherd took off his cloak and miter, displaying his peasant's garb Then I am not, he said with emphasis, as you may see The contrast between the Abbot's robes and the shepherd's raiment so tickled the emperor's fancy that he burst out laughing You are a daring fellow, he exclaimed, and a witty one also Since you have afforded me so much amusement I will give you any reward that you may ask even to making you the Abbot of St. Gall in the place of your master As your majesty has so graciously promised to give me what I ask returned the honest shepherd, let my good master remain the Abbot for the rest of his life without further anxiety Would that my courtiers were as true to me as you are to him, replied the emperor greatly struck by this poor man's loyalty and devotion He did as he wished and promised that the Abbot should be left in peace for the rest of his life but he made it a condition that the shepherd himself should be well paid so that in the future he and his children need fear neither cold nor hunger To do him justice the Abbot was in no danger of forgetting his services and as a further token of gratitude for his timely help no one in need was ever allowed to leave the Abbot in want or misery According by Kalinda Folk Tales from Many Lands by Lillian Gask Chapter 10 Yvonne and Finet A Breton Folk Story Amongst the ancient nobles of Brittany was a baron so brave and good that no one had ought to say against him It seemed indeed as if he were a favourite of fortune for his six tall sons were well built and handsome his six fair daughters the loveliest in the land and his wife as sweet as she was beautiful When a thirteenth child was born to them the good baron declared that they could scarcely find room for another baby so numerous was his family but the little fellow soon became as dear to him as the rest They called him Yvonne and as he grew up he was beloved by all for his courage and good temper From his earliest childhood nothing could daunt him and when he was one and twenty he longed to go out and fight the world Approaching his father he explained his wish to him Let me seek my fortune he cried There are so many at the castle that there is really no place for me and I have nothing to do The world is wide and I would prove my courage Dear father let me go The baron demuried at first but in the end he agreed Yvonne, bidding them all farewell, set off in excellent spirits The motto of the Curver family, forward, rang in his ears and he sang to himself as he stepped out blithely On reaching the coast he found a vessel ready to sail and gladly embarked What hopes were his as the great sails filled the wind and bore the vessel high over the crested waves When the storm blew up and the sky grew dark he began to think his adventures had begun and as the great ship struck upon a rock and word went round that she was sinking he was still undismayed Forgetful of his own safety he gave up his place in the boats first to one and then to another and in the midst of that panic-stricken crew he alone was calm and collected It was well for him that he stayed on deck for the boats were scarcely launched when they were overturned by the raging sea Yvonne alone, out of all that crew was able to fight his way to shore and as he battled with the waves the family watchward, forward rang in his ears and mingled with the storm When at last he reached the land he was all but exhausted but after having rested a while on the wreck's strewn beach he climbed the nearest hill The sullen waters stretched on every side so he knew he was on an island From his post of vantage he saw a great house standing alone and hastening towards this he found it even larger than it had first appeared to him The doors and windows were fully sixty feet in height and when he gained the entrance he found it quite impossible to touch the knocker of the huge door Undaunted by this he picked up a stone and hammered loudly on the panels His summons was quickly answered a giant so tall that his head towered above Yvonne like that of some mighty forestry glared at him angrily from the threshold Who are you? he thundered in a voice that shook the walls Who are you? and what do you want? I am Yvonne, son of the barren curver in Brittany and I am come to seek my fortune, replied the youth Good! cried the giant then your fortune is made I am seeking a servant and you can have the place If you serve me well I will pay you well but if you do not do exactly what I tell you I will eat you Agreed, said Yvonne cheerfully ringing the water from his coat and making to step inside but the giant moved farther forward and barred his way I shall be busy today he said in a curious voice for I am taking my flocks to the mountains during my absence you must clean out the stables thoroughly and whatever you do don't attempt to enter my house mind this on pain of my displeasure and with a threatening scowl he drew the door close to and strode away Yvonne looked after him reflectively there must be something very interesting in the house he said or my new master would not have forbidden me to enter finding the door unlatched he strolled leisurely through the hall and into the first room this was completely empty with the exception of a large iron pot hung over the grate peering inside it Yvonne discovered a strange thick fluid that appeared to be bubbling with heat although there was no sign of any fire I wonder what