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THE GOOSE-GIRL

The king of a great land died, and left his queen to take care of

their only child. This child was a daughter, who was very

beautiful; and her mother loved her dearly, and was very kind to

her. And there was a good fairy too, who was fond of the

princess, and helped her mother to watch over her. When she grew

up, she was betrothed to a prince who lived a great way off; and

as the time drew near for her to be married, she got ready to set

off on her journey to his country. Then the queen her mother,

packed up a great many costly things; jewels, and gold, and

silver; trinkets, fine dresses, and in short everything that

became a royal bride. And she gave her a waiting-maid to ride

with her, and give her into the bridegroom's hands; and each had

a horse for the journey. Now the princess's horse was the fairy's

gift, and it was called Falada, and could speak.