Page:Russian Wonder Tales.djvu/279

Rh Then, though Taraban saw no one, a voice answered him and said: "Whence comest thou, good youth? For three times nine years have I served my master here and never has he asked me, as dost thou, to sup with him!"

"Nevertheless, Schmat-Razum," said the archer, "sit thee down. Perhaps I like thy company better than doth thy master." He began to eat and drink and opposite him the plates and wine-glasses emptied themselves, so that he knew the invisible servant was also eating and drinking. When the meal was finished the archer said: "Ho! Schmat-Razum! it seems to me thy master, the forest monster, doth not use thee too well. Wilt thou be my servant, instead? I will not use thee worse."

"Why not?" answered the other. "I am right tired of this cavern. I see thou art a good companion besides."

"Come with me at once, then," said the archer, "for my home is far away."

He left the cavern, picked up the jar with the frog and shouted for his servant. "Here I am, master," said a voice at his elbow. "Thou canst not see me, yet I shall be ever by thee to execute thy commands."

Taraban set out and made such good speed that