it tastes like, he thought but prudently decided to get some idea of what it was before he tried it he cut off a lock of his hair and dipped it into the seething mass on drawing it out again he found to his surprise that the dusky lock was coated over with copper Dear me, he cried that the giant must have a very strong digestion to be able to eat this I hope he won't give any of it to me more curious than ever he entered a second chamber where everything was just the same as in the first there was no furniture of any kind only a great iron pot in the fireless grate on dipping a lock of hair into the midst of this he found it coated with silver this new master of mine must be rich indeed he thought to feast on silver soup I should not care to drink it myself but everyone to his taste the third room he entered was no different from the others but here the big iron pot contained a yellow liquid that gleamed like gold Yvonne was greatly impressed by the giant's wealth and without any scruple entered the fourth room as he did so a lovely girl ran hastily towards him exclaiming who are you sir and what are you doing here unhappy youth you know not the dangers round you if the giant should find you he would kill you at once hasten away I pray you I am Yvonne the son of Baron Curver he replied I am seeking my fortune and I'm not at all afraid of the giant he has engaged me to be a servant while he spoke Yvonne was gazing at the girl's fair face and admiring the exquisite violet of her eyes as these met his she blushed divinely and her eyelids drooped over them like snow-white satin curtains what has he given you to do? she faltered when Yvonne told her her cheeks lost all their delicate color to sweep out a stable sounds an easy task she said but you would not find it so the giant's stable is a magic one and he has laid it under a spell when you sweep the dust through the door it flies back through the window but if you use the handle of the broom instead of the other end the stable will empty itself and not a speck of dust will remain I am glad to hear that said Yvonne contentedly and when I set to work I will do as you say but now since I have found you let us talk together I want to hear everything you have to tell me and why you were living in the giant's house the fair young girl allowed him to lead her to a seat in the deep window and her voice was like sweetest music as she told him how she had become a captive of the giant her name was Finette, she added and Yvonne thought it the prettiest in the world he in his turn told her where he came from and all he could remember of his past life and they were too much engrossed in each other to notice that the shadows were lengthening in the west it was not until the twilight spread her purple haze that Yvonne thought of the hour make haste my friend and sweep the stable or the giant will be here first cried Finette anxiously and with one more look into her violet eyes Yvonne obeyed her he was thinking so much of her gentle ways that he did not at first remember her instructions and the dust flew round him in such clouds that he was almost stifled he immediately reversed the broom and at once it happened as she had said the stable swept itself without any further trouble on his part and folding his arms he sat down on a bench outside to await his master's return the giant looked anything but pleasant when he caught sight of the young man why are you sitting there you lazy scoundrel he shouted angrily because I have nothing to do was Yvonne's cool reply what? cried the giant I told you to sweep out the stable it is done replied Yvonne and away went the giant to see if this were true he came back angrier than before you rascal he exclaimed you never did that unaided you have seen my finette Yvonne met this accusation with affected stupidity my finette he cried what is that good master is it an animal a thing or a person show it to me I beg you idiot roared the giant gnashing his teeth be gone to the barn where you must sleep on the ground tomorrow I will set you another task and then you will see that I am not to be trifled with Yvonne woke next morning at break of day and while his eyes were yet heavy with sleep he heard the giant's voice calling him stepping outside the barn Yvonne gave him a civil good morning this was met by an angry stare be off to the mountain said the giant in a very masterful fashion my black horse is grazing on the top most height you must catch him at once and bring him back to the stable or I shall put an end to your useless life don't dare to go into my house while I am absent scowling at Yvonne as if he hated the sight of him he strode away in his seven league boots at a great pace he was hardly out of sight before the adventurous youth caring nothing for his injunctions made his way to the forbidden door he was already deeply in love with the fair finette and counted each moment an hour until he could see her she greeted him tenderly with the softest look in her violet eyes and a blush that reminded him of the rosy clouds at dawn what task has he set you today? she inquired timidly, drooping before him like some sweet flower nothing to trouble me, the youth replied only to find his horse that will be easy enough and I shall enjoy climbing the mountain you would not find it so easy if I were not here to tell you what to do said finette shudderingly that horse of his is a monster and