The two eldest had many adventures, but I shall only relate those of the youngest. At length they set out, deciding that on their return they would meet at the same castle, and go together to the king they would take no attendants with them, and changed their names in order not to be recognised.Įach took a different route. They took leave of the king he gave them money and jewels, adding that in a year, without fail, they must return, and on the same day, and at the same hour bring him their little dogs.īefore their departure they repaired to a castle about a league from the town there they brought their most intimate friends, and gave a great feast, at which the three brothers swore eternal friendship, that they would conduct the matter in hand without jealousy and annoyance, and that the successful one should share his fortune with the others.
It seems to me that a clever, pretty, and faithful little dog would be a pleasant companion for me so without choosing my eldest son rather than my youngest, I declare that whichever of the three brings me the most beautiful dog shall be my heir.” The princes were surprised at their father’s desire for a little dog, but the two youngest thought they could turn it to their advantage, and gladly accepted the commission the eldest was too timid and too respectful to press his rights. He summoned them to his closet, and after speaking kindly, added: “You will agree with me, my dear children, that my advanced age does not permit me to attend to state affairs so closely as formerly I fear my subjects may suffer, and wish therefore to give one of you my crown, but it is only fair that in return for such a gift you should seek ways of making my intention of retiring into the country pleasing to me. He thought, therefore, the best way of living in peace was to divert them by promises he could always escape fulfilling. The king was old, but as vigorous in mind as ever, and had no desire to yield them a position he filled so worthily. Certain rumours were abroad that they were trying to gain adherents to assist them in depriving him of his kingdom. He feared they might be seized with the desire of reigning before his death.
Once upon a time there was a king who had three brave and handsome sons.
0 kommentar(er)
