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 bake dough-nuts and cakes every day, and live like a king."

So Mother's Pet got the kneading-trough, and nothing else. He was satisfied, however, and possessing himself of his heritage, carried it to the sea, where he launched the trough as a boat and put to sea, intending to try his luck in the wide world. When the wind and waves had tossed him about for several days, at length Mother's Pet arrived at a strange land, where he went ashore, bent upon making headway for the king's residence, where he intended to offer his service. Having walked about for several days, he arrived at his destination and went straight to the king.

"What is your name?" asked the stately monarch.

"My name is Mother's Pet. Will you not engage my service?"

"You don't look able to work," remarked the king. "In fact, you are too small and weak."

"I know I am small," replied the lad, "but doesn't your majesty know that a little one may often do a thing before a big fellow can turn around?"

"There you are right," returned the king. "Let us see—yes, chattering you seem to understand well enough, but very little besides, so we'll put you in among the girls in the kitchen."

"That is a start," said Mother's Pet. "Of course, I should like a better position and a good salary, but so far I am willing to excuse your majesty."

"I am much obliged to you," answered the king