the fire from his nostrils would burn you up if you approached him rashly then I shall stay here instead of climbing the mountain declared her lover I don't mean to die now that I have found you finette laughed joyously and crept a little closer within the circle of his arm if you take the magic bridle you will find behind the stable door she murmured you will be quite safe for at the sight of this he becomes as gentle and docile as a lamb that is well, said Yvon I will fetch him presently and making his way with finette to a leafy grove he passed the time in pleasant converse they had so much to say to each other that the afternoon had almost flown when he once more bethought him of his second task take the bridle and go, said pretty finette and with a light heart he started to climb the mountainside he had not gone far when a monstrous animal galloped wildly towards him snorting like thunder and throwing out fire and smoke from his open nostrils not in the least alarmed Yvon awaited him in the centre of the path gently shaking the magic bridle at the sight of this the horse stopped short and kneeling down meekly allowed Yvon to mount and so to ride him home when the horse was safely shut in the giant stable the young man took his seat upon the bench and whistling softly a merry tune closed his eyes to think of finette thus his master found him soon afterwards you lazy creature he exclaimed why have you not done what I told you where is my horse in your stable good master was the unexpected reply he's a nice animal I should not mind owning him myself my horse a nice animal thunder the giant you must be mad and he hurried after the stable to see if Yvon had really succeeded in carrying out his orders there stood the great horse looking cowed and frightened while the magic bridle hung in its usual place behind the door you wretch cried the giant as he went back my finette must have helped you again my finette what's that inquired Yvon with the air of stupidity that he had worn the day before you will know soon enough growled his master going off to bed as Yvon slept on his own hard couch he dreamt of the day when his fortune would be made and he could make finette his wife it was still quite early when the giant aroused him by calling his name go to my mountain cavern he commanded and bring me a sack of my buried treasure very well good master Yvon replied without betraying the slightest astonishment and he pretended to sweep the stable until the giant had gone off for the day he then hastened to finette who was waiting for him just inside the door anxious to know what task the giant had set him now where is this mountain cavern and how can I reach it Yvon inquired can you help me again I confess I am at a loss as to how to find it you must take this wand said finette handing him the little switch of hazel she had been hiding behind her apron and strike it three times against that huge black rock you see half up the mountain a hideous goblin will at once appear and ask you roughly what you want my master's treasure you will reply how much you will ask you next not more than I can carry will be your answer he will then lead you into a deep grotto with walls of gold where there are lustrous gems strewn all about fill your sack with these and be careful not to speak when you have taken as much as you can carry away comfortably pass out in silence and hasten back to me I will do exactly as you tell me dear finette Yvon assured her they talked together until the sun told them it was midday then he bade her a tender farewell and set off again for the mountains when he came to the black rock everything happened as he had been told and he followed the goblin into a cavern stacked with the most brilliant rubies and pearls and emeralds that he had ever seen stifling his exclamation of wonder Yvon filled his sack as calmly as if they were only dried peas and followed his strange guide back to the open air it did not please him to be impolite but remembering finette's warning he refrained from bidding his goblin guide farewell he had scarcely reached the giant's house when his master reappeared have you carried out my command he asked in tones that would have made a man less brave than Yvon, tremble for answer the youth opened the sack and displayed the shining treasure that it contained instead of thanking him for his services the giant became convulsed with rage this is the work of my finette he roared and for the third time Yvon feigned ignorance of his meaning and anxiously inquired what my finette might be the giant did not sleep that night but paced his room as if in deep perplexity in her cheerless chamber below poor little finette heard the thud of his footsteps and wondered what fresh harm he was planning against her lover when morning came he rode away without setting Yvon another task and this she felt was a bad sign go and sit on the bench, she entreated, as Yvon hastened to her when the giant had gone so he sat in the sunshine and whistled merrily until the giant returned directing upon him a look of the direst hatred the ferocious monster told finette to fetch a knife you must kill that youth, he said, for I want some soup he is good for this, if nothing else I will take a nap while you prepare it see that you flavor him properly and put it in plenty of salt very soon his deep breathing told finette he was asleep and she flew back to Yvon with a knife in