Oldal 159 [159]
THE THREE CITRONS
perhaps she will give you what you desire. She is Birth;
Iam, Lite,
“Thanks, madam,” answered Carlino: and with a light
heart he ran to find the youngest of the Fates. He soon
discovered her, fresh and smiling as the spring. Every¬
thing about her was taking root and germinating; the corn
was bursting through the earth and putting forth its green
blades from the brown furrows; the orange-blossoms were
opening; the buds on the trees were unfolding their pink
scales; the chickens, scarcely feathered, were running
round the anxious hen, and the lambs were clinging to
their mother. It was the first smile of life.
The fairy received the prince with kindness. After listen¬
ing to him without laughing at his folly, she asked him
to sup with her, and at dessert gave him three citrons, and a
beautiful knife with a mother-of-pearl handle.
‘Carlino,” said she, "you can now return to your father’s
house. The prize is gained; you have found what you have
been seeking. Go, then, and when you have reached your
kingdom, stop at the first fountain that you see and cut one
of these citrons. A fairy will come forth, who will ask
you for a drink. Give her the water quickly, or she will
slip through your fingers like quicksilver. If the second
escapes you in the same way, have an eye to the last; give
. her a drink instantly, and you will have a wife according to
your heart.”
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