her hand you are not going to kill me sweetheart surely he said as he glanced at its gleaming blade finette's laugh was her only answer and putting her golden head very close to his dark one she whispered in his ear hold out your hand she said Yvon did so smilingly and with a deft stroke of the sharp knife she cut his finger so slightly however that only three drops of blood fell on the stone paved yard now come with me she cried and led him into the house filling one of the big iron cauldrons half full of water she placed this over the fire which she and Yvon had lit between them and flying back to the garden through a heap of onions and other vegetables into a deep bag returning with these she poured them into the cauldron adding a measure of pepper and two of salt she then treated Yvon to throw in also his cap his jacket and his leather gators when this had been done she left the cauldron and its contents and entered the third chamber that led from the hall from the golden soup in the iron pot there she made three gold bullets and slipped these into her pocket in the second chamber she made two silver bullets from the silver soup and in the first a large bullet of copper now let us escape she cried before the giant awakes and hand in hand they flew down the road as fast as their feet could carry him presently the giant awoke Phenet! he cried is that soup ready? not yet dear master replied the first drop of blood and the giant turned over and went to sleep again when next he woke and called Phenet! the second drop of blood answered his question about the soup in the same manner and when he demanded it for the third time the third drop cried not yet a little while later he awoke again and this time there was no response so grumbling and threatening he slouched to the kitchen where the cauldron was bubbling merrily a savory smell greeted him as he entered but his suspicions were aroused by Phenet's absence he seized a huge fork and stirred the soup vigorously fishing out Yvonne's boots and coat and even his cap these did not deceive him however as Phenet had vainly imagined they would with a howl of rage he quickly drew on his seven league boots and started in pursuit of the fugitives so swiftly did he travel in their wake that before long Yvonne and Phenet heard his panting breath with much presence of mind the maiden threw the copper bullet behind her exclaiming save us, bullet! the ground immediately opened and huge chasm now separated them from their presure the enraged giant tore up a great tree as if it had been a sapling and throwing it over the chasm thus made a bridge by means of which he crossed the gap and again overtook Phenet and Yvonne just as they reached the coast Phenet now threw a silver bullet into the sea and at this a ship immediately appeared in which she and Yvonne took instant refuge as it bore them onward over the swelling waves the great giant waited after them he had all but reached the ship when Phenet threw her second silver bullet into the sea suddenly a monstrous fish appeared from the depths below and rushed through the water with open mouth the giant like most bullies was a coward at heart and shaking with fear he retreated to land as quickly as he could we are safe now, dearest, cried Yvonne joyfully when he saw that his huge black form scuffling away in the distance but Phenet trembled still I am not so sure, she told him doubtfully the giant has a dreadful aunt on the other shore we'll be just as eager to harm us when she hears we have escaped we shall not be safe until we reach your father's castle the rest of their voyage passed uneventfully and it seemed as if the young couple had come to an end of their troubles Phenet had grown more beautiful every day but when they had almost arrived at Yvonne's home the young man looked at her critically for the first time you are indeed most lovely, he told her ardently and as sweet and charming as man could wish but it would never do for you to enter my father's castle on foot and in such plain and homely attire I will leave you here while I fetch you a rich robe befitting the station you are to occupy and the finest carriage in our stable shall bear you to my home Phenet demurded this with many tears she feared to be left alone, she said and entreated her lover to take her with him but although she looked more beautiful than ever Yvonne refused it is your turn now to trust me even as I trusted you, he said you must believe my word when I tell you that I will soon return before you go then, begged poor Phenet promise me that you will neither eat nor drink until we are once more together Yvonne promised this with fond caresses and Phenet was forced to let him go the sound of music greeted him as he entered the castle by a secret passage not liking to be seen in his present plight by the gaily dressed throng that filled the courtyard the marriage of his eldest sister was then being celebrated and though Yvonne loved his sister dearly and would have liked nothing better than to take part in the ceremony and not delay a moment even to wish her joy he made a confidant of the old woman who had nursed him in his childhood and soon obtained from her an exquisite satin robe embroidered with pearls and diamonds that belonged to one of her fair charges and with this in his knapsack he made his way to the castle gates as he was passing through them a golden-haired lady offered him a cup of rich red wine you will not refuse to drink my health she cried as he put it aside here un-gallant he raised it to his lips and drank alas it was magic wine the wine of forgetfulness and as he drained the jeweled cup all thoughts of Phenet passed out of his mind the golden-haired lady was the giant's aunt and this was just what she had screamed looking dazed and miserable he raised his hand to his aching head but she led him back into the castle and soothed him with gentle speech when she saw him among the guests the old nurse thought he had been but joking with the dress which was tossed aside and soon forgotten for the first few hours after her lover's departure Phenet awaited his return in the happy confidence inspired by his parting words he will surely come soon, she said as the shadows lengthened but when the primrose lights faded into a deep violet and the light of the evening stars shone clear in a somber sky her fears came back to her he has forgotten me, she sighed so sorely perplexed as to what would now be her fate she wandered on until she came to a little hut where a peasant woman sat before the door milking a sleek grey cow will you give me a drink, good dame? asked Phenet faintly for she was sick with hunger and disappointment willingly replied the woman if you will give me a cup of gold Phenet felt in her pockets for one of the golden bullets and dropped this into the vessel the woman laughingly held out to her filled itself with bright gold coins which jingled together musically as she poured them into the woman's lap I am rich, I am rich! cried the dame in ecstasy I will leave you my hut and all that it contains for I am off to the city where I shall be a fine lady and live like a queen for the rest of my days without waiting even to stall her cow she ran through the gate of the tiny garden and was lost to sight in the dusk the hut was dirty and meanly furnished and the only food in the cupboard was a dry piece of cheese and a loaf of black bread Phenet was almost too weary to care what became of her but she had just sufficient energy to take another golden bullet from her pocket and to murmur, help me bullet as she threw it down the mean little hovel instantly became a fair and spacious mansion with staircase and furniture of purest gold and beds and curtains of softest silk throwing herself down upon the first couch she came to Phenet soon fell asleep meanwhile the delighted peasant woman met the mayor of the town and proudly displayed her newly acquired wealth explaining how she had come by it the mayor advised her to keep this to herself in the future since otherwise folk might doubt her word he said this, however, not from consideration for her interests but because he had instantly resolved to ask this wonderful girl to wed him before anyone else should learn from her fairy powers next morning he dressed himself in his best and rode to the beautiful mansion where the mean little hovel had once stood Phenet received him without emotion and listened quietly as he asked her to be his wife how do I know, she said, that you would make me a good husband let me see the way in which she would set light to a fire with this object in view he took up the tongs thinking unkindly that once she was his wife he would soon teach her who was master hold him tongs, cried Phenet quickly and do not let him go until after sunset as she uttered these words she left the house and the iron tongs began to dance still holding the indignant mayor in an iron grasp he was thus obliged to dance also and as the tongs did not stop until nightfall he was so exhausted when they set him free that he could only creep home and go to bed of course the peasant woman had failed to keep her counsel and by this time everyone in the town knew the secret of her riches a penniless young officer who had already run through a large fortune thought that to obtain the hand of this strange young girl in marriage would be an excellent way in which to replenish his empty coffers so he too dressed himself in his best and donning his handsomest uniform proceeded to call on Phenet who would now return to her fairy house the maiden listened to his proposal as gravely as she had done to that of the mayor and hesitated for some moments before attempting to reply this so enraged the impatient soldier that he forgot himself as an officer and a gentleman and actually threatened her with his sword Phenet fled in dismay for even in her service with the giant she had not received such rough treatment brushing by the sleek grey cow she took refuge in the stable and the officer hastening after her caught hold of the animal's tail to push it out of the way saying this Phenet exclaimed hold him tail until the sun sets deeply angered at the liberty that the officer had taken with her the cow galloped off at the top of her speed she raced over hill and dale over rocky pathways and beds of bramble so that by the time that dusk had arrived and her tail let him go the rude young man was almost dead with fatigue the knowledge of the discomforture of her greedy suitors did not comfort Phenet she guessed by now that Yvonne had forgotten her and could she have seen what was going on at the castle she would have known that her worst fears were realized oblivious as he was of all that had happened on the giant's island and unconscious of his dear Phenet's very existence he had fallen a victim to the charms of the golden-haired lady little dreaming that her lovely form was but a disguise she had assumed to snare him in a very short time he had pledged his faith to her and a second marriage was announced to take place in the Baron's family the wedding garments of the bride were a sight to behold and the sprightliest horses in the castle's stables were harnessed to the gilded coach that was to bearer to church with Yvonne as they rode on a strange sadness overcame him he could not tell why but his brain was troubled by waking dreams and he was haunted by the recollection of a pair of violet eyes that were very unlike those of his bride-elect when they neared Phenet's house the horses pranced and coveted until one of the traces broke and this took some time to mend a few paces farther this happened again and so on continually until it seemed as if the harness would drop to pieces at this juncture the mayor came forward in that house yonder he said, bowing respectfully to the bride there lives a lady who owns a pair of tongs that would hold together anything in this mortal world if you send a message by one of your servants she will doubtless lend them willingly a messenger was soon dispatched to Phenet's house and returned shortly bearing the tongs in question but now a new difficulty presented itself no sooner had the harness been successfully patched up than the carriage itself obstinately refused to stir the splendid horses pulled with might and mane but it remained stationary as time was getting short the bride became very angry Yvonne was marveling at the change this made in her appearance when the handsome officer approached the carriage if you will pardon the suggestion he said I would advise you to apply for the loan of her cow to the lady who lent you the tongs if the tail of that creature were switched onto the coach your difficulties would be over it could make anything go the unknown lady proved to be as obliging as before and soon the cow was pulling the carriage along at a furious pace it arrived at the church in a few moments but instead of stopping at the door and allowing the wedding party to alight it continued to race round and round the sacred building as if it were urged by evil spirits and then turned back to the Baron's castle before the entrance of which it came to a dead stop it was then much too late to think of returning to the church that day and the Baron, wishing to lighten his guests' disappointment to creed that the banquet should proceed as if the wedding had taken place before they sat down however he determined to invite the unknown lady who had so kindly lent Yvonne her tongs and her cow it is the least that we can do, agreed his son and a messenger was dispatched with a formal missive sealed with the Baron's grandest seal in a short time he returned but without the lady what did she say, inquired the Baron anxious that his guests should be kept waiting no longer she said, Zire, returned the man, that if the Baron desired her company he must come and fetch her himself she is right, exclaimed the Baron it was most remiss of me not to have thought of this before so saying, he bade his guests amuse themselves with dancing until his return and drove forthwith to Finette's house having thanked her with all the grace that he could muster for her services to his son he handed her into the guilt coach and she was thus escorted to the castle as if she had been some royal princess not only this, but when she arrived at the banqueting hall she was given the post of honour beside her host a thrill ran through the company as they remarked her beauty and the splendour of her attire for her dress was of violet velvet the same deep hue as her eyes and so encrusted with gems that it flashed with her every movement she was the centre of attraction to all but Yvonne who had eyes for no one save the golden-haired lady by his side Finette watched him with a heart full of anguish feeling in the bosom of her rich gown for the single golden bullet that remained to her as she pressed it between her slender fingers she gazed steadily at Yvonne he was whispering now to his lady love and Finette could have cried aloud in her pain help me bullet, she murmured and the golden ball became a golden cup filled to the brim with wine the colour of rubies will you not drink my health, sir? she cried to Yvonne who was scented with a start she passed him over the golden cup and her face was white as a snow drop in spite of the detaining hand that the golden-haired lady laid on his arm he quaffed it to its dregs the next moment he started to his feet and stared round him in wild amazement where am I, he asked, and how do I come here? oh my sweet Finette, so I have found you again and hastening round to her side he embraced her fondly once more he remembered everything that had happened since he left his father's house to seek his fortune and it was well for the golden-haired lady that she had made her escape before he had time to reckon with her can you ever forgive me, sweet? he asked Finette when he had received his parents' congratulations and his brothers were envying him so lovely a bride Finette smiled happily she knew that but for the giant spell she would not have been forgotten and her great joy made her lovelier than ever Yvonne and she were married the following day and this time we may be sure there was no hitch in the proceedings End of chapter 10